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397

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Another consideration. The doctrine of a free public school system is on trial in this city for the city and for the state. Here it is secured by the public men, observed by the legislators and we ought to make it good, so good that it cannot be sneered at, so good as to command approval from a people where traditions and prejudices are against it.

Our pupils, even in the normal are mostly young, and want to continue their preparation for better usefulness. 

It does seem to me, and I feel deeply on the subject that to put these puils forward too fast is the worst thing that can be done, for a race whose most striking characteristic is prevention[[?]] (thousands of them aspiring to the legislature and to conquer and not willing to wait.) It does seem to me that the true policy of the charitable associations is to do a little work well, and not much work poorly: -to make a few deep marks on the public mind, and not a multitude of shallow scratches. For example Mr Burbanks school is doing more for the cause of education in Va. than the 20 inferior colored teachers could do. It is an example, a monitor, a guide, an inspiration. It is heard of widely, it is real.
Pardon my prolixity. I am sorry I cannot [[strikethrouth]]talk[[strikethrough]] with the teachers committe.
I will write write on one or two omitted points in a few days.
R.M. Manly
Sup Education