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Greensboro Ala. Jan 24th 1868

Sir- The Agent of the Freedmans Bureau at this Place- Greensboro, Ala.- seems to have but one object in view and that is to annoy the Planters. He refuses to approve contracts, such as all other agents have approved and such as are usually made here and were made last year. He no doubt has two objects in view- to annoy the Planter first and to secure negro votes, for he is himself a candidate for the office of Sheriff having been nominated for that office by the negroes. He is by birth a Dutchman and by practice a rowdy and wholly unfit to fill any office. His name is H.G. Claus. He is also in the habit of making political speeches at negro meetings. If therefore I am correctly informed he is acting in violation of orders from Head quarters in two respects- namely first in being a candidate for office and secondly in using his office for political purpose. I have taken the liberty of calling your attention to this matter, hoping you will take such action as seems to be required in the premises. It is certain that this man is doing a great deal of harm here both the negro and the Farmer.I will add that he killed a man in Eutaw last fall and that nothing has been done in regard to the matter, he having fled from the civil authority to Demopolis when he was protected by Maj. C.W. Pierce who represented the military. I submit whether this does not require an investigation. Every statement made above can be proven. Very respectfully, D.H. Smith.
To Gen. Heyden Mont, Ala.