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Matthews Court House
May 25 1867

General O. Brown
Commissioner

Sir: 
We the colored people of Mathews County respectfully represent that we have heard with feelings of regret that Capt'n H R Howlett has been relieved from duty as Agent of the Freedmans Bureau at this Post.  Since his residence among us he has displayed all the qualities that we think are necessary for an Agent to whom our interests are confided and his conduct is in pleasing contrast with that of Major Smith whom he relieved and who we are sorry to hear is coming back here. Major Smith has expressed his opinion in regard to us colored people in saying that he would not believe that we would tell the truth and we have no christian or honest feelings among us because it was against our nature. In the matter of rations too, the supply furnished by Major Smith was very deficient, there being many necessities men and women who have nothing else to depend on and are now literally starving, and his behavior towards us has been constantly insulting, rough and unfeeling.  We therefore respectfully ask that Captn Howlett may be retained at this Post, where he has given us so much satisfaction. 

Carter Hayies [[?]] [[?]] Jacksin lichfeel Simon Hugin the [[meg joyity?]]


on behalf of the colored people of Mathies County [[?]]

Transcription Notes:
---------- Reopened for Editing 2023-10-19 21:52:46