How's first report as Bureau Superintendent in Staunton sheds light on the early post-war situation of freed blacks. He writes that their new freedom seems tenuous as their former masters threaten to reestablish slavery once Union troops have left. How also notes that he has had trouble hiring military personnel to staff the office, and so has hired civilians.

How recounts his organization of his sub-district, and gives a general evaluation of the condition of former slaves, including their developing relations with whites.

How instructs Tukey regarding a circular that appears to concern the Bureau's role in mediating disputes within the community.

How circulates his instructions to his agents in the field regarding their duties for the Bureau. The instructions urge vigilance and efficiency in the execution of their responsibilities, and also communicates an optimistic and paternalistic attitude toward free blacks.

How's letter expresses grave concern that most of the Federal troops are being mustered out of the Shenandoah Valley. He believes that it will be nearly impossible to sustain the Bureau's activities without military support because of the high level of local opposition.

How writes to Brown before what appears to be his resignation from the Bureau. How proposes a reorganization of the Sixth District due to conflicts with General Terry, the Military Commissioner for the Valley. He suggests that two counties be placed under the jurisdiction of West Virginia, where much more progress has been made in terms of laws protecting the rights of free blacks, and further splitting the district into two parts, one of which would be commanded from Staunton. His letter constantly alludes to conflicts and misunderstandings between the Bureau and the Military Commissioners.

Cook's report on the court system notes that the main problem in securing justice lies with the local magistrates, who are reluctant to pursue complaints against whites made by blacks.

Nelson Irwin writes a very poignant and wrenching letter to General Schofield, the head of the Potomac Military District, pleading for justice and protection for blacks. He refers to an upcoming trial in Staunton and claims that blacks live under a "reign of terror". Irwin asks Schofield to use military power to intervene on the side of the law, writing, "We gave to the rich white man our best years, our strength, our youth, our sweat, and now that we are free, we get in return meanness, tyranny and injustice." Judging from the papertrail, this letter was passed all the way to Orlando Brown.

Carse, the Bureau Agent in Lexington, sends a telegram from Staunton to military authorities informing them of the murder of a black man by a white law student and alerting them to the suspect's escape.

Cook indicates a general improvement in court proceedings, although he notes that public sentiment still prevents blacks from receiving fair trials.

Clark, the minister of an African Methodist Church in Staunton, makes a statement to Jackson about an unspecified complaint that had been made about his congregation's occupancy of the church building.

Jackson reports on the progress of several cases of assault against blacks in Augusta County. Regarding one case, Jackson notes that the complainants fear they will have to leave their homes if they prosecute the case.

In declining an offer of transfer to Southampton, Jackson launches into a personal political manifesto, expressing his views on the current political situation, the prospect of black suffrage, and the relations between whites and blacks. He writes, "I want the fullest equality for all men before the law but am opposed to attempting to mix oil and water, black and white in one homogenous social mass because it cannot be done." He also expresses his belief in the importance of widespread education for ensuring the stability of society.

Jordan relates the details of a demonstration led by the Ku Klux Klan in Staunton. According to Jordan the Klans quite obvious displays have aroused both the white and black communities and threatens the public peace.

Responding to Jordan's request for a school report, Cithrow describes the situation in the area around Waynesboro. He writes that although he taught a Sabbath school for blacks, his resources were stretched too thin to keep it going. He also comments on the level of interest in setting up a proper school for blacks among the black and white communities in the area.

In his report, Jordan describes his efforts to mediate legal disputes between whites and blacks in Augusta County in the hopes that it will "save much unkind feeling between the races."

Jordan remarks that he observes different opinions regarding the legal rights of blacks among different classes of people, but notes that "intelligence, integrity or moral courage" do not appear to be qualifications necessary to sit on a jury or preside as a Magistrate in Augusta County.

Corliss announces his intent to set off for Staunton, presumably to serve as a teacher. He asks Manly if he should expect opposition when he arrives.

Waldo asks for a teacher to be sent to Laurel Hill, a community east of Staunton. He specifically asks for a black teacher, so that he or she will be able to board with a black family, citing white opposition to black schools.