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But I have endeavored, as an Asst Supt, to prevent the wandering of the freedmen when, I though it prejudicial to their best interests, and have endeavored to teach them it was for their best interest to avoid leaving their former Master, and have only used my (verbal) influence to that end when they could remain on terms agreeable to the welfare of each Party.
   
Though not in direct answer to this communication, Yet I wish to say, Colonel, that I am a firm friend of the colored man.  I have no sympathies that are common with these men, as Masters, Accustomed to labor from youth I have ever hated the system of slavery, believing in Free speech

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---------- Reopened for Editing 2024-01-23 13:55:20