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106. Headquarters Bureau R.F. And A.L. State of Texas Galveston January 25th 1866 167. Arnold B.J. Arnold Brentham, Texas 136/148 Lieut Yours of July 16 enclosing reports duly received. Gen. Gregory directs me to say that he is much pleased with the direction of affairs connected with the Bureau in you section and trusts that you will continue to have the same success. He directs me to say that in regard to arms Freedmen have the same rights as white citizens and that it is your duty to see that they are respected. In regard to old or destitute freedmen the civil authorities must provide for them, however when you can not make them do so relieve the sufferer as such you can and report to these headquarters with the assurance that your acts will be approved. As regards Capt Wallace tell him to report the facts in his case direct to these headquarters. We want him. The General directs that you have the ten hours' system adopted when the Freedmen work for monthly wages but when a share of the crop is the equivalent, leave it to the contracting parties. The Genl has not had time to look over the contracts but has no doubt but that they are all OK. Look up the matter with regard to Mrs Forshey as soon as convenient. I am Lieut Very Respectfuly Your Obedt Servt Signed, Chauncy C. Morse Capt and A.A.A. Genl Official Wm H. Sinclair A.A. Genl 107 Headquarters Bureau R.F. and A.L. State of Texas Galveston Jan'y 26 1866 167 Porter Capt Byron Sub Asst Comr. 159/192 Capt Enclosed you will find a slip cut from the "Houston Telegraph" Genl Gregory directs me to say that he does not believe to be facts what is stated therein, he further directs me to state that it is not the intention to take criminals of the hands of the the Civil Authorities, that Agents of the Bureau should only interfere when injustice is done or in case the Civil Authorities refuse to recognize the rights of the Freedmen and also directs me that if the facts be as reported that you will turn the negro referred to over to the Civil Authorities and report all the facts in the case to these Headquarters. He also desires me to add that he has every confidence in your action &c and believes that if this case be as referenced to that it was through misapprehension as to the limits of your duties. I am Capt. Very Respectfully Your Obedt Servt Signed Chauncy C. Morse Capt and A.A.A. Genl Official Wm H. Sinclair A.A. Genl
