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Few have commenced the study of Grammar. Few have gone beyond the Fourth Reader; few beyond the simplest and most elementary books in Geography; and fewer still beyond the simplest lessons in Arithmetic. [[crossed out]] I am not forgetful of the [[/crossed out]] I except the fact fact, that ] in my Local Report from [ at New Berne, mention is made of [ a class of seven boys [[crossed out]] who [[/crossed out]] are studying Latin. [[crossed out]] These [[/crossed out]] But these boys, [[crossed out]] however, [[/crossed out]] are pursuing this study, not because they have mastered the rudiments of the English Branches, but upon the theory, true or false, that [[crossed out]] the study of [[/crossed out]] the Latin language [[crossed out]] just [[/crossed out]] aids [[crossed out]] one [[/crossed out]] materially in gaining a ready and thorough knowledge of the English.]

Schools have been opened to the Freedmen in many parts of this State for more than two years, and I am at a loss to account for the backwardness of the children. But whatever the cause may be which has produced this unfortunate result - whether it be found in the want of ability and thorough discipline and instruction, on the part of former teachers; or the want of prompt and regular attendance and earnest application of the pupils to their duties, in the school room; or the want