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populated sections; and although no cases have as yet presented themselves as coming strictly within the provisions of Circular Letter dated Sept 27th 1866, War Dept. Bureau R.F.A.L. incredible misery if not actual starvation among these destitutes, during the colder months of winter, would appear inevitable, unless some immediate provision is made for this relief. The white residents of this County, as a class, refuse to vouchsafe the slightest assistance or encouragement to the freed people; either by voluntary contribution or the payment of a fair remuneration for labor. Strenuous efforts are being made (as far as possible.) to anticipate this approaching evil; in the finding of employment here and elsewhere for those out of work and in encouraging the return of all who are able to go to their original Counties or wherever their condition may be improved.

The discontinuance of the ration issue; the deprivation of the right to occupy lands rent free, together with a thorough and persistent effort to induce emigrations, have lessened the number of dependents upon the government, to an extent not discouraging; but there still are and will be a large number remaining who are wholly unprovided for, and who cannot but suffer greatly, (many who refuse to accept such assistance as is deemed proper deservedly). The demand for transportation is steadily increasing, and is expected to grow still greater. 

During the current year transportation has been furnished from this office to one thousand six hundred and nineteen (1619)