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On one subject however Mr Tukey's statement is so clear and definite that I deem it my duty to repeat it in his words taken down by me, as follows:

"During the months of August or September last, when I was clerk in the office I was aware of Lieut. Cook leaving his District on four different occasions without permission.  Twice he went to the Natural Bridge and twice to Washington. I know that he had no leave of absence because he told me so and requested me to shield him in the event of an inspector coming. He requested that if an Inspector came I should say he had gone into the Country; leaving it to be inferred that he was in the rural parts of his Sub. District. I agreed to do so."

On examination at Head Quarters I can find no leaves of absence granted to Lieut. Cook which would apply to the time above specified and consider that the charge requires attention.

In the papers referred to me and still more in his conversation with me, Mr Tukey has assailed the character of all the School teachers stationed at Staunton with the exception of Mrs Arina A. [[Dunn?]] who is his sister. No charge involving moral character is made against Mr N.C. Brackett, Supt. of Schools, but he is accused of weakness and incompetency. Mr John Piper the male teacher is charged with having been intoxicated, and the ladies Misses Ellen

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