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Bureau R. F. and A. L.
Office of A.S.A Comr.
Trenton Tenn, Sept. 11th 1867

Lieut. S. W. Groesbeck
A.A.A. Gen'l B.R.F. & A.L.
Nashville Tenn.

Lt. - I have the honor to report that the proffered assistance by the Bureau to aid the Colored people in finishing their church at this place has been rejected by the white directors of said church notwithstanding two of their No, Esqr Blakemore and Buck Freeman, had solicited me to use my influence in securing the amount asked for some time ago, also to aid them in obtaining a teacher; these facts coming to the knowledge of the other directors. they remonstated and positively refuse to accept any assistance; Esqr. Blakemore being one of the objecting parties at this time.

They claim that the Southern people are the true friends to the colored race, and they mean to show to the world that such is the case; that they are amply able to finish this building without any assistance, and will do it, also provide a teacher for their school. This I cannot conceive to be objectionable, and I dont suppose any one will object. (over)