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The Books are here the children are here. The work once started will grow. It is useless to hope anything from a state School system for some time. Meanwhile if the people dont use they will sink lower & lower. The moral effect of schools and good teachers would be wonderful.  I of course cannot yet say that I am ready for the Teacher of whom you write I only wish I could.  I cannot see this work fail now without an earnest effort.  If I had it in my power I would turn the Govt Bureau every thing into a great Southern Educational machine for it is my earnest belief that Education is the one great need of this people.  The true key to Reconstruction & lasting peace & prosperity.  Excuse any bluntness of style in this letter & help me if you care all you can.

Sincerely Yours
Charley Goodyear
Agt Freedmans Bureau
King Wm County Va

[[left margin]] King Wm C.H. Dec 23. 1868 C. P. Goodyear [[/left margin]]