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As reported in the Oxford Eagle, September 24, 1902
According to the Oxford Eagle, "On Saturday morning
Jailor T.D. Ragland received an intimation that Will Mathis had received
a quantity of morphine, which he intended making way with himself when
he found all hope of a respite or reprieve was gone. Upon searching
Mathis’ person a sufficient quantity of morphine to kill six men
was found sewed in the waist bands of his pants. In
the cavity of the iron posts of Mathis’ bed were found two letters
from Whit Owens"
Will
When you take this (morphine) write a note and tell them you brought
it here with you. Will, put half of this in something to eat and give
to Orlando. I hate to ask you to do this, but I am afraid he will
tell everything he knows.
Be sure and do this; it won’t hurt you any worse. You needn’t
be afraid of going to hell. I know there is no such place. Tear this
up and put it in your slop bucket.
"Your best friend,
D.W. OWENS
Will,
There has been so many lies sworn on you I don’t think there
is any chance for you, and if you will tell then you gave the negro
the shot and I had nothing to do with it I can come clear. Don’t
say anything more about Orlando killing that negro. I am afraid he
will give me away about it. Will, I don’t want the d-n rascals
to hang you, and if you want it I will get Mat to get some morphine
and bring it to you. Old man Winters and his whole family eat it.
She can get it there, and you can take it and ease yourself off.
"Your friend
D.W. OWENS
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