Mexico Mo June 10th/66
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 - We 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
Robert E. Lee CollectionLeyburn Library, Washington and Lee University
Endorsed by Lee: "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."