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ones able to work and make their own living, and those who were not, and by this means the demand for labor would certainly be increased, as there would be a means by which those who were vagrantly disposed, could obtain a living from those who were receiving rations, by adding a little stealage occasionaly in the shape of a chicken, or pig, and the Government would be imposed on to a very great extent.  Please give me some definite instruction on the above subject.

I am of the opinion that Circular No. 10. dated Richmond Va. March 12th, 1866, turning all criminal cases over to the civil authorities will work badly for the freedmen, on account of the prejudice existing throughout the country, toward the negro, and will be the cause of their being shamefully abused, as there is no known law in the south, guaranteeing the negro any rights, but many laws punishing his rongs: the feelings of the people are emphaticaly against the negro, and I think they are persecuted very nearly as much now as when they were slaves, the dollar and cent interest and all other interest having expired about the 9th of April 1865,  many cases of assault and battery, threats to shoot & kill, &c, are occuring continualy, & it is almost useless for the negro to apply to a Justice of the peace for redress, as the Justices donot receive any compensation, for their labors, and donot care to put themselves to any trouble, to see justice done a negro.  I think that all such cases should be turned back to the Bureau, to insure the negro a speedy trial, and in most, if not all cases, he would be more likely to receive a fair and impartial hearing: as it is at present our labors are much lessened, and time goes merrily on.

I have the honor to be Captain
Your most Obedient Servant
J. M. Tracy
Capt. & Asst. Supt.