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0840

Report of the Condition of Bureau Affairs. 

Bureau of R. F. and A. Lands
Head Qurs. 2nd Division 4th Sub. Dist, Va. 
Goochland C. H. Va.
February 29th, 1868

General:
I have the honor to submit the following Report concerning the condition of Bureau Affairs in this Division during the month of February 1868.

Industry.
Most of the freedmen I think have contracted for the present year — some for wages, and others for a share in the crops. I think as a general rule where they work for a share in the crops the landlord will be obliged to furnish supplies for them until a crop can be matured; and experience has shown that in general this account will absorb their share of the crops, or nearly so. But many prefer to take their chances for a crop rather than the loss of wages by bankrupt employers. A lien law which would secure the crops to the laborer for his wages would work I think advantageously for both parties — the laborer would be sure of his wages, and the employer of his ability to pay; and this mutual confidence would serve the energies of enterprise and the arm of labor. 
 

Transcription Notes:
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