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complained of. Were it not for the fear the people have of the Military authorities a Union or colored man could feel no certainty of getting justice before the Courts. This is not so much the fault of the Judges as of the Magistrates and Jurors who have no sympathy with any who took any part in the war and who cannot divest themselfs of the old prejudices against the Negroes. This is particularly the case where the defendants are White and the Blacks are prosecutors. Since the Military authorities are supreme the people know that they are closely watched and that any failure on the part of civil Officers to do their duty will result in suspension or removal from Office. They are now careful in their treatment of all persons with whom they have to deal. This gives rise to the reports that "justice is impartially administered" while if carefully examined in all its bearings it could only be said to be administered "nominally" 

Respectfully Submitted
I am Your Obt Servt
Wm. P. Austin
Capt V.R.C. S.A.C.