Viewing page 50 of 299

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

338

July 17th

Sir,
Your communication of the 5th inst has been received and I am directed by the Ass't Com'r to say that you have the authority as Ag't of the Bureau to try any cases between freedpeople & White persons or between freedpersons only. where the Sum involved does not exceed $50- or the punishment does not exceed 30 days imprisonment. But it is desired that cases coming within your jurisdiction be turned over to the civil authorities for trial whenever they manifest a determination to deal fairly & justly with the freedman and grant him the same benefit of the law equally with the white man. 

Respectfully
Your Obt Servant
Theo F. Forbes
Lt & A.A.A.G.

Ross. R. T Esqr
Agt &c
Clinton Ga