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11

To accomplish so great a work, it is necessary not only to have the countenance, but the cordial cooperation of the more intelligent portion of the population resident on the same soil with the ignorant and unfortunate race.

Deeply impressed with the truth of this conviction, I have sought the aid of leading citizens of the State, and especially of the most eminent resident ecclesiastics, in the accomplishment of this grand work.- I have addressed letters to them, setting forth the importance and charitableness of the work to be accomplished, and requesting their assistance in achieving it.-

In furtherance of these views, I have employed the Reverend William A. Douglass of the Protestant Episcopal Church, and late Superintendent of Public Schools in the City of Natchez, to traverse the State, address the people, attempt to arouse public sentiment to the importance of educating the freed people, and establish schools for this purpose.