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13

debt and that very heavily.

In settling contracts made last year unless the Freedmen obtained one half of the crop raised, and to be at no expense, (save his rations and clothing) they have invariably been brought in debt. For this reason, I have not approved any contracts, unless they obtained one half of the crop, and all necessary stock farming implements &c. furnished by the employer.

The Freedmen have organized a Temperance Society. I was present at one of the meetings last week and was highly gratified at the result of the undertaking. They are doing all in their power to prevent intoxication among their class. Those that spent their scanty earnings in intoxicating beverages will now save the money so spent and endeavor to assist the poor."

Moses C. West, Supt Marshall Co reports Feby 1st 67.
So far as I have been able to learn a larger number of employers have been liberal and just in their settlements, while a few have some disposition to take advantage of the Freedmen's ignorance. In all cases where complaint has been made, I have been careful to instruct the Freedmen how they can get the benefit of the statutes of the state