In our camp he soon learned that he was free, under the Act of Congress, and he remained with us, the servants about headquarters giving him food.

When I returned to Gauley Bridge, Mr.Smith appeared and demanded the return of the man to him, claiming him as his slave.

He, however, admitted that he had been servant to Major Smith in the rebel army with his consent.

The man refused to go with him, and I refused to use compulsion, informing Mr.Smith that the Act of Congress made him free.

The claimant then went to General Rosecrans, and I was surprised by the receipt, shortly after, of a note from headquarters directing the giving up of the man.