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in order to get a man of special fitness, if you shall find it necessary.
Correct maps of all public lands in your District must be obtained immediately, and information as to the quality, location +c, should be gathered and made known to the people interested.  An officer or agent may be charged with the duty of answering all questions, that may be asked by whites or blacks, besides corresponding with the Register of public lands on all subjects connected with this matter.
Many ways of aiding the people in obtaining information and lands will suggest themselves to the Assistant Commissioner.
It is the object of this letter to impress upon all officers of the Bureau the importance of attending to this duty at once; to urge them to such action as will make the Bureau an efficient agent in settling the public lands and securing homes to the poor whites and blacks.
The Commissioner directs that you report as soon as possible, what steps you have taken or purpose, to carry into effect the settlements so much desired.

Respectfully

O. O. Howard
Major Genl. Commissioner

Assistant Commissioner
State of Alabama