Mr Hobby having claimed as his property a Negro Man now serving as a soldier in the 3d Masstts Regt—you will be pleased to order a Court of Enquiry, consisting of five as respectable Officers as can be appointed in your Brigade; to examine into the validity of the claim, the manner in which the person in question came into service, and the propriety of his being discharged or retained in service, having enquired into the matter with all the attending circumstances, they will report to you their opinion thereon, which you will communicate to me as soon as conveniently may be. I am Sir With great regard Your Most Obed. Servt