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Government to prevent the freedmen from being imposed upon by them. It is consequently suggested that officers of your Bureau be instructed to advise the freedmen to be cautious how they conclude bargains to go to foreign countries
I am General,
Your Obedient Servant
(sd) William H. Seward

Official copy respectfully furnished for the information of Brevet Major General Wager Swayne, Asst. Commr. for Alabama, who is directed to comply with the suggestion contained in the foregoing letter of the Sec'y of State. Contracts with freedmen will not be approved by Asst. Comrs when they are required by the term of the contract to pass beyond the limits of the United States. Such proposed contracts, if any exist, must be forwarded to Washington for the consideration of the proper authorities.

By order of Major General Howard, Comr. Bureau R.F. & A.L. Oct. 9/66.

A. P. Ketchum
A.A.A. General

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