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that to a considerable extent, the troubles occurring, in connection with contracts, - are attributable, to the careless, and informal manner, in which, the contracts were written, and signed. - In many cases, in those, that were made, during Nov & Dec 1866, the provisions, are so indefinite as ambiguous, as to not only be susceptible, of various constructions, but it is almost impossible, to ascertain from, even reading them carefully, what was contemplated by the writer - This lamentable absence, of uniformity &c. is being remedied, by the enforcement of the requirements of Par II Circular No 17, from H'd Qutrs Asst Com'r, State of Va dated Richmond Va, May 7th, 1866.

There is to be found, in these, as well, as other counties a class of men, who will take every possible advantage, of the freedmen, not only in making contracts with them, but in