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[[stamp]] RECEIVED SEP 25 1869 [[/stamp]]

[[stamp]] THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF THE UNITED STATES [[/stamp]]

Germantown 9/24 ,69,

Dear Friend
Genl O.O. Howard 

A letter from Mr B.Collins of Pokupsie N.Y. dated 17 inst, says that he had some talk with thee on his way from N.Y. to his home, that day, on the subject of Homestead for the Freedmen, and concludes thus, "Since talking with O.O.H and since parting with him, it has occurred to me how it would do for him to have charge [[strikethrough]] of [[/strikethrough]] and control of the concern," I had [[strikethrough]] [[/strikethrough]] written to thee about the Treasury ship: the answer now before, one from thee, indicates that we cannot expect very active participation. But I see no reason to draw back: every state increases my confidence in the right of the thing and in the practicability of it. My friend however writes despondingly; which prompts to the course indicated in the enclosed; which I submit to thy judgement and entirely to the thy disposition. I do not know where to address G. Peabody This way of operating has been opening to my mind nearly a year and had matured before I had heard any thing from Mr.B. Collins. Even the details were run out, and a title chosen viz "The National Land Agency for providing Homestead and Normal Training for the Freedmen" Now I want to write timely and freely. The terms and methods are all in shape; but when I talk to others whose purses are to be opened, after their hearts; and whose convictions as to the perils and needs of the Freedmen are not decided -not strong- their sympathies waning in the good cause; I am driven back to some few earnest souls that stick to principals and have