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5.
from comparatively small debtors. The large ones have been enabled by some influence, to stave off theirs or induce the party in charge not to proceed against them, In the other Districts I think it has been mainly otherwise. The larger debts that were collectable, have been collected, thus leaving a multitude of small claims, scattered over a large territory, against colored persons & also the poorer whites, nearly all of whom could hold several times the amt of property they now possess, exempt from debt under the homestead law of this State. To collect any considerable portion of these claims, would cost more than 50% of collections, & distress the parties forced. Among the large debtors, are some of considerable means, & good business ability, who have studiously taught

[[stamp]] THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF THE UNITED STATES [[/stamp]]