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July 10th, 1918.

To the Commanding General,
Camp Sevier, Greenville, S.C.

My dear Sir:-

On last December Private James King Campbell, 117 Infantry, Company L, left camp without leave. I have just had a talk with this boy and it is apparent to my mind that he had no appreciation of the gravity of his offense in leaving the camp. I am satisfied that his action was induced by a boyish impulse. He now realizes the big mistake that he made, and has come in voluntarily and wants to go back to camp.

Under these circumstances I beg for him the largest measure of mercy possible. I am doing my level best to get every man in North Carolina who left camp without leave to return. Ours is not a military nation. Our boys are not accustomed to military discipline, and it is not surprising that there have been many desertions. When a boy comes to himself and wants to about face, I think that every encouragement should be given him.

I believe that this particular boy will make a better soldier by reason of this sad experience. The father of the boy is a practicing physician of character and ability, one of our best citizens, and his heart is wellnigh broken on account of this affair.

Assuring you of my readiness and very great desire to co-operate with the military authorities in every way possible, I beg to remain,

Very truly yours,

Governor.

B-G