King tries to establish mutual understanding by referring to his readers as “fellow clergymen” and “my Christian and Jewish brothers” (Par. 16). King wishes that the eight, white clergymen would support not only his actions but the reason behind them, instead of denouncing his character. King also repeatedly apologizes if he has exaggerated his case or been excessively cruel. King’s alternate audience is the white moderates who are witnessing the protests and punishment unfold. The white moderates feel sympathy for King and his cause but question his methods. He knows that he has to win over this audience if he is to get the world wide support he desperately needs. For this reason, King uses an unostentatious tone and highlights the universality
