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to the inspection of the negroes or the authorities who may desire to see it and a settlement can then be made in conformity with the agreement.

I am sure, Sir, you will concur with me in thinking that it would be extremely unjust and against the very agreement of the parties to compel the employer to surrender to the labourer the whole proceeds of his labour after having furnished him and his family with a year's provisions, without other security therefore than can be obtained by the ordinary process of the Courts- The agreement was a fair and reasonable one, and I submit that it is better for the negroes in the long run, that they should be obliged to comply with all such, as it would surely be most unjust, in this instance, to the employer to deprive him of his security for advancements and supplies- 
 
I hope, Sir, that you may have it in your power, as well as be inclined to stop the summary proceedings threatened by the Agent of the Freedman's Bureau at Greensborough within whose jurisdiction this case has arisen-  If so, you will observe that no time is to be lost. 

And I will be obliged to you to send me your order countermanding the proceedings, which I will see delivered, in proper time, to Abbott, and I must also request you to forward immediately your order to the Freedman's Bureau at Greensborough superseding or, at least, suspending his proceedings, until the Tobacco shall be fit for market and disposal of.

I have the honor to be
Most Respectfully, &C
[[Mr?]]: K. Ruffin