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(37) Richmond Va July 20, 1865
Howard Maj Genl O. O. 
Commissioner &c
General,
I would respectfully ask for instruction in the matter of transportation for the freedmen from one section of the state to another. Large number of them are desirous to return to the neighborhood of their former homes from which they escaped as refugees, or were carried by their former owners.
But few of the lines of public transportation are in the hands of the military, hence large bills will be brought against the government if we avail ourselves of the ordinary line of travel. The people would unquestionably succeed better in the neighborhood of their old homes.
Thus far I have only ordered transportation in urgent cases; for the purpose of uniting families &c. 
Shall I order it for the purpose of removing families into localities where they can provide better for themselves.
I am General. 
Very Respty. Your Obt Servt
(sgd) O.Brown 
Col & Asst Comr.
Official
J. A. Bates
Brvt Lt Col & A.A.A.G.

(38) Richmond Va August. 8, 1865
Howard Maj Genl O. O. 
Commissioner &c
General.
I have the honor to call your attention to the following facts. In some parts of the state, especially in the neighborhood of Lynchburg, under orders from Genl Gregg large numbers of rations of bread and pork have been issued to planters having freedmen engaged in putting in crops, for whom 

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they had no support. These rations were to be returned in kind this fall after the crops should be secured. It seems to be expected that the officers of this Bureau continue this issue. I respectfully ask for instructions in this matter. I do not myself see why the Farmers of Virginia, that have not the means to carry on their farms should not do as the farmers of Ohio would under the circumstances viz - hire the money necessary for the carrying of their business.
I am General. 
Very Respectfully 
Your Obt Servt
(Sgd) O. Brown 
Col & Asst Comr.
Official
J. A. Bates
Brvt Lt Col & A.A.A.G.


(39) Richmond Va. June 26, 1865
Howard Maj Genl O. O. 
Commissioner &c
General.
Please inform me whether the Government will through the Q.M. Dept, furnish the necessary transportation to District Superintendents on public rail roads, in the performance of their duty.
I am General. 
Yours &c.
O. Brown 
Colonel and Asst Comr.
Official
J. A. Bates
Brvt Lt Col & A.A.A.G.

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