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12.

(16) Telegram. Richmond, Va. June 18/65
Howard Maj Genl O. O.
Commissioner &c.
Able bodied men, field hands are worth from 12 to 15 dollars, women, field hands from 5 to 8 dollars - women - cooks and house servants from 6 to 10 dollars per month, with rations and quarters. Wood choppers, 75 cts per cord, without rations.
Boys and girls from twelve to fifteen year of age are worth food, clothing, Medical attendance and schooling three months each year. Deduct from the above rate two dollars per month for clothing and Medical attendance. 
Many old and infirm men and women are only worth their food & clothing. 
Will write by mail.
(Sgd) O. Brown
Col & Asst Comr.
Official 
J. A. Bates
Brvt & Lt Col & A.A.A.G.

(17) Telegram  Richmond, Va. June 16, 1865.
Howard Maj Genl O. O.
Commissioner &c.
None of the families of colored soldiers in the vicinity of Norfolk Va are willing to go to Texas.
I will write you full particulars.
(Sgd) O. Brown
Capt & A.Q.M. & Asst Comr.
Official 
J. A. Bates
Brvt Lt Col & A.A.A.G.

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(18) Richmond Va. June 18, 1865
Howard Maj Genl O. O.
Commissioner &c.
General:
I have the honor to call your attention to the fact, that the freedmen are capable of providing themselves with clothing and medical attendance, and would respectfully suggest, that as far as possible this privilege be allowed them in their contracts.
I think as a rule they are as capable of making their own bargains for their services as Northern Laborers.
I have the honor to be, General
Very Respty' Your Obt Servt
(sgd) O. Brown
Col & Asst Comr.
Official
J. A. Bates
Brvt Lt Col & A.A.A.G.

(19) Richmond. Va. June 19, 1965.
Howard Maj Genl O. O.
Commissioner &c.
General:
In reply to your communication of the 10th inst. I have the honor to report, that the Freedmen have not been compelled as a rule "to go to Richmond" as they could have been equally as well provided for in their former neighborhood by the Military authorities.
The statement in regard to passes is true, but this evil is now remidied [[remedied]]. Mayor Mayo was in power and probably made the threats as stated; he has now ceased to act as Mayor. It has been a common remark of the citizens to the Freedmen, "didn't we always tell you the "Yanks" would treat you worse than we."-
The schools are in operation.

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