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WAR DEPARTMENT
Bureau Refugees, Freedmen, and Abandoned Lands,
WASHINGTON, JAN 13TH 1868.

Respectfully referred to Col S.P. Lee for remarks. 
By order of
Major Gen. O.O. Howard
E. Whittlesey 
√ A.A.A.General. 

Bureau R. F. and A. Lands,
Off. Sub-Asst. Com'r. 10th Sub-Dist. of Va
Alexandria, Va Jan. 17th 1868. 

Respectfully returned to E. Whittlesey A.A.A.G. with the information that I recommended Capt. Gates's removal from Warrenton, Va because I found him dilatory in investigating and reporting on cases referred to him, I believe he tries to do his duty, but lacks judgement in some cases. the 4th Division is very large and I have no doubt but his wounded leg caused him some inconvenience in traversing it in the settlement of cases but it is a very important section and one that should be in the hands of an officer energetic, firm, and discreet. Capt. Gates's lack of energy seems to have inspired the people of the section with the belief that they were beyond control, and I wished to have an officer there that could inspire them with respect for his position and the Govt. he represents. Capt. Gates might do well in a small district where he would not have so much travelling to do, and as he lost a leg in the Service I would like to see him provided for.  
I am acquainted with Col. Cunningham and know his position very well, he does not command the confidence of the loyal people, white or colored in Pr. Wm Co. and I hope he may not be appointed as an Agent in my district. 
S.P. Lee
Capt. & Bvt. Lt. Col. U.S.A. 
Sub-Asst. Com'r. 10th Sub-Dist. Va

File Write [[strikethrough]] [[?]] [[/strikethrough]] Cunningham [[strikethrough]] [[?]] [[/strikethrough]] and tell him that no vacancy at present exists in the Bureau 

L.B. 88, R.F&A.L, Va, 1 Vol 1868 

[[stamp]] STATE OF VIRGINIA. BUREAU OF R. F. & A. L. *** RECD. HD. QRS. ASST. COMMISSIONER. JAN 21 1868 [[/stamp]]

Transcription Notes:
Missing the two crossed out words, bottom right