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I shall not take any money in advance, and can do nothing, not even issue a circular, till I am sure of the Freedmen. If I had 500 at the wharf this morning, I could send them all off in 12 hours. I heard Gen. Howard would be in New York last night, but could not find him - I have consulted Mr. Irish, but find him unwilling to leave his present business and go South on so uncertain a proposal as Capt. Wilder's. As I cannot give him authority, nor secure him any compensation, he declines any actions until I hear from you. Very respectfully yours - O.S. St. John -