Note 42 — Chapter XXX · General Aspects of the South at the Close of the War.

This statement is literally true, but, without another, it might convey a wrong impression. The negroes were everywhere found quiet, respectful, and peaceable; they were the only class at work; and in, perhaps, most respects, their outward conduct was that of excellent citizens. But they would steal. Petty pilfering seemed as natural to three-fourths of them as eating. Our officers and missionaries thought they saw some reformation in this respect; but there was still abundance of room for more.