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church simply through the interference of the military. And in July when the military is withdrawn they lose possession of it and it falls back to the man who bought it under a decree of the court.

This church as you are aware is one of the finest - in the state. it cost some eighteen hundred dollars of which all has been paid but the amount mentioned. The reason why the indebtedness has not been paid is because of a continued failure in crops for the last two years, which gave the freedmen as much as they could do to take care of themselves and families let alone contributing to any purpose however laudable it may have been

Now for them to lose all that they have paid upon it and the use of the church besides, will cause a demoralization among them which will prevent hereafter any more collections for similar purposes.

Hoping that this will claim your immediate and favorable attention.

I am very Respectfully
James P. Butler