Viewing page 121 of 242

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

Office Bureau R.F.&A.L.
Greenville Ala.
July 10th 1866.

Major
On the 3rd inst. just as I was preparing to visit Montgomery, I learned that the Colored people of this vicinity was going to hold a celebration at this place on the following day (4th of July) I also heard that such a thing could not be done. At once I made up my mind to remain here and see the thing through, one way or the other; and proceeded to instruct the Guards in reference to their duties on the coming occasion. Early in the morning of the fourth, I was waited upon by a Commitee of three Freedmen, who informed me of their intentions, and requested me to attend the same, and adress them. I told them that I wanted them to conduct the affair in such a way as to reflect credit upon all concerned, and that I would send a few guards to the ground to remain all day, and I would adress them at 2 O'Clock, but otherwise would take no part, or spend no time with them; enclosed please find a copy of my address. So far as I could see, or learn from reliable persons the celebration was an entire success. If the people of Greenville could of forgotten their bitter feelings to the Government for one day, and do as well as the freedmen did on this occasion: there would be some evidence that they are not lost to all feelings of humanity, and did not wish to treat with contempt the day that has ever been the pride of all American people. The note published in the Advocate although it has neither force or character represents the feelings of a large majority of the people of this village, and country, what kind of justice do you think those freedmen would receive from a jury of men, who support such a paper, as the Advocate?