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them through another year. There are- many
old and feeble colored people who have no one 
to take care of them, who should be assisted in
the matter of clothing and shoes through the 
inclement season. if these articles are to be
had from the Bureau. This class of people
will suffer a great deal before they will go
to the almshouse. I do not know whether 
this results from pride or a dread of the insti-
tuition, but it is certain that they will suffer very
great privations rather than go there.
I have distributed during the month the 
balance of the children clothing received 
from the Natick Mass. Benevolent Society.
Many of the Freedmen are somewhat in debt
but most of them will be able to pay these small
claims as soon as they can realize the proceeds
of their tobacco & corn. 
I regard to temperance I have nothing new to
report. Order, quiet + industry reigns among
the freedmen, & crime is very rare. 
Very Respectfully 
Your Obt Sevnt  
E.C. Merge
A.LA Comm.

[?] O. Brown
Assist Comm
Richmond Va.

Transcription Notes:
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