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assigned to freedmen, in pursuance of the same, also remarking that "Col" Pritchard had not yet received his Pardon. In view, therefore of this fact that "Col" P. was not yet qualified according to Cir 15, and that "Skidaway" is one of the more southerly Islands which will be considered in regular order, and also that the freedmen are still gathering their crops, I returned the letter with this endorsement. "Respectfully returned. It will be impossible to put in immediate possession of the within mentioned property any person who may purchase the same from Col Pritchard. Not even former owners are yet restored to possession on the islands, although they may have permission to visit their plantations and endeavor to arrange with the freedmen. Nor can it yet be stated what the future status of the plantation in question will be. It is now in charge of this Bureau, and will remain so until disposed of by the proper officer according to the orders of the Commissioner. (Signed) A.P. Ketcham. Capt. 128 U.S.C.T. & A.A.A. Gen. In charge &c"

It seems to me that if third parties, alleged purchasers, are allowed to stand upon their rights as legal citizens, and to treat with us for the restoration of property, which has never been returned to the formerly disloyal owners, and is now within the custody