This will be handed to you by my friend and neighbor, Jefferson Garth, esq., who goes to Cape Girardeau to recover a negro man belonging to him there. Mr. Garth is a loyal citizen, and one of the best men in every respect. I would be much obliged to you, if you would introduce him to the military authorities at Cape Girardeau, and give him whatever aid he may need in the recovery of his property.
Your attention to this matter will confer a great favour upon
Most truly your friend & obedient servant,
James S. Rollins.”
Below this letter, on the same page –
“I can cheerfully endorse all that is said in the above letter.
O. Guitar, Brig. Gen.”
And overside,
“Free pass to Cape Girardeau & return to St. Louis. G. E. L.”