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the average of prosperity is very much lowered; these stimulants drain off a very large percent of these poor men's earnings. It is very difficult to make the freedmen perceive how the use of much-solacing tobacco, and by taking one drink a day he injures himself very much.

I would repeat what I stated in my report of May 27th regarding the labor question and the oystering interest. The latter will, in my opinion, under the late modification of the law ordered by the General Commanding, become active in the coming season, and benefit business much. I have heard of no complaint since that order, though I fear many freedmen will in no way profit by the postponement of the time for paying the special tax, and try to wholly evade payment of it: they did it last year and will try it again. 

The oystermen, as a class, are not bettered much by their trade: on this I have formerly dwelt at some length and will not reiterate.

There has been complaint in Matthew Co. of their leaving the crops, suffering the corn & fodder to waste, for the more profitable oyster beds.

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---------- Reopened for Editing 2023-10-07 16:58:40