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persons acquainted with the circumstances.
I then sent for the colored people refered to and heard their statement, they seemed disappointed with their condition. I informed them that they would be required to work, and assist in maintaining their families and as their conduct had been such that Mrs. Allen could no longer get along with them; their husbands would be obliged to find homes for them elsewhere. One of the colored women has a son who is able to provide for her and all but one has husbands. Instead of sending the parties to Richmond as reported, I advised them to remain in the rural Districts where there is plenty of work.
There were vacant houses near their former house, which they could have obtained had the wished, and Mrs. Allen offered to let them have provisions, until they could get or start for themselves, but nothing would do them, but to go to Richmond.
They also had three weeks notice before I obliged them to leave, yet they made no effort to secure a home.
I have always done, all in my power for the colored people and have endeavored to see that Justice was done them in all cases, brought before me. The statement of Lieut. Merrell in the above case is unjust.

Transcription Notes:
1.22.2024 - Transcribed per guidelines (spelling transcribed as is) and marking for review