Viewing page 29 of 236

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

0499

portion of the Freedman's earning, and with large families they are destitute of clothing.  In matters of controversy, the freedmans only appeal is to the Bureau.  If he goes to law, and can fortunately employ counsel which may ensure him success, the white defendant procures bail and escapes, while in similar circumstances, the colored man, unable to procure bondsmen, goes to jail.

The holidays, as in the days of slavery, are devoted to idleness and dissipation, and not a few whites as well as colored, signify their appreciation of the Saviors birth, by drunkenness, discharging of firearms, snap crackers and profanity-  The schools, which are the houses of reformation, at this season of the year, are closed for two weeks vacation, which will expire on the 5th January.  They have been well attended and promise gratifying results-

The Washingtonian Temperance and Debating Society in Winchester is accomplishing much good, and is steadily increasing in numbers- 

It has weekly meetings and is also a benevolent society.

Respectfully submitted
John A. McDonnell,
Capt. & S.A.C.

Transcription Notes:
---------- Reopened for Editing 2024-03-21 15:46:17 to add NARA and correct the signature ---------- Reopened for Editing 2024-03-21 16:13:47