for this
State, and steps taken to organize a civil government, the better.
The people are now in a mood to accept anything in reason, and to
do what the government desires. If I am, by virtue of my command,
to perform the duties of military governor, I would like to know it.

"If another is to be appointed, it ought to be done before I have
been compelled to do something which he may think it necessary to
undo. I think it would be eminently wise to retain in office
justices of the peace, sheriffs, and other inferior officers who
may prove to be loyal and worthy; but this should be done by the
military governor. I believe the administration need have no
anxiety about the question of slavery, or any other important
question, in this State. But the proper care of the freedmen should
be provided for by State legislation as soon as possible. I shall
be thankful for any information or instructions you may be able to
give me on these subjects."

A week later more precise rules governing the freedmen were issued:

"(General Orders, No. 46.)
"Hdqrs. Dept. of North Carolina, Army of the Ohio, Raleigh, N. C.,
May 15, 1865.
"The following rules are published for the government of freedmen
in North Carolina until the restoration of civil government in the
State:

"I. The common laws governing the domestic relations, such as
those giving parents authority and control over their children, and
guardians control over their wards, are in force. The parent's or
guardian's authority and obligations take the place of those of
the former master.

"II. The former masters are constituted the guardians of minors
and of the aged and infirm, in the absence of parents or other
relatives capable of supporting them.

"III. Young men and women under twenty-one years of age remain
under the control of their parents or guardians until they become
of age, thus aiding to support their parents and younger brothers
and sisters.

"IV. The former masters of freedmen may not turn away the young
or the infirm, nor refuse to give them food and shelter; nor may
the able-bodied men or women go away from their homes, or live in
idleness, and leave their parents, children, or young brothers and
sisters to be supported by others.

"V. Persons of age who are free from any of the obligations referred
to above are at liberty to find new homes wherever they can obtain
proper employment; but they will not be supported by the government,
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