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Bertie Co. N.C
Lt J.M Foote

In compliance with instructions, though not a magistrate, I have attempted to investigate the affair between Alice Rhodes and Mr Bower. The parties were notified to attend trial several days since - but Andrew Baling, the principal witness, being absent the investigation was put off to saturday the 23rd. On Saturday Alice Rhodes does not make her appearance. The other parties all being ready for trial, Andrew Baling states that he never heard Bower make any threat, or heard of his making any - that he did not tell Alice Rhodes any such thing - and it is now only a personal quarrel among themselves - nothing can be gained by listening to feminine statements & I have thought best to let it go. 
I have instructed Alice to get out a Peace warrant if she fears danger from any of them. Their church is in commotion, & I imagine they will straiten things before they are done. I send this per Solomon, Alice's husband. Hoping this may be satisfactory to you. 
I am very respectfully You &c
J.C. Freeman Deputy 
for L. Bond Shff