Staunton Spectator, And General Advertiser

From the Raleigh (N. C.) Register, July 11

DEAF AND DUMB SCHOOL.

Notwithstanding the publicity given to the fact by the Literary Board, it is not so generally known, as it should be, that there is now, in successful operation, in this city, a school for the instruction of Deaf and Dumb persons. It was commenced on the first of May, and there are, already, fifteen Pupils—eight girls and seven boys. We had the pleasure of being present at the school on Tuesday afternoon, when an exhibition took place before the Governor, the Judges of the Supreme Court, the Literary Board, the numerous strangers in the city, and others, showing the progress made by the pupils in the short time they have had the benefits of instruction. "Seeing is believing," or otherwise, so incredible is the progress they have made, no one would credit it. We have always heard that the Deaf Mute, when placed under proper instruction, learns with astonishing facility, but the progress in writing and knowledge of things, and the development of intellect witnessed on this occasion, was most wonderful, and as gratifying as wonderful. Two months ago, these afflicted children knew nothing. The Alphabet even, was a sealed book to them. They had no idea of God, or Heaven, of the immortality of the soul, nor of a future state of existence. Now they can interpret any thing by signs, spell any word or simple sentence, and write it on their slates, some of them beautifully, too. Several of them related in the sign language interesting stories, Mr. Cooke, the Principal, interpreting them as they proceeded. Now, too, they all seem to have just conceptions of a Supreme Being, and their appearance of devotion in Prayer, breathes an eloquence greater than tongue can impart.

No one can witness the Exercises of the School, without feeling convinced of the wisdom and humanity of our last Legislature in devising means for the establishment of such an institution within the limits of our State, and of the duty of an intelligent and humane people, specially to regard, and liberally to sustain it.

The Literary Board has been very fortunate, we think, in securing the services of such a Principal as Mr. Cooke—a gentleman every way qualified for the duties of his responsible station.