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on my mind that he was willing to compromise not thinking his case safe in the hands of a Justice but wanted to put in that plea, in case in the future the compromise did not work well.

Subsequent events completely justify this opinion.  After a lengthy discussion I drew up a contract which both parties declared satisfactory and which both in my presence signed; and then appended a statement that in case either party violates the said contract he shall forfeit his share in the contract; and that I was to be umpire.

From that time to the 11th of October they (both parties) several times complained to the Asst Sub. Asst Comm. at Warrenton thus showing that they did not care about my deciding between them.

In October Capt. E.B. Gates while at Brentsville was asked his decision, but he declined referring the parties to me, Norris writing to me I promised to come unless prevented by unforeseen circumstances, but falling sick was prevented to attend.

Thursday the 24th of Oct. Norris sent a horse to Warrenton for me to ride up to Piedmonte (18 miles) and settle that case but all reg. officers by ordered away on the 25th could not possibly go; but taking Capt. Gates' testimony (he having investigated the case although declining to decide) believing the Military Commissioner 

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---------- Reopened for Editing 2023-10-30 10:35:50