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[[stamp]]THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF THE UNITED STATES [[/stamp]]

Statement of John Oliver of Mass.

I came to Richmond from Boston, a few weeks ago, on a visit, having a Passport made out in due form, and signed by the Secretary of Sate of the Commonwealth of Mass.  A few days ago, I was walking in Franklin street, with Mr Hawley (also colored), of Springfield, Mass, upon arriving at Davis old slave pen we stopped to look at it, when I was hailed by a Provost guard, who, without asking for a pass, demanded to know why I was walking in the street, told him I came to see Richmond, then, said he, you will stop here with me.  I asked him how long?  "Longer than you think for," he replied, and contrived to address me in abusive and vulgar language.  I showed my protection from Massachusetts, which I told him "ought to protect me in any part of the world", but