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illegal "Distress Warrant", for an illegal debt, had seized all the personal property the freedman [[strikethrough]] had [[/strikethrough]] possessed, leaving his family not even a bed to lie on, and subsequently forced him to give his "bond" in acknowledgement of the said debt, claimed as due, before surrendering to him his effects. I advised him never to pay this bond. The man having obtained work in another County, shortly after desired to remove his family & effects; but in this he was prevented by Foster, until he should pay the bond given. He then, by my advise, consulted a Lawyer, with a view to bring suit for damages &c. in the premises. In consequence of the absence of Mr. Penn, the attorney engaged, however, and his more recent, sudden & final departure hence, no action has as yet been had, neither have I seen the freedman lately; but the accompanying communication; handed to me by Mr Penn, to whom it was addressed, and which I respectfully submit for what it is worth, would seem to throw some additional light on the affair. Of course I shall continue to do all in my power in this man's interest; and should any particulars transpire bearing out his statement made  to Lawyer Martin, I will, after proper investigation, make it a subject of Special Report.

I am, General, Very Respectfully -
Your Obt. Servant.
W. F. De Knight.
1st. Lt. V.R.C., &. Asst. Supt.
B.R.F. & A.L.

Transcription Notes:
Marked for review with one [[?]] outstanding ---------- Reopened for Editing 2024-04-29 10:47:55 ---------- Reopened for Editing 2024-04-29 12:24:49 ---------- Reopened for Editing 2024-04-29 12:32:01