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I see it is the fashion of young beginners to bolster up their [?-?] or diminutiveness by referring on their cards to some of their friends who have a reputation. They shine by a sort of reflection from their friends— I dont like to [cut?] of the fashion if I am in the Piney Woods and am desirous of obtaining your permission to put your name on my law Cards as a referer— I'll be the bat to gobble up the flies and musquitos that are attracted by your light—

Really Governor I am convinced that in commencing my profession the influence of your name would benefit me no little— and if you will favor me by permitting me to use your name I shall feel much

gratified and I assure you that if close attention can accomplish anything you shall never have cause to regret having granted me this favor.

Crops in this neighborhood are suffering for rain the corn crop very short and cotton commencing to shed— Ive found another "Judr"— the thermometer is at 97. Typhoid fever all over the country. Freedmen working very well and all the whites praying for the [freeman?] of Phila convention

Your friend

Tim E. Cooper
Monticello
Miss

Address