History of Gardner, Massachusetts/Power and Duty of the Master of the Work-house
Power and Duty of the Master.
"The Master shall have the immediate care and control of the inmates, and all the property belonging to the institution; and shall give an account of the same to the Overseers, when called upon by them: he shall see that the inmates are suitably provided with lodging, clothes and food, and shall call on the Overseers for such things as are necessary for that purpose. It shall be the duty of the Master to see that all who are able to labor, are employed in such a manner as shall be most advantageous to the town; and to instruct in regard to the moral character of all persons in his care, and see that the Sabbath is duly observed; and to take care of all the fires, see that the lights are put out, that the inmates retire in proper season, and the children in his care are suitably schooled; it shall also be his duty to punish any one of the inmates who are refractory, or disobedient, and perform all other duties which may devolve on him by the direction of the Overseers."