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months been compelled to meet in the Huts and Cabins of the people. I have at a cost to myself, personally, of nearly 200, dollars, leased and fitted up a Building know as the "Old Court House" It is the first proper Church and school-room we have ever had. A new spirit seems to activate our people. There have been some dissentions amoung the people, which were inspired by one or two bad men. You have them in Richmond, and they exist all over the State; and, contributed not a little to our defeat in the recent election. Ignorant and vicious colored men, who stand in the way of true progress and reconstruction. It is in your power Sir, to encourage the effort we are making. I have resigned the position of Sheriff to devote more fully my time and services to the cause of education. And to prove to the people and the world that the moral and educational improvement of my race, at this juncture, is of far more importance than political performance. Has Mr Hunter informed you of how the Bureau has been swindled by the Intended Teacher Richmond Robinson? He is the only one I know of here, who like Bagne and Horton and such like, would ruin if they cannot rule. By the first of the year I shall have 50 scholars - mark what I say!
Yours obediently Geo. E. Stephens