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(112) September 6th, 1865.

Howard Maj Genl O.O.
Commissioner &c.

General.
In reply to your communication of 4th inst. in relation to property of Mrs Angelina E. Johns of Norfolk, Va. I have the honor to inform you that the application for the property has been restored through Capt. A.S. Flagg A.Q.M. and Supt. &c 1st Dist.

I enclose copy of all endorsements relating thereto.

Yours very respty &c.
(Sgd) O. Brown
Col & Asst Comr

Official
J.A. Bates
A.A.A.G.

(113) September 7, 1865

Howard Maj Genl O.O.
Commissioner &c.

General.
I have an officer reported for duty that will take the charge of Bureau Affairs in the fifth District, excepting Fairfax and Louden Counties which will remain under Chaplain Ferree.

(Sgd) O. Brown
Col & Asst Comr.

Official 
J.A. Bates
A.A.A.G.

(114) September 7, 1865

Howard Maj Genl O.O.
Commissioner &c.

General.
I have the honor to report that I have consulted with some of the Justices appointed under the State Government of Virginia, and find that most of them

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are willing to accept the jurisdiction, under the appointment of the Bureau, of cases arising between the Freedmen or between Freedmen and Whites and to receive the testimony of colored persons in such cases.

The late legislature (which undoubtedly was composed of the cream of Virginia loyalty) failed to authorize the courts to receive the testimony of colored persons. This being the case, it is probable that these justices would give such testimony its proper weight, especially where their white neighbors  are a party in the suits. I would respectfully submit the question for your decision.

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

Official
J.A. Bates
A.A.A.G.

(115)  Sep't. 8th 1865.

Howard Maj Genl O.O.
Commissioner &c.

General.
I beg leave to submit to your consideration the plan of returning all Freedmen of the pauper class to the counties to which they belong, and taxing the property in the several counties for the support of its own paupers. If the inhabitants have not the funds to pay their taxes they can pay it in produce. I think this both just and practical.

Very Respectfully
Your Obt Servt.
(Sgd) O. Brown
Col & Asst Comr

Official
J.A. Bates
A.A.A.G.

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