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in the contract), which are not comprehended  by the freedmen.

The contracts this year are generally made for shares in the crop. These agreements are so complicated, that in nine cases out of ten, the freedman only entertain a vague idea of what is embodied in his contract: and his condition at the end of the year is more deplorable than if he had labored for eight dollars per month. In their ignorant conditions it is infinitely better that they should labor for wages, their food and clothing. Those who can enter public lands under the "Home stead act" charter do so. I do not know that I say in all cases, that this proclivity to deal unfairly with the freedman, emanates from prejudice or hatred on the part of the whites towards the negro, but it may be the natural disposition, which one man has to take advantage of the ignorance of the other.

No cases of utter destitution have yet fallen under my notice. As a general thing their food is meagre and their clothing scanty.

There are no schools, but great need of them. Freedmen anxious for them.              

Transcription Notes:
need to complete transcribing ---------- Reopened for Editing 2023-09-02 12:27:44