Charles S. Morris Jr. to Woodrow Wilson

711 – 717 Highland Avenue,
Norfolk, Va.

Honored Sir
Will you be so kind as to pardon an intrusion?

You will note from the inclosed circular, that a movement has been organized to raise a fund for the relief of the widows and orphans of colored French soldiers.

This organization was established in Atlanta, Ga., with the French Consul there at its head, to secure $1,000,000. for the alleviation of the intense suffering of these people. Prominent men in all sections of the Country are in various ways connected with the movement; Judge Robert H. Terrell of Washington, DC, being one of the national directors.

I have been appointed Field Secretary of the organization, entrusted with the heavy responsibility of securing the aforesaid sum.

Many charities recently have been making very urgent appeals for aid, and I feel that this cause is decidedly as urgent and deserving as any.

400,000 colored soldiers from Morocco, Algiers, Africa, and other of France's colonial possessions, have been killed while fighting in the present war; 1,000,000 widows and orphans are in destitute circumstances. For them this fund is intended. 600,000 colored troops are now fighting in the armies of France, fighting daily “to make the world safe for democracy. ”It would be a noble thing if you, the Chief Executive of the American nation, would give to us a message of encouragement, that we might more successfully prosecute this movement.

When Vice-President Marshall was in Norfolk two weeks since, I briefly told him my outlined plans, and he promised to give the matter attention.

To send a sum of money to these widows and orphans at this time would not only alleviate a dire need, but would stimulate to greater effort those courageous men who are now fighting.

Mr. Martin L. Williams, of the House of Representatives, is personally acquainted with me, and can more specifically inform you regarding myself.

I want to again very earnestly urge Your Excellency to give us a message or proclamation, indorsing this very philantropic undertaking.

Trusting that the hand of the Great Divinity may guide your course thru this bloody war, that our banner may be washed and made stainless,I have the honor to subscribe myself,

Your obedient servant,
Charles S. Morris, Jr
Field Secretary