Smithland
Aug. 23 1861
My Dear Gov^r

Without solicitation on the part of any one, but prompted by feelings proper I would ask of you the extention of Mercy & Executive Clemency to words an unfortunate Young ^man^ Condemned to the penetentiary this term of this court by the name of James Carrol, from what I have learned as to the testimony submitted to the Jury (I not being present being sick & confined to my room, but speak from what I heard the Commonwealths atty say) he has hither to engaged an first rate character for honesty, sobriety, & industrious habits, & up to the unfortunate troubles of the County he was attentive to his humble but honorable occupation by them he was thrown out of employment & being Young he must have been mis lead by bad & designing men into this most deplorable situation his father is an old citizen of this town & in every respect worthy of high consideration & I cannot too strongly urge you to interpose your power & spare him from down to the sorrow to the grave- I would be glad to hear from you generally [adeiu] D^r Gov^r & believe me under all circumstances & to the last extremity

truly and ever your friend

Jn^o.T.Bunch