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have almost certainly perished.

The apportionment of these supplies, which you were kind enough to permit me to make, was as equitable, and adjusted as nearly in accordance with the reported destitution in each county as was possible under the circumstances.

The want of regular communications, the difficulties in the way of transportation, and the order of the Government which prohibits the issue of back rations, have all operated unfavorably for the counties remote from the supply depots, and done much to disturb the equality of the distribution.

There are few counties in the State, however, where the entire amount apportioned has been received, in which full rations could be issued without leaving large numbers of destitute persons unsupplied. In many instances the County Agents issue but one fourth or even less rations in order that relief may be extended to a larger number, and even then many are compelled to go away without food.

Thousands suffer daily for the want