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[Winter?] all the circumstances & in [agreements?] the wishes of our citizens generally I feel emboldened to make a personal appeal to you for Executive Clemency in care of John Thomas—

We all feel that his pardon will do good & in justice to him [it?] is we ask it—

I dislike very much to trouble you about such things & can [truthfully?] promise that I will never do so unless there is merit in the case.

But for-reasons [stated?] I do feel greatly interested in this case—as do our citizens especially those of his neighborhood—Even the blacks join in asking for his pardon—

Again asking to be excused for [this?] trespassing on you I beg to remain

Very respectfully & truly

H. S. VanEaton