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[[stamp]]  THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF THE UNITED STATES [[/stamp]]

native prejudices will not allow them to feel towards the negro as they should. But this class is so weak and insignificant in point of number, that they carry no weight whatever; our do they would the slightest influence detrimental in its tendency to the freed population as a whole.
  
Though voulemes have been written in regard to the colored man of the South; I think I can safely say, his true character, is but poorly understood beyond the limits of the former slave states. He is credulous, unreliable (as a race) and fickle. From the earliest dawn of infancy he has been taught to depend, not upon father or mother for support, but his master was his safe guard, his protection, his chief reliance. Having always been dependent we see the freedman of today; with his shackles broken and the sunlight of freedom opening upon him, possessed of but little self reliance. Hence, we remark so many after weeks and months of absence and alienation, returning joyfully to their former owners and to their childhood's home in quest of friendship and aid. In a spirit of petty anger some may at times, express themselves at enmity with those who formerly held them in bondage. But in seven cases out of nine, you will find in existence, between the former slaves and former master, a feeling of a paternal nature.
  
I therefor assert that the very best spirit exists between the White and Black in this county. The Whites I am sure are sincere in their professions towards the freedmen, as their general deportment will evidence. I do not think I am transcending the bounds of truth when I say I believe they will do all in their power to advance, the colored people; thrown helpless upon them, in the scale of prosperity and enlightment.

Transcription Notes:
volumes and enlightenment misspelled in original. Per SI, when a word is split between pages/films (the last word on this page), the FULL WORD is to be on BOTH pages/films. (the word is misspelled when put together <sigh>)