he had ten years ago from which he has never recovered. Comrade Blair is the comrade the nigger sentinel shot in the shoulder at the same time shooting Comrade J. W. Harris in the kneecap, the morning we left Morris Island for the torture prison, Fort Pulaski. I try my best to keep in touch with all our dear old comrades by letter. It is a hard task, but they are my true comrades and the duty is one of love to me.
As directed by vote of society Hon. James Hay, of Virginia, upon my request introduced in Congress for the relief of the survivors of the 600 the following bill which is still in committee unreported, and I have a doubt if it will, owing to the political complexion of the committee and opposition of the G. A. R. Yet the introduction of this bill for our relief has done much to call attention to our claims for justice, and if the Murdock bill or the Taylor bill is acted upon by the committee so must ours be reported or the bill for the relief of Union soldiers is dead.
There will be a political change in the next House of Congress, and I sincerely believe our bill will be passed as all our friends in Congress recognize the justice of our claim. Col. Hay and other members of Congress will see to it that we have fair consideration when the bill comes up. In this matter Judge Jno. N. Southern, of Missouri, has rendered me much aid with legal advice and help in finding laws of belligerency governing our case. I have given 78 books, "Immortal 600," free to members of Congress to post them on our claim.
I have collected now 125 photographs of deceased and living members of our society which will go to the Battle Abbey when finished. I hope before I die to have photographs of all the true 600, that they can be preserved to future generations in the Abbey.
EXPENSES OF THE SOCIETY, 1909.
January, 1909, printing circular letter, envelopes and stamps. $49.30
Collections, dues and contributions, 1909 $41.50
Deficit in 1909 $7.80
This does not include nor has it any connection with the Monument Fund. The cash in hand of the Monument Fund is about $300.
(Promised) bill passed by Virginia Legislature. $225.00
U. D. C., Grand Chapter 100.00
