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On Thursday evening the 22nd inst, some Federal soldiers in company with returned rebel soldiers and civilians were carousing in a low rum hole, when the subject of the Freedom of the negroes was discussed, all parties agreeing that the "Negroes put on airs" &c. In a half intoxicated state they sallied forth and commenced insulting all the colored people the [[they]] chanced to meet: They then went to a circus where they continued the provocations, when the colored people became enraged, and with some blows and shots drove them off. The fight was renewed the next night and some two or three were wounded on both sides. Nearly all agree in commending the forebearance of the Freedmen.

On my report of the matter to Genl Terry he immediately ordered a change in Commanders and telegraphed the new Commander that if the civil authorities could not maintain order to proclaim Martial law at once. I also requested the General to suspend the functions of the civil courts. where the evidence of colored persons was required and could not be received. He will establish a Provost Court soon. I do not look for further trouble

I am General
Very Respectfully
Your Obt Servt
(sgd) O. Brown
Col & Asst Comr.

Official
J A. Bates
Bvt Lt Col & A.A.A.G.

29
(46) Telegram. Richmond Va. June 30. 1865
Howard Maj Genl O.O.
Commissioner &c.

Maj Genl Hartsuff wishes the Superintendent of this Bureau for his District to act as his Staff Officer for the affairs of the Bureau within his District. Am I right in thinking this cannot be done under existing orders from the Bureau.

The General represents the affairs of the Bureau within his District in a prosperous condition.

Please reply by telegraph, as matters are suspended within the District awaiting your decision.

(sgd) O. Brown
Col & Asst Comr.

Official
J.A. Bates
Bvt Lt Col & A.A.A.G.

(47) Telegram. Richmond Va. June 30, 1865
Howard Maj. Genl O.O.
Commissioner &c.

I hear that Capt W.N. Felt Commissary of Subsistence has received an order to be mustered out of the service. He was assigned to this Bureau by Special Order of the War Department Number 228 (two hundred and twenty eight.) dated June 8, 1865. He was turning over his property for the purpose of assuming this duty.

I think there is some mistake in the matter. Please retain him if possible, and inform me by telegraph.

(sgd) O. Brown
Col & Asst Comr.

Official
J.A Bates
Bvt Lt Col & A.A.A.G.

Transcription Notes:
---------- Reopened for Editing 2024-01-17 12:46:17 ---------- Reopened for Editing 2024-01-17 12:49:37 thank you for spacing this document - very easy to review - just had to add one missing word, and change Commissioner to Commissary of Subsistence