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at the south and receive for his consideration, from the planters such suggestions, as may result from their long experience and which may conduce to the speedy formation of a system and its application, as shall secure for the people of our State a support, and a deliverance from impending famine. In consult with this important subject we would respectfully call attention to the notorious fact, that since the issuance of the Presidents Emancipation Proclamation, many hundreds of colored laborers, have deserted their former owners, and are now roaming at large, throughout the State, and have become more or less dependent upon the public charity, and the plunder of private property for a livelihood, and it's seriously apprehended that unless this evil is speedily arrested by the prompt action of the government, it will become still more alarming and disastrious [[disastrous]] in its consequences.
In conclusion, this meeting of Planters, would respectfully submit for the Consideration of General Howard as the most practicable means, which occurs to them to save the growing crops in the southern states [[strikethrough]] are [[/strikethrough]] the following:
1st_ the distribution and application, of an effective military or other physical force, to enforce discipline & labor.
2nd_ A published order from the Freedman's Bureau, requiring all laborers on Plantations, and Farms, to remain faithfully discharging their duties, in cultivating and harvesting the growing crops.
3rd_ A published notice, that no government rations, will be allowed to any laborer, who may desert, or abandon, the plantation, on which he or she may have been employed since the planting of the present crops.
All of which as respectfully submitted.
Rob Habersham
Chairman
William H Miller
Secretary