Henderson, Ky, Aug 27^th/65,
Hon. Thos. E. Bramlette:
Dear sir:

In the year 1863, in connection with two brother attorneys, D. H, Hughes and J. A. Spalding, it was my fortune or misfortune to become surety for Jno, A. Brooks, another attorney, in two indictments against him and others for "Robbery," alias, for taking horses, under orders, as a confederate soldier,

I enclose you a statement from C. W. Cook, Esq, an attorney of the Webster bar, and also the county Judge, of Webster, which is a substantial synopsis of the facts, Brooks passed through this place on his way West, and told me he had been threatened and

ordered to leave and that he would return so soon as he thought he could, with safety,

I think under the circumstances it would be hard for us to be compelled to pay the forfeited recognizance, or any part of it, and would be very glad to have your Excellency's remission to plead in answer to the summons —

I am not authorized to solicit the favor for my co-sureties, but I know they would appreciate it as highly as myself, and I suppose my release would operate others at any rate —

My friend Mr Bowling will hand you this note, which I trust will receive your favorable consideration —

Yours Very Respectfully
S. B. Vance