Viewing page 32 of 339

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

Executive Office
Jackson July 8th 1865

Col Saml Thomas

Dear Sir
I have received and considered your letter of the 9th Inst. It would be a most admirable disposition of the negroes to put them to work on the levees, not only because it would keep the negroes employed, but also because it would contribute to the restoration and value of a very important part of the State, and of course would thus furnish a source of income to the State and to the United States Government. - In regard to the remuneration I can only say that should it be within the scope of my power at the proper time I should feel it a duty to recommend the matter to the consideration of the Legislature, and I have no doubt, that at all counts, it will receive