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The habit of taking their regular drinks of Liquor is a life long one & they do not seem to think they can leave it off. I have however rarely seen a colored man intoxicated in the street of this I cannot speak so favorably for the whites. I have by example always during my sojourn in this state tried to impress upon these people the necessity of being temperate

I think I shall be able to exert an influence over their Clergyman in this direction who will in time urge the formation of a Temperance Society. I am thoroughly awake to the importance of this movement. I think it is very necessary & highly important - because of the oft repeated story of the enemies of the colored people that "a nigger won't go without his whiskey" &c- as well also as for the moral necessity of the improvement of these people who have these life long habits to overcome if they would be successful in the persuit [[pursuit]] of happiness & prosperity. I shall make every effort in my power to bring about the object set forth in Circular Letter dated War Dept B.R.F.&A.L. Washington D.C May 15th 1867 & hope for good results therefrom.

I am General
Very Respectfully
Your Obt Servt
W. Ames MacNulty
Bvt Capt & A.S.A. Comr