Early Governors' Papers

Newport T. Feby 5^th - 1831

Dear Sir. The citizens of this neighborhood who have forwarded to you the enclosed petition have accidentally met this Evening and have done, so from a due regard of the grievances they labour under for the wants of Magistrate. There being only one with-in 6 or 8 miles of the village, except by crossing either the river French Broad or pidgeon [sic], which is frquently impassable at this Season of the year, & that one who lives some miles distanth [sic] is a county surveyor, & I am inform^d it is very uncertain to catch Him at Home; oweing [sic] to this great deficiency, we are liable to have our wholesome Laws trampled on & the purpose of Justice frequently defated on ^one the back of the petition you will receive the correct information ^from the clerk That there is a deficit of 3 Justices in the County, which unfortunately for us, happens in the wrost part of th [sic] ; please give the subject your early attention. with sentiments of much esteem; I remain yr Ob.' Servt.

W^m C Roadman

His Excellency W^m Carroll