To the Inspectors of the Maine State Prison: GENTLEMEN :-During the past year, religious services have been performed in the chapel twice on the Lord's day-one at eight A. M. the other at three P. M.,-and I am happy to say, that attention and good order have generally characterized those devotional seasons. While it is to be feared, that some of the unfortunate inmates, "have sold themselves to work wickedness," yet others I have reason to believe, have under the word preached, felt a restraining and enlightning influence which cannot fail to benfit them, both for time and eternity; having found the "way of the transgressor hard," they feel determined to reform. Our Sabbath School has been conducted as usual, in which nearly one half are brought under instruction. The present construction of the Prison gives me a good opportunity for personal conversation with them at the door of their cell, which seasons have been deeply interesting to myself, and I trust, not without profit to them. My visits to the sick in the Hospital, have been thankfully received. As many of them appear interested in reading, I would respectfully recommend an addition to the Prison library. In humble reliance on Divine aid to assist me in this unpromising field of ministerial labor, and cheered with a hope that my past services have not been altogether in vain, but at the last great day, I shall meet some who will regard this Prison as the place where they began to "think of their ways, and turn their feet into the divine testimonies." I remain, respectfully yours, JOB WASHBURN, Chaplain of the Maine State Prison. Thomaston, May 7, 1846. |