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towards a government party - a loyal party - here which is including many men of character and influence who have hitherto been weak and hesitating as to the course they should follow.

It has been unfortunate that some  mistakes have been made by the union men recently appointed to office which have thrown in powerful weapon of ridicule into the hands of their opponents. Intrigue, too, and petty [[?]] on the part of some not over trustworthy in time have created friction and dissension. But in the main, the cause of justice and right is gaining and I believe the future looks very hopeful.

I must [[??]] for writing very much more, and a more [[??]] letter [[??]] intended. The details of matters here you are constantly getting, and so what I  have said has been very general.

I introduce here, and I trust you will excuse  if even if a little out of place, a matter personal. I have been detailed as Judge Advocate of a Court-Martial and I cannot well attend to its duties and the duties of my office. I very much hope that I may be relieved from this if possible: more of the cases are enlisted men (all, in fact, but one) and surely there are officers here with more time for such duties than myself.

Very [[??]] yours

Geo. H. Tracy