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necessary to become a equated with the actual, existing facts in relation to the freedmen. And these facts, if rightly understood, would certainly have their weight and effect with the Administration and with Congress not only in the continuance of the same but in the enlargement of its powers. The situations of State Commissioner and Superintendents of Districts, are, to some degree embarrassing, Called upon as we are to protect the interests of a great body of people; in settling the rights of contending parties; forming estimates of injuries; considering testimony; weighing circumstances, and in a hundred ways determining, by our act, not only the present rights and interests of the colored race, but also their future state, and all this, too, in the face of a hostile element, composing almost the entire strength of the white citizens' it would seem that the powers of the Bureau should be more commemorate with its functions and duties. The constant presence of W.S soldiers is formed necessary to the execution of the duties of my office, and, in fact, I believe that in the presence of the military [?] the only surely we have for the execution of such laws and regulations as are found absolutely necessary to protect freedmen in their rights.

The Bureau in this District is under the greatest obligations to the military authorities, not only for military aid always cordially extended, but in sound suggestions of policy in settling many matters of serious import to the colored population. Especially, is the Bureau under obligations to Brig. Gen. G. A. De Russey, commanding District, for his continuous efforts in aiding us in all matters in which it was