Viewing page 231 of 265

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

0759

Emory who live in the Country, and are largely interested in the cultivation of land, and employ numerous laborers, and - having families isolated - would naturally be anxious if "the peace, good order and safety of the community" was in jeopardy. Their testimony as to the improved condition of the county, as regards crops _ labor and good order is supported by statements of Messrs Gillespie and Greer who employ a number of freedmen, and by sworn testimony of Rufus Moss and Mumford Brandon (colored). Mr Stegal makes a similar statement _ from general information _ and every one, white or colored, with whom I conversed confirm it. I called upon Mr. W.A. Homes, Registering Officer of 2nd Magisterial District, but as he does not reside in that district, he declined to make a specific statement, but generally informed me that the condition of affairs in 2nd District were similar to that in the rest of the county. I ascertained that Mr Atkins is his son-in-law, and that he had declined, and still declined, to have anything to do with the matter.

While waiting for Messrs Baptist, Atkins and Finch on the
morning of the 27th inst, I was informed by Mr James Cliborn, that a number of persons were sent for to the Court House, to
consult what had better be done in the matter of proceeding with the investigation of charges against Mr Graham, and the conclusion reached is found in Mr Baptist's letter marked "A".

The result of diligent investigation _ such as I was enabled to make, after refusal of the complainants to go into a regular and thorough examination of the charges _ leaves me no alternative but to report that - in my judgement - the charges against Mr Graham are not sustained, but more, are directly contradicted

Transcription Notes:
---------- Reopened for Editing 2023-12-19 15:08:40