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The Military Secretary will give Mr.Best an order for as many pairs of shoes as will complete every Man & Woman (of the refugee Negroes) on Melville Island with one pair each - There are no shoes for children in the Military stores here. Mr. Best had better therefore supply them Mawkisons or any cheap shoes he may be able to purchase fit for their use. Such Warm clothing as these Blacks are in want of, Mr.Best will (illegible) to them from [the?] articles already [in?] his charge..

H.H.C

Jan 10 1816