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freedmen for the past six weeks has called forth the commendations of every right-minded man. The State of affairs in Russell Co as foreshadowed in this order, was not very satisfactory.  Where there is such evident injustice given in orders, we may well look for unparalleled ruffianism in their execution. In this instance I was not disappointed. I herewith present the order that the Asst. Commissioner may take such action as his judgment may dictate.

Upon arriving at Girard I sought to gather information as to the condition of affairs from the citizens of the place.  In this I was wholly disappointed, as there is scarcely a reliable and influential man in the town. In it live a number of operatives who work in Columbus, Employees upon railroads and at depots; a large portion of the remainder are abandoned characters who care but little for the rights or life of any man. I then passed over to Columbus and called upon Capt. Slaughter, Officer in charge of the Bureau