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Shelbyville Ky th 1864
Gov. Bramlette
Dear Sir
I write to solicit a remission of a fine of $10. imposed on W M Heaton by a verdict & Judgment in the Police Court of this Town.
Heaton is a Poor honest mechanic of this Town & was doubtless improperly dealt with on his trial. Jury not not here, or I think a different result would have been had.
From the best information I can get, Heaton was not at all to blame. He is a Loyal man, Picket is not. The witnesses to the transaction are also secessionists, I could not remember what
threats Picket made, although he had drawn a pistol & presented it at Heaton, before Heaton opened his mouth, & Swore he would blow his brains out if he spoke or even batted his eye. Heatons Pistol was in his belt, under his coat, buckled in the case, & he had to wait till Picketts eye was off him, before he could draw in safety. He drew, but Picket shot first & just as Heaton drew his weapon Heaton, made him cower & get out of the way.
The most of the jury who tried the case are secessionists.
This case is a small one, but is an outrage, from which I hope you will redeem Heaton, by remitting the
fine. You know, I trust, that I would not solicit this, if I did not believe it to be right.
Yours &c
Z Wheat