<Ack>

1045pm.
Durham NC. JULY 4-17

Gov. T. W. Bickett, Executive. Mansion. Raleigh, N.C.,

The increasing lynchings of a helpless people both North and South, in many instances for trivial things are having depressing effects on a people who love their country and who are loyal and true to the flag. The Courts of the land are in control of the whites, so there is never an excuse for a lynching. All crimes should be justly and severely punished, and there need be no fear that any negro criminal or supposed criminal will ever escape. The negro is asking for a right to live and to hope. I appeal to you as a great Governor to issue a public statement in behalf of the negro, asking the people that wherever a supposed crime is committed to refrain from lynchings and to give the to the courts a chance. I appeal to you to see that the strong do not unnecessarily oppress the weak, and the negro be given fair and just treatment, so that internationa differences be avoided and that all together in America may present to the outside world, the picture of absolute justice to all and all races and classes working side by side to help make the world a better place in which people can live. With great respect and esteem. Yours very truly,

Jas. E. Shepard. Prest. Natl Training School
Durham NC.