52/68 They admit that they get more work from the laborers than they formerly did, and they are relieved from a great responsibility. It is my opinion that if entire emancipation had taken place in 1834, no more difficulty would have followed beyond what we may naturally expect in 1810. It will then take two or three months before the emancipated people finally settle themselves. I do not consider the apprentice more fit or better prepared for entire freedom now than he was in 1834. I consider, most undoubtedly, that emancipation has been a decided blessing to the colony. |