July 9th, 1918.

To the Commanding Officer,
Camp Hill, Newport News, Va.

My dear Sir:-

I beg to enclose a letter just received from Mr. T. G. Hyman, Chairman of the Craven County Local Exemption Board in regard to James Bell. I desire to endorse every word that Mr. Hyman says, and I earnestly urge that the very greatest leniency possible be shown this soldier. I am making a vigorous effort to get all deserters in North Carolina to return to the camps and many of them are doing so. When these men voluntarily return they will, in my opinion, make better soldiers on account of their experience, as they realize the grave blunder that they have made.

With much respect, I am,
Very truly yours,

Governor.

B_G