Franklin Ky,
11" July 1863,
Gov James. F. Robinson,
Frankfort Ky
Sir,

During the early part of last Winter, a most cruel and malicious murder was committed in this (Simpson Co) on the person of Mike Shawler by one John J. Bell, who has Since fled & is now at large & a fugitive from Justice — The wicked & cruel circumstances attending the murder, ought to induce your Excellency to offer a reward for the apprehension of the guilty perpetrator of the crime — the poverty of the Dec^d's family renders it impossible for them to offer a reward, and without it, in all probability

will never be brought to Justice — I hope therefore, your Excellency will offer a reasonable reward for the apprehension of said Bell —

Bell is about 29 years old, Spare made, light hair, about 5 feet 11 inches high — inclined to be Stooped Shouldered — appearance of being disipated — very quiet, & never talks unless spoken to, and his Eyes appear to be defective —

W^m Kidd
County Court Judge, Simpson co

I, as County attorney, had occasion to investigate the facts of the foregoing case of murder, & Know it was cruel & without any circumstance of mitigation — & Join in asking the Gov^r to offer a reasonable Reward —
W^m W. Bush

James W. Tate,
asst. Secr'y State,

If the Gov^r offers a reward Send me a paper containing the proclamation immediately, and I will have Some Notices Struck — from it —

W^m W Bush

Simpson Co.

Reward to be given send copy as requested.