Viewing page 136 of 239

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

most favorable circumstances; and in part because they have no schools, or means of instruction, at present any where in the county, and at no time in districts remote from the villages.

In all cases, I have, under the instructions above mentioned, insisted upon the statutory provision in reference to education, and in no case have I succeeded in making a contract. I have already received notice from several gentlemen, that they have in their families, orphan minors for whom they desire me to make provision. They would prefer to keep these children, but not unless they can be indentured. And I am of the opinion, from what has already transpired within my knowledge, that no respectable citizen of the county will be willing to place himself under so stringent obligations. 

I respectfully submit that the interests of this Bureau, and of the orphan minors of this sub-district, would be greatly enhanced by a liberal modification of the educational provision of the statute applicable to apprentices.

It is rumored in this community, that many of the citizens contemplate turning out of doors the helpless and infirm freedmen on the first or fifth of March, and I have applied to Capt. Crandon to supply me with any instructions on that subject issued for the guidance of Asst. Supts. In the circular letter above mentioned, I find these words: "The principle to be adhered to with regard to paupers, is that each county, parish, township or city shall care for and provide for its own." 

Taking this for my guide, I have in two instances brought to my notice, sent the sufferers to the overseers of the poor, to be taken into their care at the expense of the county. I have advised  
 
6

Transcription Notes:
---------- Reopened for Editing 2024-02-21 16:08:27