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Most of the surplus population here is from the counties lying between the York and Rappohanock rivers. To all appearances, they will do nothing themselves towards making arrangements for the ensuing year; and when, at the last moment, the owners of the lands on which they are now located, expel them from their premises, as they surely will as soon as they get possession, much suffering will surely ensue, which by timely attention might be prevented.
There are about 150 families squatted on my lands, whom I permitted to stay while the war lasted. Their thieving is intolerable. My three years experience with them has satisfied me of the impolicy of allowing them to herd in large numbers, as the demoralization is most marked and rapid. A number of these are women without husbands. I have advised them to move while the weather is favorable, and to seek locations where there is land or labor to be had, but they pay no need to my suggestions. I shall be compelled to turn them all out this winter, as it is impossible for me to do anything while they are on the land — as my business is the raising of fruit, poultry and hogs. I am