Wright B. Pritchett to Richard Yates

the papers

the office

Vincennes, Ind., August 2d 1863

Mr Dick Yates

Dr. Sir, having sustained a heavy loss by means of fire which consumed my place of buisiness, which contained all that I possessed in the world, and left me entirely destitute with a large and helpless family dependent upon me alone for support and I am growing old and infirm. I am in a very deplorable condition. The Cause of the burning was that the perpetrator of the act was full in the belief that the enrolling papers were in the house at the time being enrolling officer for Lawrence Co. at the time, but fortunately,

the papers I had sent to the office of P. M. [OKean?] the day previous to the fire as I have always worked for the good of my country and done every act within my limited power for the advancement of the same I appeal to your generosity in this my hour of adversity Cant you give me a small amt. & show this letter to my friends Mr Dubois, & Butler, and Mr Fuller Gold and all that may be willing to contribute something that I may be enabled to make enough to support me for a short time. Mr Yates by giving this your attention you will confer a lasting favor & undying obligation upon Your most obt servant

Wright B. Pritchett

FIRE.--Capt. Pritchett's grocery and warehouse in Wesport, was entirely consumed by fire Monday night, with all the contents, amounting to about $700. It is supposed to be the work of some incendiary, who supposed the enrollment books to be in the building.

Pritchett Wright. B.

Vincennes Ind Aug 4 63

Has sustained a heavy loss of property, by fire - and he is entirely destitute, with a large family to support

Wishes the Governor to give him a small amount and ask his friends Hatch Dubois Butter Fuller Gould & others to do the same

Show this to Mr Hatch, Dubois, Butler, Fuller & Gold - and ask will they fork?

Major Gould will fork

Mr. Butler " "

recd Ex O. Aug 10 1863