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for the necessaries of life, will be considerably more than the previous winter.  I  cannot learn that the authorities have yet taken any steps to meet the exigency of the case.  The demand for labor has materially decresed, consequently there is a marked increase of freedmen without employment.  Those who have been cultivating land will not be able to make sufficient to  keep them during the winter, as they had not on the onset, sufficient means to purchase the requisite articles, to work their crop.
   The issue  of fuel, is another important item which in my opinion should receive the consideration of the Bureau.  Much suffering will be caused, by the want of this necessary article, amongst those who are unable to purchase it.
Very respectfully
YOur  obt servant
Benj. C. Cook
Bvt Capt and Asst SUpt 3d Dist Va