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would lead a stranger to think him one of the blackest of villains! It is too bad that calumny and prejudice should be able to victimize a man in this manner.

If Gen. Ruger will not order this sentence to be remitted at least with respect to the imprisonment, (though the fine is equally [[underlined]] unjust [[/underlined]], but not as disgraceful) I beg you to forward my petition immediately to Genl. Howard, and request his favorable action in the case. The accused was acting under me and was arrested in consequence of Genl Howards' telegram to Genl Schofield, and this decision lies properly within Genl. Howards reach. If you should make a brief representation of it to Genl. Howard I am sure it would be decisive of the matter, in case Genl Ruger does not favorably look upon it.

I am at work getting evidence and history respecting these cases referred to me, also in preparing a list of the property about New Berne, with the names of Counties &c. I have forwarded copies of the Wilmington lists.

Yours very truly, [[signature]] Horace James [[/signature]]
Capt & A.Q.M