Martha Cooley trying to get her children released from John Nave

Camp Nelson Ky March 26 1865 Personally appeared before me J M Kelley Notary Public in and for the County of Jessamine state of Ky Martha Cooley a woman of color who being duly sworn according to law doth depose and say. I am a widow woman, my husband Simon Cooley was a Soldier in the 5th U.S.A. Calvalry and was killed at the Salt Works during Genl Burbridges last raid. My master's name is John Nave and lives in Garrard County Ky. I have four children who belong to said Nave. About three weeks ago I told my master that I wanted to go to Camp Nelson. He said "I will give you Camp" and immediately took a large hickory stick with which he commenced beating me. He gave me more than thirty blows striking me on my head and shoulders and breaking one of the bones of my left arm. I have not the right use of it now. I told him I wanted my children. He said I could neither have my children nor my clothes. My Master beat me for this request. I watched my chance and ran away. I had to leave my children with my master. I have been in Camp about two weeks and am very anxious to get my children, and further deponent saith not Signed Martha Cooley Sworn and Subscribed to the 24 of - March 1865 - before me. Signed J M Kelley Notary Public Witness (Signed) E P Johnson