Viewing page 40 of 232

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

has had its influence for good, and is making its mark in many ways. At every meeting, we have additions to the number of those who sign the pledge and keep it. We are now endeavouring to organize divisions in all the larger towns. In the fourth Division, which has only recently come under my charge, I find that the Freed-people, in a number of instances have been living together, without due appreciation of their marriage obligations, and following their old ways of illicit cohabitation. These are being instructed, at their public meetings and religious assemblies, and the law explained and read to them, with the consequences of its violations. I have received no complaints of ill-treatment of orphan children, although I have notified the freed-people to inform me, in cases of cruel and harsh usage. As far as I can learn, the binding obligation of their "Indentures" are being complied with. The poor whites are in a sad condition, and in many cases living together, unenlightened, uneducated and without character. Some neighborhoods could only have their equal in Heathen Lands. Although our schools have been open to them, yet they will not avail themselves of their advantages, but continue to bring up their children in ignorance, idleness and vice.

Transcription Notes:
---------- Reopened for Editing 2024-03-23 10:06:55