Viewing page 6 of 235

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

and I have reason to believe justice will be done.

There has been an civil suit before the magistrate at Harpers Ferry decided in favor of the Negro. Complaint by letter was made against two colored persons of Charlestown, by their former master, who stated that the colored men came to his house drunk with guns in their hands, and that he took the guns from them. He wished to know what he should do with the guns. The Negros appeared before me and complained of his treatment to same and wished to know if the laws allowed him to act in this manner. They stated that they had been out hunting, that their guns were empty, and that they called at his house to see their relatives.

I informed them that they had no business on his property, and if drunk, they were liable to arrest for disorderly conduct. I directed their former master to return the guns to the owners, and make his complaint to a magistrate. The schools are in a prosperous condition. The Sunday schools are also well attended, the health of the district is good, and the houses of the colored people in a clenly and healthy condition.
I am Major
Very Resp. Your Obt. Svt.
M. Wells
Bvt Maj & A.Q.M. 

To Brvt Maj W. S. How
A.Q.M. and Supt.
6th Dist - Va

Transcription Notes:
AQM = Assistant Quarter Master