Raleigh, N.C., March 3rd, 1919.

Crowder,
Washington, D.C.

So far as I am able to ascertain the press and public in North Carolina and the General Assembly have accepted at par your statement about the newspaper clipping which appeared in your second report to the Secretary of War. It is thought by all to be a most regretable mistake but public opinion acquits you entirely of any intention to make any reflection on North Carolina, and appreciates your purpose to make any possible correction of the record. The matter is now regarded as a closed incident. A full statement of the facts with respect to delinquents and deserters in western North Carolina will be mailed you.

Bickett,
Governor.

(Official business, charge War Department)

Captain Infantry U.S.A.