Viewing page 215 of 277

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

Wrapper

Office Sub. Asst. Gen. Bur. of R.F & A.L.
Sub-Dist. of Mobile
Mobile, Ala. May 14" 1867

Respectfully returned to Col. O.L. Shepherd 15" U.S. Infty, reiterating the previous endorsement from this office. Without discussing the accuracy of the principle asserted above, or denying the propriety of using "all possible means to elicit such facts" as Col. Shepherd may deem necessary for his information and guidance, it is proper to respectfully state that the investigation is not the duty of this office, nor will this office assume such duty until otherwise instructed by competent authority.

As to the "decree of the Court" it would be simply presumptuous in this office to assume to influence Col. Shepherd in his interpretation of its legal effects. The point is, simply, whether the "decree" or judgment of a State Court is sufficient to annul and destroy title to property purchased from a U.S. Officer on the faith that such title would be sustained by the authority of the Government. The disagreement of Col Shepherd