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ascertained that two thirds to three fourths of all the mules in this county, have died under the attack. Hundreds of oxen and horses have also been destroyed. So fatal was it in its effects, that many deer and bears were found dead in the woods, bearing the marks of this dreadful disease. Men are known to have perished from this malady, from incautiously handling the dead bodies of the animals. [[left margin]] Government Tax on Cotton [[/left margin]] In consequence of this accumulation of misfortunes, the planters find themselves unable to pay the merchants who have supported them with money, provisions, teams, and clothing during the year. The unprecedented low price of cotton extinguishes their last hope, while the Tax on Cotton of 2 1/2 cents per pound renders their bankruptcy certain. Should this tax be remitted, they may be able, by careful management, to make headway for another year; should any tax be continued, it is manifest that it must be abstracted or deducted from the wages of the freedmen, who will therefore be the chief sufferers. [[left margin]] Rent of Land. [[/left margin]] Land, which this year rents for $5. to $6. pr acre will not next year bring more than $1.50 to $2. The wages of those freedmen who may obtain employment will be reduced to the lowest possible amount. A reliable estimate of the cost in raising a crop, with results, is herewith submitted, and marked Exhibit C. Very Respectfully C.T. Lawson Agent Bureau R.F. and A.L.
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Reopened for Editing 2023-09-01 22:39:35