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Forsyth Ga Jan 16th 1866

Dear Sir

In Jasper County there are several farmers who have made contracts with Freedmen and have applied to me for approval of the same.  I desire to have some information concerning the legality. I ame near the line of Jasper & Monroe and the nighest Asst. Agent of the Bureau. I am inclined to believe that it would be legal for me to approve such but I prefer that you express your opinion.  There are several Freedmen who have made contracts which I have approved at the same time I did not think were receiving fair compensation but the Freedmen themselves urged me to approve them because they preferd to live with those with whom they had contracted at the wages offered than to receive higher wages at other places. An early reply is respectfully solicited
Yours Respectfully 
John A Steele
Asst Agt FPB