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Barnett Warren County Ga. Dec 13th /,65

Gen. Tilson

Sir-

I see in Circular No 5 from Gen Saxton a form of contract, which contemplates a moneyed contract for wages.  And which requires the contracting party of the first part to give bond to U.S. to furnish the Freedman with Quarters rations &.c &.c.  I am aware that all contracts must be approved.  But the object of my writing is to ascertain whether a similar obligation is necessary in cases, where the Freedman are allowed to work lands on shares:  For instance should I furnish a Freedman with Quarters Land & stock also food for same, & all necessary implements to work the Land  (He furnishing his own clothing rations medical advice &c) and agree to give him half the proceeds, of the farm;  Will it be required of me to give bond as specified in Cir. No 5, or will it be sufficient to enter into a written agreement, both parties signing their names before witnesses, and then have the same approved by Competent Authority;  I find that most of the Freedmen, are backward, about making contracts for another year.  In most cases, where there is any disposition manifested to make contracts, they prefer to work for part of the crop.  And on the other hand the planter in most cases show no disposition to employ except for money wages:  I am of opinion that an Agent of the Bureau in this County, would likely exercise a wholesome influence [[strikethrough]] over [[/strikethrough]] in regulating the difficulties growing out of these questions & it cautiously & wisely managed, would have a tendency to restore confidence.  As matters now stand, planters cannot calculate with any certainty for another year, and in consequence of this unhappy state of things