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Med. Col. Mobile Ala
Feby. 24th 1866

Maj General OO Howard
Com R.F. A. Lands &c.

Sir
I suppose you are aware that the Sec of War has ordered us out of the Col. Can we not hold possession of this until the 4th of July? To leave before that, will turn upwards of 600 children, a corps of ten teachers, orphan asylum & assistants all into the streets with no provision whatever for future operations. The past labor and expense [[strikethrough]] to which [[/strikethrough]] of this com. will be entirely lost. To rent is utterly impossible. They have said in so many words that they would not rent us the must old and dilapidated building for its weight in Gold. For any such purpose "Nigger". I understand the marine hospital is recommended to be sold by the Sec of Treas. This is a large building nicely enclosed & would answer all our purposes. If this can be given to us all will be well. Will you give immediate attention & reply? Yours &c. 

Eli Branch  Box 812