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0653

The public sentiment among the un-reconstructed is bitter against these people. Their schools are denounced, and every effort made for their advancement, is looked upon with distrust. No sympathy or co-operation can be expected from this source, and even those persons who are favorable to the education and elevation of the colored race, are so fearful of public opinion, that they are unwilling to make a bold stand for the right.

The poor whites are in a sad condition, and their children are growing up in ignorance and vice. They are willing to mingle with the Negroes at their Homes, but when asked to avail themselves, of their School advantages, you could not possibly induce on of them, to be enrolled among them. Throughout all the counties under my jurisdiction, I do not know of a single school for poor whites, and I have taken considerable trouble in ascertaining the facts in the case.

In regard to Freedmen's Schools, only two, we may say, are in successful operation at present, and these are supported by Northern Benevolent Associations. The one at Christiansburg numbering two Teachers and two hundred & thirty Scholars — including 145 day and 85 night Scholars. A large class of colored young men, receive writing lessons, four nights in the week, from your Office in Charge.

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