Clay C. H. Nov 17th 1863
Hon A. I. Boreman Gov W.Va
Sir,
A few days since a company of Rebels made a raid into Nicholas + Captured, And I. Stephenson who was Elected Sheriff of Nicholas but had not been sworn into Office + Carried him off. I have arrested One Influential secessionist. + have sent for another as hostages. Send me authority if you think it proper to do so + I will send them one, if he is not returned he is a most Excellent man, + I think the Government Ought to try + secure his release.
Very Respectfully
Capt. Benj. L Stephenson
Transcription by Rose Feazell, undergraduate student enrolled in Dr. Billy Joe Peyton's Fall 2010 "Introduction to Public History" at West Virginia State University