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The National Archives of the United States
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WAR DEPARTMENT,
BUREAU REFUGEES, FREEDMEN, AND ABANDONED LANDS,
Washington, February 24, 1867.

[CIRCULAR LETTER.]

By authority of the Secretary of War, the military rates prescribed by the circular of the Quartermaster-General of May 1, 1862, will cease to apply in settlement for railroad transportation services rendered after the first day of March, 1867. In view of this change managers of railroads are now addressed, inviting their co-operation with the objects of this Bureau in the transportation of Refugees and Freedmen, who are dependent upon the Government for support. These objects are:
First.-The relief of the Government from the support of those who are dependent upon it.
Second.-The amelioration of the condition of those who are so dependent.
Third.-The development of the resources of the country, by transferring the surplus population of over-crowded destitute communities to points where labor is in demand, and where it is needed for the production of the great staples of the South.
To this end the railroad companies are requested to continue to transport over their roads Refugees and Freedmen, and the stores required for the purposes of this Bureau, on transportation orders, properly authenticated, at the present military rates, or on more favorable terms.
It is believed that whatever policy is calculated to relieve distressed communities, and to furnish laborers where labor is required, must result advantageously to the railroads.
It is hoped that the managers of railroads, influenced not only by humane motives, but also by a perception of the true interests of the companies which they represent, will adopt a liberal and far-reaching policy.
Such companies as shall determine not to accede to the request herein made, but to charge full rates for transportation of passengers and freight required by this Bureau, are requested to advise the Commissioner of the fact, and to furnish authenticated copies of their tariff in force on the first day of March next, stating the period for which such tariff will govern.

O.O. HOWARD,
Maj.-Gen., Commissioner.
To.... 
President....

OFFICIAL: 
J. F. Conyngham
1st Lieut 24th U.S.I & A.A.A.G 
[[strikethrough]] Bvt. Brig. General, C.Q.M. [[/strikethrough]]