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0416

2

demand. Some of these Manufactories will commence operations within the next ten days in order to secure their old hands.  This I am informed is in view of a possible scarcity of experienced workmen during the year 1868.  The Freedmen are anxious to secure employment and as nearly all of the unemployed are suited to no other occupation than working of tobacco they are necessarily compelled to await the starting of the Tobacco Manufactories.  In conversation with a large number of Freedpeople of Richmond who are now unavoidably supported by the Bureau I am led to believe that from their straightened circumstances and dependent condition they have learned a lesson from which much good will result.  With many it is now and their custom has been to consume nearly if not all their money as fast as it became due by indulging in luxuries which they cannot afford; whenever the employer no longer requires their services suffering

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