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Memorandum - case of Z. McDonald, dated Washington April 10th 68 states that he is a citizen of State of Mississippi doing business as a regular licensed Claim Agent and Intelligence office Keeper. In the month of February having employed certain freedmen under contract to work for a G. F. Lowry of Jefferson Co. Miss. for six months at $25. per month - which contract was satisfactorily completed the men paid and discharged - in the mean time a verbal contract for "extra" or "surplus work" had been made between them, unknown to him - the money for this work not being paid - they demanded it of him, (Mr McD.) holding him responsible under both agreements - Mr Lowry ultimately proposed to pay seventy-five cents on the dollar to settle this claim, to which the freedmen consented - and the money was paid to McD. by Mr. Lowry, and a day named at which to make a pro rata distribution of the same.  One of the freedmen however demanded instant payment, but consented to wait on receipt of $10. and left apparently satisfied.  On the next day however Col. James Biddle, S. A. Comm. for Sub District of Natchez peremptorily demanded that the money received on behalf