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of officers and propose having branch societies all through the county - or the three counties - if the latter is practicable. A society of the Sons of Temperance (colored) has, for some time, existed in the neighborhood of the Natural Bridge. 

The colored churches are well attended, and the Freedpeople generally well dressed, well behaved, and happy. Their tastes are decidedly religious and last Saturday I attended a meeting in the west end of the county held for the purpose of raising funds [[strikethrough]] for the purpose of [[/strikethrough]] to build a Freedmens church there. The best order prevailed and the hundred and ninety dollars were raised for the specified purpose which fact indicates that they have the means as well as the desire to be benevolent and generous. 

Very Respectfully
Your Obt. Servant
J.W. Sharp
Bvt. Maj. & Asst. Sub. Asst. Com.
Rockbridge, Bath & Alleghany Cos Va.

[[?]] Cap R.S. Lacey
Agent 7th Sub Dist Va