Contributed by Kathleen Haynes      Contact Myrtle Bridges     July 12, 2008

                                           Raleigh, NC
				           May 6th, 1902
Dear Mrs. Tate,
	Mrs. Skinner and I have heard of the sad bereavement that has befallen you in the death of your son, 
and our hearts are overrunning with sympathy for you and the family. It is a dark mystery that we are 
called on to suffer such appalling calamities.
	To the Christian who must suffer like others, there is but one to whom we can look for support and 
consolation; Our Shepherd and Helper in times of need.
	Mrs. Skinner sends her love to you and the children.
			              With sincere sympathy, I am your friend,
			              Thos. E. Skinner*
*The 1880 Census of Wake County, Raleigh shows Rev. Thos E. Skinner, 55, minister, b. NC and wife Ann 47, b. NY, E. M., daughter, 11, b. TN (sick - deaf and dumb);
J. S., 9, son, b. TN; Chs. W. 7, son, b. GA. Also, 5 black servants; a carriage driver, a nurse, a house servant and 2 cooks

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