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NARA 714

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Sheriffs Office Kinston N.C.
June 3 1867

Brevet Maj. H.H. Forster

Sir
I have the honor to report that since the withdrawal of the United States Troops from this town in the latter part of 1865 this County has been cursed with more lawlessness, robbery, arson and murder than any County of the same size has ever been since the formation of the Government
At this time it is the rendezvous of a formidable body of fiends in human shape who have no respect or fear for the laws of either God or man.
During the last Eighteen months no less than Thirteen (13) murders have been committed Among the number a United States Soldier while crimes of a lesser magnitude without number have occurred which would have created a sensation of horror even in the most lawless and barbarous portion of Mexico
I have not drawn upon my imagination for this picture. The facts are real. I would that it were otherwise but I feel that as a Civil Officer of the County I should not discharge my duty towards that portion of the people who are disposed to be loyal