Chap. 42.—An ACT prescribing a uniform rule for the Compensation for
Slaves in Controversy at the time of Emancipation.

Passed April 1s, 1867.

1. Be it enacted by the general assembly of Virgfnia, That
in all proceedings, either at law or in equity, now pending,
or which may be hereafter instituted, for the recovery of
slaves or their values, or damages for their alleged conversion
or detention, the possession of whom was in the defendant.
under bona fide claim of right at the time of the emancipa-
tion of the slaves in this commonwealth by the federal or
state authorities, the values or damages assessed, should the
plaintiff recover, shall be only the value of the services of
such slaves from the time of the tortion’s’ conversion or de-
tention to the period of their emancipation.

2. This act shall be in force from its passage.