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Office S.A. Comr Bu. R.F. & A.L.
14th Sub District of Texas
Columbus Tex. Feby 7th 1868

Lieut J.P. Richardson U.S.A.
A.A.A. Genl. Bur. R.F & A.L.
Austin Tex.

Sir:
I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of S.O. No. 21 Par. VIII Headquarters District of Texas dated Austin Tex. Jany 31st 1868. I would most respectfully represent to the Major General Commanding that it is almost an utter impossibility for any one to conduct the business of this office without the assistance of military aid. The fact of the presence of but two or three soldiers stationed at the place has with it such moral weight & the fear of arrest by military for aggressions upon freed people is in many cases a preventative.

I would therefore most respectfully ask, if not not incompatable with the necessities of the public service that one Cavalry man be allowed to remain at this place with me & would nominate Sergeant John Williams for this post, if the above request cannot be granted I would respectfully ask that the places of this party