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to have been an honest one on your part.

On reflection, I think you will see that the course of action you invite, would be to ignore the executive of the State which is responsible for the execution of the laws - Waiving all technicalities however, I am willing and happy to receive you circular as a step towards cooperation and harmony between the civil authorities - the people and the agents of the Bureau. I am sure I do not misrepresent the great mass of the people of our state, when I assert that they accept the institution of Slavery as dead and buried - that they recognize the Freedman as under the protection of the law equally with the white man - that they are kindly disposed towards him - and desire his elevation and improvement.

Very Respectfully, Sir
Your obdt Servant
(Signed) J Madison Wells
Governor of Louisiana