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183 v1/67

Bureau of R. F. & A. L.
Office 4th Div. 9 Sub Dist Va
Staunton Va June 3. 1867

Capt. Garrick Mallery 43d U.S.I.
A.A. Adjt Genl.
Richmond Va (Through Hd Qr. 9" Dist Va.)

Captain

In compliance with Cir. 6 S. 1866 (BR.F&A.L) I have the honor to report on the condition of Bureau affairs in the 4th Division 9th Sub Dist - comprising the counties of Augusta & Highland. The condition of Freedpeople is improving slowly it is true, as the large majority of Whites who are employers are in straitened circumstances themselves - but surely - as they are being thrown more and more on their own resources and are learning the value - here at least - of time and money - The fact that the Freedman is now a citizen is generally recognized and he is spoken of and treated with more consideration Employment is readily procured on farms, public works and lumbering at fair wages and the large crop of grain and grass which will soon be ready for harvest must place labor at a premium in this Valley. Minimum complaints are made at this office of refusal to pay for labor under old contracts or sharp practice in settlements under them but as a general rule I find the parties wanting to settle promptly and justly - Threats of discharge if Freedmen vote contrary to the wishes of employers are very common but I attach but little importance to them for the Freedmen will vote Republican almost

Transcription Notes:
---------- Reopened for Editing 2024-03-14 16:33:59 corrected two minor typos