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                4^th

imminent danger. Mr Cook says the people will not allow him to have land, will not rent him any. He says a simple force of 25 men would be entirely adequate to subdue & protect the county. The rebels are frightened at the very sight or name of a Yankee. But they need to be kept in awe. The safety of the poor union whites as well as the Freedmen depends upon it.

In other Counties, we find quiet & peace. In other some, there is bitterness & hatred. In all, there is more or less of danger. The strong hand of power & the officer who is a man, & not a proslavery tool,— these are needed. Excuse my writing you this. I am constrained by the sight of men trembling for their lives, both white and black, & suffering all manner of outrages.
  
I left Boston Decr. 6^th. Since that, I have seen in this state, something of affairs. I return to night to [[underline]] Wilmington [[/underline]] N. C. to remain there for the present.

If I can be of use to you, permit me.          Over.