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expectation of always remaining on the land, led him to disregard the summons of the Court. I am convinced, that he did not intentionally do so, that the Court can not be blamed for its action in the matter;- that, on the other hand Stepney is not responsible for his ignorance, and that he had reason to believe the Military Authorities would permit him to remain, since he does not appear to have been notified of the revocation of Major French's order. And it is therefore my opinion, that he has been treated with extreme harshness.

It has been the policy of the Bureau to insist on a tenant's being allowed to remain until the end of the current year on land which during the year, he has ceased to have a right or permission to occupy. Such indulgence should, I think, have been granted to Stepney Poulson.

I have no reason to believe, that there were in Lt. Sherwood's office, at the time of this occurrence, and instructions to the above effect, or that he knew the policy of the Bureau in this respect.

Having been present at the trial,