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L. Bernard - Brother to T.H.Bernard, the magistrate, (both being uncles to the two Hudsons), for a divorce from his wife. It was proved that James Hudson had time any again committed adultery with her. John Hudson, who was called as a Witness in this case, peremptorily refused to testify, and on being ordered to jail, he drew his knife & declared that he would kill the first man who laid a hand on him: He was afterwards reassured or coerced into compliance. 

On returning from "Superior" court here the 17th of last October (one, if not both having engaged on the - not "Grand"! Jury) one of these same men held, while the other beat a freedman they had in their employ. according to their own, as well as his statement, in hasten, while in a passion, and because they thought that he had neglected his work in their absence. Vide Report of October 31st 1866.

The foregoing will give a faint idea of the state of the commonwealth here. 

In concluding, I would say that I have advised the freeman Burwell Woods when he goes before the grand jury on Roanoke Co., to also make complaint against Chs. Lunsford J.P. of said Co., for neglect of duty in refusing to issue a warrant for the arrest of Hudson, and endeavor to likewise have him indicted: and I have requested that in this instance he will also notify me of the result.

I am General; Very respectfully
Your Obt. Servt.
W.F. De Knight
1st Lt. V.R.C. & Asst. Supt
BRF&AL.