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In the main, both citizens and freedmen are inclined to fulfill the their contracts. There are exceptions among both classes. Some freedmen are restless, and avail themselves of the slightest pretext to change their homes. Some citizens are disposed to take advantage of the freedmen, both the formation of contracts, and in the construction of their provisions.

Many of the freedmen are disposed to idleness, and adicted to thieving. The jail of this county is now full of men from this class of the community, waiting trial. In some of the cases, the evidence received at the preliminary examination, was conclusive of guilt.

Among the freedmen there are some who still entertain erroneous opinions as to what constitutes freedom. They are insolent, sullen and disobedient. And this behaviour frequently provokes employers to whip or strike them, or to discharge them, much to their disadvantage.

Upon the whole, however, I think the relations between citizens and freedmen in this county, are gradually improving.

I have the honor to be,
Very respectfully,
Your obediant servant,
Wm Louis Tidball
Capt. V.R.C. I. Asst. Supt.
Bureau of Refugees &c

Through
Bt. maj. Wm Hollase, V.R.C.
Supt. 4th Dist., Va.,
Gordonsville, VA

Transcription Notes:
Not sure on signature. Filled in the blanks with contact clues ---------- Reopened for Editing 2024-02-27 16:17:52