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Selma Ala Jan 18th 1866.
Brevt Major Gene Swayne
My Dear Genl

[[stamp]] National Archives of the United States [[/stamp]]

I arrived at this city yesterday morning, and found that Capt Gardner was absent, and no one that could give me any advice. I find it impossible to rent rooms for my self & family, at any price and my board will cost me at least $15.00 per month. I find a very nice House on the plantation in our charge that I might occupy if we retain the Plantation. I met the owner of the Plantation and he says he has no objection to my having a part of it. I could live on the Plantation and do the business of the office very well as it is only 2 1/2 miles from the city. I am very much pleased with this part of the State and I think I could spend the time here very pleasantly if I can get a house. The officer in charge of the Plantation, Lieut Powell, is also absent. My private opinion is that the Bureau is not