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War Department,
Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen, and Abandoned Lands,
Washington, July 9th 1866.

Sir:

A Circular has just been issued calling your attention to an Act of Congress extending the provisions of the Homestead Law to the freedmen, and giving them an opportunity to enter land unopposed by any influence till January 1st 1867. 
The subject of this Circular is of importance to the poor whites and freedmen under your charge, and in order to secure your most earnest actions in their behalf I write this letter.
You are aware of the many advantages the Western States have derived from this [[?]] action  of Congress; of the many thousands of poor people who have entered lands in this way, and laid the foundation of their individual fortunes and, at the same time, built up prosperous and powerful states.
There is no reason why the poor whites and freedmen of the South cannot take advantage of the present Homestead Law, and enter a career of prosperity that will secure them fortunes, elevate them socially and morally, add to the general prosperity of the country, and settle the many vexed questions that are now arising.
You should resort to every means in your power, to spread the information this Circular contains. You are empowered to employ a civil agent

Transcription Notes:
No more than 2 [?] if you're calling it complete. It is the HOMESTEAD act, not ARMSTEAD act. Edited: removed [[SEal]] its not a seal but an Archive stamp that is not to be transcribed on page per SI,