Columbia, S.C. 1-28-19

Governor NC
Raleigh, N.C.

Under present condition and such as are likely to obtain in the future the farmers of the cotton states cannot produce cotton as cheaply as hertofore the time has come when cotton must be produced only to meet requirements of consumption, to the end that we may always have a ready and waiting market. The farmers of my state are of the opinion that the acreage of the nineteen crop should not exceed twenty five million acres. They wish to join with representatives from other cotton states in creating a movement to bring about acreage reduction and secure a better price for cotton now on hand. This is one o of the most important questions before the people of the south and requires prompt and united action on the part of the cotton growing states. It is sincerely hoped that each of the cotton states will join in this movement whole heartedly. I therefore have decided to ask the Governors each cotton state to appoint two delegates, one farmer and one banker, with alternates, from each cotton Growing congressional dist to attend a meeting at New Orleans La Feby fourth to formulate and adopt a practical plan suitable to all the states and that will bring a satisfactory adjustment of present conditions. May I ask that you appoint delegates from your state and notify me of your action

Robt A. Cooper Gov SC 1201 AM