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by certain people that these goods were sold at enormous rates - from 85 to 100 per. cent advance and that the profits on sales over and above the 10 or 15 pr. cent was wrongfully appropriated, and that the goods were sold to any and all parties who would purchase the same, which was in violation of orders.

I took considerable time to investigate this matter. I called for the Invoices and Bills and copied therefrom such articles as the freedmen would be most likely to purchase - such as boots, shoes, clothing, dress goods & fancy articles for the women. I found from the bills what these particular articles cost, added therto the freightage and the established percent profit and then went among the freedmen and inquired what they had been charged for these particular articles. I made a very thorough examination and I am prepared to say that the charge is untrue. I could find no instance of exorbitant rates having been charged or paid, nor any instances of a higher rate having been paid than that affixed to the goods, neither could I find that any sales had been made to others than freedmen.

There is no doubt in my mind but that this system of stores, which was originated by Col Eaton & kept up & sustained by him for more than a year was of the greatest benefit & assistance to the freedmen. All articles actually needed by them were furnished at the very lowest rates & articles of wearing apparel were