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0108

Harrisonburg 3rd April 1866
Lt JT. Hall-

I have acknowledged in accordance with your wishes the Interrogatories propounded appertaining to the states of Freedman and rates of taxation established in Rockingham County- I am not prepared to day to make answers to all interrogatories, but shall make myself acquainted with all the facts relating thereto and promptly respond- 

In regard to the main question of provision for destitute colored persons. I can reply that it has been the policy and the uniform habit of the board of Overseers to act upon their condition and for their maintenance just in the same manner as they have provided for White persons. You are aware of the laws of Virginia in regard to this question I presume- and for those persons contemplated by the law- as coming within the protection of the County we shall ever make the most strenuous efforts to make competent provision,- I shall answer more fully when I have the necessary data and information to give you- And shall only say in conclusion that the Board of Overseers have no idea except to conform to the laws of the land which they are required to obey in their official action
- The county is flooded with negroes who legally belong to other sections, and what numbers of our own remain we shall hereafter be able to provide for in the impoverished condition of the people
- I cannot just here undertake to assent, but will endeavor to answer hereafter with as much certainty as possible- 
Jacob Byerly
Chmn. B.P.R.C.