Your favor of the 16th inst.¹ regarding the Johnston County negroes held in the State's Prison, was received upon my return home this morning, and in reply to the same I beg to advise that I am taking the matter up with the Johnston County authorities, and will communicate with you regarding the position to be made of them as soon as I can hear from them. The Criminal Court for Johnston County convens on March 9th., and as there may be some danger in carrying them to Smithfield before that time, besides the fact that the Johnston County Jail is in a very unsafe condition, I am under the impression that it will be wise for them to remain at the State's Prison at the expenses of Johnston County for the present, but will advise you definitely as soon as I can hear from the attorney for the Board of Commissioners.

With kindest regards and best wishes, I beg to remain,