Winchester Ky Jany 30" 1863
His Excellency

Hon Jas F. Robinson Gov of Ky
Dear Sir

I have seen the petition in circulation on behalf of Fielding M. Bush, recommending him to Executive Clemency, I rarely sign any petition, and when I do it must be under a firm conviction that there are extenuating circumstances surrounding the case & that no outrage to public justice will ensue by the pardon of the Executive being granted

The young man Fielding M Bush, whose case will be presented to you, is the son of Fielding Bush Esq of Clark Co, who is one of our most respected citizens

and noted for his having always heretofore been one of the conservative land marks of the County I learn that the young man Fielding M. Bush has voluntarily returned from the Southern Army and surrendered himself to the U S Military commandant at Lexington & taken the oath of allegiance & given the required bonds and is now at home, with the intention of remaining a peaceable & law abiding person. He is quite a youth, and has been heretofore remarkable for his good behavior & gentlemanly course, His case is one that presents many considerations for clemency, and his friends here believe, that if it is extended to him, that it

will have a good effect in restoring others to the side of the government, who have been wavering or inclined to be against it.

He is a relation of our worthy Senator Judge Bush, and he will not misrepresent him, when he staystates that he is a young man of fine impulses & manly in his instincts & of integrity of character

Your obt svt

Jas Flanagan