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Robinson and others. The papers were sent by E.C. Branch, as Fears had become hopeless of ever getting anything through this office. Mr Branch positively States that Col Kinsman informed him in Conversation, that the papers had reached 'Montgomery', but also stated, the papers being called for that they had been mislaid, but that they should be hunted up when wanted, They have been wanted and sent for.

Fears as a last resort determined to put his Claim in the hands of counsel and applied to have them returned, They have not come and after repeated efforts to get them he came in great distress, fearing the loss of his house and asked me to help him.

I declined mixing in the matter as it served to me, there were quite enough in it already, and the absence of the necessary papers gave me no basis to work upon

My belief is that the claim is a just and proper one, and that it is an absolute hardship that it has not been paid  The shape it has now taken is oweing to reprehensible carelessness on the part of those who involved him in it, and not at all to the poor colored man who could find no one active or conscientious enough to give him proper advice. Fears is one of the best most industrious and prudent Freedman in this city. He is a pious truthful upright man and an example to his people. If there is anything in my power to do for him I will gladly assume all trouble necessary.  The only evidence of his claim now in possession is a "book of burials and charges for Coffins" containing the names of those buried under Bureau direction.  I have thought that upon this, Possibly vouchers could be made out, and sustained by the affidavit of the claimant, will you make this suggestion to the General and if there is anything in it let me know. At any rate please