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Chambers County, Ala
August 28th 1867

Maj. Genl. Swayne,

[[SEAL]] The National Archives of The United States
Sir

Being in great trouble in my domestic relations, I take the liberty of asking you, as the friend of my race and the guardian of the law, to gain advice and help.

My wife, Josaphine, and myself have lived together in the marriage relations for over fifteen years. We are the parents of six children - four of whom are living.

Being influenced by those who dislike me, she has deserted me - and refuses to live with me as her husband. A few nights since I caught her in the act of adultery - and now, having heretofore sustained a good name, she has [[strikethrough]] so muc [[/strikethrough]] become so much ashamed of her conduct that she demands to leave the country. This I want to prevent. For the sake of my children who are young & helpless, I am willing to forgive & forget is that is past - if she will return to me as my wife. My object therefore, in writing is to ask what I must do. Can I not by moderate chastisement compel her to obey me? If she insists on leaving me, can I not keep the children? I wish Genl. you would write to me and direct me. I do not want to do any thing wrong. Please Genl. compose my letter plainly, so that she & I can understand it fully. By doing which you will confer a great favor on
Your humble servant
William Reid - freedman

Direct to West Point Gen
care of S.W. Harris Esqr