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0157

would see them paid for their trouble. I agreed to do so rather than see the children suffer, and the children are now being kept at my expense, unless some-one helps me out, which the Co. Court may do, but I donot think it probable, but have all confidence in the Bureau.

If I had rations, I would not know what to do with them, as there is no building in which they could be kept, no guard, no-one to cook and wait on little children; and were I to commence issuing rations there would be no end to the old people, and children that would be thrown on my hands, and at a great expense to the Government. The people are free to say that as the colored people have become free, taxable &c, that the Poor House should be opened to colored paupers; but the Board of Overseers think differently, and I am at a loss how to proceed, and await instructions from you.

In compliance with "Circular" No. 12 dated at Richmond March 21"/'66 I communicated with the President of the Board of Overseers on the 18th the same day I received the "circular" and have heard nothing from it; the "Board" was not in session, and their next meeting will not be until June, and donot expect to hear from the Board until that time. When I had an interview with the Board, the President said he would not vote to support a yankee pauper, much less a "nigger", which shows very conclusively the disposition of the President (J.T.J. Mason) in regard to colored paupers. I would most respectfully recommend that the Board be directed to receive colored paupers, same as white ones. 

If that cannot be done, I will be compelled to draw rations, to prevent suffering, and hire someone to take care of those who cannot take care of themselves.

I have the honor to be Capt. your obedient Servt.
J.M. Tracy Asst. Supt.

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