S. A. Hawk, Warden.
LITERATURE FOR CONVICTS.
The Greenbrier (W. Va.) Independent says: “A short time ago Judge McWhorter of our town shipped to S. A. Hawk, warden of the state prison at Moundsville, a lot of books, magazines, etc., donated by himself and others. We are permitted to publish Mr. Hawk’s letter to the judge in acknowledgement of the donation:
“‘Your fine donation of literature came to hand to-day (March 10), for which please accept my sincere gratitude. I am gratified to inform you that from donations received from the generous people of West Virginia and some few publishers, I have about 10,000 volumes of books and magazines—the latter securely bound and covered. The library is indebted to the Wheeling Intelligencer and News for very many daily exchanges. The library room is 40×40 feet, handsomely furnished and fully equipped.
“‘I have an evening school of sixty pupils—thirty colored and thirty white, boys and men—the hours being from 5 to 7.30 p. m. Their progress is very satisfactory. Taking into consideration that I sent out my appeal for literature January 20, 1900, I think that I have met with unprecedented success, for which I am certainly grateful.
“‘I feel conscious that the new and more liberal system of discipline inaugurated by me since my management of the prison, and the many improvements made, is a duty I owe my charges and for the future protection of society, because these men feel that the hand of every man is not raised against them and that upon their release they will be encouraged to make of themselves useful citizens.
“‘Assuring you that I completely appreciate your kindness, I am sincerely yours,
S. A. Hawk.’”
THE BIBLE CLASS.
Had been in an intermittent state of organization from 1890, with but moderate success. Some two years ago (1899) the Gospel Trumpet people took an active interest in the welfare of the Bible class, which meant that henceforth renewed and intelligent effort was to be made for the future. The class under the new order of arrangement and new infusion of God’s Spirit greatly increased in membership in a short period of time. To this class of earnest Christians the Gospel Trumpet people and denominational ministers of Moundsville give their attention and best effort in their respective turn, every Sabbath morning from 8 to 9 o’clock. The commendable progress the members of the class have made in their work is to a large extent due to these ministers of God. Very many remarkable conversions have been brought about, and baptism given by the ordained ministers from the Gospel Trumpet office.