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of the convention in relation to the collection of claims, has paralyzed those merchants who are stopped from collecting upon their liens.

I cannot but regard this action of the convention as most unfortunate at this time.  I know of numbers of our farmers, who if they could obtain assistance to feed their hirelings would employ from two to 20 freedmen in their farms during the year.  I know several freedmen who are attempting to farm for themselves, who could carry on their work successfully, if they could obtain the necessary help to feed their hands & stock.  This they could do if, the collection of liens is not prevented or delayed.

The merchants are willing to sell provisions on time if they can be secured the payment in the fall out of the proceeds of the crop.

Ortherwise they will do nothing.  An order of his Excellency the Genl Commanding in this Department authorizing the collection of what is due on Liens & inhibiting any interference with their collection by due course of law in future will give assurance to the merchants and