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port, after learning my intention to face the charge, persuaded me, rather than to go away disgusted at the colored people there, to submit a [[underline]]partial[[/underline]] service of matrimony performed by himself in private, to which I acceeded, and in which condition I remained until my public departure for this place. 
I have no legal claim upon any woman as my [[underline]]wife[[/underline]], and no woman has a legal claim upon me as her [[underline]]husband[[/underline]].
I would do [[underline]]right at all times[[/underline]] because I fear God, and not man.
With this exposition for my social position I trust that you, Sir, will still believe me to be your candid, faithful servant.
C. H. Gardner. Teacher

Revd. John Kimball
Superintendent of Education
Washington D.C.