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unrebuked by him. Can we then be so much astonished, that the unreflecting portion of the community should have fallen into the snare? I cannot think they were aware of the criminality of their conduct. That they were guilty of gross impropriety, must be admitted. But an essential ingredient to constitute crime is the criminal intent; and I must think that with most, if not all of these parties, this essential was wanting. Be that as it may however, I think it would be bad policy to prosecute those who have been purchasing rations. No good would result from it - it would inflame the public mind - no conviction would probably be effected - and those of no who have been instrumental in the exposing this evil would lose our influence. The fright under which they are now laboring will prevent them from again soon repeating their offence. The main object of this investigation, to wit, the conviction of the evil, and the restoration of the charity of the Government back into the proper channel of sustenance for the destitute women and children, has been accomplished. Having reached this end, let us not embitter the feelings of the community by the useless prosecutions. Presuming that you have control of this matter still, I address this argument in the behalf of the
Transcription Notes:
First word hyphenated from prior page & completed from this