Viewing page 69 of 232

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

& the imperative necessity for six day labour & is so noble an institution in encouragement of morals & religion at a cheap rate, it seems to me that the Bureau might encourage sunday school agents to some extent among all orthodox denominations. I think more could be done in this way with little money than in any other; for it is a solemn truth that a large majority of both white & black cannot & will not go to school in the week if they are taught for nothing. And what is to be done? I see no chance at present, but to have sunday schools all over the South. But in two or three years they will be qualified to carry on the work among themselves. I know there will be some difficulty in getting the white people to take hold of it, but they are becoming more cordial, & I have already obtained the pledge of some in several counties to aid in [[?]] I will initiate it.
Sir I hope you will excuse me for these suggestions as there is such an urgent necessity for prompt & energetic action at this time in every way possible to elevate a numerous race turned loose upon the world as sheep without shepherds. f you think any thing can be done for us in any way that your wisdom may suggest, please write at an early opportunity. Perhaps at least you can furnish us with a few books including bibles & testaments. If you desire it I can refer you to friends in Richmond among whom is your namesake Dr. Wm Brown editor of the Central Presbyterian, to whose care I will direct this letter. 
Very respectfully yours He
Matthew W. Jackson