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4 

The asst. Supt. in Culpepper Co- informs me that there is a kind of scant combination among the plants to refuse to hire the freedmen unless they will work under pricing the same rules & for the same Compensation as when they were slaves. The alternative is "work this or leave", and if they leave, others are pledged not to supply them. I think the inhabitants of this County are more positively determined to improve practically the freedom of the Black man than in any other portion of my district.

I beg pardon for writing so long a letter - I have tried to state matters as they exist here and I trust Col. that you will give me directions that will enable me to carry out your views in these matters - 

I have the Honor to be 
Col
Your & & &
T. Frank P. Cranden
Capt. & A. Comr & Supt.
4th Dist. State of Va