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although aware of the arrival of these supplies, made no disposition of them, and the other day, on being informed that he corn awaited his order, he stated, that he was going to Memphis, and on his return, would see to its distribution. Thus this greatly needed article lies awaiting the return of his Honor.
Every means is used to convey the idea to the destitute that the local magnates are the source from whence their wants are supplied, and favoritism, and electioneering, and paying of debts with provisions, gratuitously furnished are the results. These petty leaders seem determined that the Federal Government shall receive no credit for the great good, it proposes to accomplish; at the same time however, they seize the supplies sent them for issue, with hungry avidity, make way with them somehow, and condescend to make neither report, nor expression of appreciation or gratitude. I am aware, this sounds incredible; but it is true.
The other day, the Judge of the Probate called on me, and requested that the rations be delivered to the Civil authorities in bulk, to be distributed to the poor by the overseers, and at the same time presented a list of the destitute in the County, made by these overseers. I stated that his plan would deprive a large part of the truly destitute from all benefit of the issues, and he replied "that would make no difference - first come first served". I asked him how many colored people were on his list, and he positively