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residents being generally good, but laborers introduced to this section, invariably have to become acclimated before enjoying tolerably good health. Chills and fever, as well as pneumonia, prevail in this "bottom" universally, both with old and new residents, but the latter suffer much more severely for the first year; afterwards they may be considered acclimated. In consequences of such sickness, many families imported last Christmas from Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, New Orleans, and Vicksburg, have last weeks and ever months from their working time, which will necessarily, (according to terms of contract) be deducted from their pay for this year, and will undoubtedly be a cause of pecuniary suffering to seek. Should these laborers remain during the ensuing year, they will not be susceptible to disease, and when attacked, will be better able to subdue it. In general, I find that the laborers inhabit a comfortable frame cabin, of one room, and often with a piazza in front and rear. The quarters are the same that were so occupied before the war, and are for the most part, well shaded, and laid out with a view to a good shelter from the rays of the sun, and good water. The planters nearly always give them a 'patch of land', as much as their spare time will enable them to cultivate, where those so inclined may raise sufficient vegetables to supply their families throughout the year. Many plant corn, and realize a considerable amount of therefrom.

[[left margin]] How they have been paid for work [[/left margin]] 

As a general rule, the freedmen have been fairly paid for their last years' work, although there are several instances in this Sub District where there has been default. The Agent