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The establishment of Schools as soon as practicable is earnestly desired by all the freedmen, and I think it should be done as soon as possible, to enlighten them and shake off the accursed chains of slavery. They are ready and willing to pay for their tuition; all they want is teachers. Those of them who have been swindled out of their last years wages, can get advances on their present crop; their employers will advance to them rather than lose their labor. I have distinctly informed all, that schools would be established and they expect it. 

I am very respectfully
Your Obt Servt
Henry Page
Bt. Col. & A.Q.M.
A.A.A. Gen'l.