Viewing page 94 of 295

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

was investigated by a number of white men making an attack upon the colored people while in the act of prayer - evidently with the view of involving the whites engaged in the camp meeting,- in a riot. This fact is shown from the whites, -rioters- always retreating within the circle of the white peoples tents when repulsed by the negroes; as also by threats against the white ministers.
It is shown conclusively by the evidence- that the negroes acted only in self defense, and left the ground entirely when advised to do so by the white preachers- thus leaving their tents and goods to be destroyed and burnt by the white rioters.
From a careful reading of the whole testimony, it is impossible to resist the conclusion that the riot was premeditated, and that the object of the riot was - 1. "an attack upon the colored people,- and 2. "a deliberate attempt to break up the Camp meeting of the M.S.Church - on account of the alleged anti slavery sentiments of its ministers and members.

I am, General,
Very Respectfully
Your Obt. Svt.
E.M Gregory
Brt. Maj. Genl. Vol.
Asst. Commissioner