Military District [?]
3-22d '67

Dear Mr. May

Are the people up in the States as much interested in our doings as we are in theirs?

You cannot imagine the mental maelstrom you have thrown us! into which And who can say where our wrath, pride and policy will lead us? It looks very much as if 'we' should have to let the N_g_r vote; but if he does he shall vote as we tell him to do:--we haven't kept him ignorant for naught:

Political equality does not imply social equality: if it did, I should be in danger of having some drunken white man at my fireside, courting my daughters! said a black man last night.

Our field is full of promise now; and our hearts are full of grateful joy. On the first of March we consigned our little ones to worthy hands--and took up the colored youth of the city and those in the prime of life--for whom nothing was being done--we organized a night school (free) which is now put in the hands of two colored women who are to call it theirs--we giving aid and counsel--The people old and young are most enthusiastic at this opportunity which I have long felt they should have--I have a class of most promising young men to whom I am teaching book keeping:--giving them a trade you see. I also aid them in the direction of their specialty--among them is a prospective organist--a minister a statesman --ect--All are bound to use no liquor, tobacco or wicked words. They take advice so gladly, and are so anxious to improve in every way! "I can't give up Saturday evening--'' said one--"though I play for the choir to practice--I'm sorry for them--but I cannot afford to loose a lesson--I never can learn all I ought--I shall tell them that I get through my work so late--and then have to get paid off--and then have to go to market." But those would not be your reasons for not being with them' said I. But 'twould be the truth--for I have to do those things'--Ah but 'tis the spirit and not the letter said I--illustrating and explaining fully what constitutes a lie:--they listened most attentively and thanked me "kindly for taking so much interest--to explain such things--we have much to learn--we haven't been brought up to see moral points sharp--but we are anxious to."

We also have a day class of fifty adults who are learning the common English branches including Book Keeping, Philosophy Natural and History--A number of this class are fitting for teachers; --hoping they will be ready to take some of the classes in the Morris School in the Fall. The orphans and 'aged' are in grateful possession of your 'clothing' --with the exception of a few very thick garments and some of the flannel, I doubt not, will ere long--comfort some needy one--

"I shan't go to school no more after you leave us'--said my fond children. You say you love me?" Yes! Yes!! You must wish to please me?" "Yes indeed!" Then you'll go to school--be as good as you can & learn all you can--I told them to come to me freely--let me know of any trouble they or other folks have--and though no more a teacher--they feel I'm ever their friend. Every group of men on the street--white or black--are full of discussion--if white, I wish I could be in broadcloth, long enough to take part; & if black I drop a passing word to their surprise--or stop and have a good talk--Oh--these are glorious days--! And I thank God that I live in them--How grand it is to see a great Nation struggling for principles--rather than power or wealth! As I read the earnest faces, listen to the glowing words or answer the eager questionings of these men--I feel that I am witnessing the birth of a great Nation--With congratulations! Farewell

S.E.C.