By reducing the laboring strength of the rebels, their military power will be reduced.

You are therefore authorized by every means in your power, to withdraw from the enemy their laboring force and population, and to spare no effort, consistent with civilized warfare, to weaken, harass, and annoy them, and to establish the authority of the Government of the United States within your Department.
6th.

You may turn over to the navy any number of colored volunteers that may be required for the naval service.
7th.

By recent act of Congress, all men and boys received into the service of the United States, who may have been the slaves of rebel masters, are, with their wives, mothers, and children, declared to be forever free.

You and all in your command will so treat and regard them.
Yours truly, EDWIN M.STANTON, Secretary of War.