Transcribed from "Help Will Be Required During Several Months," News and Observer (Raleigh), 10 August 1916.

The immediate necessities of the people who suffered in the mountain section by the recent flood have, so far as I know, been provided for. The conditions in many places are serious, and many of those who were left destitue must be looked after and helped for several months to come, especially during the winter season.

Assurances coming to me from the generous people of North Carolina have convinced me that no one will be allowed to suffer on account of the unprecedented disaster. A considerable amount has already ben contributed—altogether as much as $75,000. The contributions that have come to the Central Committee have nearly always been accompanied by the statement that more would be given if the necessity of the situation should require. This giving has been spontaneous, without ostentation and in the genuine spirit of kindness and sympathy.

Several organizations have heretofore collected and administered funds. It seems to me most desirable that these funs contributed by the people of North Carolina should be systematically administered by one organization, unified and harmonious. I therefore submit to you the following plan with the request that you make any suggestions in amendment thereto:

1. The funds contributed by the people of the state to be under the control of the Central Executive Committee at Raleigh, and apportioned to the various counties according to their needs.

2. All funds apportioned by the Central Committee to be administered by a county committee constituted as follows; (1) a citizen of the county appointed by the Governor; (2) the chairman of the board of county commissioners; (3) a citizen of the county appointed by the relief committee in the county.

3. The citizen appointed by the Governor to be the chairman of the county committee, and administer the fund apportioned to the county in co-operation with the other members of the committee as they may deem proper.

4. The county committee to report to the Central Committee.

The work of relief as stated above will be prolonged for several months. We must provide that it be done systematically and effectively.

Our best citizens have been prompt and eager to render service to the distressed unselfishly and generously.

Please let me hear from you.

[unsigned]