abits and spirit by
centuries of contest. It is deemed best, therefore, in the
organization of the Corps d'Afrique, to limit the regiments
to the smallest number of men consistent with efficient
service in the field, in order to secure the most thorough
instruction and discipline, and the largest influence of the
officers over the troops. At first they will be limited to
five hundred men. The average of American regiments is less
than that number.

_The Commanding General desires to detail for temporary or
permanent duty the best officers of the army, for the
organization, instruction and discipline of this corps._
With their aid, he is confident that the corps will render
important service to the Government. It is not established
upon any dogma of equality or other theory, but as a
practical and sensible matter of business. The Government
makes use of mules, horses, uneducated and educated white
men, in the defense of its institutions. Why should not the
negro contribute whatever is in his power for the cause in
which he is as deeply interested as other men? We may
properly demand from him whatever service he can render. The
chief defect in organizations of this character has arisen
from incorrect ideas of the officers in command. Their
discipline has been lax, and in some cases the conduct of
the regiments unsatisfactory and discreditable.
Controversies unnecessary and injurious to the service have
arisen between them and other troops. The organization
proposed will reconcile and avoid many of these troubles.

Officers and soldiers will consider the exigencies of the
service in this Department, and the absolute necessity of
appropriating every element of power to the support of the
Government. The prejudices or opinions of men are in nowise
involved. The co-operation and active support of all
officers and men, and the nomination of fit men from the
ranks, and from the lists of non-commissioned and
commissioned officers, are respectfully solicited from the
Generals commanding the respective Divisions.

BY COMMAND OF MAJOR GENERAL BANKS:

RICHARD B. IRWIN,
_Assistant Adjutant General._

WAR DEPARTMENT,