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as they will disarm when the troops are withdrawn. Thus the former Masters are not favorable to the education of the freedmen, and are not willing that they settle on their lands at any rate. This conduct, together with various misrepresentations of the "Yankees" which are habitually made, tends to evoke distrust and a desire to migrate, or to keep near the villages when they feel more secure, and think they can get warning of any changes in affairs.

The person of Military Authority is, and for months will be indispensable for the maintenance of the rights of the freedmen in this section of our county. The troops in the District have been subject to frequent changes of location, many altogether withdrawn, and some waiting distribution so that, in the counties where they are not, times will be necessary for the organisation of the District. I have been unable to Main officers from this command, because they are now too few for the wants of the military Sub District, therefore I have sought to meet the necessities of the Bureau by the employment of Citizens three(3) of whom have been engaged for salaries paying from 80.00 to 100.00 per month.

I am Colonel
Very Respectfully Your Obedient Servant
W. Storer How, Capt & aqm
Supt Sixth Dist Va

Transcription Notes:
Main = maintain . Seems to be the only thing that makes sense.