The three messages transcribed below were all written on the same piece of paper. It seems likely that Fred Pickering, an overseer, wrote a note to Lucy Chase requesting aid for two women. (In some cases, overseers who seemed to have useful skills and the trust of the freedmen continued to be used to organized and supervise work.) Lucy Chase then seems to have written a brief appeal on the women's behalf explaining that they could not pay for their needs since they had not been paid and were not entitled to aid. Her letter was directed to "Mr. Jackson," probably Thomas P. Jackson, who served as the agent of the Freedmen's Bureau in Augusta, Virginia, in 1867-1868. A third message, written over the first one, may have been forwarded by someone assisting Jackson, drawing the matter to his attention.

Together, these three reports illustrate the plight faced by the freedpeople during the final years of the Freedmen's Bureau. Because resources were severely restricted, it was often impossible for bureau agents to provide money, food, clothing, or other support even for the very needy.

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Mrs. Chase

Madam

Will you please give (Mary Cornish) and Flora Redward, a pair of shoes a peace. Also Flora is in great need of a dress. They are both very hard working people. Flora came from Petersburgh about 1 month ago.

Yours Respectfully

Fred. W. Pickering
Overseer, C.D.

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Mr. Jackson--

Dear Sir:

One of these poor women have been working since January, have no money since--When will they be paid? They ought to have nothing without money--Will you please give your opinion about the other

Yrs respct.
L. Chase

Thursday P.M.

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Note to Jackson.

Mary Cornich & her oldest child have worked steadily from Mrch. last have not been paid & as they are a numerous family stand poor chance for any money payment.

Flora Redwards went from Rope walk. has worked fairly since but has two g. children to support & will not be able to pay if charged as she must be with their rations--I cannot advise in the matter, but think they stand poor chance of paying for their needed articles though as far as I know they deserve help.

Yr ob servt.
Tho [?]aldwry