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Fort Monroe Dec 26/65.

Col. O. Brown
Asst. Com. &c

Colonel
I have the honor to state that the effect of the last order not to give up lands, with Mr. Pepper's version of it, has brought the business of getting the colored people to scatter, to a stand still. 
I do not understand that it was designed to stay proceedings except when they were unable to move, or knew of no place to go to where they could get employment. or rent lands &c

Now large numbers who are well able to take care of themselves. Some who had got places & made arrangements to move at the End of the Year, refuse to stir.

I claim that the order referred to does not apply to such cases. & therefore unless they can make arrangements to work for, or hire of the owners they must move. Am I right?

I am Col. Very Respectfully Your
Obt. Servt. C. B. Wilder
Capt. & A.Q.M.

Mr Spencer
have a copy of the letter made - to be made Official by me Capt Bates

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