Viewing page 39 of 262

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

and Ashland, and urged upon their consideration by every argument that I could, the duty of forming societies as contemplated in Genl Howard's letter.  I regret to report that up to this time there seems to be little disposition to unite in organization of this character.  Nearly all seem to believe that what little whiskey they are able to get with their spare change is good both for their bodies and souls.  This is doubtless a result of their education, all having been brought up to regard the use of Ardent Spirits as a necessity, at least on diverse occasions.  There is, indeed, a possibility that societies will be formed; but the effort will hardly succeed unless the colored ministers take hold of the matter in earnest; and make it a point of religious duty with their people.

I, however, see or hear of but little drunkenness in this County among the col'd people; and am informed that it does not exist to nearly the same extent with them as formerly.

The business of Registration was completed in this Co on Friday the 19th inst., with a col'd majority of (39) Thirty nine.  It is probable that the revision of the Lists will place the whites in the majority, as many of this class failed to register at the first, who will probably do so at the second session of the Board.

Very Respectfully,
Your obt. Servt,
Ira Ayers Jr. Bvt Col
& A.S.A. Comr.

Transcription Notes:
---------- Reopened for Editing 2024-03-17 11:53:31 corrected first name of signatory to Ira from "Jas"