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Office of Asst. Supt. of R.F. and A.L.
Hempstead Austin Co. Texas
Nov 6th 1885

Brig. Genl. C. M. Gregory
Asst. Commissioner of R.F. and A.L.

General

I take the present opportunity to write a few lines for fear that I should not be able to command sufficient time tomorrow.

I am overcrowded with business of present and I have been engaged today in a settlement with the Freedmen of [[Kirby's?]] "Rock Island" Plantation. I suspected that they were being unfairly dealt with and consequently insisted on they and the books and Accts. of the Plantation being brought to my office.

The agent testified that there had been orders issued from Head Quarters stipulating that the Negroes might be hired simply for their board Clothing and Medical attendance. It may be so but I certainly have my doubts on the subject. At any rate I have taken the responsibility to enforce a settlement at the rate of $10.00 per  month for all male field hands and $8.00 per month for females. The Blacksmith I allowed $20.00 per month. Please advise me whether to have overstep'd my authority for taking the step that I have in this matter. I expected to be reported and thought if you must hear of it you had  

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