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Office Sub. Assistant Commissioner Bureau RF&AL
Seguin Texas June 23 1868

Lieut Chas A Vernou USA
A A A Gen. BRF&AL

Sir I am in some doubt as to my exact authority under existing orders, especially in civil matters. Gen order No 5 dated Galveston Texas February 2, 1867. directs agents to refer all civil matters to the courts acting only as advisor of the freedman superseded by No 5 
1st I would ask can I not enforce payment for wages in persuance of either an express or implied contract?

2d In all contracts, either written or oral for croping on the shares (between freedmen and whites) can I not adjudicate accounts between the parties, and render Judgment against either party for balances due, and enforce the judgement by a writ given to the sheriff? let him seize property and sell the same!

3d If parties have no property to satisfy judgement can I arrest the person & confine them until they satisfy the same?