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in compliance with Circular letter from the Major General Commissioner dated May 15th 1867, on the subject of temperance, but it does not seem to have much effect as yet, but I am in hopes in time to have Temperance Societies formed in this Division. 

I find the greatest difficulty in having them brake off their old habit of gathering at the County Seat every Saturday afternoon, and idling their time away. This habit is one of the great causes of intemperance among them, but I am glad to report that this habit, is not so general as it was three months ago, and would suggest that if authority is given me to close all the stores, in Accomac and Northampton Counties, at Sun down, Saturday evenings, and to remain closed until Sun rise Monday Mornings, it would prevent a great deal of intemperance.

I have directed the most of my time to the subject of Schools, and have some encouragement, and would be able to accomplish more, if the colored people could be induced to separate education from Religion - the most difficulty that I have had on this subject has been from the Colored Ministers, who insist upon having Schools connected with the Church, so that the Conferance can have control, which I fear, if allowed to be connected, will in the future create

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