Viewing page 261 of 274

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

0403

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

Office Asst B. RF. & AL
Halifax C.H Halifax Co Va July 31st 1866

Maj Genl A.H. Terry Asst Comr State of Va

Genl

In Compliance with instructions in Circular No. 10. C.S. Hd Qurs Asst Comr. State of Virginia. I have the honor to report that the Circuit and County Courts have both been in session during this month, and in all cases where Freedmen were concerned, Strict impartiality and fairness has been shown them, both as Criminals, and witnesses. when charged with crimes in no instances have they been without counsel, the best talent of the county volunteering their services, if the accused had no means to pay them. 

There are 36 magistrates in this county. Most of whom are disposed to and do give the Freedmen brought before them a patient and impartial hearing. There are a few however who display an indifference and decided dislike to examine cases where Freedmen are concerned or interested when they do entertain a case however, they generally do so in all fairness to the Freedmen. 

The slow method of trials of Petty cases in this County is greatly detrimental to the interest of all classes so much so that it is the universally expressed regret, that the Bureau has not control over such cases and in fact in all cases where the Freedmen are concerned 

Transcription Notes:
---------- Reopened for Editing 2024-04-26 10:59:07