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In every case where the Freedman has been ran to cast I give it to him

"I care nothing for this fee" This is what he got mad at and told Spence that it was done to swindle him out of his fee

Rakestraw has done me a gross injustice If he had reported the case of binding these children, I could not have thought any way hard of him, but as he has attempted to make an impression on the mind of the A. Comr, that I am doing an injustice to all Freedmen I feel it my duty to have this matter fairly investigated. I never owned a slave in my life I have hired Negros but I never whipped but one in my life, and that was a boy. I have had but one difficulty with a freedman since I have been Agt.

Maj Leonard of Atlanta was here with me Capt. [[?]] Timany [[?]] of Atlanta was here and remains with me for several days, either of these gentleman will testify that I have given general satisfaction to the freedmen

In conclusion, I holly affirm that this man Rakestraw has misrepresented me as Agt. I defy him or any other man to show one single case where I have not sought after the welfare of the Freed people of this county & protected them in all their rights, in doing which I have incured the displeasure of some of the white people

Very Respect. Submitted
P. D. Claiborne Agent
B.R.F. & A.L.
Gwinnett Co 

March 18th 1867

Transcription Notes:
P.D. Claiborne