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Politically, there is no decided change, the freedpeople wishing to remain as quiet spectators of the contest, until the time shall come for them to act.  Those in opposition to them, however, are using every means in their power, to bring them in subjection to their views, and to cause them to desert the principles, to which they have been attached.

The temperance organization among them have proven a source of great blessing and hundreds who formerly spent their money at the Dram Shop, are now using it, for the support of their families, and securing homes of their own.

The marriage relation is held in greater honor, although there are very many cases of illicit intercourse, and abuse of the law, yet there is a gradual improvement, and I believe an earnest desire to reform. Time alone can effect a radical change among these people on this point, as they have never been educated to estimate virtue or to value it above all price.
   
Apprenticed orphan children as far as I can learn, are being properly cared for, and the obligations of their indentures fully carried into effect.
   
There is no change apparant in the poor whites, who in hundred of instances are making no improvement whatever, and are far beneath the negro. I consider them in a deplorable condition.  Large numbers are constantly coming for food and clothing, expecting the Government to supply them in their reduced circumstances. Too sluggish and idle to work, the resort to other means, to lengthen out their miserable existence.
  
A number of cases of differences between whites and colored have been satisfactorily adjusted, without recourse to the Civil process of law, and in very few instances have we been obliged to refer them for the action of the Civil Authorities.


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