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872

Oct 5th

Sir,
Your communication of 4th inst' has been received.

The Asst Com'r directs me to say that where the testimony of freedpeople is admitted the Civil Courts have jurisdiction in all criminal cases wherein colored persons are parties concerned. If the Courts, through prejudice, or other causes, fail to give them a fair and impartial trial, such as would be allowed white persons in similar cases, then it becomes your duty to report such fact to this office when a proper investigation of the case will be [[strikethrough]] made. [[/strikethrough]] ordered 

Respectfully
Your Obt Servt
T F. Forbes
Lieut & A.A.A.G

G. W. Vaughn Esq
Agent Bureau &c
Ringgold Ga.