Mexico
Mo June 10th/66
Genl
Robert E. Lee
Dear
Sir- We have organized a branch of the “Southern Aid Society” in this place
& being at a loss to know the surest means of sending our fund to the
destitute widows & orphans of the South.
I have thought it best to ask some questions of you as one better able to
give us the desired information than any one else – In the first place –
what point in the South do you think a few thousand dollars will do the most
good
2nd
What would be the safest mechanism of sending it to such a point.
3rd By whom should it be sent- In this part of Mo we feel
tenderly for the suffering ones in the South & are anxious to do all in our
power for this relief – Hence any information you can give us with regard to
this matter will be thankfully received – Our town is comparatively new
with a population of about two thousand nearly all poor people not able
to do much in this matter – but all that we can possibly do will be done
cheerfully – W have a few who are working nobly in this cause & with their
aid we hope to be able to alleviate the wants of at least a few of Gods
suffering children.
I would be glad if you will reply to this immediately as I would like to
make a report to that effect at our meeting on next Saturday-
Hoping to hear from you soon I am most Respectfully-
Yours
Emma S. Ringo
Cor Sect L,S,A, S
Owing
to inflammatory rheumatism in my hands have not been able to write with a pen
for years – Hope you will therefore excuse pencil writing
ESR
Direct your letter to Mrs. Emma S. Ringo
Mexico Mo
Notation
on reverse in General Lee’s handwriting:
10 June 1866
Mrs
Emma S. Ringo
Cor.
Secy Ladies S. Aid
Society
Inquires where a
few
thousand dollars
would
afford most
relief
at the South,
23
June Ansd
Referred
to Mrs
Benjm
C. Howard, Baltimore
for
Correct information