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Office of Provost Marshal Richmon, Va. ---- 1865 This is to Certify that ----- in the --- having deserted and come within our lines and having this day been examined by me, and it appearing that his intentions are honest in forever deserting the rebel cause, and having taken the Amnesty Oath under the President's Proclamation of December 8th, 1863, is by the terms of the annexed Order of the War Department, exempt from conscription, or military service in the Armies of the United States serving against the rebels, and has permission to go -- Geral Orders No. 64 War Departmant Adjutant General's Office Washington D.C., February 18th 1864 Whenever refugees from within the rebel lines, or deserters from the rebel armies, present themselves at the United States camps or military posts, they will be immediately examined by Provost Marshal, with a view to determine their character and their motives in giving themselves up. If it appears that they are honest in their intentions of forever deserting the rebel cause, care will be taken to explain to them that they will not be forced to serve in the United States army against the rebels, not be kept in confinement. The President's Proclamation of December 8th, 1863, will be read to them, and, if they so desire employment from the United States; and, if so, such arrangements may be expedient will be made by the several army commanders for employing them on the Government works within their commands. Those who come to the Army of the Potomac will be forwarded to the MIlitary Governor of the District of Columbia at Washington with reports of their cases, that employment may be given to them, if desired; or, if not, may be sent as far North as Philadelphia. By order of the Secretary of War: (Signed,) E.D. TOWNSEND Assistant Adjutant General.