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his place. We are organizing and making every endeavour to keep our County from the rebels, but if Major Smith is allowed to remain here, he will cause the nomination of good loyal Union men, whose names Captn. Howlett sent to Genl Schofield as Registers, to be annulled, and will nominate our old task masters, and this County will be irrevocably lost to the Union cause. Everything now depends on having the right men for Registers, such as Captn. Howlett nominated. 
We herewith send you a newspaper to show what we are doing. Please look at the place marked. The rebels are all jubilant at Smith's return and say he is the man for them. In conclusion we ask most respectfully that you will please cause Captain Howlett to be reassigned to this sub district, for which we will ever thank you.
With the highest gratitude and esteem we are 
General
Your obedient servants
Carter Hays
Armstead Gwyn X his mark
Peyton Collins X his mark
Simon Hudgins X his mark
Harry Cosby X his mark

(on behalf of all the col people in Mathews Co)

Transcription Notes:
---------- Reopened for Editing 2023-10-18 18:27:05