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Troy, Ala. Jan. 12, 1866

Gen. Wager Swayne,

Superintendent Freedman Bureau &c.
Sir - I address you for the purpose of making application for the appointment of Agent or Quarter Master for the distribution of supplies for the indigent and helpless, - at the Greenville depot or station. My experience with freedman will enable me, properly to discriminate between those who are unable to support themselves and those who are - and I flatter myself that I can so recognize and discriminate as to save largely to the Government in the distribution.
I have a number of my former slaves who refuse to leave me - who are unable to support themselves, - and as the able-bodied have left me. I am myself now unable to support those who remain - yet, I do not feel willing to drive these away to depend upon mere chance for a living - hence my desire to procure the position sought - that I may see that these and such as these in this section of the country may be provided for as I understand the policy of the Government.

I take the liberty of referring you to the delegate from Pike in the Legislature as to my character and respectability for the position.

Respectfully Yours,
John Caldwell

Transcription Notes:
4-19-2021: Reopened for editing and deciphered all remaining [[?]]s