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| author | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 04:36:05 -0700 |
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| committer | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 04:36:05 -0700 |
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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6833f05 --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,3 @@ +* text=auto +*.txt text +*.md text diff --git a/11137-0.txt b/11137-0.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..a8af2fb --- /dev/null +++ b/11137-0.txt @@ -0,0 +1,8093 @@ +*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 11137 *** + +[Illustration: [Signature of] Austin Steward] + + + + +TWENTY-TWO YEARS A SLAVE, +AND +FORTY YEARS A FREEMAN; + +EMBRACING A +CORRESPONDENCE OF SEVERAL YEARS, WHILE +PRESIDENT OF WILBERFORCE COLONY, +LONDON, CANADA WEST, + +BY +AUSTIN STEWARD. + + +1856 + + + +FROM GOVERNOR CLARK. + +STATE OF NEW YORK, +EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, + +Albany, May 10, 1856. + +MR. A. STEWARD, Canandaigua, + +Dear Sir:--I notice a paragraph in the "Ontario Times" of this date, +making the announcement that you are preparing "a sketch of events +occurring under your own observation during an eventful life," to be +entitled, "Twenty Years a Slave, and Forty Years a Freeman;" and that you +design soon to make an effort to obtain subscribers for the book. + +Being desirous of rendering you what encouragement I may in the work, you +are permitted to place my name on your list of subscribers. + +Respectfully Yours, + +MYRON H. CLARK. + + * * * * * + +ROCHESTER, SEPTEMBER, 1856 + +MR. WM. ALLING, + +Dear Sir:--The undersigned have heard with pleasure, that you are about +issuing a Book made up from incidents in the life of Austin STEWARD. We +have been the early acquaintances and associates of Mr. Steward, while a +business man in Rochester in an early day, and take pleasure in bearing +testimony to his high personal, moral and Christian character. In a world +of vicissitude, Mr. Steward has received no ordinary share, and we hope, +while his book may do the world good, it may prove a substantial benefit +to him in his declining years. + +ASHLEY SAMPSON, +THOMAS KEMPSHALL, +FREDERICK STARR, +CHAS. J. HILL, +L.A. WARD, +EDWIN SCRANTOM, +JACOB GOULD. + + * * * * * + +RECOMMENDATORY. + +ROCHESTER, JULY 1, 1856. + +A. STEWARD, ESQ., + +Dear Sir:--In reply to your letter upon the propriety of publishing your +life, I answer, that there is not only no objection to it, but it will be +timely, and is demanded by every consideration of humanity and justice. +Every tongue which speaks for Freedom, which has once been held by the +awful gag of Slavery, is trumpet-tongued--and he who pleads against this +monstrous oppression, if he can say, "here are the scars," can do much. + +It is a great pleasure to me to run back to my boyhood, and stop at that +spot where I first met you. I recollect the story of your wrongs, and your +joy in the supposition that all were now ended in your freedom; of your +thirst for knowledge, as you gathered up from the rudimental books--not +then very plenty--a few snatches of the elements of the language; of +playing the school-master to you, in "setting copies" for your writing-- +book; of guiding your mind and pen. I remember your commencement in +business, and the outrage and indignity offered you in Rochester, by white +competitors on no other ground than that of color.[1] I saw your bitter +tears, and recollect assuring you--what afterwards proved true--that +justice would overtake the offenders, and that you would live to see +these enemies bite the dust! I remember your unsullied character, and your +prosperity, and when your word or endorsement was equal to that of any +other citizen. I remember too, when yourself, and others of your kind, +sunk all the gatherings of years of toil, in an unsuccessful attempt to +establish an asylum for your enslaved and oppressed brethren--and, not to +enumerate, which I might do much farther, I remember when your "old +master," finding you had been successful, while he himself had lost in the +changes on fortune's wheel--came here and set up a claim to yourself and +your property--a claim which might have held both, had not a higher power +suddenly summoned him to a tribunal, where both master and slave shall one +day answer each for himself! + +But to the book. Let its plain, unvarnished tale be sent out, and the +story of Slavery and its abominations, again be told by one who has felt +in his own person its scorpion lash, and the weight of its grinding heel. +I think it will do good service, and could not have been sent forth at a +more auspicious period. The downfall of the hateful system of Slavery is +certain. Though long delayed, justice is sure to come at length; and he +must be a slow thinker and a poor seer, who cannot discern in the elements +already at work, the mighty forces which must eventually crush this +oppression. I know that you and I have felt discouraged at the long delay, +years ago,--when we might have kept up our hopes by the fact that every +thing that is slow is _sure_. Your book may be humble and your +descriptions tame, yet truth is always mighty; and you may furnish the +sword for some modern Sampson, who shall shout over more slain than his +ancient prototype. I close with the wish, that much success may attend +your labors, in more ways than one, and that your last days may be your +best--and am, + +Your old Friend, + +And obed't serv't, + +EDWIN SCRANTOM. + +[Footnote 1: The indignity spoken of was this: Mr. Steward had established +a grocery and provision store on Buffalo Street, in a part of Abner +Wakelee's building, opposite the Eagle Hotel. He put up his sign, a very +plain and proper one, and at night, some competitors, whom he knew, as +well as he could know anything which he could not prove, smeared his sign +with black paint, utterly destroying it! But the misguided men who stooped +to such an act--the victims of sensuality and excess--have years ago ended +their journey, and passed to the bar of a higher adjudication.] + + * * * * * + +CONTENTS. + + +I. SLAVE LIFE ON THE PLANTATION + +II. AT THE GREAT HOUSE + +III. HORSE-RACING AND ITS CONSEQUENCES + +IV. JOURNEY TO OUR NEW HOME IN NEW YORK + +V. INCIDENTS AT SODUS + +VI. REMOVAL FROM SODUS TO BATH + +VII. DUELING + +VIII. HORSE-RACING AND GENERAL TRAINING + +IX. DEATH-BED AND BRIDAL SCENES + +X. HIRED OUT TO A NEW MASTER + +XI. THOUGHTS ON FREEDOM + +XII. CAPTAIN HELM--DIVORCE--KIDNAPPING + +XIII. LOCATE IN THE VILLAGE OF ROCHESTER + +XIV. INCIDENTS IN ROCHESTER AND VICINITY + +XV. SAD REVERSES CAPTAIN HELM + +XVI. BRITISH EMANCIPATION OF SLAVERY + +XVII. ORATION--TERMINATION OF SLAVERY IN THE BRITISH POSSESSIONS + +XVIII. CONDITION OF FREE COLORED PEOPLE + +XIX. PERSECUTION OF THE COLORED PEOPLE + +XX. REMOVAL TO CANADA + +XXI. ROUGHING IT IN THE WILDS OF CANADA + +XXII. NARROW ESCAPE OF A SMUGGLER + +XXIII. NARRATIVE OF TWO FUGITIVES FROM VIRGINIA + +XXIV. PLEASANT RE-UNION OF OLD AND TRIED FRIENDS + +XXV. PRIVATE LOSSES AND PRIVATE DIFFICULTIES + +XXVI. INCIDENTS AND PECULIARITIES OF THE INDIANS + +XXVII. OUR DIFFICULTIES WITH ISRAEL LEWIS + +XXVIII. DESPERATION OF A FUGITIVE SLAVE + +XXIX. A NARROW ESCAPE FROM MY ENEMIES + +XXX. DEATH OF B. PAUL AND RETURN OF HIS BROTHER + +XXXI. MY FAMILY RETURN TO ROCHESTER + +XXXII. THE LAND AGENT AND THE SQUATTER + +XXXIII. CHARACTER AND DEATH OF ISRAEL LEWIS + +XXXIV. MY RETURN TO ROCHESTER + +XXXV. BISHOP BROWN--DEATH OF MY DAUGHTER + +XXXVI. CELEBRATION OF THE FIRST OF AUGUST + +XXXVII. CONCLUSION + +CORRESPONDENCE + + + + +PREFACE. + + + +The author does not think that any apology is necessary for this issue of +his Life and History. He believes that American Slavery is now the great +question before the American People: that it is not merely a political +question, coming up before the country as the grand element in the making +of a President, and then to be laid aside for four years; but that its +moral bearings are of such a nature that the Patriot, the Philanthropist, +and all good men agree that it is an evil of so much magnitude, that +longer to permit it, is to wink at _sin_, and to incur the righteous +judgments of God. The late outrages and aggressions of the slave power to +possess itself of new soil, and extend the influence of the hateful and +God-provoking "Institution," is a practical commentary upon its benefits +and the moral qualities of those who seek to sustain and extend it. The +author is therefore the more willing--nay, anxious, to lay alongside of +such arguments the history of his own life and experiences _as a slave_, +that those who read may know what are some of the characteristics of +that highly favored institution, which is sought to be preserved and +perpetuated. "Facts are stubborn things,"--and this is the reason why +all systems, religious, moral, or social, which are founded in injustice, +and supported by fraud and robbery, suffer so much by faithful exposition. + +The author has endeavored to present a true statement of the practical +workings of the system of Slavery, as he has seen and _felt it himself._ +He has intended "nothing to extenuate, nor aught set down in malice;" +indeed, so far from believing that he has misrepresented Slavery as an +institution, he does not feel that he has the power to give anything like +a true picture of it in all its deformity and wickedness; especially +_that_ Slavery which is an institution among an enlightened and Christian +people, who profess to believe that all men are born _free_ and _equal_, +and who have certain inalienable _rights_, among which are _life, +liberty_, and the pursuit of happiness. + +The author claims that he has endeavored since he had his freedom, as much +as in him lay, to benefit his suffering fellows in bondage; and that he +has spent most of his free life in efforts to elevate them in manners and +morals, though against all the opposing forces of prejudice and pride, +which of course, has made much of his labor vain. In his old age he sends +out this history--presenting as it were his _own body_, with the marks and +scars of the tender mercies of slave drivers upon it, and asking that +these may plead in the name of Justice, Humanity, and Mercy, that those +who have the power, may have the magnanimity to strike off the chains from +the enslaved, and bid him stand up, a Freeman and a Brother! + + + + +CHAPTER I. + +SLAVE LIFE ON THE PLANTATION. + +I was born in Prince William County, Virginia. At seven years of age, I +found myself a slave on the plantation of Capt. William Helm. Our family +consisted of my father and mother--whose names were Robert and Susan +Steward--a sister, Mary, and myself. As was the usual custom, we lived in +a small cabin, built of rough boards, with a floor of earth, and small +openings in the sides of the cabin were substituted for windows. The +chimney was built of sticks and mud; the door, of rough boards; and the +whole was put together in the rudest possible manner. As to the furniture +of this rude dwelling, it was procured by the slaves themselves, who were +occasionally permitted to earn a little money after their day's toil was +done. I never knew Capt. H. to furnish his slaves with household utensils +of any description. + +The amount of provision given out on the plantation per week, was +invariably one peck of corn or meal for each slave. This allowance was +given in meal when it could be obtained; when it could not, they received +corn, which they pounded in mortars after they returned from their labor +in the field. The slaves on our plantation were provided with very little +meat In addition to the peck of corn or meal, they were allowed a little +salt and a few herrings. If they wished for more, they were obliged to +earn it by over-work. They were permitted to cultivate small gardens, and +were thereby enabled to provide themselves with many trifling +conveniences. But these gardens were only allowed to some of the more +industrious. Capt. Helm allowed his slaves a small quantity of meat during +harvest time, but when the harvest was over they were obliged to fall back +on the old allowance. + +It was usual for men and women to work side by side on our plantation; and +in many kinds of work, the women were compelled to do as much as the men. +Capt. H. employed an overseer, whose business it was to look after each +slave in the field, and see that he performed his task. The overseer +always went around with a whip, about nine feet long, made of the toughest +kind of cowhide, the but-end of which was loaded with lead, and was about +four or five inches in circumference, running to a point at the opposite +extremity. This made a dreadful instrument of torture, and, when in the +hands of a cruel overseer, it was truly fearful. With it, the skin of an +ox or a horse could be cut through. Hence, it was no uncommon thing to see +the poor slaves with their backs mangled in a most horrible manner. Our +overseer, thus armed with his cowhide, and with a large bull-dog behind +him, followed the slaves all day; and, if one of them fell in the rear +from any cause, this cruel weapon was plied with terrible force. He would +strike the dog one blow and the slave another, in order to keep the former +from tearing the delinquent slave in pieces,--such was the ferocity of his +canine attendant. + +It was the rule for the slaves to rise and be ready for their task by +sun-rise, on the blowing of a horn or conch-shell; and woe be to the +unfortunate, who was not in the field at the time appointed, which was in +thirty minutes from the first sounding of the horn. I have heard the poor +creatures beg as for their lives, of the inhuman overseer, to desist from +his cruel punishment. Hence, they were usually found in the field +"betimes in the morning," (to use an old Virginia phrase), where they +worked until nine o'clock. They were then allowed thirty minutes to eat +their morning meal, which consisted of a little bread. At a given +signal, all hands were compelled to return to their work. They toiled +until noon, when they were permitted to take their breakfast, which +corresponds to our dinner. + +On our plantation, it was the usual practice to have one of the old slaves +set apart to do the cooking. All the field hands were required to give +into the hands of the cook a certain portion of their weekly allowance, +either in dough or meal, which was prepared in the following manner. The +cook made a hot fire and rolled up each person's portion in some cabbage +leaves, when they could be obtained, and placed it in a hole in the ashes, +carefully covered with the same, where it remained until done. Bread baked +in this way is very sweet and good. But cabbage leaves could not always be +obtained. When this was the case, the bread was little better than a +mixture of dough and ashes, which was not very palatable. The time allowed +for breakfast, was one hour. At the signal, all hands were obliged to +resume their toil. The overseer was always on hand to attend to all +delinquents, who never failed to feel the blows of his heavy whip. + +The usual mode of punishing the poor slaves was, to make them take off +their clothes to the bare back, and then tie their hands before them with +a rope, pass the end of the rope over a beam, and draw them up till they +stood on the tips of their toes. Sometimes they tied their legs together +and placed a rail between. Thus prepared, the overseer proceeded to punish +the poor, helpless victim. Thirty-nine was the number of lashes ordinarily +inflicted for the most trifling offence. + +Who can imagine a position more painful? Oh, who, with feelings of common +humanity, could look quietly on such torture? Who could remain unmoved, +to see a fellow-creature thus tied, unable to move or to raise a hand in +his own defence; scourged on his bare back, with a cowhide, until the +blood flows in streams from his quivering flesh? And for what? Often for +the most trifling fault; and, as sometimes occurs, because a mere whim or +caprice of his brutal overseer demands it. Pale with passion, his eyes +flashing and his stalwart frame trembling with rage, like some volcano, +just ready to belch forth its fiery contents, and, in all its might and +fury, spread death and destruction all around, he continues to wield the +bloody lash on the broken flesh of the poor, pleading slave, until his +arm grows weary, or he sinks down, utterly exhausted, on the very spot +where already stand the pools of blood which his cruelty has drawn from +thee mangled body of his helpless victim, and within the hearing of those +agonized groans and feeble cries of "Oh do, Massa! Oh do, Massa! Do, Lord, +have mercy! Oh, Lord, have mercy!" &c. + +Nor is this cruel punishment inflicted on the bare backs of the male +portion of slaves only. Oh no! The slave husband must submit without a +murmur, to see the form of his cherished, but wretched wife, not only +exposed to the rude gaze of a beastly tyrant, but he must unresistingly +see the heavy cowhide descend upon her shrinking flesh, and her manacled +limbs writhe in inexpressible torture, while her piteous cries for help +ring through his ears unanswered. The wild throbbing of his heart must be +suppressed, and his righteous indignation find no voice, in the presence +of the human monster who holds dominion over him. + +After the infuriated and heartless overseer had satiated his thirst for +vengeance, on the disobedient or delinquent slave, he was untied, and left +to crawl away as best he could; sometimes on his hands and knees, to his +lonely and dilapidated cabin, where, stretched upon the cold earth, he lay +weak and bleeding and often faint from the loss of blood, without a +friend who dare administer to his necessities, and groaning in the agony +of his crushed spirit. In his cabin, which was not as good as many of our +stables at the North, he might lie for weeks before recovering sufficient +strength to resume the labor imposed upon him, and all this time without +a bed or bed clothing, or any of the necessaries considered so essential +to the sick. + +Perhaps some of his fellow-slaves might come and bathe his wounds in warm +water, to prevent his clothing from tearing open his flesh anew, and thus +make the second suffering well nigh equal to the first; or they might +from their scanty store bring him such food as they could spare, to keep +him from suffering hunger, and offer their sympathy, and then drag their +own weary bodies to their place of rest, after their daily task was +finished. + +Oh, you who have hearts to feel; you who have kind friends around you, in +sickness and in sorrow, think of the sufferings of the helpless, +destitute, and down-trodden slave. Has sickness laid its withering hand +upon you, or disappointment blasted your fairest earthly prospects, still, +the outgushings of an affectionate heart are not denied you, and you may +look forward with hope to a bright future. Such a hope seldom animates the +heart of the poor slave. He toils on, in his unrequited labor, looking +only to the grave to find a quiet resting place, where he will be free +from the oppressor. + + + + +CHAPTER II. + +AT THE GREAT HOUSE. + +When eight years of age, I was taken to the "great house," or the family +mansion of my master, to serve as an errand boy, where I had to stand in +the presence of my master's family all the day, and a part of the night, +ready to do any thing which they commanded me to perform. + +My master's family consisted of himself and wife, and seven children. His +overseer, whose name was Barsly Taylor, had also a wife and five children. +These constituted the white population on the plantation. Capt. Helm was +the owner of about one hundred slaves, which made the residents on the +plantation number about one hundred and sixteen persons in all. One +hundred and seven of them, were required to labor for the benefit of the +remaining nine, who possessed that vast domain; and one hundred of the +number doomed to unrequited toil, under the lash of a cruel task-master +during life, with no hope of release this side of the grave, and as far +as the cruel oppressor is concerned, shut out from hope beyond it. + +And here let me ask, why is this practice of working slaves half clad, +poorly fed, with nothing or nearly so, to stimulate them to exertion, but +fear of the lash? Do the best interests of our common country require it? +I think not. Did the true interest of Capt. Helm demand it? Whatever may +have been his opinion, I cannot think it did. Can it be for the best +interest or good of the enslaved? Certainly not; for there is no real +inducement for the slaveholder to make beasts of burden of his fellow men, +but that which was frankly acknowledged by Gibbs and other pirates: "we +have the power,"--the power to rob and murder on the high seas!--which +they will undoubtedly continue to hold, until overtaken by justice; which +will certainly come some time, just as sure as that a righteous God reigns +over the earth or rules in heaven. + +Some have attempted to apologize for the enslaving of the Negro, by saying +that they are inferior to the Anglo-Saxon race in every respect. This +charge I deny; it is utterly false. Does not the Bible inform us that +"God hath created of one blood all the nations of the earth?" And +certainly in stature and physical force the colored man is quite equal to +his white brother, and in many instances his superior; but were it +otherwise, I can not see why the more favored class should enslave the +other. True, God has given to the African a darker complexion than to his +white brother; still, each have the same desires and aspirations. The +food required for the sustenance of one is equally necessary for the +other. Naturally or physically, they alike require to be warmed by the +cheerful fire, when chilled by our northern winter's breath; and alike +they welcome the cool spring and the delightful shade of summer. Hence, +I have come to the conclusion that God created all men free and equal, and +placed them upon this earth to do good and benefit each other, and that +war and slavery should be banished from the face of the earth. + +My dear reader will not understand me to say, that all nations are alike +intelligent, enterprising and industrious, for we all know that it is far +otherwise; but to man, and not to our Creator, should the fault be +charged. But, to resume our narrative, + +Capt. Helm was not a very hard master; but generally was kind and +pleasant. Indulgent when in good humor, but like many of the southerners, +terrible when in a passion. He was a great sportsman, and very fond of +company. He generally kept one or two race horses, and a pack of hounds +for fox-hunting, which at that time, was a very common and fashionable +diversion in that section of country. He was not only a sportsman, +but a gamester, and was in the habit of playing cards, and sometimes +betting very high and losing accordingly. + +I well remember an instance of the kind: it was when he played cards with +a Mr. W. Graham, who won from him in one sweep, two thousand and seven +hundred dollars in all, in the form of a valuable horse, prized at sixteen +hundred dollars, another saddle-horse of less value, one slave, and his +wife's gold watch. The company decided that all this was fairly won, but +Capt. Holm demurred, and refused to give up the property until an +application was made to Gen. George Washington, ("the father of his +country,") who decided that Capt. Helm had lost the game, and that Mr. +Graham had fairly won the property, of which Mr. G. took immediate +possession, and conveyed to his own plantation. + +Capt. Helm was not a good business man, unless we call horse-racing, +fox-hunting, and card-playing, business. His overseer was entrusted with +every thing on the plantation, and allowed to manage about as he pleased, +while the Captain enjoyed himself in receiving calls from his wealthy +neighbors, and in drinking what he called "grog," which was no more nor +less than whisky, of which he was extremely fond, notwithstanding his +cellar contained the choicest wines and liquors. To show his partiality +for his favorite beverage, I will relate an incident which occurred +between Capt. Helm and Col. Charles Williamson. The Colonel, believing +wine to be a healthier beverage than whisky, accepted a bet made by Capt. +Helm, of one thousand dollars, that he would live longer and drink +whisky, than the Colonel, who drank wine. Shortly after, Col. Williamson +was called home by the British government, and while on his way to +England, died, and his body, preserved in a cask of brandy, was taken +home. The bet Capt. Helm made considerable effort to get, but was +unsuccessful. + +Mrs. Helm was a very industrious woman, and generally busy in her +household affairs--sewing, knitting, and looking after the servants; but +she was a great scold,--continually finding fault with some of the +servants, and frequently punishing the young slaves herself, by striking +them over the head with a heavy iron key, until the blood ran; or else +whipping them with a cowhide, which she always kept by her side when +sitting in her room. The older servants she would cause to be punished +by having them severely whipped by a man, which she never failed to do for +every trifling fault. I have felt the weight of some of her heaviest keys +on my own head, and for the slightest offences. No slave could possibly +escape being punished--I care not how attentive they might be, nor how +industrious--punished they must be, and punished they certainly were. Mrs. +Helm appeared to be uneasy unless some of the servants were under the +lash. She came into the kitchen one morning and my mother, who was cook, +had just put on the dinner. Mrs. Helm took out her white cambric +handkerchief, and rubbed it on the inside of the pot, and it crocked it! +That was enough to invoke the wrath of my master, who came forth +immediately with his horse-whip, with which he whipped my poor mother +most unmercifully--far more severely than I ever knew him to whip a horse. + +I once had the misfortune to break the lock of master's shot gun, and when +it came to his knowledge, he came to me in a towering passion, and charged +me with what he considered the _crime_ of carelessness. I denied it, and +told him I knew nothing about it; but I was so terribly frightened that he +saw I was guilty, and told me so, foaming with rage; and then I confessed +the truth. But oh, there was no escaping the lash. Its recollection +is still bitter, and ever will be. I was commanded to take off my clothes, +which I did, and then master put me on the back of another slave, my +arms hanging down before him and my hands clasped in his, where he was +obliged to hold me with a vise-like grasp. Then master gave me the most +severe flogging that I ever received, and I pray God that I may never +again experience such torture. And yet Capt. Helm was not the worst of +masters. + +These cruelties are daily occurrences, and so degrading is the whole +practice of Slavery, that it not only crushes and brutalizes the wretched +slave, but it hardens the heart, benumbs all the fine feelings of +humanity, and deteriorates from the character of the slaveholders +themselves,--whether man or woman. Otherwise, how could a gentle, and in +other respects, amiable woman, look on such scenes of cruelty, without +a shudder of utter abhorrence? But slaveholding ladies, can not only look +on quietly, but with approbation; and what is worse, though very common, +they can and do use the lash and cowhide themselves, on the backs of their +slaves, and that too on those of their own sex! Far rather would I spend +my life in a State's Prison, than be the slave of the best slaveholder +on the earth! + +When I was not employed as an errand-boy, it was my duty to stand behind +my master's chair, which was sometimes the whole day, never being allowed +to sit in his presence. Indeed, no slave is ever allowed to sit down in +the presence of their master or mistress. If a slave is addressed when +sitting, he is required to spring to his feet, and instantly remove his +hat, if he has one, and answer in the most humble manner, or lay the +foundation for a flogging, which will not be long delayed. + +I slept in the same room with my master and mistress. This room was +elegantly furnished with damask curtains, mahogany bedstead of the +most expensive kind, and every thing else about it was of the most costly +kind. And while Mr. and Mrs. Helm reposed on their bed of down, with a +cloud of lace floating over them, like some Eastern Prince, with their +slaves to fan them while they slept, and to tremble when they awoke, I +always slept upon the floor, without a pillow or even a blanket, but, like +a dog, lay down anywhere I could find a place. + +Slaves are never allowed to leave the plantation to which they belong, +without a written pass. Should any one venture to disobey this law, he +will most likely be caught by the _patrol_ and given thirty-nine lashes. +This patrol is always on duty every Sunday, going to each plantation under +their supervision, entering every slave cabin, and examining closely the +conduct of the slaves; and if they find one slave from another plantation +without a pass, he is immediately punished with a severe flogging. + +I recollect going one Sunday with my mother, to visit my grand-mother; and +while there, two or three of the patrol came and looked into the cabin, +and seeing my mother, demanded her pass. She told them that she had one, +but had left it in another cabin, from whence she soon brought it, which +saved her a whipping but we were terribly frightened. + +The reader will obtain a better knowledge of the character of a Virginia +patrol, by the relation of an affair, which came off on the neighboring +plantation of Col. Alexander, in which some forty of Capt. Helm's slaves +were engaged, and which proved rather destructive of human life in the +end. + +But I must first say that it is not true, that slave owners are respected +for kindness to their slaves. The more tyrannical a master is, the more +will he be favorably regarded by his neighboring planters; and from the +day that he acquires the reputation of a kind and indulgent master, he is +looked upon with suspicion, and sometimes hatred, and his slaves are +watched more closely than before. + +Col. Alexander was a very wealthy planter and owned a great number of +slaves, but he was very justly suspected of being a kind, humane, and +indulgent master. His slaves were always better fed, better clad, and had +greater privileges than any I knew in the Old Dominion; and of course, the +patrol had long had an eye on them, anxious to flog some of "those +pampered niggers, who were spoiled by the indulgence of a weak, +inefficient, but well-meaning owner." + +Col. A. gave his slaves the liberty to get up a grand dance. Invitations +were sent and accepted, to a large number of slaves on other plantations, +and so, for miles around, all or many of the slaves were in high +anticipation of joining in the great dance, which was to come off on +Easter night. In the mean time, the patrol was closely watching their +movements, and evinced rather a joyful expectancy of the many they +should find there without a pass, and the flogging they would give them +for that, if not guilty of any other offence, and perhaps they might catch +some of the Colonel's slaves doing something for which they could be +taught "to know their place," by the application of the cowhide. + +The slaves on Col. A.'s plantation had to provide and prepare the supper +for the expected vast "turn out," which was no light matter; and as slaves +like on such occasions to pattern as much as possible after their master's +family, the result was, to meet the emergency of the case, they _took_ +without saying, "by your leave, Sir," some property belonging to their +master, reasoning among themselves, as slaves often do, that it can not be +_stealing_, because "it belongs to massa, and so do _we_, and we only use +one part of his property to benefit another. Sure, 'tis all massa's." +And if they do not get detected in this removal of "massa's property" from +one location to another, they think no more of it. + +Col. Alexander's slaves were hurrying on with their great preparations for +the dance and feast; and as the time drew near, the old and knowing ones +might be seen in groups, discussing the matter, with many a wink and nod; +but it was in the valleys and by-places where the younger portion were to +be found, rather secretly preparing food for the great time coming. +This consisted of hogs, sheep, calves; and as to master's _poultry_, that +suffered daily. Sometimes it was missed, but the disappearance was always +easily accounted for, by informing "massa" that a great number of hawks +had been around of late; and their preparation went on, night after night, +undetected. They who repaired to a swamp or other by-place to cook by +night, carefully destroyed everything likely to detect them, before they +returned to their cabins in the morning. + +The night for the dance _came_ at last, and long before the time, the road +leading to Col. Alexander's plantation presented a gay spectacle. The +females were seen flocking to the place of resort, with heads adorned with +gaudy bandanna turbans and new calico dresses, of the gayest colors, +--their whole attire decked over with bits of gauze ribbon and other +fantastic finery. The shades of night soon closed over the plantation, and +then could be heard the rude music and loud laugh of the unpolished slave. +It was about ten o'clock when the _aristocratic slaves_ began to assemble, +dressed in the cast-off finery of their master and mistress, swelling out +and putting on airs in imitation of those they were forced to obey from +day to day. + +When they were all assembled, the dance commenced; the old fiddler struck +up some favorite tune, and over the floor they went; the flying feet of +the dancers were heard, pat, pat, over the apartment till the clock +warned them it was twelve at midnight, or what some call "low twelve," to +distinguish it from twelve o'clock at noon; then the violin ceased its +discordant sounds, and the merry dancers paused to take breath. + +Supper was then announced, and all began to prepare for the sumptuous +feast. It being the pride of slaves to imitate the manners of their master +and mistress, especially in the ceremonies of the table, all was conducted +with great propriety and good order. The food was well cooked, and in a +very plentiful supply. They had also managed in some way, to get a good +quantity of excellent wine, which was sipped in the most approved and +modern style. Every dusky face was lighted up, and every eye sparkled with +joy. However ill fed they might have been, here, for once, there was +plenty. Suffering and toil was forgotten, and they all seemed with one +accord to give themselves up to the intoxication of pleasurable amusement. + +House servants were of course, "the stars" of the party; all eyes were +turned to them to see how they conducted, for they, among slaves, are what +a military man would call "fugle-men." The field hands, and such of them +as have generally been excluded from the dwelling of their owners, look to +the house servant as a pattern of politeness and gentility. And indeed, it +is often the only method of obtaining any knowledge of the manners of what +is called "genteel society;" hence, they are ever regarded as a privileged +class; and are sometimes greatly envied, while others are bitterly hated. +And too often justly, for many of them are the most despicable +tale-bearers and mischief-makers, who will, for the sake of the favor of +his master or mistress, frequently betray his fellow-slave, and by +tattling, get him severely whipped; and for these acts of perfidy, and +sometimes downright falsehood, he is often rewarded by his master, who +knows it is for his interest to keep such ones about him; though he is +sometimes obliged, in addition to a reward, to send him away, for fear +of the vengeance of the betrayed slaves. In the family of his master, +the example of bribery and treachery is ever set before him, hence it is, +that insurrections and stampedes are so generally detected. Such slaves +are always treated with more affability than others, for the slaveholder +is well aware that he stands over a volcano, that may at any moment rock +his foundation to the center, and with one mighty burst of its long +suppressed fire, sweep him and his family to destruction. When he lies +down at night, he knows not but that ere another morning shall dawn, he +may be left mangled and bleeding, and at the mercy of those maddened +slaves whom he has so long ruled with a rod of iron. + +But the supper, like other events, came to an end at last. The expensive +table service, with other things, which had been secretly brought from the +"great house," was hurriedly cleansed by the slaves, and carefully +returned. The floor was again cleared, the violin sounded, and soon they +were performing another "break down," with all the wild abandon of the +African character,--in the very midst of which, the music suddenly ceased, +and the old musician assumed a listening attitude. Every foot was +motionless; every face terrified, and every ear listening for the cause of +the alarm. + +Soon the slave who was kept on the "look-out," shouted to the listeners +the single word "_patrol!_" and then the tumult that followed that +announcement, is beyond the power of language to describe! Many a poor +slave who had stolen from his cabin, to join in the dance, now remembered +that they had no pass! Many screamed in affright, as if they already felt +the lash and heard the crack of the overseer's whip; others clenched their +hands, and assumed an attitude of bold defiance, while a savage frown +contracted the brow of all. Their unrestrained merriment and delicious +fare, seemed to arouse in them the natural feelings of self-defence and +defiance of their oppressors. But what could be done? The patrol was +nearing the building, when an athletic, powerful slave, who had been but a +short time from his "fatherland," whose spirit the cowardly overseer had +labored in vain to quell, said in a calm, clear voice, that we had better +stand our ground, and advised the females to lose no time in useless +wailing, but get their things and repair immediately to a cabin at a short +distance, and there remain quiet, without a light, which they did with all +possible haste. The men were terrified at this bold act of their leader; +and many with dismay at the thought of resistance, began to skulk behind +fences and old buildings, when he opened the door and requested every +slave to leave who felt unwilling to fight. None were urged to remain, and +those who stood by him did so voluntarily. + +Their number was now reduced to twenty-five men, but the leader, a +gigantic African, with a massive, compact frame, and an arm of great +strength, looked competent to put ten common men to flight. He clenched +his powerful fist, and declared that he would resist unto death, before he +would be arrested by those savage men, even if they promised not to flog +him. They closed the door, and agreed not to open it; and then the leader +cried, "Extinguish the lights and let them come! we will meet them hand to +hand!" Five of the number he stationed near the door, with orders to rush +out, if the patrol entered, and seize their horses, cut the bridles, or +otherwise unfit them for use. This would prevent them from giving an alarm +and getting a reinforcement from surrounding plantations. In silence +they awaited the approach of the enemy, and soon the tramping of horses' +feet announced their approach, but when within a few yards of the house +they halted, and were overheard by one of the skulking slaves, maturing +their plans and mode of attack. There was great hesitancy expressed by a +part of the company to engage in the affair at all. + + "Coming events cast their shadow before." + +The majority, however, seemed to think it safe enough, and uttered +expressions of triumph that they had got the rascals at last. + +"Are you not afraid that they will resist?" said the weaker party. + +"Resist?" was the astonished answer. "This old fellow, the Colonel, has +pampered and indulged his slaves, it is true, and they have slipped +through our fingers whenever we have attempted to chastise them; but they +are not such fools as to dare resistance! Those niggers know as well as +we, that it is _death_, by the law of the State, for a slave to strike a +white man." + +"Very true," said the other, "but it is dark and long past midnight, and +beside they have been indulging their appetites, and we cannot tell what +they may attempt to do." + +"Pshaw!" he answered, contemptuously, "they are unarmed, and I should not +fear in the least, to go in among them _alone_, armed only with my +cowhide!" + +"As you please, then," he said, rather dubiously, "but look well to your +weapons; are they in order?" + +"In prime order, Sir." And putting spurs to their horses, were soon at the +house, where they dismounted and requested one of the party to remain with +the horses. + +"What," said he, "are you so chicken-hearted as to suppose those d----d +cowardly niggers are going to get up an insurrection?" + +"Oh no," he replied, carelessly, but would not consent to have the horses +left alone. "Besides," said he, "they may forget themselves at this late +hour; but if they do, a few lashes of the cowhide will quicken their +memory, I reckon." + +The slaves were aware of their movements, and prepared to receive them. + +They stepped up to the door boldly, and demanded admittance, but all was +silent; they tried to open it, but it was fastened. Those inside, ranged +on each side of the door, and stood perfectly still. + +The patrol finding the slaves not disposed to obey, burst off the slight +fastening that secured the door, and the chief of the patrol bounded into +their midst, followed by several of his companions, all in total darkness! + +Vain is the attempt to describe the tumultuous scene which followed. Hand +to hand they fought and struggled with each other, amid the terrific +explosion of firearms,--oaths and curses, mingled with the prayers of +the wounded, and the groans of the dying! Two of the patrol were killed +on the spot, and lay drenched in the warm blood that so lately flowed +through their veins. Another with his arm broken and otherwise wounded, +lay groaning and helpless, beside the fallen slaves, who had sold their +lives so dearly. Another of his fellows was found at a short distance, +mortally wounded and about to bid adieu to life. In the yard lay the +keeper of the horses, a stiffened corpse. Six of the slaves were killed +and two wounded. + +It would be impossible to convey to the minds of northern people, the +alarm and perfect consternation that the above circumstance occasioned +in that community. The knowledge of its occurrence was carried from one +plantation to another, as on the wings of the wind; exaggerated accounts +were given, and prophecies of the probable result made, until the +excitement became truly fearful. Every cheek was blanched and every frame +trembled when listening to the tale, that "insurrection among the slaves +had commenced on the plantation of Col. Alexander; that three or four of +the patrol had been killed, &c." The day after, people flocked from every +quarter, armed to the teeth, swearing vengeance on the defenceless slaves. +Nothing can teach plainer than this, the constant and tormenting fear in +which the slaveholder lives, and yet he repents not of his deeds. + +The kind old Colonel was placed in the most difficult and unenviable +position. His warm heart was filled with sorrow for the loss of his +slaves, but not alone, as is generally the case in such instances, because +he had lost so much property. He truly regretted the death of his faithful +servants, and boldly rebuked the occasion of their sudden decease. When +beset and harassed by his neighbors to give up his slaves to be tried for +insurrection and murder, he boldly resisted, contending for the natural +right of the slaves, to act in their own defence, and especially when on +his own plantation and in their own quarters. They contended, however, +that as his slaves had got up a dance, and had invited those of the +adjoining plantations, the patrol was only discharging their duty in +looking after them; but the gallant old Colonel defended his slaves, and +told them plainly that he should continue to do so to the extent of his +ability and means. + +The poor slaves were sad enough, on the morning after their merry meeting, +and they might be seen standing in groups, conversing with a very +different air from the one they had worn the day before. + +Their business was now to prepare the bodies of their late associates for +the grave. Robert, the brave African, who had so boldly led them on the +night before, and who had so judiciously provided for their escape, was +calmly sleeping in death's cold embrace. He left a wife and five slave +children. Two of the other slaves left families, whose pitiful cries it +was painful to hear. + +The Colonel's family, deeply afflicted by what was passing around them, +attended the funeral. One of the slaves, who sometimes officiated as a +minister, read a portion of Scripture, and gave out two hymns;--one of +which commences with + + "Hark! from the tomb a doleful sound." + +Both were sung with great solemnity by the congregation, and then the good +old man offered a prayer; after which he addressed the slaves on the +shortness of human life and the certainty of death, and more than once +hinted at the hardness of their lot, assuring, however, his fellow-slaves, +that if they were good and faithful, all would be right hereafter. His +master, Col. Alexander, was deeply affected by this simple faith and +sincere regard for the best interests of all, both master and slave. + +When the last look at their fellow-servants had been taken, the procession +was formed in the following manner: First, the old slave minister, then +the remains of the dead, followed by their weeping relatives; then came +the master and his family; next the slaves belonging to the plantation; +and last, friends and strangers, black and white; all moved on solemnly to +the final resting-place of those brave men, whose descendants may yet be +heard from, in defence of right and freedom. + + + + +CHAPTER III. + +HORSE-RACING AND ITS CONSEQUENCES. + +Capt. Helm had a race-course on his plantation, on which he trained young +horses for the fall races. One very fine horse he owned, called _Mark +Anthony_, which he trained in the most careful manner for several months +previous to the races. He would put him on the course every morning, +sometimes covering him with a blanket, and then put him to his utmost +speed, which he called "sweating him." Mark Anthony was to be put on the +race-course in October following, as a competitor for the purse of ten +thousand dollars, which was the amount to be lost or gained on the first +day of the fall races. Capt. H. had also another young horse, called +_Buffer_, under a course of training, which he designed to enter the lists +for the second day. His course of training had been about the same as Mark +Anthony's, but being a year or two younger, it was thought that he had not +sufficient "bottom" to risk so much money on, as was at stake on the first +day. + +[Illustration: "Away they go, sweeping round the course with lightning +speed, while every spectator's eye is strained, and every countenance +flushed with intense anxiety."] + +When the time for the races to commence came, all was bustle and +excitement in the house and on the plantation. It was a fine October +morning, and the sun shed a mellow radiance on all around, when people +began to throng the race-course. Some came with magnificent equipages, +attended by their numerous train of black servants, dressed in livery, +--some in less splendid array,--and others on foot, all hurrying on to the +exciting scene. There the noblest blood of Old Virginia, of which many are +wont to boast, was fully represented, as was also the wealth and fashion +of the country for many miles around. + +All were in high spirits, and none seemed to fear that they would be the +losers in the amount of money about to change hands. And for what, pray, +is all this grand outlay--this vast expenditure? Merely the pleasure and +gratification of witnessing the speed of a fine horse, and the vanity of +prejudging concerning it. + +The arrangements were at length completed,--the horses regularly entered, +Mark Anthony among the rest,--and then the word "go!" was given, when each +horse sprang as if for his life, each striving to take the lead. Away they +go, sweeping round the course with lightning speed, while every +spectator's eye is strained, and every countenance flushed with intense +anxiety. + +Some of the noble animals were distanced the first heat, and others were +taken away by their owners. + +The judges allowed twenty minutes to prepare the horses for the second +trial of their speed--a trial which must enrich or empoverish many of the +thousands present. Already there were sad countenances to be seen in the +crowd. + +The horses were again in readiness, and the word given,--away they flew +with the fleetness of the wind, to come in the second time. + +But who can describe the anxiety written on every face, as they prepared +for the third and last trial? I cannot. Many had already lost all they had +staked, and others who had bet high began to fear for the result. Soon, +however, all was again prepared and those foaming steeds, after having +exerted their animal power to the utmost, have accomplished their task and +come in for the last time. The purse was won, _but not by Mark Anthony_. +Capt. Helm was more fortunate the second day. Buffer won the smaller +purse, but the Captain came from the races, a much poorer man than when +they commenced. These repeated failures and heavy losses had the effect to +arouse him to a sense of his pecuniary position, and he soon after began +to think and talk about going to some new country. + +He resolved at last to visit the far-off "Genesee Country," which he +shortly after put in practice, and after an absence of about three weeks +he returned in good health, and delighted with the country; the more so, +doubtless, because he said, "the more slaves a man possessed in that +country the more he would be respected, and the higher would be his +position in society." + +Capt. Helm finally concluded to sell his plantation and stock, except the +slaves, and remove to the Genesee Country, where he designed to locate his +future residence. + +The plantation and stock (retaining the slaves) were advertised for sale, +and on a certain day named, all would be disposed of at a public sale, or +to the highest bidder. + +When the day of sale arrived, there flocked from all parts of the +surrounding country the largest assemblage of people I ever saw in that +place. A large number of wealthy and respectable planters were present, +whose gentlemanly behavior should have been an example to others. + +The majority of that vast crowd, however, were a rough, quarrelsome, +fighting set, just such as might be expected from slave-holding districts. +There were several regularly fought battles during the first day of the +sale. + +One Thomas Ford, a large, muscular, ferocious-looking fellow, a good +specimen of a southern bully and woman-whipper, had been victorious +through the day in numerous fights and brawls; but he had to pay dear for +it when night came. Some one or more of the vanquished party, took +advantage of the dark night to stab him in both sides. The knife of the +assassin had been thrust into his thigh, tearing the flesh upward, leaving +a frightful and dangerous wound; but what is most singular, both sides +were wounded in nearly the same manner, and at the same time, for so +quickly was the deed committed that the offenders made their escape, +before an alarm could be raised for their detection; nor have I ever heard +of any one being arrested for the crime. + +Ford's groans and cries were painful to hear, but his brother acted like a +madman; rushing hither and thither, with a heavy bludgeon in his hand, +with which he indiscriminately beat the fences and whatever came in his +way, crying "Oh my brother, my poor brother! Who has murdered my poor +brother?" + +Physicians came to the aid of the wounded man who at first thought he +might recover, but in a climate like that of Virginia it was impossible. +His friends did all they could to save him, but the poor wretch lingered +a few days and died. Thus ended the life of a bad man and a hard master. + +And who will wonder, if his slaves rejoiced to hear of his death? If they +must be sold to pay his debts, they could not fall into the hands of a +more heartless tyrant. Who then can blame those feeble women and helpless +children, long held as chattels in his iron grasp, if they are grateful +that the man-stealer is no more? + +This Ford was a fair specimen of that class, known in more modern parlance +as a "Border Ruffian." Such as are at this time endeavoring, by their +swaggering and bullying, to cast on the fair fields of Kansas the deep +curse of Slavery--a curse which, like the poison of the deadly Upas, +blights all within its influence: the colored and the white man, the slave +and the master. We were thankful, however, that no more lives were lost +during the vendue, which was commenced with the stock; this occupied two +days. + +The reader will see that we had cause to be grateful, when he takes into +consideration that drinking and fighting was the order of the day, and +drunkenness and carousing the order of the night. + +Then too, the practice of dueling was carried on in all its hideous +barbarity. If a gentleman thought himself insulted, he would immediately +challenge the offender to mortal combat, and if he refused to do so, then +the insulted gentleman felt bound by that barbarous code of honor, to take +his life, whenever or wherever he might meet him, though it might be in a +crowded assembly, where the lives of innocent persons were endangered. + +A case of this kind happened in Kentucky, where the belligerent parties +met in a large concourse of people, the majority of them women and +children; but the combat ensued, regardless of consequences. One woman was +shot through the face, but that was not worthy of notice, for she was +only a _colored woman_; and in that, as in other slave States, the laws +give to the white population the liberty to trample under foot the claims +of all such persons to justice. Justly indignant ladies present +remonstrated, but all to no purpose. The Governor of the State was there +and was in danger of being wounded by their flying bullets, and it is +possible that if he had been in the place of the poor African, some action +would have been taken, and laws made to protect the people against such +inhuman practices. But I must return to Capt. Helm and the vendue. + +The sale continued for several days, during which there was no such thing +as rest or sleep or one quiet moment on the premises. As was customary in +that State, Capt. Helm provided the food and drink for all who came, and +of course a great many came to drink and revel and not to buy; and that +class generally took the night time for their hideous outbreaks, when +the more respectable class had retired to their beds or to their homes. +And many foul deeds and cruel outrages were committed; nor could the +perpetrators be detected or brought to justice. Nothing could be done +but to submit quietly to their depredations. + +One peaceable old slave was killed by having his head split open with an +ax. He was found in the morning lying in the yard, with the bloody +instrument of death by his side. This occasioned some excitement +among the slaves, but as the white people paid but little attention to it, +it soon passed off, and the sorrowful slaves put the old man's remains in +a rough box, and conveyed them to their last resting-place. + +After the sale was over, the slaves were allowed a holiday, with +permission to go and visit their friends and relatives previous to their +departure for their new home in a strange land. + +The slaves generally on Capt. Helm's plantation looked upon this removal +as the greatest hardship they had ever met; the severest trial they had +ever endured; and the separation from our old home and fellow-slaves, +from our relatives and the old State of Virginia, was to us a +contemplation of sorrowful interest. Those who remained, thought us the +most unfortunate of human beings to be taken away off into the State of +New York, and, as they believed, beyond the bounds of civilization, where +we should in all probability be destroyed by wild beasts, devoured by +cannibals, or scalped by the Indians. We never expected to meet again in +this life, hence our parting interviews were as solemn as though we were +committing our friends to the grave. But He whose tender mercies are over +all his creatures, knew best what was for our good. + +Little did Capt. Helm think when bringing his slaves to New York that in a +few short years, they would be singing the song of deliverance from +Slavery's thralldom; and as little thought he of the great and painful +change, to be brought about in his own circumstances. Could any one have +looked into futurity and traced the difficult path, my master was to +tread,--could any one have foreseen the end to which he must soon come, +and related it to him in the days of his greatness and prosperity, he +would, I am certain, have turned from such a narrator of misfortune in a +greater rage than did Namaan when the man of God told him "to go and dip +seven times in the Jordan." + +He could not have believed, nor could I, that in a few years the powerful, +wealthy slaveholder, living in luxury and extravagance, would be so +reduced that the _necessaries_ of life even, were beyond his means, and +that he must be supported by the town! + +But I anticipate. Let us return to the old plantation which seems dearer +than ever, now that we are about to leave it forever. + +We thought Capt. Helm's prospects pretty fair, and yet we shuddered when +we realized our condition as slaves. This change in our circumstances was +calculated to awaken all our fears that had been slumbering, and bring all +the perilous changes to which we might be subjected most vividly to mind. + +We were about to leave the land of our birth, the home of our childhood, +and we felt that untried scenes were before us. We were slaves, it is +true, but we had heart-felt emotions to suppress, when we thought +of leaving all that was so familiar to us, and chose rather to "bear the +ills we had, than to fly to those we knew not of." And oh, the terrible +uncertainty of the future, that ever rests on the slave, even the most +favored, was now felt with a crushing weight. To-day, they are in the old +familiar cabin surrounded by their family, relatives and friends; +to-morrow, they may be scattered, parted forever. The master's +circumstances, not their own, may have assigned one to the dreadful +slave-pen, and another to the distant rice-swamp; and it is this continual +dread of some perilous future that holds in check every joyous emotion, +every lofty aspiration, of the most favored slave at the South. They know +that their owners indulge in high living, and they are well aware also +that their continual indulgences engender disease, which make them very +liable to sudden death; or their master may be killed in a duel, or at a +horse-race, or in a drunken brawl; then his creditors are active in +looking after the estate; and next, the blow of the auctioneer's hammer +separates them perhaps for life. + +Now, after the lapse of so many years, when my thoughts wander back, as +they often do, to my native State, I confess that painful recollections +drive from my mind those joyful emotions that should ever arise in the +heart of man, when contemplating the familiar scenes of his youth, and +especially when recurring to the venerable shades and the sheltering roof +under which he was born. True, around the well-remembered spot where our +childhood's years were spent, recollection still loves to linger; yet +memory, ever ready with its garnered store, paints in glowing colors, +Virginia's crouching slaves in the foreground. Her loathsome slave-pens +and slave markets--chains, whips and instruments of torture; and back of +all this is as truthfully recorded the certain doom, the retributive +justice, that will sooner or later overtake her; and with a despairing +sigh I turn away from the imaginary view of my native State. + +What though she may have been justly styled, "The Mother of Presidents?" +What avails the honor of being the birth-place of the brave and excellent +Washington, while the prayers and groans of the down-trodden African +daily ascend to heaven for redress? What though her soil be fertile, +yielding a yearly product of wealth to its possessors? And what matter is +it, that their lordly mansions are embowered in the shade of trees of a +century's growth, if, through their lofty and tangled branches, we espy +the rough cabin of the mangled bondman, and know that the soil on which he +labors has drunk his heart's blood? + +Ah! to me, life's sweetest memories are all embittered. Slavery had cast +its dark and fearful shadow over my childhood, youth, and early manhood, +and I went out from the land of my birth, a fettered slave. A land which +I can regard only as "the house of bondage and the grave of freedom." But +God forgive me for having envied my master his fair prospects at this +time. + +After the sale of the plantation, Capt. Helm was in possession of quite a +large sum of money, and having never paid much attention to his pecuniary +interests, he acted as if there could be no end of it. He realized about +forty thousand dollars from the sale of his estate in Virginia, which +would have been a pretty sum in the hands of a man who had been accustomed +to look after his own interests; but under the management of one who had +all his life lived and prospered on the unrequited toil of slaves, it was +of little account. He bought largely of every thing he thought necessary +for himself or the comfort of his family, for which he always paid the +most extravagant prices. The Captain was not as well qualified to take +care of himself and family as some of his slaves were; but he thought +differently, and so the preparations for leaving the old plantation for a +home in the wilds of New York, went on under his direction, and at last we +bade a final adieu to our friends and all we held dear in the State of +Virginia. + + + + +CHAPTER IV. + +JOURNEY TO OUR NEW HOME IN NEW YORK. + +All things having been prepared for our departure, our last "Good-bye" +spoken, and our last look taken of the old plantation, we started, amid +the sobs and prolonged cries of separating families, in company with our +master, the overseer and another white man named Davis, who went with us +to take back the five-horse "Pennsylvania team," which was provided for +the conveyance of the food for the slaves, and what little baggage they +might have, and also that of the overseer. + +Capt. Helm had determined to leave his family until he could get his +slaves settled in their future quarters, and a home provided for himself, +when they were expected to join him. + +We traveled northward, through Maryland, Pennsylvania, and a portion of +New York, to Sodus Bay, where we halted for some time. We made about +twenty miles per day, camping out every night, and reached that place +after a march of twenty days. Every morning the overseer called the roll, +when every slave must answer to his or her name, felling to the ground +with his cowhide, any delinquent who failed to speak out in quick time. + +After the roll had been called, and our scanty breakfast eaten, we +marched on again, our company presenting the appearance of some numerous +caravan crossing the desert of Sahara. When we pitched our tents for the +night, the slaves must immediately set about cooking not their supper +only, but their breakfast, so as to be ready to start early the next +morning, when the tents were struck; and we proceeded on our journey in +this way to the end. + +At Sodus Bay there was then one small tavern, kept by a man named Sill. + +The bay is ten miles in length and from a half to two miles in breadth, +and makes an excellent harbor. The surrounding country then was almost an +unbroken wilderness. + +After Capt. Helm had rested a few days at Sodus, he went six miles up the +bay and purchased a large tract of land lying on both sides of that +beautiful sheet of water, and put his slaves on to clear and cultivate +it. Then came the "tug of war." Neither the overseer nor the slaves had +the least knowledge of _clearing_ land, and that was the first thing to be +done. It was useless to consult the Captain, for he knew still less about +matters of that kind. To obviate this difficulty, our master bought out a +Mr. Cummings, who had some cleared land on the west side of the bay. On +this he put the overseer and a part of the slaves, and then hired a Mr. +Herrington to take charge of the remainder. Herrington and his gang of +slaves was sent to the east side to chop down the heavy timber and clear +the land for cultivation, all of which had first to be learned, for we +knew nothing of felling trees, and the poor slaves had rather a hard time +of it. + +Provisions were scarce and could not be procured for cash in that section. +There was no corn to be had, and we had but little left. We had no +neighbors to assist us in this trying time, and we came near starvation. +True, the wild, romantic region in which we were located abounded in +game,--elk, deer, bear, panther, and wolves, roamed abroad through the +dense forest, in great abundance, but the business of the slaves was not +hunting or fishing, but clearing the land, preparatory to raising crops +of grain the coming season. + +At last Capt. Helm chartered a boat, and manned it to go to the mouth of +the Genesee River to buy corn. They embarked under favorable auspices, but +soon there came on such a tremendous storm, that the boat could no longer +be managed, and the crew in despair threw themselves on the bottom of the +boat to await their inevitable destruction, when one of their number, a +colored man named Dunbar, sprang to the helm, and with great difficulty +succeeded in running her safely into a Canadian port, where they were +obliged to part with every thing in their possession to obtain the means +to return to their families in Sodus, who had given them up as lost. But, +to the great joy of all, they came back at last with their lives, but with +nothing for the famishing slaves. Before another boat could be sent for +our relief, we were reduced to the last extremity. We became so weak we +could not work, and it was difficult to drag ourselves about, as we were +now obliged to do, to gather up all the old bones we could find, break +them up fine and then boil them; which made a sort of broth sufficient +barely to sustain life. This we drank, and merely existed, until at last, +the long looked for boat returned, loaded with provision, which saved us +from starvation and gave us strength to pursue our labor. + + + + +CHAPTER V. + +INCIDENTS AT SODUS BAY. + +About this time two slaves who were laboring in the forest, instead of +returning to their cabin as was expected, got lost, and wandered eight +days in the dense forest without provision, except what they could procure +from roots and the bark of trees. Great exertion was made to find them; +guns were fired, horns blown, and shouts raised, but all to no purpose. +Finally, we gave them up, supposing they had starved to death or had been +killed by wild beasts. One of them was an elderly man, named Benjamin +Bristol, and the other, Edmund Watkins, a lad of about eighteen years of +age. They wandered in an easterly direction, a distance of some sixty or +seventy miles, through an unbroken wilderness, vainly trying to find their +way home. On the eighth day, to their inexpressible joy, they came out on +the shore of Lake Ontario, near Oswego; but young Watkins was so +completely exhausted that he declared himself incapable of further +exertion, and begged to be left to his fate. Bristol, however, who chewed +tobacco, which it was supposed kept him from sinking so low as his +companion, took him on his back, and carried him home, which they reached +in a famished state and reduced to skeletons. All were thankful for the +preservation of their lives, and, with the best we could do for them, +they soon recruited and became strong as ever. + +One day, two others and myself thought we saw some animal swimming across +the bay. We got a boat and went out to see what it was. After rowing for +some time we came near enough to perceive it was a large bear. Those who +watched us from the shore expected to see our boat upset, and all on board +drowned, but it was not so to be; the, bear was struck on the nose with a +blow that killed him instantly, and he was hauled ashore in great triumph. + +While these things were transpiring on the east side of the bay, the +overseer on the west side determined to punish one of the slaves who +worked on the east side. The name of the slave was Williams; a strong, +athletic man, and generally a good workman, but he had unfortunately +offended the overseer, for which nothing could appease his wrath but the +privilege of flogging him. The slave, however, thought as he was no longer +in Virginia, he would not submit to such chastisement, and the overseer +was obliged to content himself with threatening what he would do if he +caught him on the west side of the bay. + +A short time after, the overseer called at the cabin of one of the slaves, +and was not a little surprised to find there the refractory slave, +Williams, in company with three other men. He immediately walked up to +him and asked him some question, to which Williams made no reply. +Attended, as he always was, by his ferocious bull-dog, he flourished his +cowhide in great wrath and demanded an instant reply, but he received +none, whereupon he struck the slave a blow with the cowhide. Instantly +Williams sprang and caught him by the throat and held him writhing in his +vise-like grasp, until he succeeded in getting possession of the cowhide, +with which he gave the overseer such a flogging as slaves seldom get. +Williams was seized at once by the dog who endeavored to defend his brutal +master, but the other slaves came to the rescue, and threw the dog into a +huge fire which was near by, from which, after a singeing, he ran off, +howling worse than his master when in the hands of Williams. He foamed and +swore and still the blows descended; then he commanded the slaves to +assist him, but as none obeyed, he commenced begging in the most humble +manner, and at last entreated them as "gentlemen" to spare him; but all to +no purpose. When Williams thought he had thrashed him sufficiently, he let +him go and hurried to his boat and rowed down the bay, instead of crossing +it. The overseer no sooner found himself at liberty than he ran out, +calling to a servant girl to bring his rifle, which was loaded. The rifle +was brought, but before he could get to the bay, Williams had gone beyond +his reach; but unfortunately another boat was at this moment crossing the +bay, which he, mad with rage, fired into. The men in the boat immediately +cried out to him not to repeat the shot, but he was so angry that he swore +he would shoot somebody, and sent another bullet after them. No one was +hurt, however, but the brave overseer was vanquished. Crest-fallen and +unrevenged, he shortly after called on Capt. Helm for a settlement, +which was granted, and bidding a final adieu to the "Genesee Country," he +departed for Virginia, where he could beat slaves without himself +receiving a cow-hiding. No one regretted his absence, nor do I think +any but the most heartless would cordially welcome his return to the land +of Slavery. + +[Illustration: "Instantly Williams sprang and caught him by the throat and +held him writhing in his vise-like grasp, until he succeeded in getting +possession of the cow-hide, with which he gave the overseer such a +flogging as slaves seldom get."] + + + + +CHAPTER VI. + +REMOVAL FROM SODUS TO BATH. + +Capt. Helm went to Virginia for his family, and returning with them, +concluded to locate his future residence in the village of Bath, Steuben +County. He purchased a large tract of land near the village, a large grist +mill, and two saw mills; also, two farms; one called the "Maringo," east +of the village; and the other, called "Epsam," north of it; and a fine +house and lot in the village. He also kept a distillery, which in those +days was well patronized, for nearly every body drank whisky; and with +Capt. Helm it was a favorite beverage. + +The slaves were removed to Bath, where our master was well suited, and was +everywhere noted for his hospitality. He had a great deal of land to +cultivate, and carried on a multiplicity of business. + +Soon after we were settled at Bath, Capt. Helm's eldest daughter, Jenny, +was married to Mr. John Fitzhugh, her cousin, who had come from Virginia +to claim his bride. + +The wedding was a splendid affair. No pains were spared to make it more +imposing than any thing that had ever happened in that country. Never +before had the quiet village of Bath seen such splendor. All that wealth, +power and ambition could do, was done to make the event one of great +brilliancy. Europe contributed her full proportion; Turkey, the Indias, +East and West, were heavily taxed to produce their finest fabrics to adorn +the bride and bridal guests; and contribute delicacies to add elegance to +the festal scene. Two days previous to the wedding, the invited guests +began to arrive with their retinue of servants, and on the evening of the +marriage the large mansion was thrown open, and there was the most +magnificent assemblage I ever beheld. In the drawing-room, where the +ceremony took place, every thing was surpassingly elegant. Costly +chandeliers shed their light on the rich tapestry, and beautiful dresses +glittering with diamonds, and the large mirrors everywhere reflecting the +gay concourse. While the servants were preparing supper it was announced +that the hour had arrived for the ceremony to commence. The bridal pair +took their place in the center of the apartment. Pearls, diamonds, and +jewelry glittered on the bride with such luster, that it was almost +painful to the eye to look upon her. + +The minister, after asking God to bless the assembled guests, and those he +was about to unite in the holy bonds of wedlock, proceeded in a very +solemn and impressive manner with the marriage service. The ceremony +concluded, and good wishes having been expressed over the sparkling wine, +the man of God took his leave, two hundred dollars richer than when he +came. The company were all very happy, or appeared so; mirth reigned +supreme, and every countenance wore a smile. They were seated at tables +loaded with luxuries of every description, and while partaking, a band of +music enlivened the scene. + +All business was suspended for several days, the wedding party making a +tour of ten days to Niagara Falls. After a while, however, affairs assumed +their usual aspect, and business took its regular routine. + +The grist mill belonging to the Captain was the only one for many miles +around, and was a source of great profit to him; the saw mills also, were +turning out a large quantity of lumber, which was in good demand; and the +distillery kept up a _steaming_ business. It yielded, however, a handsome +income to Capt. Helm, who was now, for the first time since I knew him, +overseeing his affairs himself, dispensing altogether with the service of +a regularly installed overseer. + +The oldest son of our master had been absent from home for sometime, nor +did he return to attend his sister's grand wedding. He had sought and +obtained a commission in the United States service as a Lieutenant. +This had been his own choice; he had preferred the service and hardships +of a soldier, to a plantation well stocked with slaves, and the quietude +of domestic life. He had cheerfully given up his friends and prospects as +a planter, and entered the service of his country. Frank Helm, the second +son, soon followed the example of his older brother, Lina. He obtained a +like commission, but he did not, like his brother, get along quietly. His +prospects as an officer were soon blighted, and all hope of being +serviceable to his country vanished forever. + + + + +CHAPTER VII. + +DUELING. + +Lina Helm was an easy, good-natured, clever fellow; but his brother Frank +was his opposite in nearly every thing; proud, fractious and unyielding. +As might be expected, Frank, soon after entering the army, got into an +"affair of honor," according to the duelist's code of laws. He was not, +however, the principal in the difficulty. One of his friends and a +brother officer, had a quarrel with a gentleman whom he challenged to +mortal combat. Frank was the bearer of his friend's challenge, and on +presenting it, the gentleman refused to accept it, saying that the +challenger "was no gentleman." Then, according to the rules of dueling, no +alternative was left for Frank, but to take his brother officer's place, +and fight. This he did and came from the bloody field disabled for life. +In consequence of his lameness, he was under the necessity of resigning +his commission in the army, which he did, and came home a cripple, and +nearly unfitted for any kind of business whatever. + +While on the subject of dueling, permit me to record some of the incidents +of another "affair of honor," which occurred in the District of Columbia, +between Gen. Mason and Mr. M'Carter, two antagonistic politicians. + +M'Carter offered his vote to the inspectors, and Mason challenged it. +M'Carter offered to swear it in, when Mason said if he did so he would +perjure himself. This blew what appeared to be but a spark into an angry +blaze, and a duel was momentarily expected; but their warlike propensities +subsided into a newspaper combat, which was kept up for several weeks, +each party supposing they had the advantage of their adversary. In this +stage of the quarrel, Gen. Jackson, with one of his aid-de-camps, Dr. +Bruno, visited Washington. Dr. Bruno was a friend of Gen. Mason's, and +to him the General submitted the correspondence, desiring his opinion +relative to the advantage one had obtained over the other. Dr. Bruno +decided against his friend, which probably exasperated him still more, +and the General expressed his determination to fight his antagonist. Dr. +Bruno wrote to M'Carter to come to Washington, and he came immediately, +and was as readily waited upon by the Doctor, who inquired if he would +receive a communication from his friend, Gen. Mason. M'Carter replied, +that he "would receive no communication from Gen. Mason, except a +challenge to fight." The challenge was therefore sent, and accepted, and +the Doctor appointed to make the necessary arrangements for the duel. He +proposed the weapons to be pistols, and the distance, ten paces; to +which M'Carter objected, because he said, "the General was a dead shot +with the pistol, while he hardly knew how to use one." Then it was left to +M'Carter to choose the mode of warfare. He proposed muskets and ten paces +distance. This was agreed upon, and finally the morning arrived for the +conflict, and people began to assemble in great numbers to witness this +murderous scene. + +The belligerent parties unflinchingly took their place, each with his +loaded musket at his shoulder, and gazing in each other's face, with +feelings of the most bitter hatred, while their eyes flashed vengeance. + +Oh! what a state of mind was this in which to meet inevitable death? How +could intelligent men, or gentlemen, if you please so to term them, look +placidly on such a horrid scene? Was there no heart of humanity to +interfere and arrest the murderous designs of these madmen? Alas, no! The +slaveholder's "code of honor" must be acknowledged, though it outrage the +laws of God and his country. + +Dr. Bruno asks, "Gentlemen, are you ready?" and the duelists take their +deadly aim at each other. The signal to fire is given, and both weapons +are discharged, and when the smoke had cleared away, what a spectacle +was there presented to the duelist and spectator? Gen. Mason, a husband, +a father, a statesman, and a kind friend, lies bleeding, and gasping for +breath. He is no more! Who will bear to his loving and unsuspecting wife, +the sad intelligence of her sudden bereavement? Who will convey his +lifeless body to his late residence, and throw grief and consternation +into the bosom of his family, and drape in sadness his whole household? +And yet this painful task must be performed. The family of General Mason +remained entirely ignorant of what was transpiring regarding the duel, +until his mangled corpse was brought into his dwelling, from which he had +so recently gone forth in all the vigor of life and manhood. And here let +us drop the curtain, nor intrude on that scene of domestic affliction +around the deserted hearth-stone of the bereaved family of General Mason. + +But where is Mr. M'Carter, the more fortunate party in the duel? Hurrying +away from the frightful scene, his hands dripping with the blood of his +fellow-man, he skulks about, until an opportunity is given him to step on +board a vessel bound to a foreign port; he leaves home, friends and +country, in the vain hope of finding peace of mind, and ridding himself of +that guilt and censure which must attach itself to a crime so heinous as +that of taking the life of another. I can but regard the inhuman practice +of dueling as the legitimate fruit of Slavery. + +Men who have been raised in the Slave States, where, if the laws do not +give them the power, they do not restrain them from cruelly punishing +every offender with personal violence, even unto death, if their insulted +dignity seems to demand it. It is, however, encouraging to know that for +a few years past the practice of dueling has somewhat fallen into +disrepute among the more humane and candid class of community. + + + + +CHAPTER VIII. + +HORSE-RACING AND GENERAL TRAINING. + +After the return of the wedding party, Mr. Fitzhugh purchased a tract of +land near that of Capt. Helm, on which the newly-married couple commenced +keeping house. They, however, became dissatisfied with their location, +and soon after sold their possessions and returned to the South. + +Capt. Helm still continued to take the oversight of his slaves, and was +out every day, superintending his business, just as his overseer used to +do. + +About this time a man named Henry Tower came to Bath to hire "slave boys," +as we were called. The Captain hired to him Simon and myself, and a Mr. +Baker also hired to him one slave named Vol. McKenzie. We three started +for Dresden, Ontario County, where we arrived in due time. + +Mr. Tower had just bought a tract of land, three miles this side of the +village of Lyons, on the Canandaigua outlet. Here Mr. Tower contemplated +making great improvements, building mills, opening stores &c. This tract +of land was comparatively wild, there being but a small frame house for a +dwelling, one for a store, and another for a blacksmith shop. Mr. Tower +had two brothers; James, the eldest, who took charge of the store, and +John, the younger, who took charge of the hands who worked on the farm; +Henry himself superintending the building of the mills. This firm had a +great number of men in their employ that year. I was kept busy helping the +women about the cooking and house-work. And here, for the first time in my +life, I had a comfortable bed to sleep on, and plenty of wholesome food to +eat; which was something both new and strange to me. + +The Towers were thorough-going business-men; they built a large grist +mill, with four run of stone, and also a distillery. In those days it was +customary for nearly all classes to drink spirituous liquors; hence, the +distilleries were sources of great pecuniary interest to those who owned +them. But having lived to see the dreadful evils which the drinking of +alcoholic beverages have produced on community, I can hardly speak of +distilleries in the favorable light in which they were then regarded. + +The Towers, with commendable enterprise, cleared a great number of acres +of land during the first year I lived with them, besides doing a heavy +business in the mill, store and distillery. + +It was customary then for men to assemble at some public place for the +purpose of drinking whisky and racing horses. + +One Saturday afternoon there was to be a race, and all was excitement. +Being young, I wished to go with the rest. I hurried through my work as +fast as possible, and then, with a trembling heart, set off in search of +my master, fearing lest he would refuse me the simple request. But he +happened to be in uncommon good humor, and readily gave his consent; and +away I went, "as happy as a lark." When I reached the race-ground, they +were just preparing to run the horses. Seeing me, they knew me to be a +poor friendless little slave boy, helpless and unprotected, and they could +therefore do with me as they pleased, and have some fine sport at my +expense. + +When I was asked to ride one of the fast horses, I felt proud of the honor +conferred, and was assisted to mount, feeling highly elated with the lofty +position I had gained. + +The word "go," was shouted, and the horse whirled off, and it seemed to me +as if he flew with the speed of lightning. My hat fell off the first +thing; and there I was, clinging with might and main to the neck of the +fiery animal, my head bare, my feet bootless, and my old stripped shirt +blown from my back, and streaming out behind, and fluttering like a banner +in the breeze; my ragged pants off at the knees, and my long legs dangling +down some length below; and at the same time crying "Whoa! whoa!" as loud +as I could. Nor was this all; frightened as I was, nearly to death, I cast +a despairing look behind me, and the loud, derisive laugh of the +bystanders rung in my ears. + +Ludicrous as I must have appeared, this was too much,--I felt a giddiness +coming over me, my brain reeled, my hold relaxed, and the next instant I +had fallen to the ground, where all consciousness left me. When I came to +my senses I was lying in bed, surrounded by all the appurtenances of a +dying person. + +The first thing I heard was Mr. Tower scolding the men who put me on the +horse, and threatening them with a law-suit for presuming to do such a +thing without his permission. Mr. Tower considered himself holden to Capt. +Helm for my safe return, and was therefore justly indignant at their +placing my life in such peril. It was indeed a narrow escape, for the +horse was running with all his speed when I fell. My bones were unbroken, +however, and I suppose it must have been the tremendous jar I got when I +fell that rendered me unconscious; nor do I think it impossible that the +fright may not have contributed somewhat to the catastrophe. + +It was while I was living with that gentleman that the greatest "general +training" ever known in Western New York, came off at "Oak's Corners," in +the town of Phelps. It really seemed to me that the whole world were going +to the training, and I, of course, felt a great curiosity to go where "all +creation" appeared to be going. Mr. Tower permitted me to go, and I +started off in high spirits. When I arrived within two or three miles of +the place the road was almost blocked up with people, and when I got to +Oak's Corners the crowd beggared all description; carriages of all sorts +were there, containing eatables of all kinds, and tents of all dimensions +were on the road-side, for the houses could not begin to accommodate the +people. The entire brigade was to meet at that place, and Gov. Lewis was +expected to review the different companies, and all were anxious to see +the Governor, for, in those days, it was a rare thing to see so high a +dignitary in Western New York; the eastern portion of the State having had +every thing of that kind their own way. + +Nor was the means and mode of traveling brought to such perfection as now. +The roads were new and rough, and our best public conveyances only the +slow lumbering stage-coach; yet, notwithstanding these inconveniences, +there was an innumerable crowd gathered at that place. I spent the day in +walking about the encampment, and seeing what was to be seen, for it was +all new to me. + +Officers were riding over the ground, dressed in uniform, and mounted on +their splendid steeds: their plumes waving over their cocked-hats in true +military array. A band of music, as is usual, accompanied the soldiers. +There was also a "sham-fight," before the breaking up of the encampment, +and it was really terrifying to me, who had never seen a battle fought, to +witness two columns of troops drawn up, and, at the roll of the drum, +behold them engage in deadly conflict, to all appearance, and the smoke +curling up in a blackened mass toward heaven; and, above all, the +neighing of horses, with the feigned groans of the wounded and dying. I +inwardly prayed to God that those men might ever draw their weapons in a +feigned encounter. + +The first night I spent at the encampment was one long to be remembered; +it was like the confusion of Babel. Of all the hideous noises I ever heard +none could exceed those made there that night. They fired guns, quarreled, +drank, and swore, till day light. There was such a crowd at the tavern +that I did not suppose I could get a bed, so I threw myself down upon a +door-step, and began to compose myself to sleep, when a man came and +wakened me, inquiring at the same time whose boy I was. I replied that I +lived with Mr. Tower. "Follow me," said he; I arose and followed him into +the house, where he procured for me a bed, to be shared with another +"boy," who had already occupied it. + +I had just began to doze, when the explosion of firearms startled all in +the house. The keeper of the tavern ran up stairs in great alarm, and when +an examination was made, we found that a drunken fellow had discharged his +musket in the room below the one where we were sleeping, and that the ball +had passed up through the second floor and completely through the bed on +which I slept, to the roof, where, having passed through that also, rolled +from thence to the ground! And yet, strange as it may appear, no one was +injured, though the house was filled to overflowing with guests. + +There were groups of disorderly and drunken men continually roaming over +the camp-ground at night, who seemed to have no other object than to annoy +others, and torment any one they might find sleeping, by shaking them, or, +if soundly asleep, dragging them out of their beds by their feet. Among +these thus annoyed by them was a physician from Canandaigua. Being a +passionate man, they seemed to think it fine sport to arouse him from +sleep and hear him scold. The first time they dragged him from his tent he +merely remonstrated in a very gentlemanly manner, and quietly crept back +again. The rowdies were disappointed; they had expected a "scene." As soon +as he was asleep they attacked him again, dragging him out by the heels; +then he was angry, and told them if they repeated the offence it would be +at the peril of their lives, and a third time retired to his tent; but a +third party soon came, and one, more bold than the rest, entered the tent +and laid hold of the Doctor. He sprang to his feet and drew his sword, +which he ran through the body of a man supposed to be that of his +tormentor; but oh! what sorrow and consternation possessed him when he +found he had taken the life of a quiet, unoffending person who happened +to be standing by, attracted to the spot probably by the noise of the +revelers. The unhappy Doctor was obliged to flee from his country for a +time, but after a while the shadows which had so suddenly fallen on his +fair prospects were cleared away, and he returned to his home and country. + +The second day of the encampment was one of surpassing beauty. The sun +shone in all its softened radiance on that vast concourse of human beings. +The field presented a spectacle which must have been imposing to those of +more experienced vision than mine; but to me, in my ignorant simplicity, +it was superbly grand; fascinating beyond my power of resistance, and made +an impression on my mind never to be effaced. + +The brigade was drawn up in a line, each colonel stationed just so many +paces in front of the line, and all the other officers, such as majors, +quarter-masters, &c., were stationed at an equal distance in the rear. +When all were paraded, the Governor of the State made his appearance, +dressed in full uniform, his hat being one of the Bonaparte style, +attended by his aid-de-camp, who was dressed much in the same manner as +his Excellency Governor Lewis, who, after the salute, took his place at +the head of the brigade, and the military exercises commenced. When the +Governor issued his orders, they were first given to his aid, who passed +them to the officers, and they gave the word of command to the soldiers; +for instance if the Governor wished the brigade to "shoulder arms,"--the +order went to the officer who commanded the first regiment, and he +repeated the order, and was obeyed; then the same order passed to the +next, and so on, until the whole brigade had complied with the order of +his Excellency. + +But this, I believe, was the first and last time that the military were +ever called out on so large a scale, in the State of New York. It was +supposed that the effect would be decidedly injurious to a community and +the idea was abandoned. Young men were so liable to be fascinated by the +magnificent spectacle, that not the rabble only were attracted by the +"trappings of war," but they have a tendency to induce young, and _old men +even_, of fair prospects, to neglect _their agricultural interests_ for +military pursuits, which, in a new country, were certainly of paramount +importance, if not the greater of the two. + +I know that it became very hard for me to content myself to labor as I had +done, after witnessing this grand display. I was completely intoxicated +with a military spirit, and sighed for the liberty to go out "on the +lines" and fight the British. + +The martial music, the waving plumes, and magnificent uniform, had driven +from my mind entirely the bloodshed and carnage of the battle field; +beside, I was sick and tired of being a slave, and felt ready to do almost +any thing to get where I could act and feel like a free man. + +I became acquainted with a Mr. McClure, a merchant in Bath, who, while on +a journey to Philadelphia, to purchase goods, was taken suddenly ill and +died; when his brother, George McClure, came on to attend to his diseased +brother's business. He was a fine, persevering kind of man, and very soon +got to be General McClure, and commanded the brigade in Steuben County, +and, as such, was liable to be called at any time when his services were +required, to go to the frontier and guard our lines from the invasion of +the English army. + +To him I applied for a situation as waiter, which he readily agreed to +give me if I could get the consent of Captain Helm. I thought there would +be no trouble about that; and oh! how I dreamed of and anticipated the +happiness of being _something_ beside a slave, for a _little while at +least_. Almost every day I went to the store to talk to Gen. McClure of +this greatest happiness imaginable, "going to the lines!" and was +impatient for the chance to arrive that would send me there. + +At last Gen. McClure wrote to Gen. Armstrong, to say that he was ready to +obey any order that he might send him, and march to "the lines," if his +services were needed; and, to _my_ inexpressible joy, marching orders were +returned. I nearly flew in search of Capt. Helm, never once suspecting +that he would object; because I knew that he did not then require my +services himself, and the pay would be quite as good as he had been +receiving for my time; besides I had so completely set my heart on going, +that it was impossible for me to dream of a disappointment so bitter as +that of being denied going "to the lines." + +Oh! how then were my high hopes fallen, and how much more hateful appeared +that slavery which had blighted all my military prospects? Nor was Capt. +Helm's heartless and mercenary reply to my humble pleading any antidote to +my disappointed feelings and desire for freedom. He said, "you shall not +go; I will permit nothing of the kind, so let there be an end to it. The +_pay_ is all well enough, I know, but if you get killed your wages will +stop; and then who, do you suppose, will indemnify me for the loss? Go +about your business, and let me hear no more of such nonsense!" + +There was an emergency I had not provided for; and, as I then believed, +the master could make no demand on or for the slaves beyond the grave, I +was silent; but both master and myself were mistaken on that point; for I +have since learned numerous instances where slaves have fought and died +in the service of their master's country, and the slave-owner received +his wages up to the hour of his death, and then recovered of the United +States the full value of his person as property! + +Gen. McClure left soon after for the frontier; my saddened heart followed +him, and that was all; my body was in slavery still, and painful though +it was, I must quietly submit. + +The General, however, reaped but few if any laurels in that campaign; he +burned the small village of Newark, in Canada, for which he got very +little credit on either side of the lake; so I comforted myself as well as +I could with the reflection, that all who "went to the wars" did not +return covered with glory and laurels of victory. + +I continued to live with the Towers; and in the fall of that year, I had +the misfortune to cut my foot badly. While chopping fire wood at the door, +I accidentally struck my ax against a post, which glanced the blow in such +a manner that it came down with sufficient force to nearly sever my great +toe from my left foot, gashing upward completely through the large joint, +which made a terrible wound. Dr. Taylor was immediately called, and sewed +the flesh together, taking two stitches on the upper, and one on the +under, side of the foot, before it began to swell; but when the swelling +came on, the stitches on the upper side gave way, which occasioned the toe +to fall over so much, that I have been slightly lame from that day to +this. For several weeks I was unable to be moved, and was regularly +attended by Dr. Taylor, but as soon as it could be done without danger, I +was taken back to Capt. Helm's, where I found things in much the same +condition as when I left them over a year before. + +On leaving the family of Mr. Tower, I endeavored to express to them as +well in my power the gratitude I felt for their kindness, and the +attention I had received during my lameness. + +We returned to Bath in a sleigh, and arrived without accident or any great +suffering. But the kind treatment I had always received from the Messrs. +Tower and family, made it very hard for me to reconcile myself to my +former mode of living; especially now that I was lame and weak, from +sickness and long confinement; besides, it was cold weather. Oh! how hard +it did seem to me, after having a good bed and plenty of bed clothes every +night for so long time, to now throw myself down, like a dog, on the +"_softest side_" of a rough board, without a pillow, and without a +particle of bedding to cover me during the long cold nights of winter. To +be reduced from a plentiful supply of good, wholesome food, to the mere +pittance which the Captain allowed his slaves, seemed to me beyond +endurance. + +And yet I had always lived and fared thus, but I never felt so bitterly +these hardships and the cruelties of Slavery as I did at that time; making +a virtue of necessity, however, I turned my thoughts in another direction. + +I managed to purchase a spelling book, and set about teaching myself to +read, as best I could. Every spare moment I could find was devoted to that +employment, and when about my work I could catch now and then a stolen +glance at my book, just to refresh my memory with the simple lesson I was +trying to learn. But here Slavery showed its cloven foot in all its +hideous deformity. It finally reached the ears of my master that I was +learning to read; and then, if he saw me with a book or a paper in my +hand, oh, how he would swear at me, sending me off in a hurry, about some +employment. Still I persevered, but was more careful about being seen +making any attempt to learn to read. At last, however, I was discovered, +and had to pay the penalty of my determination. + +I had been set to work in the sugar bush, and I took my spelling book with +me. When a spare moment occurred I sat down to study, and so absorbed was +I in the attempt to blunder through my lesson, that I did not hear the +Captain's son-in-law coming until he was fairly upon me. He sprang +forward, caught my poor old spelling book, and threw it into the fire, +where it was burned to ashes; and then came my turn. He gave me first +a severe flogging, and then swore if he ever caught me with another book, +he would "whip every inch of skin off my back," &c. + +This treatment, however, instead of giving me the least idea of giving it +up, only made me look upon it as a more valuable attainment. Else, why +should my oppressors feel so unwilling that their slaves should possess +that which they thought so essential to themselves? Even then, with my +back bleeding and smarting from the punishment I had received, I +determined to learn to read and write, at all hazards, if my life was only +spared. About this time Capt. Helm began to sell off his slaves to +different persons, as he could find opportunity, and sometimes at a great +sacrifice. It became apparent that the Captain, instead of prospering in +business, was getting poorer every day. + + + + +CHAPTER IX. + +DEATH BED AND BRIDAL SCENES. + +Neither Capt. Helm nor his wife made any religious pretensions. I hardly +know whether or not they were avowed infidels; but they alike ridiculed +all religious professions and possessed some very singular notions +regarding life and death. + +I have often heard the Captain say, that no person need die unless they +choose to do so; and his wife was of the same belief. I have frequently +heard her remark that if mankind would firmly resist death it would flee +from them. + +An opportunity, however, was soon after given to test the truth of this +strange dogma. Mrs. Helm's health began to decline, but she would pay no +attention to it, following her usual course and regular routine of +household duties; but all in vain; she was taken down, alarmingly ill, and +it became apparent to all, that the "king of terrors" had chosen his +victim. She tried with all her natural energy of character, to baffle +his pursuit and escape his steady approach, but all to no purpose. "The +valley and the shadow of death" were before her, and she had no assurance +that the "rod and staff" of the Almighty would sustain and comfort her +through the dark passage. She shrank with perfect horror from the untried +scenes of the future. + +If any one had ever envied Mrs. Helm in her drawing-room, richly attired +and sparkling with jewels, or as she moved with the stately step of a +queen among her trembling slaves, they should have beheld her on her death +bed! They should have listened to her groans and cries for help, while one +piercing shriek after another rang through the princely mansion of which +she had been the absolute mistress! + +[Illustration: "If any one had ever envied Mrs. Helm in her drawing-room, +richly attired and sparkling with jewels, or as she moved with the stately +step of a queen among her trembling slaves, they should have beheld her on +her death-bed!"] + +Surrounded as she was with every elegance and luxury that wealth could +procure, she lay shrieking out her prayers for a short respite, a short +lengthening out of the life she had spent so unprofitably; her eyes +wandering restlessly about the apartment, and her hands continually +clinching the air, as if to grasp something that would prevent her from +sinking into the embrace of death! There was not a slave present, who +would have exchanged places with her. Not one of those over whom she had +ruled so arbitrarily would have exchanged their rough, lowly cabin and +quiet conscience, for all the wealth and power she had ever possessed. + +Nothing of all she had enjoyed in life, nor all that she yet called her +own, could give her one hour of life or one peaceful moment in death! + +Oh! what a scene was that! The wind blew, and great drops of rain fell on +the casements. The room lighted only with a single taper; the wretched +wife mingles her dying groans with the howling of the storm, until, as the +clock struck the hour of midnight she fell back upon her pillow and +expired, amid the tears and cries of her family and friends, who not only +deplored the loss of a wife and mother, but were grieved by the manner in +which she died. + +The slaves were all deeply affected by the scene; some doubtless truly +lamented the death of their mistress; others rejoiced that she was no +more, and all were more or less frightened. One of them I remember went to +the pump and wet his face, so as to appear to weep with the rest. + +What a field was opened for reflection, by the agonizing death of Mrs. +Helm? Born and reared in affluence; well educated and highly accomplished, +possessed of every means to become a useful woman and an ornament to her +sex; which she most likely would have been, had she been instructed in the +Christian religion, and had lived under a different influence. As +infidelity ever deteriorates from the female character, so Slavery +transforms more than one, otherwise excellent woman, into a feminine +monster. Of Mrs. Helm, with her active intellect and great force of +character, it made a tyrannical demon. Her race, however, is ended; her +sun gone down in darkness, and her soul we must leave in the keeping of a +righteous God, to whom we must all give an account for the deeds done in +the body. But in view of the transitory pleasures of this life; the +unsatisfactory realization of wealth, and the certainty of death, we may +well inquire, "What shall it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose +his own soul?" + +Some little time after the scene just recorded, there came to Bath a young +physician named Henry, who commenced practice under very flattering +prospects. He was an accomplished young man, well educated and very +skillful in his profession. He was affable and gay in his manners, and +very fond of company. An intimate acquaintance was soon formed with Capt. +Helm and family, and he called almost daily to chat and drink wine with +the Captain,--both being quite fond of a social glass. + +One night in the depth of winter, the Doctor was called to see a patient +who lived six miles down the Conhocton river. Previous, however, to the +call, he had accepted an invitation to attend a party at Capt. Helm's, +and there he was found. They had music and dancing, while the wine passed +around very freely. None seemed to join in the dance and other amusements +of the evening with more enjoyment than did Dr. Henry; but after he was +sent for, it being a most bitter cold night, he asked the Captain for a +horse to ride to see his patient, to which he readily assented, and had +his fine _race-horse_ (for the Captain had not left off all his old +habits), brought out from the stable, and the Doctor sprang lightly into +the saddle. Unfortunately his way led by the race-course, and when the +trained animal came to it he started with such speed as to throw the +Doctor to the ground, where he lay all that terrible cold night. In the +morning, some person going after wood, came in sight of the Doctor as he +was trying to creep away on his frozen hands and feet. He was put into the +sleigh and taken to the village with all possible speed. All was done for +him that could be, but his feet and legs were frozen solid. His uncle, Dr. +Henry, was brought as soon as possible, who decided that nothing could +save his life but the amputation of both legs, just below the knee. This +was done; but what a change in the prospects of this promising young man! +Instead of stepping lightly about as he used to do, with a smiling +countenance, he at last came forth after a tedious confinement, a cripple +for life, hobbling about on his knees, sad and dejected. And what, think +you, was the cause of this terrible calamity? What prevented the Doctor +from an exertion to save his life? Wine, intoxicating wine, was +undoubtedly the occasion of the heedless and reckless conduct of both +himself and Capt. Helm. And should not this circumstance be a warning to +parents and guardians, to young men and children, "to look not upon the +wine when it is red," and remember that at last "it will bite like a +serpent and sting like an adder?" Should it not also remind those who have +guests to entertain, of the sinfulness of putting the cup to their +neighbor's lips? Certainly it should. But I must resume my story. + +About this time Major Thornton of Bath, died. He had long been an intimate +friend and acquaintance of Capt. Helm, and as the reader is already +informed of the death of Mrs. Helm, they will not be surprised to know +that he began to look earnestly after the widow of his late friend. It +become apparent that his solicitude for the loneliness of Madam Thornton +was not so much as a disconsolate widow, as that of making her the future +Mrs. Helm; nor was it less observable that the new-made widow accepted the +Captain's attentions with great favor, and more as a lover than a +comforter. + +The result was, after the Major had been dead six weeks, Capt. Helm was +married to his widow, and brought her and her servants in great triumph +to his house, giving her the charge of it. His own servants were +discharged, and hers took their places. + +All went on pleasantly for a while; then the slaves began to grow sullen +and discontented; and two of them ran away. Capt. Helm started a man named +Morrison, a Scotchman, in pursuit, who hunted them ten days, and then +returned without any tidings of the absconding slaves. They made good +their escape and were never heard from afterwards, by those whose interest +suffered by the loss. + +I was one afternoon at a neighbor's house in the village, when I was +suddenly taken so violently ill with pain in my head and side, that I had +to be carried home. When we arrived there, I was allowed a pallet of straw +to lie on, which was better than nothing. Day after day, my disease +increased in violence, and my master employed a physician to attend me +through my illness, which brought me very low indeed. I was constantly +burning with fever, and so thirsty that I knew not what I would have given +for a draught of cold water, which was denied me by the physician's +direction. I daily grew weaker until I was reduced to helplessness, and +was little else than "skin and bones." I really thought my time had come +to die; and when I had strength to talk, I tried to arrange the few little +business affairs I had, and give my father direction concerning them. And +then I began to examine my own condition before God, and to determine how +the case stood between Him and my poor soul. And "there was the rub." I +had often excused myself, for frequent derelictions in duty, and often +wild and passionate outbreaks, on account of the hardness of my lot, and +the injustice with which I was treated, even in my best endeavors to do as +well as I knew how. But now, with death staring me in the face, I could +see that though I was a friendless "slave-boy," I had _not_ always done as +well as I knew how; that I had _not_ served God as I knew I ought, nor had +I always set a good example before my fellow-slaves, nor warned them as +well as I might, "to flee the wrath to come." Then I prayed my Heavenly +Father to spare me a little longer, that I might serve Him better; and in +His mercy and gracious goodness, He did so; though when the fever was +turning they gave me up; and I could hear them say, when they came to feel +my pulse, "he is almost gone," "it will soon be over," &c., and then +inquire if I knew them. I did, but was too weak to say so. I recollect +with gratitude, the kindness of Mrs. H.A. Townsend, who sent me many +delicacies and cooling drinks to soften the rigor of my disease; and +though I suppose she has long since "passed away" and gone to her reward, +may the blessing of those who are ready to perish, rest upon the +descendants of that excellent woman. + +Capt. Helm was driving on in his milling, distillery and farming business. +He now began to see the necessity of treating his slaves better by far +than he had ever done before, and granted them greater privileges than he +would have dared to do at the South. Many of the slaves he had sold, were +getting their liberty and doing well. + + + + +CHAPTER X. + +HIRED OUT TO A NEW MASTER. + +While I was staying with my master at Bath, he having little necessity for +my services, hired me out to a man by the name of Joseph Robinson, for the +purpose of learning me to drive a team. Robinson lived about three miles +from the village of Bath, on a small farm, and was not only a poor man but +a very mean one. He was cross and heartless in his family, as well as +tyrannical and cruel to those in his employ; and having hired me as a +"slave boy," he appeared to feel at full liberty to wreak his brutal +passion on me at any time, whether I deserved rebuke or not; nor did his +terrible outbreaks of anger vent themselves in oaths, curses and +threatenings only, but he would frequently draw from the cart-tongue a +heavy iron pin, and beat me over the head with it, so unmercifully that he +frequently sent the blood flowing over my scanty apparel, and from that to +the ground, before he could feel satisfied. + +These kind of beatings were not only excessively painful, but they always +reminded me of the blows I had so often received from the key, in the hand +of Mrs. Helm, when I was but a little waiter lad; and in truth I must say +that the effect of these heavy blows on the head, have followed me thus +far through life; subjecting me to frequent and violent head-aches, from +which I never expect to be entirely free. Even to this day I shudder at +the thought, when I think how Robinson used to fly at me, swearing, +foaming, and seeming to think there was no weapon too large or too heavy +to strike me with. + +He and I were at one time logging with a yoke of oxen, which it was my +business to drive. At that time rattle-snakes were numerous, and a great +terror to the inhabitants. To be bitten by one of these poisonous reptiles +was certain and almost instant death; hence, the greatest caution and +constant vigilance was necessary to avoid them while at work. I had been +sent with the oxen to draw a log to the pile, and when I came up to it, I +observed that it appeared to be hollow; but stepping forward, with the +chain in my hand, ready to attach it to the log, when, oh, horror! the +warning rattle of a snake sounded like a death knell in my ears, +proceeding from the log I was about to lay hold of. I was so much +frightened by the sound, that I dropped the chain as though it were red +hot, left my team, and ran with all the speed in my power, screaming +"murder, murder!" as loud as I could. + +This proceeding, which was the fearful impulse of the moment, offended +Robinson, and gave him another opportunity to beat me most cruelly. He was +himself as much afraid of rattle-snakes as I; but he was the master and I +the "slave boy," which made a vast difference. He caught hold of me, and, +with horrid oaths, beat me with his fist again and again; threatening me +with awful punishment if I did not instantly return and bring the log to +the desired spot. I never can forget the mortal agony I was in, while +compelled by his kicks and blows to return and fasten the chain around the +log containing the deadly serpent. I, however, succeeded with trembling +hands, and drove the oxen, but keeping myself at the fartherest possible +distance from them and the log. When I finally arrived at the pile, Mr. +Robinson and some other men, cut a hole with an ax in the log, and killed +the large, venomous rattle-snake that had occasioned me so much alarm and +such a cruel beating. Nor was the uncontrollable and brutal passion of +Robinson his only deficiency; he was mean as he was brutal. + +He had, at one time, borrowed a wagon of a neighbor living two miles +distant, through a dense forest. On the day of the total eclipse of the +sun, it entered his head that it would be fine sport, knowing my +my ignorance and superstition, to send me, just as the darkness was coming +on, to return the borrowed wagon. I accordingly hitched the ox-team to it +and started. As I proceeded through the wood, I saw, with astonishment and +some alarm, that it was growing very dark, and thought it singular at that +hour of the day. When I reached the place of my destination it was almost +total darkness, and some persons, ignorant as myself, were running about, +wringing their hands, and declaring that they believed the Day of Judgment +had come, and such like expressions. + +The effect of all this was, however, very different from what my master +had expected. I thought, of course, if the judgment day had come, I should +be no longer a slave in the power of a heartless tyrant. I recollect well +of thinking, that if indeed all things earthly were coming to an end, I +should be free from Robinson's brutal force, and as to meeting my Creator, +I felt far less dread of that than of meeting my cross, unmerciful master. +I felt that, sinful as I had been, and unworthy as I was, I should be far +better off than I then was; driven to labor all day, without compensation; +half starved and poorly clad, and above all, subjected to the whims and +caprices of any heartless tyrant to whom my master might give the power to +rule over me. But I had not much time for reflection, I hurried home; my +mind filled with the calm anticipation that the end of all things was at +hand; which greatly disappointed my expectant master, who was looking for +me to return in a great fright, making some very ludicrous demonstration +of fear and alarm. But after a few months more of hardship I was permitted +to return to Capt. Helm's, where I was treated much better than at +Robinson's, and much, better than the Captain used to treat his slaves. + +Capt. Helm, not having demand for slave labor as much as formerly, was in +the practice of hiring out his slaves to different persons, both in and +out of the village; and among others, my only sister was hired out to a +_professed_ gentleman living in Bath. She had become the mother of two or +three children, and was considered a good servant. + +One pleasant Sabbath morning, as I was passing the house where she lived, +on my way to the Presbyterian church, where I was sent to ring the bell as +usual, I heard the most piteous cries and earnest pleadings issuing from +the dwelling. To my horror and the astonishment of those with me, my poor +sister made her appearance, weeping bitterly, and followed by her inhuman +master, who was polluting the air of that clear Sabbath morning, with the +most horrid imprecations and threatenings, and at the same time +flourishing a large raw-hide. Very soon his bottled wrath burst forth, and +the blows, aimed with all his strength, descended upon the unprotected +head, shoulders and back of the helpless woman, until she was literally +cut to pieces. She writhed in his powerful grasp, while shriek after +shriek died away in heart-rending moanings; and yet the inhuman demon +continued to beat her, though her pleading cries had ceased, until +obliged to desist from the exhaustion of his own strength. + +What a spectacle was that, for the sight of a brother? The God of heaven +only knows the conflict of feeling I then endured; He alone witnessed the +tumult of my heart, at this outrage of manhood and kindred affection. God +knows that my will was good enough to have wrung his neck; or to have +drained from his heartless system its last drop of blood! And yet I was +obliged to turn a deaf ear to her cries for assistance, which to this day +ring in my ears. Strong and athletic as I was, no hand of mine could be +raised in her defence, but at the peril of both our lives;--nor could her +husband, had he been a witness of the scene, be allowed any thing more +than unresisting submission to any cruelty, any indignity which the master +saw fit to inflict on _his wife_, but the other's _slave_. + +Does any indignant reader feel that I was wanting in courage or brotherly +affection, and say that he would have interfered, and, at all hazards, +rescued his sister from the power of her master; let him remember that he +is a _freeman_; that he has not from his infancy been taught to cower +beneath the white man's frown, and bow at his bidding, or suffer all the +rigor of the slave laws. Had the gentlemanly woman-whipper been seen +beating his horse, or his ox, in the manner he beat my poor sister, and +that too for no fault which the law could recognize as an offence, he +would have been complained of most likely; but as it was, she was but a +"slave girl,"--with whom the slave law allowed her master to do what he +pleased. + +Well, I finally passed on, with a clinched fist and contracted brow, to +the church, and rung the bell, I think rather furiously, to notify the +inhabitants of Bath, that it was time to assemble for the worship of that +God who has declared himself to be "no respecter of persons." With my own +heart beating wildly with indignation and sorrow, the kind reader may +imagine my feelings when I saw the smooth-faced hypocrite, the inhuman +slave-whipper, enter the church, pass quietly on to his accustomed seat, +and then meekly bow his hypocritical face on the damask cushion, in the +reverent acknowledgment of that religion which teaches its adherents "to +do unto others as they would be done by," just as if nothing unusual had +happened on that Sabbath morning. Can any one wonder that I, and other +slaves, often doubted the sincerity of every white man's religion? Can it +be a matter of astonishment, that slaves often feel that there is no just +God for the poor African? Nay, verily; and were it not for the comforting +and sustaining influence that these poor, illiterate and suffering +creatures feel as coming from an unearthly source, they would in their +ignorance all become infidels. To me, that beautiful Sabbath morning was +clouded in midnight darkness, and I retired to ponder on what could be +done. + +For some reason or other, Capt. Helm had supplied every lawyer in that +section of country with slaves, either by purchase or hire; so when I +thought of seeking legal redress for my poor, mangled sister, I saw at +once it would be all in vain. The laws were in favor of the slave owner, +and besides, every legal gentleman in the village had one or more of the +Captain's slaves, who were treated with more or less rigor; and of course +they would do nothing toward censuring one of their own number, so nothing +could be done to give the slave even the few privileges which the laws of +the State allowed them. + +The Captain sold my aunt Betsy Bristol to a distinguished lawyer in the +village, retaining her husband, Aaron Bristol, in his own employ; and two +of her children he sold to another legal gentleman named Cruger. One day +Captain Helm came out where the slaves were at work, and finding Aaron was +not there, he fell into a great rage and swore terribly. He finally +started off to a beach tree, from which he cut a stout limb, and trimmed +it so as to leave a knot on the but end of the stick, or bludgeon rather, +which was about two and a half feet in length. With this formidable +weapon he started for Aaron's lonely cabin. When the solitary husband saw +him coming he suspected that he was angry, and went forth to meet him +in the street. They had no sooner met than my master seized Aaron by the +collar, and taking the limb he had prepared by the smaller end, commenced +beating him with it, over the head and face, and struck him some thirty or +more terrible blows in quick succession; after which Aaron begged to know +for what he was so unmercifully flogged. + +"Because you deserve it," was the angry reply. Aaron said that he had ever +endeavored to discharge his duty, and had done so to the best of his +ability; and that he thought it very hard to be treated in that manner for +no offence at all. Capt. Helm was astonished at his audacity; but the +reader will perceive that the slaves were not blind to the political +condition of the country, and were beginning to feel that they had some +rights, and meant to claim them. + +Poor Aaron's face and head, however, was left in a pitiable condition +after such a pummeling with a knotty stick. His face, covered with blood, +was so swollen that he could hardly see for some time; but what of that? +Did he not belong to Capt. Helm, soul and body; and if his brutal owner +chose to destroy his own property, certainly had he not a right to do so, +without let or hindrance? Of course; such is the power that Slavery gives +one human being over another. + +And yet it must be confessed that among the poor, degraded and ignorant +slaves there exists a foolish pride, which loves to boast of their +master's wealth and influence. A white person, too poor to own slaves, is +as often looked upon with as much disdain by the miserable slave as by his +wealthy owner. This disposition seems to be instilled into the mind of +every slave at the South, and indeed, I have heard slaves object to being +sent in very small companies to labor in the field, lest that some +passer-by should think that they belonged to a poor man, who was unable to +keep a large gang. Nor is this ridiculous sentiment maintained by the +slaves only; the rich planter feels such a contempt for all white persons +without slaves, that he does not want them for his neighbors. I know of +many instances where such persons have been under the necessity of buying +or hiring slaves, just to preserve their reputation and keep up +appearances; and even among a class of people who profess to be opposed to +Slavery, have I known instances of the same kind, and have heard them +apologize for their conduct by saying that "when in Rome, we must do as +the Romans do." + +Uncle Aaron Bristol was one of Capt. Helm's slaves who had a large amount +of this miserable pride; and for him to be associated with a white man in +the same humble occupation, seemed to give him ideas of great superiority, +and full liberty to treat him with all the scorn and sarcasm he was +capable of, in which my uncle was by no means deficient. + +At this time the Captain owned a fine and valuable horse, by the name of +_Speculator_. This horse, groomed by uncle Aaron, stood sometimes at Bath +and sometimes at Geneva; and at the latter village another horse was kept, +groomed by a white man. The white groom was not very well pleased with +Aaron's continual disparagement of the clumsy animal which my uncle called +"a great, awkward plow-horse;" and then he would fling out some of his +proud nonsense about "_poor white people_ who were obliged to groom their +own old dumpy horses," &c. + +Well, things went on in this unpleasant manner for several weeks, when at +last the white groom and Aaron met at Geneva, and the horse belonging to +the former, designedly or accidentally, escaped from his keeper, and came +with full speed, with his mouth wide open, after Speculator. When the +fiery fellow had overtaken uncle Aaron he attempted to grasp the wethers +of Speculator with his teeth, instead of which he caught Aaron on the +inside of his thigh, near the groin, from whence he bit a large piece of +flesh, laying the bone entirely bare; at the same moment flinging Aaron to +the ground, some rods off; and the next instant he kicked Speculator down +a steep embankment Aaron was taken up for dead, and Dr. Henry sent for, +who dressed his wounds; and after several months' confinement he finally +recovered. It is probable that the biting and overthrow of Aaron saved his +life, as he must have otherwise been killed in the encounter of the two +horses. + +A while after his recovery, uncle Aaron succeeded in procuring a team and +some kind of vehicle, in which he put his wife and children, and between +two days, took "French leave" of his master as well as of the lawyer to +whom his wife belonged. + +The lawyer, however, was far from being pleased when he missed his +property, and immediately set his wits to work to reclaim her. All was +kept secret as possible, but it was whispered about that it was to be +done by a State's warrant, for removing the clothing and furniture they +had taken, and so, being thus arrested, "Madam Bristol" would be glad to +return to her work in the lawyer's kitchen. But Aaron was a smart, shrewd +man, and kept out of their reach, where he soon found friends and +employment, and could go where he pleased, without having an infuriated +master to beat and disfigure him with a knotted stick, until his clothes +were bespattered with blood. They appreciated their liberty, and lived and +died in peace and freedom. + +Capt. Helm continued his old manner of treating slaves, dealing out their +weekly allowance of corn or meal; but living as we now did, so much more +intimately with white inhabitants, our condition was materially improved. +The slaves became more refined in manners and in possession of far greater +opportunities to provide for themselves, than they had ever before +enjoyed, and yet it was _Slavery_. Any reverse in the fortunes of our +master would be disadvantageous to us. Oh, how this fearful uncertainty +weighed upon us as we saw that our master was not prospering and +increasing in wealth; but we had not the dismal fears of the loathsome +slave-pen, rice swamps, and many other things we should have to fear in +Virginia. We were still _slaves_, and yet we had so much greater chance +to learn from the kind, intelligent people about us, so many things which +we never knew before, that I think a slave-trader would have found it a +difficult task to take any one of us to a Southern slave market, if our +master had so ordered it. + +The village of Bath is rather an out-of-the-way place, hemmed in on all +sides by mountains of considerable height, leaving an opening on the +north, through a pleasant valley, to the head of Crooked Lake. Produce +of every kind, when once there, met a ready sale for the New York market. + +In the first settlement of the country this was the only outlet for the +country produce, which was transported in rude boats or vessels called +_arks_, built during the winter season to await the spring freshet; then +they loaded them with wheat or other produce, and sent them to Baltimore +or elsewhere. They used also to obtain great quantities of fine lumber, +and floated it through the same rivers every spring; but it was attended +with great loss of life and property. + +Bath assumed a warlike appearance during the last war with Great Britain; +the public square was dotted all over with officers, marquees, and +soldiers' tents. Some of these soldiers were unprincipled and reckless +men, who seemed to care very little what they did. + +One evening I was walking around the encampment in company with a Mr. +James Morrison, a clerk in the land office, looking at the soldiers, until +we came near a sentinel on duty. He kept his gun to his shoulder until we +came near enough, and then he attempted to run me through with his +bayonet. Young Morrison sprang forward, and seizing the musket, told me +to run; I did so, which probably saved my life. + + + + +CHAPTER XI. + +THOUGHTS ON FREEDOM. + +After living sometime in Bath, and having the privilege of more +enlightened society, I began to think that it was possible for me to +become a free man in some way besides going into the army or running away, +as I had often thought of doing. I had listened to the conversation of +others, and determined to ask legal counsel on the subject the first +opportunity I could find. Very soon after, as I was drawing wood, I met on +the river bridge, Mr. D. Cruger, the eminent lawyer before mentioned, and +I asked him to tell me if I was not free, by the laws of New York. He +started, and looked around him as if afraid to answer my question, but +after a while told me I was _not_ free. I passed on, but the answer to my +question by no means satisfied me, especially when I remembered the +hesitancy with which it was given. + +I sought another opportunity to speak with Mr. Cruger, and at last found +him in his office alone; then he conversed freely on the subject of +Slavery, telling me that Capt. Helm could not hold me as a slave in that +State, if I chose to leave him, and then directed me to D. Comstock and J. +Moore; the first being at the head of a manumission society, and the last +named gentleman one of its directors. + +Our condition, as I have said before, was greatly improved; and yet the +more we knew of freedom the more we desired it, and the less willing were +we to remain in bondage. The slaves that Capt. Helm had sold or hired out, +were continually leaving him and the country, for a place of freedom; and +I determined to become my own possessor. + +There is no one, I care not how favorable his condition, who desires to be +a slave, to labor for nothing all his life for the benefit of others. I +have often heard fugitive slaves say, that it was not so much the cruel +beatings and floggings that they received which induced them to leave the +South, as the idea of dragging out a whole life of unrequited toil to +enrich their masters. + +Everywhere that Slavery exists, it is nothing but _slavery_. I found it +just as hard to be beaten over the head with a piece of iron in New York +as it was in Virginia. Whips and chains are everywhere necessary to +degrade and brutalize the slave, in order to reduce him to that abject and +humble state which Slavery requires. Nor is the effect much less +disastrous on the man who holds supreme control over the soul and body of +his fellow beings. Such unlimited power, in almost every instance +transforms the man into a tyrant; the brother into a demon. + +When the first of our persecuted race were brought to this country it was +to teach them to reverence the only true and living God; or such was the +answer of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth of England, when her subjects +desired the liberty to bring from their native land the poor, ignorant +African. "Let them," said the Queen, "be brought away only by their own +consent, otherwise the act will be detestable, and bring down the +vengeance of heaven upon us." A very different position truly, from the +one assumed at the present day by apologists for the traffic in human +flesh. But, to return to myself. + +I had determined to make an effort to own myself, and as a preliminary +step, I obtained permission of Capt. Helm to visit some friends living in +Canandaigua and Geneva. This was in the winter of 1814. I went first to +Geneva; from there to Canandaigua. Between the two villages I met a +company of United States' troops, returning from Buffalo, where they had +been to repel an invasion of the British. + +The two villages above named, were small but very pretty, having been laid +out with taste and great care. Some wealthy and enterprising gentlemen had +come from the East into this great Western country, who were making every +improvement in their power. The dense forest had long since fallen under +the stroke of the woodman's ax, and in that section, flourishing villages +were springing up as if by magic, where so lately roamed wild beasts and +rude savages, both having fallen back before the march of civilization. + +I called on James Moore, as directed by Mr. Cruger, and found he was one +of the directors of the "Manumission Society," as it was then called. This +was an association of humane and intelligent gentlemen whose object it was +to aid any one who was illegally held in bondage. The funds of the society +were ample; and able counsel was employed to assist those who needed it. +The late lamented John C. Spencer, one of the most eminent lawyers in +Western New York, was then counsel for that society. + +I soon got an interview with Mr. Moore, to whom I related the history of +my life,--the story of my wrongs and hardships. I told him about my having +been hired out by Capt. Helm, which he said was sufficient to insure my +freedom! Oh! how my heart leaped at the thought! The tears started, my +breast heaved with a mighty throb of gratitude, and I could hardly refrain +from grasping his hand or falling down at his feet; and perhaps should +have made some ludicrous demonstration of my feelings, had not the kind +gentleman continued his conversation in another direction. + +He said that indispensable business called him to Albany, where he must go +immediately, but assured me that he would return in March following; then +I must come to him and he would see that I had what justly belonged to +me--my freedom from Slavery. He advised me to return to Bath and go on +with my work as usual until March, but to say nothing of my intentions and +prospects. I returned according to his directions, with a heart so light, +that I could not realize that my bonds were not yet broken, nor the yoke +removed from off my neck. I was already free in spirit, and I silently +exulted in the bright prospect of liberty. + +Could my master have felt what it was to be relieved of such a crushing +weight, as the one which was but partially lifted from my mind, he would +have been a happier man than he had been for a long time. + +I went cheerfully back to my labor, and worked with alacrity, impatient +only for March to come; and as the time drew near I began to consider what +kind of an excuse I could make to get away. I could think of none, but I +determined to go without one, rather than to remain. + +Just before the time appointed for me to meet Mr. Moore, a slave girl +named Milly, came secretly to Bath. She had been one of Capt. Helm's +slaves, and he had a while before sold her to a man who lived some +distance west of the village. Milly had now taken the matter into her own +hands. She had left her master to take care of himself, and was in short, +"running away," determined as myself, that she would be a slave no longer; +resolved on death, or freedom from the power of the slaveholder. + +The time I had set for my departure was so near at hand, that I concluded +to accompany her in her flight. When the dark night came on, we started +together, and traveled all night, and just as the day dawned we arrived at +Manchester, where we stopped a short time with one Thomas Watkins. + +But I was not to be let go so easily. I had been missed at Capt. Helm's, +and several men started in immediate pursuit. I was weary, and so intent +on getting a little rest that I did not see my pursuers until they had +well nigh reached the house where I was; but I _did_ see them in time to +spring from the house with the agility of a deer, and to run for the woods +as for life. And indeed, I so considered it. I was unarmed to be sure, and +not prepared to defend myself against two or three men, armed to the +teeth; but it would have gone hard with me before I surrendered myself to +them, after having dreamed as I had, and anticipated the blessings of a +free man. I escaped them, thank God, and reached the woods, where I +concealed myself for some time, and where I had ample opportunity to +reflect on the injustice and cruelty of my oppressors, and to ask myself +why it was that I was obliged to fly from my home. Why was I there panting +and weary, hungry and destitute--skulking in the woods like a thief, and +concealing myself like a murderer? What had I done? For what fault, or for +what crime was I pursued by armed men, and hunted like a beast of prey? +God only knows how these inquiries harrowed up my very soul, and made me +well nigh doubt the justice and mercy of the Almighty, until I remembered +my narrow escape, when my doubts dissolved in grateful tears. + +But why, oh why, had I been forced to flee thus from my fellow men? I was +guilty of no crime; I had committed no violence; I had broken no law of +the land; I was not charged even with a fault, except of _the love of +liberty_ and a desire to be _free_! I had claimed the right to possess my +own person, and remove it from oppression. Oh my God, thought I, can the +American People, who at this very hour are pouring out their blood in +defence of their country's liberty; offering up as a sacrifice on the +battle field their promising young men, to preserve their land and +hearthstones from English oppression; can they, will they, continue to +hunt the poor African slave from their soil because he desires that same +liberty, so dear to the heart of every American citizen? Will they not +blot out from their fair escutcheon the foul stain which Slavery has cast +upon it? Will they not remember the Southern bondman, in whom the love +of freedom is as inherent as in themselves; and will they not, when +contending for equal rights, use their mighty forces "to break _every +yoke_, and let the oppressed go free?" God grant that it may be so! + +As soon as I thought it prudent, I pursued my journey, and finally came +out into the open country, near the dwelling of Mr. Dennis Comstock, who, +as I have said, was president of the Manumission Society. To him I freely +described my situation, and found him a friend indeed. He expressed his +readiness to assist me, and wrote a line for me to take to his brother, +Otis Comstock, who took me into his family at once. I hired to Mr. +Comstock for the season, and from that time onward lived with him nearly +four years. + +When I arrived there I was about twenty-two years of age, and felt for the +first time in my life, that I was my own master. I cannot describe to a +free man, what a proud manly feeling came over me when I hired to Mr. C. +and made my first bargain, nor when I assumed the dignity of collecting my +own earnings. Notwithstanding I was very happy in my freedom from Slavery, +and had a good home, where for the first time in my life I was allowed to +sit at table with others, yet I found myself very deficient in almost +every thing which I should have learned when a boy. + +These and other recollections of the past often saddened my spirit; but +_hope _,--cheering and bright, was now mine, and it lighted up the future +and gave me patience to persevere. + +In the autumn when the farm work was done, I called on Mr. Comstock for +some money, and the first thing I did after receiving it I went to +Canandaigua where I found a book-store kept by a man named J.D. Bemis, and +of him I purchased some school books. + +No king on his throne could feel prouder or grander than I did that day. +With my books under my arm, and money of my own earning in my pocket, I +stepped loftily along toward Farmington, where I determined to attend the +Academy. The thought, however, that though I was twenty-three years old, I +had yet to learn what most boys of eight years knew, was rather a damper +on my spirits. The school was conducted by Mr. J. Comstock, who was a +pleasant young man and an excellent teacher. He showed me every kindness +and consideration my position and ignorance demanded; and I attended his +school three winters, with pleasure and profit to myself at least. + +When I had been with Mr. Comstock about a year, we received a visit from +my old master, Capt. Helm, who had spared no pains to find me, and when he +learned where I was he came to claim me as "his boy," who, he said he +"wanted and must have." + +Mr. Comstock told him I was _not_ "his boy," and as such he would not +give me up; and further, that I was free by the laws of the State. He +assured the Captain that his hiring me out in the first instance, to Mr. +Tower, forfeited his claim to me, and gave me a right to freedom,--but if +he chose to join issue, they would have the case tried in the Supreme +Court; but this proposition the Captain declined: he knew well enough that +it would result in my favor; and after some flattery and coaxing, he left +me with my friend, Mr. Comstock, in liberty and peace! + + + + +CHAPTER XII. + +CAPT. HELM--DIVORCE--KIDNAPPING. + +The business affairs of Capt. Helm had for some time been far from +prosperous; and now he was quite poor. His slave property proved a bad +investment, and Madam Thornton a far worse one. She had already applied +for a divorce, and a good share of the estate as alimony; both of which +she succeeded in getting, the Captain allowing her to take pretty much +her own course. These troubles, with costs of lawsuits, bad management, +&c., had now emptied the coffers of my old master almost to the last +farthing; and he began to cast about him for some way to replenish his +purse, and retrieve his fallen fortunes. + +Had Capt. Helm been brought up to honorable industry, and accustomed to +look after his own pecuniary interests, he doubtless would have sustained +his position; or if reverses were unavoidable, he would have by +persevering industry, regained what he had lost. But he had been raised in +a slave State, and Southern principles were as deeply instilled into his +mind, as Southern manners were impressed on his life and conduct. + +He had no partiality for labor of any kind; horse-racing and card-playing +were far more congenial to his tastes; reduced as he now was, he would +deny himself no luxury that his means or credit would procure. His few +remaining slaves were given into the hands of an idle, brutal overseer +--while they, half fed, half clothed, grew more and more discontented, and +ran away on every opportunity that offered. + +The Captain at last hit upon a method of making money, which, if it had +been carried into operation on the high seas, would in all probability +have been called by its right name, and incurred the penalty of the +gallows--as piracy. Ought it then to be deemed less criminal because +transpiring on the free soil of the American Republic? I think not. Nor +was it less censurable on account of its failure. + +The Captain's plan was to collect all the slaves he had once owned, many +of whom had escaped to the surrounding villages, and when once in his +grasp, to run them speedily into a slave State, and there sell them for +the Southern market. To carry forward this hellish design, it was +necessary to have recourse to stratagem. Some person must be found to +lure the unsuspecting slaves into the net he was spreading for them. At +last he found a scoundrel named Simon Watkins, who for the consideration +of fifty dollars, was to collect as many of the slaves as he could at one +place; and when he had done so, he was to receive the money, leaving Capt. +Helm to do the rest. + +Simon set immediately about the business, which was first to go to +Palmyra, and in great kindness and generosity, give a large party to the +colored people,--desiring that all Capt. Helm's former slaves, _in +particular_, should be present to have a joyous re-union, and celebrate +their freedom in having a fine time generally. + +Invitations were sent to all, and extensive preparation made for a large +"social party," at Palmyra, at the house of Mrs. Bristol. My parents were +invited; and Simon took the pains to come to Farmington to give me a +special invitation. When the time arrived for the party, I went to Palmyra +with the intention of attending. I had not the least suspicion of any +thing wrong; yet, by some mysterious providence, or something for which I +can not account, a presentiment took possession of my mind that all was +not right. I knew not what I feared, and could in no way define my +apprehensions; but I grew so uneasy, that I finally gave up the party and +returned home, before the guests were assembled. + +Capt. Helm and his assistants came on to Palmyra in disguise, before +evening, and secreted themselves in one of the hotels to await the arrival +of their victims. + +At the appointed hour the slaves began to assemble in large numbers and +great glee, without the least suspicion of danger. They soon began their +amusements, and in the midst of their mirth, Capt. Helm and party +stealthily crept from their hiding place and surrounded the house; then +bursting in suddenly upon the revelers, began to make arrests. Such a +tumult, such an affray as ensued would be hard to describe. + +The slaves fought for their lives and their liberty, and the Captain's +party for their property and power. Fists, clubs, chairs, and any thing +they could get hold of, was freely used with a strength and will of men +who had tasted the joys of freedom. Cries and curses were mingled, while +blows fell like hail on both sides. Commands from our old master were met +with shouts of bold defiance on the part of the negroes, until the +miserable kidnappers were glad to desist, and were driven of--not +stealthily as they came, but in quick time and in the best way they could, +to escape the threatened vengeance of the slaves, who drove them like +"feathers before the wind." But it was a terrible battle and many were +severely wounded; among them was my father. He was taken to his home, +mangled and bleeding, and from the effects of that night's affray he never +recovered. He lingered on in feeble health until death finally released +him from suffering, and placed him beyond the reach of kidnappers and +tyrants. + +The Captain and his party, enraged and disappointed in their plans at +Palmyra, returned to Bath to see what could be done there toward success, +in getting up a gang of slaves for the Southern market. When they came +among the colored people of Bath, it was like a hawk alighting among a +flock of chickens at noon-day. They scattered and ran in every direction, +some to the woods, some hid themselves in cellars, and others in their +terror plunged into the Conhocton River. In this manner the majority of +the negroes escaped, but not all; and those were so unfortunate as to get +caught were instantly thrown into a large covered "Pennsylvania wagon," +and hurried off, closely guarded, to Olean Point. Among those taken were +Harry Lucas, his wife, Lucinda, and seven children; Mrs. Jane Cooper and +four children, with some others, were also taken. + +When Capt. Helm arrived at Olean Point with his stolen freight of human +beings, he was unexpectedly detained until he could build a boat,--which, +to his great dismay took him several days. + +The sorrow and fearful apprehension of those wretched recaptured slaves +can not be described nor imagined by any one except those who have +experienced a like affliction. They had basked for a short season in the +sunshine of liberty, and thought themselves secure from the iron grasp of +Slavery, and the heel of the oppressor, when in the height of their +exultation, they had been thrust down to the lowest depths of misery and +despair, with the oppressor's heel again upon their necks. To be snatched +without a moment's warning from their homes and friends,--hurried and +crowded into the close slave wagon, regardless of age or sex, like sheep +for the slaughter, to be carried they knew not whither; but, doubtless +to the dismal rice swamp of the South,--was to them an agony too great for +endurance. The adult portion of the miserable company determined at last +to go no farther with their heartless master, but to resist unto death if +need be, before they surrendered themselves to the galling chains they had +so recently broken, or writhed again under the torturing lash of the +slave-driver. + +Harry Lucas and wife, and Jane Cooper, silently prepared themselves for +the conflict, determined to sell their lives as dearly as possible. When +they were nearly ready to start, Jane Cooper sent her oldest daughter and +younger sister, (she who is now our worthy friend Mrs. P. of Bath), into +the woods, and then when the men undertook to get Lucas and the two women +on board the boat the struggle commenced. The women fought the Captain and +his confederates like a lioness robbed of her whelps! They ran and dodged +about, making the woods ring with their screams and shouts of "Murder! +Murder! Help! Help! Murder!" until the Captain's party, seeing they could +do nothing to quell them, became so exceedingly alarmed lest they should +be detected in their illegal proceedings, that they ran off at full speed, +as if they thought an officer at their heels. In their hurry and fright +they caught two of Harry's children, and throwing them into the boat, +pushed off as quick as possible, amid the redoubled cries of the agonized +parents and sympathizing friends, all trying in every way possible, to +recover from the merciless grasp of the man-stealer, the two frightened +and screaming children. Guns were fired and horns sounded, but all to no +purpose--they held tightly the innocent victims of their cupidity, and +made good their escape. + +Mr. D. C----, a gentleman of wealth and high standing in Steuben County, +became responsible for the fifty dollars which Capt. Helm promised to pay +Simon Watkins for his villainy in betraying, Judas-like, those unsuspecting +persons whom it should have been his pleasure to protect and defend +against their common oppressor,--his own as well as theirs. + +In addition to this rascality, it can not appear very creditable to the +citizens of Steuben County, that Capt. Helm and Thomas McBirney should +both hold high and important offices at the time, and _after_ they had +been tried and convicted of the crime of kidnapping. Both of these +gentlemen, guilty of a State's prison offence, were judges of the common +pleas. T. McBirney was first judge in the county, and Capt. Helm was side +judge; and notwithstanding their participation in, and conviction of, a +flagrant outrage on the laws of God and man, they managed not only to +escape the penalty, but to retain their offices and their respectable +standing in community for years after. + + + + +CHAPTER XIII. + +LOCATE IN THE VILLAGE OF ROCHESTER. + +I continued to labor in the employ of Mr. O. Comstock, whose son, Zeno, +was married during the year 1816, and purchased a farm on the site of the +present flourishing village of Lockport, to which he moved his family and +effects; but from a mistaken supposition that the Erie Canal, which was +then under contemplation, would take a more southern route, he was induced +to sell his farm in Hartland, which has proved a mine of wealth to the +more fortunate purchaser. + +In the winter of that year, I was sent by my employer to Hartland with a +sleigh-load of produce, and passed through the village of Rochester, which +I had never before seen. It was a very small, forbidding looking place at +first sight, with few inhabitants, and surrounded by a dense forest. + +I recollect that while pursuing my journey, I overtook a white man driving +a span of horses, who contended that I had not a right to travel the +public highway as other men did, but that it was my place to keep behind +him and his team. Being in haste I endeavored to pass him quietly, but he +would not permit it and hindered me several hours, very much to my +annoyance and indignation. This was, however, but a slight incident +indicating the bitter prejudice which every man seemed to feel against the +negro. No matter how industrious he might be, no matter how honorable in +his dealings, or respectful in his manners,--he was a "nigger," and as +such he must be treated, with a few honorable exceptions. + +This year also, my father died in the village of Palmyra, where, as I have +before mentioned, he received injuries from which he never entirely +recovered. After about six months severe illness which he bore with +commendable patience and resignation, his spirit returned to God who gave +it; and his sorrowing friends and bereaved family followed his remains to +their final abode, where we laid him down to rest from unrequited labor +and dire oppression, until "all they who are in their graves shall hear +the voice of the Son of God, and they that hear shall live forever," where +the "tears shall be wiped from off all faces"--and where the righteous +bondman shall no longer fear the driver's lash or master's frown, but +freely join in the song of "Alleluia! The Lord God Omnipotent reigneth!" + +My father had a good reputation for honesty and uprightness of character +among his employers and acquaintances, and was a kind, affectionate +husband and a fond, indulgent parent. His, I believe was the life and +death of a good man. "Peace be to his ashes." + +The following season I commenced a new business--that of peddling in the +village of Rochester such articles as my employer, Mr. Comstock, desired +to sell: the products of his farm,--wheat, corn, oats, butter, cheese, +meat, and poultry--all of which met a ready sale, generally for cash at +liberal prices. That market was then but little known to the generality of +farmers, and the enterprising gentlemen of that place, were desirous of +encouraging commerce with the surrounding country, offered every +encouragement in their power. Hence, we found it a profitable business, +which I continued in for several months. + +The present flourishing city of Rochester was then, as I have said, but a +village in its infancy, situated near the upper falls of the Genesee +River, and about seven miles from its mouth. Here, some time previously, +three gentlemen from Maryland bought a large tract of land, and as no +business man could fail to observe and appreciate its rare advantages they +commenced laying out a village. Sirs Fitzhugh, Carroll, and Rochester, +composed the company; but the management of the business devolved almost +wholly on Col. Rochester, whose wealth, enterprise, and intelligence well +qualified him for the undertaking; and as it had been assigned him to +cognominate the new village, I have heard it said that he jocularly gave +his reason for selecting its present title, as follows: "Should he call it +_Fitzhugh_ or _Carroll_, the slighted gentleman would certainly feel +offended with the other; but if he called it by his own name, they would +most likely _both_ be angry with him; so it was best to serve them alike." + +There was then two grist mills,--one owned by Mr. Ely, and the other by +Mr. Brown; one small building for religious worship, occupied by the +Presbyterians on Carroll street (now State street); and but two stone +buildings within what now comprises that beautiful city. There were then +no brick buildings at all, but business was good; merchants and mechanics +from the East soon began to settle there and give it a thriving aspect. + +About this time another company was formed, whose moving spirit was Mr. E. +Stone, a man of worth and talent; the object of which was to locate +another village at the head of navigation and about half way between the +mouth of the river and Rochester, which they called _Carthage_. + +The company commenced building and improving the place so rapidly, that +many who came to purchase residences and business stations were at a loss +to decide which of the two places would finally become the center of +business. It, however, was soon perceivable that the advantage of water +privileges, stone, and access to both, was greatly in favor of Rochester. +At Carthage the Genesee is narrow and its banks steep and abrupt, rising +in many places three hundred feet above the bed of the river, which of +course render the privileges and business on it far less easy of access +for building purposes. I may have occasion to speak hereafter of the +expensive and magnificent bridge at Carthage, which was the wonder and +admiration of the times. + +The following year I concluded to go into business for myself, and was as +much at loss as others, whether to locate at Rochester or Carthage; but +after considering the matter in all its bearings, and closely watching the +progress of events, my choice preponderated in favor of Rochester, and to +that place I went, designing to enter into business on my own account. + +It was indeed painful to my feelings to leave the home and family of Mr. +Comstock, where I had experienced so much real comfort and happiness, +where I had ever been treated with uniform kindness, where resided those +kind friends to whom I felt under the greatest obligation for the freedom +and quietude I then enjoyed, as well as for the little knowledge of +business and of the world that I then possessed. Thinking, however, that +I could better my condition, I subdued, as well as I could, my rising +emotions, and after sincerely thanking them for their goodness and +favors--wishing them long life and prosperity,--I took my departure for +the chosen place of my destination. + +Soon after I left Mr. Comstock's, that gentleman, sent his hired man, +named John Cline, to Rochester with a wagon load of produce to sell, as +had been his custom for some time. In vain the family looked for his +return at the usual hour in the evening, and began to wonder what had +detained him; but what was their horror and surprise to find, when they +arose the next morning, the horses standing at the door, and the poor +unfortunate man lying in the wagon, _dead_! How long they had been there +nobody knew; no one had heard them come in; and how the man had been +killed was a matter of mere conjecture. The coroner was sent for and an +inquest held, and yet it was difficult to solve the whole mystery. + +The most probable explanation was, that he was sitting in the back part of +the wagon, and fell over on his left side, striking his neck on the edge +of the wagon box, breaking it instantly. + +The verdict of the jury was, in accordance with these facts, "accidental +death," &c. + +When I left Mr. Comstock's I had acquired quite a knowledge of reading, +writing, arithmetic, and had made a small beginning in English grammar. + +It had been for some time a question which I found hard to decide, whether +or not I should pursue my studies as I had done. If I went into business +as I contemplated, I knew it would end my proficiency in the sciences; and +yet I felt a desire to accumulate more of the wealth that perisheth. +Considering too that I was advancing in age, and had no means of support +but by my own labor, I finally concluded to do what I have from that time +to this deeply regretted,--give up the pursuit of an education, and turn +my attention wholly to business. I do not regret having desired a +competency, nor for having labored to obtain it, but I _do_ regret not +having spared myself sufficient leisure to pursue some regular system of +reading and study; to have cultivated my mind and stored it with useful +knowledge. + +Truly has it been said, "knowledge is power." But it is not like the +withering curse of a tyrant's power; not like the degrading and +brutalizing power of the slave-driver's lash, chains, and thumb-screws; +not like the beastly, demonical power of rum, nor like the brazen, +shameless power of lust; but a power that elevates and refines the +intellect; directs the affections; controls unholy passions; a power so +God-like in its character, that it enables its possessor to feel for the +oppressed of every clime, and prepares him to defend the weak and +down-trodden. + +What but ignorance renders the poor slave so weak and inefficient in +claiming his right to liberty, and the possession of his own being! Nor +will that God who is "no respecter of persons," hold him guiltless who +assumes unlimited control over his fellow. The chain of Slavery which +fetters every slave south of Mason and Dixon's Line, is as closely linked +around the master as the slave. The time has passed by when African blood +alone is enslaved. In Virginia as well as in some other slave States, +there is as much European blood in the veins of the enslaved as there is +African; and the increase is constantly in favor of the white population. +This fact alone speaks volumes, and should remind the slave-breeding +Southerner of that fearful retribution which must sooner or later overtake +him. + +In September, 1817, I commenced business in Rochester. Having rented a +room of Mr. A. Wakely, I established a meat market, which was supplied +mostly by my former employer, Mr. Comstock, and was liberally patronized +by the citizens; but there were butchers in the village who appeared to be +unwilling that I should have any share in public patronage. Sometimes they +tore down my sign, at others painted it black, and so continued to annoy +me until after I had one of their number arrested, which put a stop to +their unmanly proceedings. + +The village was now rapidly increasing, and yet the surrounding country +was mostly a wilderness. Mr. E. Stone, who then owned the land on the east +side of the river, thought his farm a very poor one; he, however, +commenced clearing it in the midst of wild beasts and rattlesnakes, both +of which were abundant, and in a few years was richly rewarded for his +labor, in the sale of village lots, which commanded high prices. + +In the summer of 1818, I commenced teaching a Sabbath School for the +neglected children of our oppressed race. For a while it was well +attended, and I hoped to be able to benefit in some measure the poor and +despised colored children, but the parents interested themselves very +little in the undertaking, and it shortly came to naught. So strong was +the prejudice then existing against the colored people, that very few of +the negroes seemed to have any courage or ambition to rise from the abject +degradation in which the estimation of the white man had placed him. + +This year, also, I purchased a lot of land, eighteen by fifty feet, +situated on Main street, for which I was to pay five hundred dollars. +Having secured my land, I began making preparations for building, and +soon had a good two story dwelling and store, into which I moved my +effects, and commenced a more extensive business. + +Some disadvantage as well as sport was occasioned on business men, who +resided on the confines of Ontario and Genesee Counties. It was indeed +laughable to witness the races and maneuvering of parties in those days +when men were imprisoned for debt. If a man in Ontario County had a +suspicion that an officer was on his track, he had only to step over the +line into Genesee, to be beyond the power of an officer's precept. + +A great deal of trouble as well as unpleasant feeling was engendered by +the exercise of that law, which allowed the creditor so great advantage +over the debtor. This, together with the fact that very many of the +citizens of Rochester were men of small means, the more wealthy portion +felt called upon to protect their interests, by forming themselves into +what was called a "Shylock Society," the object of which was to obtain a +list of all the names of persons who had been, or were then, on "the +limits" for debt. This list of names was printed, and each member of the +society furnished with a copy, which enabled him to decide whether or not +to trust a man when he came to trade. The formation of this society gave +rise to another, whose members pledged themselves to have no dealing with +a member of the "Shylock Society," and also to publish all defaulters in +"high life," which served to check these oppressive measures and restore +harmony. + +Among others who came to settle in the thriving village of Rochester, was +a colored man named Daniel Furr, who came from the East. He soon became +acquainted with a very respectable young white lady, of good family, who +after a short acquaintance appeared to be perfectly enamored of her dusky +swain; and notwithstanding the existing prejudice, she did not scruple to +avow her affection for him,--a devotion which appeared to be as sincerely +returned by the young "Othello." They resolved to marry; but to this, +serious objections arose, and all that the lady's family and friends could +do to break off the match was done, but without effect. They could, +however, prevail on no one to perform the marriage ceremony in the +village, and finally concluded to go to a magistrate in the town of +Brighton, four miles distant. At this stage of the proceedings I was +appealed to, to accompany them. I took the matter into consideration and +came to the conclusion that I could take no active part in the affair, nor +bear any responsible station in the unpleasant occurrence. Is it no sin in +the sight of the Almighty, for Southern gentlemen(?) to mix blood and +amalgamate the races? And if allowed to them, is it not equally +justifiable when the commerce is prompted by affection rather than that of +lust and force? But I at length consented to accompany them, after +learning that all the mischief was already done that could be feared, and +that the gallant lover desired to marry the lady as the only atonement he +could make for the loss of her reputation. + +We arrived at the house of the magistrate about one o'clock at night, and +all were soundly sleeping. They were, however, aroused, and when our +business was made known, an exciting scene followed. The magistrate +refused at first to marry them; and the lady of the house took aside the +intended bride, spending two hours in endeavoring to dissuade her from the +contemplated union; assuring her that her house should be freely opened to +her, that no attention should be spared during her expected confinement, +&c.; but all to no purpose. They returned to the parlor where the +magistrate again tried his power of persuasion, but with as little success +as his lady had met: and then he reluctantly married them. The newly-made +husband paid a liberal fee, and we took our leave. I returned to my home +to reflect on the scenes of the past night, and Mr. and Mrs. Furr to the +house of a friend of the bride in Penfield. + +The report soon reached the village that the marriage had been +consummated, which produced a great excitement. Threats of an alarming +character were openly made against the "nigger" who had dared to marry a +white woman, although at her own request. And there was also a class of +persons who associated together, professing great friendship for the +persecuted husband, and often drew him into their company, pretending to +defend his cause while they were undoubtedly plotting his destruction. + +One day, after Furr had been drinking rather freely with his pretended +friends, he was taken so violently ill, that a physician was immediately +called. I was with him when the doctor arrived. He gazed upon the +suffering man with an angry expression, and inquired in a tone of command, +"Daniel, what have you been doing?" In vain the poor creature begged for +relief, the doctor merely repeating his question. After looking at him for +some time, he finally administered a potion and hastily left the room, +saying as he did so, "that Furr was as sure to die as though his head had +been cut off." And so it proved, though not so speedily as the medical man +had predicted; nor did he ever visit him again, notwithstanding he +lingered for several days in the most intense agony. It was a strong man +grappling with disease and death, and the strife was a fearful one. But +death at last ended the scene, with none of all his professed friends, +except his faithful but heart-broken wife, to administer to his +necessities. No sound save that of the moaning widow broke the stillness +of his death-chamber. A few friends collected, who prepared the emaciated +body for the grave; enclosing it in a rude board coffin it was conveyed to +its last resting place, followed by three or four men, just as the shades +of evening had fallen upon this sin-cursed world; there in darkness and +silence we lowered his remains, and left the gloomy spot to return to his +disconsolate wife, who had been too ill to join the meager procession. + +It has ever been my conviction that Furr was poisoned, most likely by some +of his false friends who must have mingled some deadly drug with his +drinks or food; nor do I believe that the medicine administered by the +physician was designed to save his life. But to Him who knoweth all +things, we leave the matter. + +His despised, forsaken, and bereaved wife soon followed him to the grave, +where she sleeps quietly with her innocent babe by her side; and where +probably this second Desdemonia finds the only refuge which would have +been granted her by a heartless and persecuting world. + +Oh, when will this nation "cease to do evil and learn to do well?" When +will they judge character in accordance with its moral excellence, instead +of the complexion a man unavoidably bears to the world? + + + + +CHAPTER XIV. + +INCIDENTS IN ROCHESTER AND VICINITY. + +After long petitioning, the inhabitants of that section succeeded in +having the new county of Monroe set off from Genesee and Ontario Counties, +in 1821, which gave a new impulse to the business interests of the already +flourishing town, which had heretofore labored under some disadvantages in +consequence of having all public business done at Canandaigua or Batavia. + +About this time, too, was the Carthage bridge built by a company of +enterprising gentlemen of that village which at that day was considered +one of the wonders of the age; but as its history is well known to all +interested in the enterprises of those days, it is only necessary to say, +that the magnificent structure, so grand in its appearance, such a pattern +of mechanical ingenuity, exhibiting in all its vast proportions, both +strength and beauty, combined with utility and grandeur; and erected at +such an enormous expense of time, labor, and cash, was destined soon to +fall. + +It had cost some ten thousand dollars; and had been warranted by the +builders to stand one year. How great then must have been the loss and +disappointment when in a little more than twenty-four hours after the time +specified, the ruins of that beautiful structure were found floating on +the broad bosom of the Genesee! And yet when we take into consideration +the vast amount of human life which hourly passed over its solid surface, +we can but wonder at the intervention of a kind Providence which prevented +any loss of life at the time of its fall. A child had but just passed over +it, when with one general crash it sank to the waters below; mocking in +its rapid flight, the wisdom of the architect and foresight of frail +humanity. The fall of Carthage bridge was indeed a calamity felt by the +public generally, and sounded the death-knell of all future greatness to +Carthage, or at least for some years to come. + +About this time the village was thrown into a state of excitement by the +arrest of a colored woman named Ellen, who it was charged had escaped from +service due to a Mr. D., south of Mason and Dixon's Line. She had been +arrested in accordance with a law passed by Congress in 1793, which +forbids persons owing service in one State to flee to another; and which +also obliges those receiving such service, to render to the claimant +any fugitive from labor due, &c. Poor Ellen! She had many friends and able +counsel, but nothing short of an open violation of the law of the land, +could prevent her return to the house of bondage. She was tried and given +up to him who claimed dominion over her. Hopeless and heart-broken, she +was escorted from the boasted land and village of freedom, by a company of +the "Light Horse," under the command of Capt. Curtis. One poor, persecuted +slave woman, upon whose heart had fallen a shadow darker than death's; +driving every earthly hope of liberty from her wounded spirit; helpless +and forlorn! She indeed must have required this military parade--this +show of power! And that too, by men who throw up their caps with a shout +for freedom and equal rights! Oh, "consistency, thou art a jewel!" + +As I recollect but one other incident of the kind occurring in Rochester, +I will now name it. + +A colored man named Davis, generally known as "Doctor Davis," with a +reputation unsullied for industry, truth and sobriety, was arrested as a +fugitive from slave labor in Kentucky. Two men came on from that State, +acting in the double capacity of agents for the claimant and witnesses +against the slave. They employed Mr. L. as counsel, and hastened on the +trial of the afflicted African. When it became generally known that Davis +was arrested, and about to be tried, the excitement grew intense among all +classes; but more particularly among the colored people. When the trial +came on, the Court room was crowded to overflowing, and every avenue +leading to it densely thronged with deeply anxious persons, assembled to +witness the result. It became evident, however, that the poor man must be +given up to his grasping master, unless some means were devised to rescue +him from the power of an unjust law. His friends were on the alert, and as +the trial proceeded, the colored men found an opportunity to get him into +a corner of the crowded apartment; where, while the officers stood at the +door, they dressed him in disguise, and otherwise so completely changed +his personal appearance, that he passed out of the Court room, undetected +by the officers, and as all supposed was safely pursuing his way to +Canada. + +The hawk-eyed counsel for the Kentuckians, however, too soon observed +exultation written on every dusky countenance, to keep quiet. Starting to +his feet in great alarm, he cried out "Where is Davis?" And oh, how that +question startled every one present. Every eye gazed hither and thither, +and every ear intently listened for the answer. After a moment of +breathless silence, the excited counselor was assured that the "bird had +flown," which announcement was received with a rapturous shout of joy by +the audience, greatly, however, to the discomfiture of the gentlemen from +Kentucky, who had thought themselves so sure of their prize. Nor would +they be thwarted now. It was not yet too late to overtake their victim, +and slavery required at their hands a sacrifice which they were ready to +make. Hand-bills were in immediate circulation, offering a reward of fifty +dollars for the apprehension of the flying fugitive. Fifty dollars, for +the body and soul of a man to plunge into the degradation of Slavery! +Fifty dollars for the ruin of a fellow being, for whom Christ gave his +precious life! Yes, fifty dollars are offered to any human blood-hound who +will hunt and worry the poor slave, who must fly from this boasted land of +liberty, to seek protection in the dominion of England's Queen! + +Unfortunately for Davis, some of these hand-bills were thrown on board the +very packet on which he had embarked for Buffalo; nor was this all. The +bills would have left him uninjured, but a scoundrel--an apology for a +man--was there also, who, for the consideration of fifty dollars was +willing to compromise all pretensions to manhood and humanity, and drag +from the boat the panting slave, whom he cast beneath the heel of his +oppressor. When Davis was finally retaken, those Kentucky dealers in human +chattels, held him with a grasp that banished all hope of escape by +flight; and then in his sorrow and despair the wretched, hopeless man +cried out "Oh, my God, must I return to the hell of Slavery? Save me, Oh, +dear Lord, save this, thy helpless, friendless servant, from a fate so +dreadful! Oh, Christian friends and neighbors, I appeal to you to rescue +me from a life far more terrible than death in any form! Oh, God, is there +no protection for me in the laws of New York? I claim it, by all that is +sacred in her past history! Give me liberty or death! or death!" he +repeated, with a shudder; then casting one glance of hopeless agony on his +persecutors, he secretly drew from his pocket a razor, and before he could +be prevented he drew it across his throat, and fell gasping in the midst +of his slave-hunting tormentors, while a collection of bystanders cried +"Shame! shame! on the institution of Slavery!" + +Poor Davis was not dead, but supposing he soon would be, these gentlemen +were requested to give security, and indemnify the town for all expenses +it might incur on Davis' account. But instead of giving their bond as +requested, they took a sudden start for Kentucky, where it was very +generally desired they might remain. + +With good treatment, Davis, after a long time, recovered sufficiently to +be removed by his friends to a place of safety; and when so far restored +as to be able he returned to Rochester, where he received assistance which +enabled him to reach Canada. I have often heard from him during his +residence in that country, where no slaves exist and he has done well, +having quite an extensive practice in medicine, and lives in the quiet +enjoyment of that liberty which he struggled so hard to obtain and came so +near losing; yet, to this day he prefers death to Slavery. And who does +not? None, who have breathed the air of freedom after an experience of +unrequited toil to enrich a brutal and selfish master. Truly is it said, +"a contented slave is a degraded being." + + + + +CHAPTER XV. + +SAD REVERSES OF CAPT. HELM. + +I must again introduce to the kind reader my old master, Capt. Helm, who +we left residing in Bath, several years ago. And as I have before +intimated he had now become a very poor man; indeed so reduced was he now +that he lived with one of his slave women, and was supported by public +charity! Learning, too, that I had saved by my industry a few hundred +dollars, it seemed very congenial with his avaricious habits to endeavor +to obtain what I possessed. In accordance with his plan he employed a +lawyer named Lewland to come to my place of business, which he did, and +demanded of me to pay Capt. Helm two hundred dollars. He also left a +notice, forbidding all persons to take or destroy any property in my +possession; and then impudently inquired how I expected to gain my +freedom; if I thought of applying for a writ of _habaeus corpus_; and many +other questions; to which I replied that I should pay no money on the +order of Capt. Helm; apply for no writ; but should continue to maintain my +personal rights and enjoy the freedom which was already mine, and which I +designed to keep, assuring him that the Captain had forfeited his claim, +if he had any, to me or my services, when he hired me to Mr. Tower. + +He hung about me for a day or two, and then left me to pursue my business +--I saw no more of him. Some time afterward Mr. H.E. Rochester informed me +that he had a _subpoena_ for me, which I found was issued by the +direction of Capt. Helm. By Mr. Rochester's counsel, I took it to Mr. A. +Sampson, who assured me that my old master had commenced a suit against me +in the Court of Equity, and the case would be tried before Wm. B. +Rochester, Esq., who was one of the circuit judges. Capt. Helm claimed +every particle of property I possessed; a claim that occasioned me great +anxiety and some cost. + +Mr. Sampson encouraged me to hope, however, that the case would be +dismissed as two other cases of that kind had been. + +I labored to the best of my ability to prepare myself for the trial, which +was to decide whether I had a right to possess myself and command my own +services and earnings, or whether all belonged to Capt. Helm. As I looked +forward with anxious forebodings to the day appointed for the suit to +commence, I was startled by the announcement of my old master's _death_! +Yes, Capt. Helm was dead; and with him died the law suit. He who had so +wronged me, who had occasioned me so much suffering and sorrow had gone to +his account. He who had once been thought to be one of the wealthiest as +well as one of the greatest men in the county, died a pauper--neglected +and despised, and scarcely awarded a decent burial. Like his wife, who +died such a horrid death, he had been reared in affluence and was an +inheritor of vast possessions, but his home was in a slave State; he was +raised on a plantation, and nurtured in the atmosphere of Slavery. + +In his youth he had contracted the habit of drinking to excess, beside +that of gambling, horse-racing and the like, which followed him through +life. Forgotten and scorned in his poverty by many who had partaken of his +abundance, sipped his wine, and rode his fast horses. + +During the last war his princely mansion was ever open to the officers of +the army, and many a wounded soldier has been cheered and comforted by his +hospitality. But now he is regarded as no better than his poorest slave, +and lies as lowly as they, in the narrow house appointed for all the +living. + +My old master had two brothers: the oldest, Thomas Helm, was a Captain in +the United States Army, and had been in many hard-fought battles. His +younger brother, William, was a Captain also; but Thomas was the man to +awaken curiosity. I have lived with him, but never knew of his going +unarmed for an hour, until he left Virginia and came to Steuben County, +where he died. When at the South, I have seen strangers approach him, but +they were invariably commanded to "stand" and to "approach him at their +peril." He finally came to the State of New York, bringing with him his +"woman" with whom he lived, and two children, with whom he settled on a +piece of land given him by my old master, where the old soldier lived, +died, and was buried on one of his small "clearings" under an old apple +tree. He owned a few slaves, but at his death his "woman" collected every +thing she could, and among the rest, two or three slave children, to whom +she had no right or claim whatever, and made her way to Kentucky. About a +year ago I visited the spot where the brave old defender of his country +had been buried, but found very little to mark the resting place of the +brother of my old master. They had passed away. Their wealth, power and +bravery had come to nought; and no tribute was now paid to the memory of +one of "Old Virginia's best families." The _blood_ of which they were wont +to boast, was now no more revered than that which commingled with the +African and circulated in the veins of his despised and downtrodden +slaves. + + + + +CHAPTER XVI. + +BRITISH EMANCIPATION OF SLAVERY. + +As time passed on I found myself progressing in a profitable business. I +had paid for my house and lot, and purchased another adjoining, on which I +had erected a valuable brick building. The Lord prospered all my +undertakings and I felt grateful for my good fortune. I kept all kinds of +groceries and grain, which met a ready sale; and now I began to look about +me for a partner in life, to share my joys and sorrows, and to assist me +on through the tempestuous scenes of a life-long voyage. Such a companion +I found in the intelligent and amiable Miss B----, to whom I was married +on the eleventh of May, 1825. She was the youngest daughter of a +particular friend, who had traveled extensively and was noted for his +honesty and intelligence. + +About this time, too, "Sam Patch" made his last and fatal leap from a +scaffold twenty five feet above the falls of Genesee, which are ninety-six +feet in height. From thence he plunged into the foaming river to rise no +more in life. The following spring the body of the foolish man was found +and buried, after having lain several months in the turbulent waters of +the Genesee. + +This year was also rendered memorable by the efficient labors of Professor +Finney, through whose faithful preaching of the gospel, many were brought +to a saving knowledge of the truth. + +The "Emancipation Act" had now been passed, and the happy time for it to +take effect was drawing nigh. Slavery could no longer exist in the Empire +State nor receive the protection of her laws. Would to God it had so +continued to be what it professed--the refuge of the bondman and the home +of the free. But alas! Now the flying fugitive from Slavery finds no +security within her borders; he must flee onward, to the dominion of +Queen Victoria, ere he rests, lest the exaction of the odious "Fugitive +Slave Law" return him to the house of bondage. + +But the Emancipation Bill had been passed, and the colored people felt it +to be a time fit for rejoicing. They met in different places and +determined to evince their gratitude by a general celebration. In +Rochester they convened in large numbers, and resolved to celebrate the +glorious day of freedom at Johnson's Square, on the _fifth_ day of July. +This arrangement was made so as not to interfere with the white population +who were everywhere celebrating the day of their independence--"the +Glorious Fourth,"--for amid the general and joyous shout of liberty, +prejudice had sneeringly raised the finger of scorn at the poor African, +whose iron bands were loosed, not only from English oppression, but the +more cruel and oppressive power of Slavery. + +They met according to previous appointment, Mr. A. H----, having been +chosen president, Mr. H. E----, marshal, and Mr. H. D----, reader of the +"Act of Emancipation," and "The Declaration of Independence." A large +audience of both white and colored people assembled, and the day which had +been ushered in by the booming cannon, passed by in the joyous realization +that we were indeed free men. To the music of the band the large +procession marched from the square to the hotel, where ample provision was +made for dinner, after listening to the following oration, which I had +been requested to deliver. + +I must not omit to mention that on the morning of that happy day, a +committee of colored men waited upon the Hon. Matthew Brown, and in behalf +of the citizens of Monroe County, presented their thanks for his noble +exertions in the Legislature, in favor of the Act by which thousands were +made free men. + +They were received by that worthy gentleman with grateful and pleasing +assurances of his continued labor in behalf of freedom. + +Now I will lay before the reader my address to the audience on that +eventful day. + + + + +CHAPTER XVII. + +ORATION--TERMINATION OF SLAVERY. + +The age in which we live is characterised in no ordinary degree, by a +certain boldness and rapidity in the march of intellectual and political +improvements. Inventions the most surprising; revolutions the most +extraordinary, are springing forth, and passing in quick succession before +us,--all tending most clearly to the advancement of mankind towards that +state of earthly perfection and happiness, from which they are yet so far +distant, but of which their nature and that of the world they inhabit, +are most certainly capable. It is at all times pleasing and instructive +to look backward by the light of history, and forward by the light of +analogical reasoning, to behold the gradual advancement of man from +barbarism to civilization, from civilization toward the higher perfections +of his nature; and to hope--nay, confidently believe, that the time is not +far distant when liberty and equal rights being everywhere established, +morality and the religion of the gospel everywhere diffused,--man shall +no longer lift his hand for the oppression of his fellow man; but all, +mutually assisting and assisted, shall move onward throughout the journey +of human life, like the peaceful caravan across the burning sands of +Arabia. And never, on this glorious anniversary, so often and so +deservedly celebrated by millions of free men, but which we are to-day for +the first time called to celebrate--never before, has the eye been able to +survey the past with so much satisfaction, or the future with hopes and +expectations so brilliant and so flattering; it is to us a day of two-fold +joy. We are men, though the strong hand of prejudice and oppression is +upon us; we can, and we will rejoice in the advancement of the rapidly +increasing happiness of mankind, and especially of our own race. We can, +and we will rejoice in the growing power and glory of the country we +inhabit. Although Almighty God has not permitted us to remain in the land +of our forefathers and our own, the glories of national independence, and +the sweets of civil and religious liberty, to their full extent; but the +strong hand of the spoiler has borne us into a strange land, yet has He of +His great goodness given us to behold those best and noblest of his gifts +to man, in their fairest and loveliest forms; and not only have we beheld +them, but we have already felt much of their benignant influence. Most +of us have hitherto enjoyed many, very many of the dearest rights of +freemen. Our lives and personal liberties have been held as sacred and +inviolable; the rights of property have been extended to us, in this land +of freedom; our industry has been, and still is, liberally rewarded; and +so long as we live under a free and happy government which denies us not +the protection of its laws, why should we fret and vex ourselves because +we have had no part in framing them, nor anything to do with their +administration. When the fruits of the earth are fully afforded us, we do +not wantonly refuse them, nor ungratefully repine because we have done +nothing towards the cultivation of the tree which produces them. No, we +accept them with lively gratitude; and their sweetness is not embittered +by reflecting upon the manner in which they were obtained. It is the +dictate of sound wisdom, then, to enjoy without repining, the freedom, +privileges, and immunities which wise and equal laws have awarded us--nay, +proudly to rejoice and glory in their production, and stand ready at all +times to defend them at the hazard of our lives, and of all that is most +dear to us. + +But are we alone shut out and excluded from any share in the +administration of government? Are not the clergy, a class of men equally +ineligible to office? A class of men almost idolized by their countrymen, +ineligible to office! And are we alone excluded from what the world +chooses to denominate polite society? And are not a vast majority of the +polar race excluded? I know not why, but mankind of every age, nation, and +complexion have had lower classes; and, as a distinction, they have chosen +to arrange themselves in the grand spectacle of human life, like seats in +a theater--rank above rank, with intervals between them. But if any +suppose that happiness or contentment is confined to any single class, +or that the high or more splendid order possesses any substantial +advantage in those respects over their more lowly brethren, they must be +wholly ignorant of all rational enjoyment. For what though the more humble +orders cannot mingle with the higher on terms of equality. This, if +rightly considered, is not a curse but a blessing. Look around you, my +friends: what rational enjoyment is not within your reach? Your homes are +in the noblest country in the world, and all of that country which your +real happiness requires, may at any time be yours. Your industry can +purchase it; and its righteous laws will secure you in its possession. +But, to what, my friends, do you owe all these blessings? Let not the +truth be concealed. You owe them to that curse, that bitter scourge of +Africa, whose partial abolishment you are this day convened to celebrate. +Slavery has been your curse, but it shall become your rejoicing. Like the +people of God in Egypt, you have been afflicted; but like them too, you +have been redeemed. You are henceforth free as the mountain winds. Why +should we, on this day of congratulation and joy, turn our view upon the +origin of African Slavery? Why should we harrow up our minds by dwelling +on the deceit, the forcible fraud and treachery that have been so long +practised on your hospitable and unsuspecting countrymen? Why speak of +fathers torn from the bosom of their families, wives from the embraces of +their husbands, children from the protection of their parents; in fine, of +all the tender and endearing relations of life dissolved and trampled +under foot, by the accursed traffic in human flesh? Why should we +remember, in joy and exultation, the thousands of our countrymen who are +to-day, in this land of gospel light, this boasted land of civil and +religious liberty, writhing under the lash and groaning beneath the +grinding weight of Slavery's chain? I ask, Almighty God, are they who do +such things thy chosen and favorite people? But, away with such thoughts +as these; we will rejoice, though sobs interrupt the songs of our +rejoicing, and tears mingle in the cup we pledge to Freedom; our harps +though they have long hung neglected upon the willows, shall this day be +strung full high to the notes of gladness. On this day, in one member at +least of this mighty Republic, the Slavery of our race has ceased forever! +No more shall the insolent voice of a master be the main-spring of our +actions, the sole guide of our conduct; no more shall their hands labor in +degrading and profitless servitude. Their toils will henceforth be +voluntary, and be crowned with the never failing reward of industry. +Honors and dignities may perhaps never be ours; but wealth, virtue, and +happiness are all within the compass of our moderate exertions. And how +shall we employ a few moments better than in reflecting upon the means by +which these are to be obtained. For what can be more proper and more +profitable to one who has just gained an invaluable treasure, than to +consider how he may use it to the best possible advantage? And here I +need not tell you that a strict observance to all the precepts of the +gospel ought to be your first and highest aim; for small will be the value +of all that the present world can bestow, if the interests of the world to +come are neglected and despised. None of you can be ignorant of what the +gospel teaches. Bibles may easily be obtained; nor can there be a greater +disgrace, or a more shameful neglect of duty than for a person of mature +age, and much more, for any father of a family to be without that most +precious of all books--the Bible. If, therefore, any of you are destitute +of a Bible, hasten to procure one. Will any of you say that it can be of +no use to you, or that you cannot read it? Look then to that noblest of +all remedies for this evil, the Sunday School--that most useful of all +institutions. There you may learn without loss of time or money, that of +which none should be ignorant--to read. + +Let me exhort you with earnestness to give your most sincere attention to +this matter. It is of the utmost importance to every one of you. Let your +next object be to obtain as soon as may be, a competency of the good +things of this world; immense wealth is not necessary for you, and would +but diminish your real happiness. Abject poverty is and ought to be +regarded as the greatest, most terrible of all possible evils. It should +be shunned as a most deadly and damning sin. What then are the means by +which so dreadful a calamity may be avoided? I will tell you, my friends, +in these simple words--hear and ponder on them; write them upon the +tablets of your memory; they are worthy to be inscribed in letters of gold +upon every door-post--"industry, prudence, and economy." Oh! they are +words of power to guide you to respectability and happiness. Attend, then, +to some of the laws which industry impose, while you have health and +strength. Let not the rising sun behold you sleeping or indolently lying +upon your beds. Rise ever with the morning light; and, till sun-set, give +not an hour to idleness. Say not human nature cannot endure it. It can--it +almost requires it. Sober, diligent, and moderate labor does not diminish +it, but on the contrary, greatly adds to the health, vigor, and duration +of the human frame. Thousands of the human race have died prematurely of +disease engendered by indolence and inactivity. Few, very few indeed, +have suffered by the too long continuance of bodily exertion. As you give +the day to labor, so devote the night to rest; for who that has drunk and +reveled all night at a tippling shop, or wandered about in search of +impious and stolen pleasures, has not by so doing not only committed a +most heinous and damning sin in the sight of Heaven, but rendered himself +wholly unfit for the proper discharge of the duties of the coming day. Nor +think that industry or true happiness do not go hand in hand; and to him +who is engaged in some useful avocation, time flies delightfully and +rapidly away. He does not, like the idle and indolent man, number the slow +hours with sighs--cursing both himself and them for the tardiness of their +flight. Ah, my friends, it is utterly impossible for him who wastes time +in idleness, ever to know anything of true happiness. Indolence, poverty, +wretchedness, are inseparable companions,--fly them, shun idleness, as +from eminent and inevitable destruction. In vain will you labor unless +prudence and economy preside over and direct all your exertions. Remember +at all times that money even in your own hands, is power; with it you may +direct as you will the actions of your pale, proud brethren. Seek after +and amass it then, by just and honorable means; and once in your hand +never part with it but for a full and fair equivalent; nor let that +equivalent be something which you do not want, and for which you cannot +obtain more than it cost you. Be watchful and diligent and let your mind +be fruitful in devises for the honest advancement of your worldly +interest. So shall you continually rise in respectability, in rank and +standing in this so late and so long the land of your captivity. + +Above all things refrain from the excessive use of ardent spirits. There +is no evil whose progress is so imperceptible; and at the same time so +sure and deadly, as that of intemperance; and by slow degrees it +undermines health, wealth, and happiness, till all at length tumble into +one dreadful mass of ruin. If God has given you children, he has in so +doing imposed upon you a most fearful responsibility; believe me, friends, +you will answer to God for every misfortune suffered, and every crime +committed by them which right education and example could have taught them +to avoid. Teach them reverence and obedience to the laws both of God and +man. Teach them sobriety, temperance, justice, and truth. Let their minds +be rightly instructed--imbued with kindness and brotherly love, charity, +and benevolence. Let them possess at least so much learning as is to be +acquired in the common schools of the country. In short, let their +welfare be dearer to you than any earthly enjoyment; so shall they be the +richest of earthly blessings. + +My countrymen, let us henceforth remember that we are men. Let us as one +man, on this day resolve that henceforth, by continual endeavors to do +good to all mankind, we will claim for ourselves the attention and respect +which as men we should possess. So shall every good that can be the +portion of man, be ours--this life shall be happy, and the life to come, +glorious. + + * * * * * + +The opinion of the public regarding the celebration and performances of +that day, together with the behavior of the colored people, will be seen +by the following short extract from the _Rochester Daily Advertiser_, +published soon after the occurrence of those events: + +"ABOLITION OF SLAVERY. + +"The extinction of that curse by the laws of our State, was marked +with appropriate rejoicings on the part of the African race in this +neighborhood. A procession of considerable length and respectable +appearance, preceded by a band of music, moved from Brown's Island through +the principal streets to the public square, yesterday forenoon, where a +stage and seats were erected, for the speakers and audience. The throne of +Grace was addressed by the Rev. Mr. Allen, a colored clergyman. The act +declaring all slaves free in this State, on the fourth day of July, 1827, +was read, which was succeeded by the reading of the Declaration of +Independence and delivery of an oration by Mr. Steward. We have heard but +one opinion from several gentlemen who were present, and that was highly +complimentary to the composition and delivery of the same. + +"The exercises were concluded by a short discourse from the Rev. Mr. +Allen, and the procession moved off to partake of an entertainment +prepared for the occasion. The thing was got up in good order, and passed +off remarkably well. The conduct of the emancipated race was exemplary +throughout, and if their future enjoyment of freedom be tinctured with the +prudence that characterised their celebration of its attainment, the +country will have no reason to mourn the philanthropy that set them free." + + * * * * * + +Thus ended our first public celebration of our own and our country's +freedom. All conducted themselves with the strictest propriety and +decorum, retiring to their homes soberly and in proper season. + + + + +CHAPTER XVIII. + +CONDITION OF FREE COLORED PEOPLE. + +Pursuant to a call given in the summer of 1830, by the colored residents +of Philadelphia, for a National Convention of their race, I started in +company with a friend to attend it; having previously engaged seats inside +Mr. Coe's stage-coach as far as Utica, N.Y., to which place we had paid +our fare the same as other passengers. + +We rode on to Auburn very pleasantly, but when at that place, we with +others moved to resume our seats; we were met by a stern rebuke for +presuming to seat ourselves on the inside, and were ordered to ride on the +outside of the coach. In vain we expostulated; in vain we reminded the +driver of the agreement, and of our having paid for an inside seat; we +were told to take the outside of the coach or remain behind. + +Desiring to attend the convention, we concluded to go on, submitting to +this rank injustice and dishonesty, until our return, when we determined +to sue the proprietor of that line of stages. An opportunity was offered +soon after, when I commenced a suit for damages against Mr. Sherwood, who +was the great stage proprietor of those days. He, however, cleared himself +by declaring that he was in no way responsible for the failures of Mr. +Coe, to whom I must look for remuneration. I never found it convenient to +sue Mr. Coe, and so the matter ended. + +We passed through New York City to the place of our destination, where we +found many of our brethren already assembled. + +Philadelphia, which I now saw for the first time, I thought the most +beautiful and regularly laid out city I ever beheld. Here had lived the +peaceable, just, and merciful William Penn; and here many of his adherents +still reside. Here, too, was the place where the Rt. Rev. Bishop Allen, +the first colored American bishop in the United States, had labored so +successfully. When the Methodists sought to crush by cruel prejudice the +poor African, he stepped boldly forward in defence of their cause, which +he sustained, with a zeal and talent ever to be revered. + +Thousands were brought to a knowledge of the truth, and induced "to seek +first the kingdom of heaven and its righteousness," through his +instrumentality. Through the benign influence of this good man, friends +and means were raised for his poor brethren, to build houses of worship, +where they would no more be dragged from their knees when in prayer, and +told to seat themselves by the door. Oh, how much good can one good and +faithful man do, when devoted to the cause of humanity--following in the +footsteps of the blessed Christ; doing unto others as they would be done +by; and remembering those in bonds as bound with them. What though his +skin be black as ebony, if the heart of a brother beats in his bosom? Oh, +that man could judge of character as does our Heavenly Father; then would +he judge righteous judgment, and cease to look haughtily down upon his +afflicted fellow, because "his skin is colored not like his own." + +We convened at the specified time, and organized by appointing Rev. R. +Allen, president, A. Steward, vice-president, and J.C. Morrell, secretary. +The convention which continued in session three days, was largely attended +by all classes of people, and many interesting subjects were ably +discussed; but the most prominent object was the elevation of our race. +Resolutions were passed calculated to encourage our brethren to take some +action on the subjects of education and mechanism. Agricultural pursuits +were also recommended;--and here allow me to give my opinion in favor of +the latter, as a means of sustenance and real happiness. + +I knew many colored farmers, all of whom are well respected in the +neighborhood of their residence. I wish I could count them by hundreds; +but our people mostly flock to cities where they allow themselves to be +made "hewers of wood and drawers of water;" barbers and waiters,--when, if +they would but retire to the country and purchase a piece of land, +cultivate and improve it, they would be far richer and happier than they +can be in the crowded city. It is a mistaken idea that there is more +prejudice against color in the country. True, it exists everywhere, but I +regard it less potent in the country, where a farmer can live less +dependant on his oppressors. The sun will shine, the rains descend, and +the earth bring forth her increase, just as readily for the colored +agriculturist as for his pale face neighbor. Yes, and our common mother +Earth will, when life is ended, as readily open her bosom to receive your +remains in a last embrace, as that of the haughty scorner of our rights. + +In the city, however, there is no escape from the crushing weight of +prejudice, to ramble over fields of your own cultivation; to forget your +sorrows in the refreshing air that waves the loaded branches of an orchard +of your own planting; nor to solace yourself with a gambol over the green +meadow with your little ones. It is all toil, toil, with a burthened heart +until shadows fall across the hearth-stone, and dismal forebodings darken +the fireside, from whence the weary wife retires to refresh herself in +broken slumber for the renewed toil of another day. Will not my friends +think of these and many other advantages in favor of a country life, and +practice accordingly? + +After the close of the convention, I returned to my business in Rochester. + +Until the discussion, which commenced about this time on the subject of +temperance, I had been engaged, as most other grocers were at that time, +in the sale of spirituous liquors somewhat extensively. My attention had +never before been called especially to the subject, though I had witnessed +some of its direst evils; but now, when I saw the matter in its true +light, I resolved to give it up. I was doing well and making handsome +profits on the sale of alcoholic beverages. I had also experienced a good +deal of trouble with it. My license allowed me to sell any quantity less +than five gallons; but it was a fine of twenty-five dollars if drunk on +the premises,--one half of the sum to go to the complainant. If a vicious +man got out of funds it became both easy and common for him to give some +person a sixpence, half of which was to be spent for whisky, which made +him a witness for the other, who would make immediate complaint, and +collect his share of the fine. Nor could I prevent men who came with +bottles, and purchased whisky, from drinking it where they pleased; +consequently I was often called to answer to such complaints. + +One morning a man entered my store and called for liquor, which the clerk +gave him. After drinking it, he went directly to the office of A. House, +Esq., and entered a complaint against the clerk who had served him; then +stepped out for consultation with his counsel. At that moment I arrived at +the office of the magistrate to whom I immediately made complaint against +myself, relating to him also just how the event happened. In a few minutes +the original complainant returned, to whom 'Squire House explained that he +should have arraigned the proprietor of the store, and not the clerk as he +had done. Determined on making a speculation, however, he demanded a +precept for myself. The 'Squire, laughing most heartily, informed him that +he was too late,--that Mr. Steward had the start of him, having just +entered a complaint against himself, by which he saves one half of the +fine. The man walked out, looking rather "cheap," nor did he or others +annoy me afterwards by making complaints of that kind. + +But now I saw, as never before, the sin of selling that which would make +beasts of men, and only stopped to inquire what was duty in the matter. +All the arguments in favor of its sale were more forcible then than now. +All classes of persons used and drank the article; and it required more +moral courage, to relinquish the business than it does now. Nevertheless, +it appeared plain to my mind, that duty to God and my fellow-men required +it, and I cheerfully gave it up forever. + +I could not conscientiously, nor do I see how any man can, continue to +traffic in this most fruitful source of pauperism and crime. No benefit +whatever arises from its use as a beverage or from its sale. It is a curse +to the drinker, to the seller, and to the community. Those who are +licensed venders take from the government fifty dollars for every one put +into the treasury. The money paid for licenses is a very meager +compensation for the beggary, crime, and bloodshed which rum produces. All +who have any knowledge of the statistics of the State, or of our prison +and police records know, that intemperance has done more to fill the +prisons, work-houses, alms-houses, and asylums of the State than all other +influences combined; and yet men uphold the traffic. Their favors are for +those who love its use and sale, and their anathemas for him, who is +striving to save a nation of drunkards from swift destruction; yea, their +own sires, sons, and brothers from the grave of the inebriate. + +When in Rochester a short time since, soliciting subscribers for this +work, I stepped into a distillery and asked a man to subscribe for it. He +hesitated in his decision until he took a tumbler and filling it with +brandy, invited me to drink. I thanked him, saying I never drink brandy. +"Never drink!" he growled, "then I tell you, sir, that you stand a much +better chance of being struck by lightning than of getting a subscriber +here." Oh, very well; most likely had he agreed to take a copy, he would +have been sorely displeased with my views of the liquor traffic, and +perhaps with the compliment I have here paid him. + +But in the foregoing remarks I have said but a tithe of what my heart +feels, when I think of the sufferings occasioned by drunkenness. + +Even the cup of the burthened slave, writhing in his chains and toiling +under the lash, is not full of bitterness until the demon rum throws in +its dregs and fills it to overflowing. + +How often does it occur that a passionate master, heated with wine,--mad +with himself and all about him, pours out his vengeful ire on the head and +back of some helpless slave, and leaves him weltering in his blood! How +often may be heard the agonized wail of the slave mother, deploring the +departure of some innocent child that has been lost in gambling, while the +master was intoxicated! + +How often do the shrieks of the poor but virtuous slave girl, ring through +the midnight air, as she, pleading for death rather than life, rushes +screaming away from a brutal master, infuriated and drunk! If it is a +fact, and certainly it is, that the master is thus affected by his costly +wine; what, think you, will be the temper and condition of the coarse and +heartless overseer who drinks his miserable whisky or bad brandy? It is +horrible, beyond description. I have often myself seen a drunken overseer, +after pouring down dram after dram, mount his horse and ride furiously +among the slaves, beating, bruising, mangling with his heavy cowhide every +one he chanced to meet, until the ground presented the appearance of a +battlefield. + + + + +CHAPTER XIX. + +PERSECUTION OF THE COLORED PEOPLE. + +While the colored population of New York were rejoicing in the measure of +freedom allowed them by the more wholesome laws of that State, our +brethren in Ohio were being oppressed and maltreated by the unjust and +odious "black laws" of that professedly free State, enacted with special +reference to the disposition of the colored race. + +In Cincinnati, O., within sight of the slave land of Kentucky, a terrible +persecution had commenced, and an effort was made to drive all colored +persons from the place. + +Our people had settled there in large numbers, but now a mob had assembled +in that city with the determination to drive them, not only from their +homes and city, but from the State. A bloody conflict ensued, in which the +white and black man's blood mingled freely. So great had been the loss of +property; and go horrid and fearful had been the scene, that our people +chose to leave, rather than remain under such untoward circumstances. They +lived in constant fear of the mob which had so abused and terrified them. +Families seated at the fireside started at every breath of wind, and +trembled at the sound of every approaching footstep. The father left his +family in fear, lest on his return from his daily labor, he should find +his wife and children butchered, and his house left desolate. + +Meetings were held to devise plans and means for leaving the place where +they had been so cruelly treated. But where should they go? And why +should they be compelled to leave the State of Ohio? The fact is, that the +African race there, as in all parts of this nominally free Republic, was +looked down upon by the white population as being little above the brute +creation; or, as belonging to some separate class of degraded beings, too +deficient in intellect to provide for their own wants, and must therefore +depend on the superior ability of their oppressors, to take care of them. +Indeed, both the time and talents of eminent men have been wasted in +unsuccessful research for the line of demarcation, between the African and +the highest order of animals,--such for instance as the monkey or the +ourang-outang. Some even, have advanced the absurd idea, that wicked Cain +transmitted to them the "mark" which the Almighty set upon him for the +murder of his brother; and that he, (who then must have survived the +deluge), is the progenitor of that despised and inferior race--the negro +slave of the United States of America! + +If it be true, that the natural inferiority of the black man, connects him +so closely with the animal creation, it looks passing strange to me that +he should be made responsible for the violation of laws which he has been +declared too imbecile to aid in framing or of comprehending. Nor is it +less strange to see him enslaved and compelled by his labor to maintain +both his master and himself, after having declared him incapable of doing +either. Why not let him go then? Why hold with an unyielding grasp, so +miserable and useless a piece of property? Is it benevolence that binds +him with his master's chain? Judge ye. Stranger still is the fact of +attaching such vast influence to his presence and so much concern +regarding his movements, when in a state of freedom, if indeed, he is of +so little worth and consequence, and so nearly related to the brutes that +perish. + +Surely, the Legislature of Ohio, or of any other State, would never feel +called upon to sit in grave counsel, for the purpose of framing laws which +would impose fine and imprisonment on a monkey, should one chance to +locate within its jurisdiction; nor would they think it advisable for the +court to assemble, or a jury to be empanelled, to drive from their midst +an ourang-outang. And yet this and more must be done to get rid of the +hated negro, who has been born in that State, or has fled to it for +protection from the manstealer. + +When strangers pass hastily through this country, and after a careless +glance at the colored population, report them to be "an indolent, +improvident, and vicious class of persons," they should consider some of +the many obstacles thrown in the way of the most favored of that race. +Knowing as they do, the rigor of the law, and feeling as they do, the +oppressive power of prejudice, it becomes almost impossible for them +to rise to that station they were designed to fill, and for which their +natural abilities as certainly qualify them, as though they had never +been robbed of their God-given rights. But let us return to our tried +friends in Cincinnati. + +They finally resolved to collect what they could of their possessions and +establish a colony in Canada. In accordance with this resolution, they +agreed to first send an agent to obtain liberty to settle there, and if +successful to select and purchase a large tract of land, making such +arrangements as he thought best for their speedy removal to their new +home. Israel Lewis was their appointed agent, who departed immediately for +Upper Canada to perform his mission; and there for the present we will +leave him and return to Rochester. + +Our more favored brethren in New York felt a deep sympathy for their +outraged countrymen in Cincinnati; a sympathy equaled only by their +indignation at the cause of such demand. + +A meeting expressive of their views and feelings on that subject, was +convened in the city of Rochester during which, the following preamble and +resolutions were read and unanimously adopted: + +_Whereas_, The city of Cincinnati has again become the scene of another +dreadful mob and bloodshed, where nothing but terror and confusion reigned +for a number of hours together. + +_And Whereas_, Our brethren and fellow citizens were left exposed to the +fury of an ungovernable mob, made up of the base, the ignorant, and vile, +the very dregs of society; and probably led on by slaveholders, who of all +men are the most execrable; while boasting of liberty, he tramples on the +dearest rights of men and in the greatest robber of it on earth. + +_Resolved_, That we deprecate an appeal to arms by any class of our fellow +citizens, except in extreme cases, and we think that such a case has been +presented in the late outrage at Cincinnati. + +_Resolved_, That when a class of men so far forget the duty they owe to +God, their fellow men, and their country, as to trample under their feet +the very laws they have made, and are in duty bound to obey and execute, +we believe it to be the duty of our brethren and fellow citizens, to +protect their lives against such lawless mobs; and if in the conflict, +any of the mobocrats perish, every good citizen should say Amen. + +_Resolved_, That we do truly sympathize with the friends of God's poor; +the friends of the oppressed, throughout this boasted land of liberty, in +the losses they have sustained in consequence of the mob. + +_Resolved_, That we believe the time is not far distant, when the _Queen +City of the West_, shall be redeemed from the hateful influence of the +slaveholder; redeemed from that cruel prejudice of caste which, hangs like +a mill-stone around the neck of our people; redeemed from all those +unequal laws, which have a tendency to make the strong stronger and the +weak weaker; redeemed from their falsehearted friends, whose sarcastic +smile is more to be feared than the frowns of an open enemy. + +_Resolved_, That the untiring exertions of our friends, and the +indefatigable industry of our brethren, are sure guarantees that the State +of Ohio will not long be what she now is,--a hissing and by-word on +account of her iniquitous laws; but that she will rise above every narrow +minded prejudice, and raise up her sable sons and daughters and place them +on an equality with the rest of her citizens. + +_Resolved_, That we deeply deplore the loss our friends have sustained in +the destruction of their printing press in Cincinnati. + +_Resolved_, That we as an oppressed people, feel it our duty to give our +undivided support to the press and the laborers in our cause. + + * * * * * + +Mr. Israel Lewis made his way to Canada, and having obtained permission to +establish a colony, he bargained with the Canada Company for one township +of land, for which he agreed to pay the money demanded, in a few days, and +then returned to Cincinnati, by way of Rochester. The poor, persecuted +colored people, had in the mean time made ready for their flight from +their homes, their native land, and from this boasted free Republic, to +seek a residence in the cold and dreary wilds of Canada; to claim that +protection from the English government which had been denied them in the +land of their birth; and like the overtasked Israelites, "they went out +with their wives and their little ones," but with smaller possessions. + +During the stay of Mr. Lewis in Rochester, he reported there and +elsewhere, that eleven hundred persons were then in the dense woods of +Canada in a state of actual starvation, and called upon the humane +everywhere, to assist them in such extreme suffering. + +To me he also told the story of their destitution, which affected me +deeply. I had at that time just made a public profession of my faith in +the Christian religion and my determination to be governed by its holy +precepts, I felt for the distressed and suffering everywhere; but +particularly for those who had fled, poor and destitute, from cruel +task-masters, choosing rather the sufferings of cold and hunger, with +liberty, than the meager necessities of life and Slavery. I concluded to +go to Canada and try to do some good; to be of some little service in the +great cause of humanity. + +As soon as practicable therefore, I left Rochester for Toronto, the +capital of Upper Canada, which I found quite a thriving town, and +containing some fine brick buildings, and some I saw were built of mud, +dried in the sun, wearing rather a poor than pretty appearance. At Toronto +we hired a team to take us on to Ancaster, fifty miles distant. We +traveled now through a new country; the roads were very bad, and the +inhabitants few. We, however, reached Ancaster, a small village, where we +remained one night and next morning pursued our journey to the settlement +of the poor fugitives from Cincinnati. After some hard traveling, we +finally arrived at the place where we found our brethren, it is true, but +in quite destitute circumstances. Our fare was poor indeed, but as good as +they could get. The township was one unbroken wilderness when purchased +for the colony, and of course their lands must be cleared of the heavy +timber before crops could be got in, hence, there was a great deal of +destitution and suffering before their harvest could ripen after the land +was prepared for the seed. + +The day after I arrived at the settlement, which consisted of a few rude +log cabins, a meeting was called to give the township a name. Several were +suggested, but I at length motioned to name it in honor of the great +philanthropist, Wilberforce. This was carried, and the township from that +time has been known by that name. It is situated on what is known as the +Huron Tract, Kent County, London District, and is the next north of the +township of London. Our neighbors on the south, were a company of Irish +people, who owned the township, and on the west side were a township of +Welshmen, a hardy, industrious and enterprising people. + +In Wilberforce there were no white inhabitants; the land appeared level +and handsome, with but one stream of any magnitude running through it; +this was the Oxsable, which was dry during a part of the year. All was one +vast forest of heavy timber, that would compare well with that of Western +New York. Beech, maple, ash, elm, oak, whitewood, bass, balm of gilead, +&c. The soil was good for corn, wheat, rye, oats, and most kinds of the +grain and vegetables raised in New York, and was a superior grazing +country, about fifteen miles from London. This was a village containing +perhaps thirty dwellings, and two hundred inhabitants; a court-house and +jail all under one roof, built of stone and plastered; small doors and +windows in the style of some of the old English castles. London was built +in the forks, or between the east and west branches of the river Thames; +hence, you would hear people speak of "going to the forks," instead of the +village; it is about two hundred miles from Buffalo, and the nearest port +between the two is Port Stanley, thirty miles from London. + +I returned from Canada, where I had seen an oppressed people struggling +with the hardships and privations of a new settlement; I had seen +wretchedness in some places, but by no means sufficient to justify +the report made by Mr. Lewis, and I determined I would remove there with +my family, and do all in my power to assist the colored people in Canada. + +I had witnessed a disposition on the part of some to prevent our brethren +from settling in Wilberforce, while the colonizationists made a grand +argument of it in favor of their wicked policy. All must see that it +became a necessity with those who fled to Canada to save themselves from +constant abuse or from Slavery, and in some instances their lives; and not +because they admitted the justice of one portion of American citizens +driving another from their native land; nor their right to colonize them +anywhere on the habitable globe. + +All these things taken into consideration, determined me to join them in +the enterprize of building up an asylum for the oppressed, where our +colored friends could obtain a home, and where, by their industry they +could obtain a competency for themselves, besides providing a safe retreat +for the weary fugitive from Slavery; guiding by its beacon light of +liberty, the destitute and oppressed everywhere, to home and plenty. + +I felt willing to make any sacrifice in my power to serve my Lord, by +administering to the necessities of my down-trodden countrymen. How far my +desire has been accomplished God only knows, but I do know that the purest +motives influenced me, and an honest purpose directed my steps in removing +to Wilberforce. Not so with all, however. Some there were, Judas-like, who +"cared not for the poor; but because he was a thief and had the bag, and +bore what was put therein," made great exertions for a time in favor of +the settlement. It too soon became apparent that to make money was the +prominent object with by far too great a number of the colonists; hence, +our future difficulties. + + + + +CHAPTER XX. + +REMOVAL TO CANADA. + +In 1830, I closed my business in Rochester, preparatory to leaving for +Canada. Some of my friends thought I had better remain in the States and +direct emigrants to Wilberforce; while others were certain I could benefit +them more by going myself at once,--the latter I had determined to do; but +as the time drew near for me to start, an unaccountable gloominess +and forebodings of evil took possession of my mind. Doubts of the +practicability of the undertaking began to arise, though nothing +unfavorable had occurred. To the throne of grace, I often bore the subject +and besought my Heavenly Father to enlighten my mind, and direct my steps +in duty's path regarding it; but to confess the truth, I never received +any great encouragement from that source, though it occupied my mind +constantly. During the hours of slumber I was continually being startled +by frightful dreams,--sometimes I thought I saw a monstrous serpent as +large as a log stretched across the road between Rochester and the +Genesee River; at another I thought myself in the air so high that I could +have a full view of the shores of Lake Ontario, and they were alive with +snakes; and then I saw a large bird like an eagle, rise up out of the +water and fly toward the south. + +Notwithstanding these omens, I turned my steps toward Wilberforce. In May, +1831, we bid adieu to our friends in Rochester, and taking passage to +Buffalo on a canal boat, we arrived in due time, and from whence we sailed +for Port Stanley, or as it is sometimes called, Kettle Creek. It took a +week to make this trip, which, with favorable wind might have been made in +two days. The mouth of the creek makes a safe harbor at that place, where +there is also a dock, one ware-house and several farm houses. The place +was then very wild and picturesque in its appearance; we did not stop +long, however, to admire its beauty, but engaged a farmer to take us on to +London. + +Ten miles on our way, and we came to a newly laid out village, called St. +Thomas, from whence we pursued our journey through a new country to +London, where we arrived tired and hungry, and put up for the night with a +Mr. Faden. There I purchased a span of horses for one hundred and fifty +dollars, and putting them before a new lumber wagon brought on from +Rochester, we started for our wild and new home in good spirits, at which +we arrived in good time. + +The colony was comprised of some fourteen or fifteen families, and +numbered some over fifty persons in all. The first business done after +my arrival, was to appoint a board of managers, to take the general +oversight of all the public business of the colony. The board consisted of +seven men, chosen by the settlers, and as I was now one of them, they gave +me the office of President. It was also resolved by the board, to send out +two agents for the purpose of soliciting aid for the erection of houses +for worship, and for the maintenance of schools in the colony. + +The Rev. N. Paul was chosen one of their agents, and he received from me a +power of attorney, authorising him to collect funds for the above purposes +in England, Ireland, and Scotland; the other, I. Lewis was empowered to +solicit and collect funds for the same objects in the United States. + +Preparations were immediately made to fit Mr. Paul out for his mission to +England, from whence he was to remit any funds he might receive to Arthur +Tappan, of New York City; first to pay for his outfit, and afterwards to +the treasurer of the board of managers, for the support of schools in +Wilberforce. Mr. Paul, however, still lacked money to proceed to England, +and therefore went to Rochester, where he found my old and tried friend +Everard Peck; who was ever known as the poor man's friend, and the support +of the weak everywhere. To this good man, whose memory is still dear to +thousands, Mr. Paul showed his power of attorney, at the same time +informing him of the condition and wants of the colony; and as was ever +his wont, when help was needed, his purse, (though not one of the +heaviest), was at his service. Through the kind influence of Mr. Peck, and +some of the colored friends in that city, a note for seven hundred dollars +was drawn up, signed by Mr. P. and cashed at the Bank, which enabled the +agent to make the voyage without further delay. He reached England, and +collected quite large sums of money, but entirely failed in the remittance +of any sums, either to Mr. Tappan or myself. When the note of seven +hundred dollars became due, Mr. Peck was obliged to pay, and lose it. It +was out of my power, nor had any of the friends the means to do any thing +towards paying it, inasmuch as they had assisted Paul all they could and +got nothing in return. There was one thing, however, that the reverend +gentleman did do,--he wrote me from time to time, to keep me advised of +the success of his mission, and once informed me that he had then twelve +hundred dollars on hand; but not a farthing could we get. We wrote him +again and again, reminding him of the bank debt, and the uneasiness of his +friends on account of it, but all to no purpose,--the Atlantic was between +us, and he was making money too easily, to like to be interrupted. He +never paid one dollar. + +Let us now look after the other agent, who had likewise been fitted +out, to prosecute his mission in the States. That he collected money +professedly for the assistance of the colony, is too well known to +require proof, but how much, we could not determine; we had reason to +believe, however, that he retained quite a large sum. He would neither pay +it over to the board, nor give any account of his proceedings. Very little +did he ever pay over to the aid of the colony as designed. He was +frequently written to, and every means in our power used, to induce him to +give some account of his mission, but in vain; he would do nothing of the +kind. Things went on in this way for two years, when it became evident +that he had no intention of satisfying the minds of the settlers; and +farther, that he meant to collect what he could, and use it as he pleased. +We learned too, that when abroad, he lived extravagantly,--putting up at +the most expensive hotels, giving parties, and doing many things, not only +beyond his means, but that brought dishonor on the cause and colony. When +he returned to the settlement, he would, if he had funds, make presents to +his particular friends instead of paying it to the treasurer, as he was +pledged to do, until the majority of the colony became thoroughly +disgusted with his heartlessness and dishonesty. It was also perceivable +that Lewis and Paul both, were getting weary of the solicitations of the +board and complaints of the settlers, and were anxious to be rid of them, +and enjoy their ill gotten gains in their own way. + +It was never intended by the managers, to send out agents to beg money to +be divided among the colonists; but to support schools, &c. Most of the +settlers were able to work and did so; and were now getting along quite +pleasantly. + +Finally, after we had tried every means in vain, to get a settlement with +Lewis, and to obtain his papers, there was nothing more we could do, but +to warn the public against him, by publishing the facts in the case; this +we did in various newspapers of Canada and in the States. An article +inserted in the "Rochester Observer," to that effect, was like throwing a +lighted match into a keg of powder. The excitement was intense on the part +of Lewis and his friends, who were joined by the friends of N. Paul, to +destroy, if they could, the board of managers. I, however, being the only +member of that devoted board, who happened to be extensively known in the +States, their anathemas were all poured out on me, and all their energies +brought forward to insure my destruction. They were few in number, it is +true, but they had money, and I had little to spend in litigation; +besides, Lewis was in debt, and his creditors did not like to see his +means of paying them swept away. The Canadians seemed to think there was +no harm done if Lewis did get money out of the "Yankees," as long as it +came into their hands at last, and so, on the whole, they raised a +tremendous storm, designed, however, to sweep nobody away but myself; and +I have continued to this day, notwithstanding all their artful malignity. +Nothing, I am persuaded, could have saved me from imprisonment at that +time, had I not possessed a high reputation for truth and honesty during +my previous sojourn in the colony. + +Lewis had dealt somewhat extensively with Mr. Jones, who was the principal +agent for the Canada Company; but failing to fulfil his agreement, +regarding the payment for a large tract of land, it so exasperated Mr. +Jones, that he declared he would have nothing to do with any of the +colored people; and so when I wanted to buy a lot of land, he would not +sell it to me because he so despised Lewis. + +How much harm can one wicked man do! and yet it cannot be right to judge +the character of a whole class or community by that of one person. + + + + +CHAPTER XXI. + +ROUGHING IT IN THE WILDS OF CANADA. + +The "Canada Company," of which I have so frequently spoken, was an +association of wealthy gentlemen, residing in England; something like the +East India Company, especially regarding the title of lands. They had sent +on their agent and purchased a large tract of land known as the "Huron +Tract," extending from London to Lake Huron, where they laid out a +village, named Goderich, sixty miles distant from Wilberforce. With this +company, Mr. Lewis had contracted for a township of land, as agent for the +Cincinnati refugees; but failing to meet the demand, the company kindly +extended the time of payment; but when that time also passed without +receiving any thing from Lewis, the general agent, Mr. Jones became so +indignant, that he utterly refused to sell a foot of land to any colored +person whatever. This proved to be one of the greatest detriments to the +prosperity of the colony it ever met. + +The Society of Friends at this time, however, with commendable sympathy +for the oppressed and abused colored residents of Cincinnati, and with +their proverbial liberality, raised a sum of money sufficient to purchase +eight hundred acres of land of the Canada Company for the benefit of the +colony. The funds were placed in the hands of one of their number, +Frederick Stover, who went to Canada as their agent, purchased the land, +and settled colored people upon it, which comprised nearly all of the +Wilberforce settlement. This occurred before I settled in Canada, and +the consequence was, when I desired to purchase land, none could be +obtained. At the time, however, of which I am speaking, the Canada Company +were constructing a road through their possessions, some seventy miles in +length, and the principal contractor, Mr. Ingersoll, had agreed to take +land in part payment for his services on the road. In accordance with this +agreement, he accepted one lot of land situated within the Wilberforce +settlement, which he agreed to sell to Mr. Lewis for twenty-five dollars. +Mr. Lewis, knowing that I was anxious to purchase, accepted the offer, +and then came and showed the contract, offering it to me on condition that +I paid him the twenty-five dollars which he had just paid Mr. Ingersoll. +This I was glad to do; I paid the demand; took an assignment on the back +of the receipt, and passed into immediate possession of the land. He at +the same time requested me to take up a note of twenty-five dollars for +him; which I did, on his promising to refund the money in a short time. + +I commenced laboring on the wild land I had purchased; cleared some ten +acres, which in consequence of its being so heavily timbered, cost me at +least twenty-five dollars per acre; built a house and barn--supposing +myself its legal possessor,--until I chanced to meet Mr. Ingersoll, who +informed me that Mr. Jones had refused to sell him the land to be disposed +of to a colored person; that he had duly informed Lewis of the fact, and +had returned to him the twenty-five dollars received. Not a word of this, +had Lewis communicated to me, though he knew I was making expensive +improvements, in the faith that I was its only owner. Instead of atoning +for the wrong already done me, he made it the basis of a deeper injury. + +After one year's residence in Wilberforce, I found it necessary to return +to Rochester to settle some unfinished business; and when on my way +thither I stopped at London, where I found Lewis, who had not only +preceded me but had taken out a _capias_, for forty pounds currency. I was +therefore obliged to get bail for my appearance at court, after which I +pursued my journey. + +On my arrival in Rochester, I found business at a stand; and the community +in a state of excitement and alarm, on account of that fell destroyer, the +cholera. This was its first visit to the United States, and the fearful +havoc it was making, spread terror and consternation throughout the land. +I returned to Canada; but found on my arrival at London, that "the +pestilence that walketh at noon-day," had preceded me, and taken from that +village my friend, Mr. Ingersoll, with several others. So great had been +the alarm, that instead of my appearing at court as I expected to do, I +found it adjourned, and the judge returned to his home. + +I hastened on to Wilberforce, which had fortunately escaped the fearful +scourge, with terrible apprehensions. + +Having a little spare time, I went out with my rifle, in search of deer; +but soon came upon a large wolf, which I wounded with the first shot; he, +however, sprang aside and was gone. On looking about for him I espied +another!--reloading my rifle, I fired, and he fell dead at my feet, while +my dog at the same time I heard barking furiously. Having dispatched this +second intruder, I saw that my dog had the first one, entangled in the +branches of a fallen tree. I searched for my balls, and was vexed to find +that I had left them at home. In this predicament I cut with my knife, a +knot from a beech limb, put it in my rifle, and took deadly aim at the +enraged wolf. The wooden ball struck him between the eyes and killed him +on the spot. + +The two dead animals, with their skins, I sold for nine dollars and a +half,--making pretty good wages for a few hours labor. + +Hunting was very generally pursued by the settlers, with great earnestness +and considerable skill. The forest abounded with deer, wolves, bears, and +other wild animals. Bears were plenty, and very troublesome because so +dangerously tame. One day, our children had built for themselves a +play-house, a few rods from the door, and were enjoying their play when +they were called in to dinner. A moment after, I observed one of the +settlers gazing intently at the play-house; I called to know what so +attracted his attention, and he informed me that an old bear, with three +cubs, had just then taken possession of the playhouse. And sure enough +there they were! knocking about among the dishes, and munching the crumbs +of bread which the children had left. The man was supplied with a loaded +rifle and urged to shoot them, but he begged to be excused from a pitched +battle with so many; and the bears leisurely took their departure for the +woods without molestation. The play-house, however, was soon deserted by +the children after these unbidden guests had made so free with it; and +we were ourselves somewhat alarmed for the safety of our children, who +were accustomed to roam in the edge of the forest, and make swings of the +luxuriant grape vines. + +But such incidents are common in a new country, surrounded as we were by a +dense wilderness. + + + + +CHAPTER XXII. + +NARROW ESCAPE OF A SMUGGLER. + +From the time I first settled in Wilberforce, my house had ever been open +to travelers and strangers; but a conversation I happened to overhear, +led me to take a course different from what I had at first intended. I was +at a public house about twenty miles from home, when I heard the landlord +advising his guest to eat heartily, for, said he, "you will find nothing +more worthy of your attention, until you reach Wilberforce. When you +arrive at that settlement, inquire for A. Steward, from the States, and he +will give you a meal fit for a prince." I began to reflect on the subject +and concluded, inasmuch as people would send company to me, it would be +better to make some preparation for entertaining them. I had plenty of +furniture, and all I needed was a larger supply of food, to commence +keeping a tavern. This was easily obtained, and I opened a public house +which was well patronized. + +One day while I was absent from home, a man drove to the door the finest +span of horses, I think I ever saw,--black as jet, with proudly arched +necks, and glossy tails that nearly swept the ground. The gentleman sprang +from his carriage, bounded through the open door, and in the most excited +manner, began to inquire "who owns this establishment? When will he +return? Can I be accommodated? Can I see your barn?" &c. The stable boy +took him to the barn, from whence he soon returned; his face flushed, and +breathing so heavily as to be heard all through the apartment; trembling +so violently that he could scarcely speak at all,--but made out to +inquire, "if there was not some place besides the barn where he could put +his horses?" He was told that there was a small shelter built for cows, in +bad weather, and the next moment he was examining it. In a very short time +he had his horses and carriage stowed away in the cow-shed. He acted like +a crazy man; but when he had secured his horses, he re-entered the house +and frankly apologized for his conduct. "I may as well tell you the +truth," said he; "I am suspected of smuggling goods; a reward is offered +for my arrest, and the constables are on my track, in pursuit of me. My +name is Cannouse, and I am from M----, in Ontario County." + +But perhaps they can not prove you guilty of smuggling, said I, in an +after conversation. + +"Ah," said he, "there is for me no such hope or probability; I have +been engaged for the last few months in the sale of dress-goods and +broad-cloths, and my exposure and flight is the consequence of my own +folly. While in the village of St. Catharines, I took a young girl out to +ride, after she had engaged to accompany another young fellow, which of +course offended him; and he being too well posted up on my affairs, went +directly to the custom house officer and informed against me. I was +sitting in the parlor, perfectly at ease, when a young man, a relative of +the young lady in question, burst into the room, shouting, 'Fly! fly! for +your life! The officers are upon you!' And I did fly; with barely time to +reach the woods, for as I sprang through the back door, the officers +entered through the front door. My horses were my first consideration; +they had been raised by my father, and should I lose them, I should never +dare to meet him again. In my hasty flight, I engaged the young man to +conceal them till night, and then to drive them to a certain place where I +would meet him. This he did, and I kept on my flight until I came to the +house of a friend, where I halted to make inquiries. The gentleman had +just come from London, and had seen handbills at every conspicuous place, +describing me and my horses. I asked him what I should do? He said, 'you +are not safe a moment; there is no hope but in flight; avoid the main +road, and get to the colony if you can; if you succeed, go to A. Steward; +he is an upright man and will never betray you for money,' And here I +am: if I am arrested, six months imprisonment, three hundred dollars fine, +and the forfeiture of my father's valuable and favorite horses, will be +my portion. I have had no regular meal for the last three days, and my +head aches violently." + +We gave him some refreshment, and conducted him to a room, assuring him +that he should have it to himself. All remained quiet until midnight, when +a man knocked cautiously at our door. I opened it myself, and a gentleman, +looking carefully about the place, inquired, + +"Are you full?" + +"No," said I. + +"Have you any travelers here to night?" + +"Yes." + +"How many?" + +"Two." + +"Where are they?" + +"In this room; walk in, sir." + +He took the light from my hand, and stepping lightly up to a bed, where +two travelers were quietly sleeping, he closely examined their faces. He +soon returned the light, and without further inquiry retired from the +house. When his companions came up, I distinctly heard him tell them that +the smuggler was not there. + +"You may be mistaken," said the other, "and we must search the barn for +his horses." + +This they did thoroughly, after procuring a lantern; but without finding +any thing to reward their diligent search; and they finally drove off. + +When they had gone, Cannouse groaned most bitterly, and trembled from head +to foot at the thought of his narrow escape. The next day an officer rode +up to where the children were playing, with a handbill which he read, and +inquired if they had seen a person bearing that description, pass _that +day?_ They answered negatively, and he rode on. The poor frightened +Cannouse stayed with us a week; and nearly every day during the time, the +house and barn were searched for him. The children kept watch, and when +they saw any one coming they would let him know, in time to take himself +and horses into a thicket near by. When he thought pursuit was over, he +started to leave; but when, in a half hour after, a _posse_ of men drove +up to my door, flourishing their handbills, I thought it all over with +Cannouse. I told them that he was not there; but they chose to have +another search, and when they found nothing, the officer sprang into his +carriage, exclaiming, "come on, boys; we'll soon have him now; we have +tracked him here, and he can't be far off." + +Cannouse had left us, feeling quite secure; but he had traveled but a +short distance, when he observed a horse shoe loose, and to get it +fastened he drove down to a blacksmith's shop, which happened to stand +at the foot of a hill; and between it and the highway there had been left +standing a clump of trees which nearly hid it from view. While there, +getting his horse shod, the officers passed him unobserved, and he +finally escaped. + +Some time after, a gentleman called on us who had seen Cannouse in +Michigan, where he was doing well. He had succeeded in reaching Detroit, +from whence he passed safely to his home; but probably learned a lesson +not to be forgotten. He was a talented young man--one who would have felt +deeply the disgrace of imprisonment,--and it was indeed a pleasure to me +to do what I could, to effect his release from an unenviable position. I +would never have betrayed him; but happily I was not asked directly for +him, until he was gone from my house and protection. + + + + +CHAPTER XXIII. + +NARRATIVE OF TWO FUGITIVES FROM VIRGINIA. + +The settlers in Wilberforce, were in general, industrious and thrifty +farmers: they cleared their land, sowed grain, planted orchards, raised +cattle, and in short, showed to the world that they were in no way +inferior to the white population, when given an equal chance with them. In +proof of this let me say, that it was uniformly the practice of persons +traveling from London to Goderich, to remain in our settlement over night, +in preference to going on to find entertainment among their own class of +people. And we believe that the whites are bound to admit, that the +experiment of the Wilberforce colony proves that the colored man can not +only take care of himself, but is capable of improvement; as industrious +and intelligent as themselves, when the yoke is taken from off their +necks, and a chance given them to exercise their abilities. True, many of +them had just escaped from cruel task-masters; ignorant of almost every +thing but the lash,--but the air of freedom so invigorated and put new +life into their weary bodies, that they soon became intelligent and +thrifty. + +Among the settlers might be gathered many a thrilling narrative, of +suffering and hair-breadth escapes from the slave-land,--one of which I +will tell as 'twas told to me. + +In a small rude cabin, belonging to one of the large plantations in +Virginia, sat at a late hour of the night, an afflicted slave-man and his +devoted wife, sad and weeping. At length the husband repeated what he +before had been saying: + +"I tell you, wife, we must flee from this place, without delay. Oh, I +cannot endure the idea of seeing you sold for the Southern market, to say +nothing of myself; and we shall most likely be separated, which I can't +bear! Oh, Rosa, the thought distracts me,--I can't bear it!" + +"Are you sure," said Rosa, "that master thinks of such a frightful doom +for us?" + +"Oh yes, I know it; I heard master to-day making a bargain with the slave +dealer that has been hanging about here so long; and when it was finished, +I heard him reading over the list, and our names, wife, are the first on +it." + +"Oh, dear!" sobbed the wife, "we shall certainly be retaken and whipped +to death; or else we shall starve in the wilderness! Oh, it is very hard +to be compelled to leave all our friends and the old plantation where we +were born!" + +"Yes; it is both hard and unjust," said Joe, and an indignant frown +contracted his brow,--"here is our birth-place, and here, for forty years +have I toiled early and late to enrich my master; and you, my poor wife, a +few years less; and now we are to be sold, separated, and all without a +choice of our own. We must go, Rosa. If we die, let us die together!" + +"It shall be as you say, Joe," she replied, "but it frightens me to think +of the hardships of the way, and the danger of being recaptured." + +"Courage, wife: no fate can be worse than the one designed for us; and we +have no time to lose. Tomorrow night, then, we must make the first effort +to gain our liberty, and leave all that is dear to us except each other!" +And they retired to rest, but not to sleep. + +The following night was very dark; and as soon as all was quiet on the +plantation, they stole out of their cabin and stealthily crept over the +ground until they reached the highway; and then, guided only by the north +star, they made their way to the nearest woods. So fearful had they been +of being suspected, that they took no provision of any kind with them. All +night they plunged forward through the tangled thicket and under-brush, +surrounded by thick darkness, glancing now and then upward to their only +light, + + "Star of the North! though night winds drift the fleecy + drapery of the sky, + + Between thy lamp and thee, I lift, yea, lift with hope + my sleepless eye." + +When day dawned they threw their weary bodies on the ground, famished +and thirsty, and waited for the darkness to again conceal them while they +pursued their journey. The second day of their flight, the pain of hunger +became almost beyond endurance. They found a few roots which relieved them +a little; but frequently they lost their way, and becoming bewildered, +knew not which way to go; they pushed on, however, determined to keep as +far from their pursuers as possible. Their shoes were soon worn out; but +bare-footed, bare-headed, and famishing with hunger, they pressed forward, +until the fourth day, when they found themselves too weak to proceed +farther. Hope, the anchor of the soul, had failed them! They were starving +in a dense forest! No track or path could they find, and even had they +seen a human being, they would have been more terrified than at the sight +of a wild beast! + +Poor Rosa, could go no farther--her strength was all gone--and as her +emaciated husband laid her on the cold earth, he exclaimed, "Oh, dear God! +_must_ we, after all our efforts, starve in this dark wilderness! Beside +his fainting wife, he finally stretched himself, sheltered only by a few +bushes, and tried to compose himself to die! but resting a few moments +revived him, and he aroused himself, to make one more effort for life! +Stay you here, wife, and I will try once more to find the highway; it +cannot be far from here; and if I am taken, I will submit to my fate +without a struggle; we can but die." So saying, he left her, and began to +reconnoitre the country around them. Much sooner than he expected +he emerged from the wood, and not far distant he saw a house in the +direction from whence he came; being, however, as most of the slaves are, +superstitious, he thought it would be a bad omen to turn backward, and so +continued to look about him. It seemed, he said, that some unseen power +held him, for though starving as he was, he could not take a step in that +direction; and at last as he turned around, to his great joy, he saw +another dwelling a little way off, and toward that he hastened his now +lightened footsteps. With a palpitating heart, he approached the door and +knocked cautiously. The man of the house opened it, and as soon as he saw +him, he said, "You are a fugitive slave, but be not alarmed, come in; no +harm shall befall you here; I shall not inquire from whence you came; it +is enough for me to know that you are a human being in distress; consider +me your friend, and let me know your wants." + +"Bread! Oh, for a morsel of bread!" said the famished creature, while his +hitherto wild and sunken eyes, began to distil grateful tears. The "good +Samaritan" stepped to another apartment and brought him a piece of bread, +which he expected to see him devour at once, but instead, he looked at +it wistfully, literally devouring it with his eyes; turned it over and +over, and at last stammered out, "my good master, without a piece of bread +for my poor starving wife, I can never swallow this, tempting as it is." + +"Poor man," said his benefactor, "can it be that you have a wife with you, +wretched as yourself?" He brought out a loaf of bread, some cheese and +meat, and while the fugitive was preparing to return, the kind gentleman +said, "I am glad you came to me; had you called at the house you first +saw, you would have been betrayed, and immediately arrested. You must +remember," he continued, "that you are young and valuable slaves, and that +your master will make every effort in his power to find you, especially +since he has made a sale of you. To-day and to-night, remain in the woods, +and the next morning you may come to me, if all is quiet; should I see +danger approaching you, I will warn you of it by the crack my rifle. Go +now, to your poor wife, and listen for the signal of danger; if you hear +none, come to me at the appointed time." He returned, and after feeding +his helpless Rosa, she revived, and soon felt quite comfortable and +grateful. + +When the morning came for them to leave their retreat, they listened +intently, but hearing nothing, Joe started for the residence of his +friend. He had been gone but a short time, when his wife, who lay in +the bushes, thought she heard the tramp of horses,--she crept nearer +the highway, and peeping through the bush--Oh, horror! what was her +consternation and sickening fear, to find herself gazing upon the +well-known features of her old master, and two of his neighbors, all armed +to the teeth! Her heart seemed to stand still, and the blood to chill in +her veins. Had she been discovered she would have been an easy prey, for +she declared that she could not move a step. In the meantime her husband +had got about half way to the residence of his preserver, when his quick +ear detected the sound made by the feet of horses, and as he stopped to +listen more intently, the sharp crack of a rifle sent him bounding back to +his concealment in the forest. + +The party of horsemen rode on to the dwelling of the kind hearted +gentleman, and inquired whether he had seen any fugitive slaves pass that +way. + +"I saw," said he, "a man and woman passing rapidly along the road, but do +not know whether they were fugitives, as I did not see their faces." The +human blood-hound, thanked the gentleman for the information, and +immediately set out in pursuit; but, just as the informant had intended, +in a direction _opposite_ to that the slaves had taken. That night, Joe +and Rosa visited the house of their benefactor, where they were supplied +with clothing and as much food as they could carry; and next day they went +on their way rejoicing. They settled in Cincinnati, where they lived +happily, until the mob drove them with others, to the Wilberforce +settlement, where they are in no danger of the auction block, or of a +Southern market; and are as much devoted to each other as ever. + + + + +CHAPTER XXIV. + +PLEASANT RE-UNION OF OLD AND TRIED FRIENDS. + +It is well known to those who have assisted in clearing land in a new +country, that bears, who are not Jews, are very troublesome, and levy a +heavy tax on the settlers, to supply themselves with pork-their favorite +food. One old bear in particular, had for a long time annoyed the +colonists, by robbing their hog-stys almost every night. We failed in all +our plans to destroy his life, until a woman saw him one day, walking at +ease through the settlement. A half dozen of us gave chase immediately, +and came up with him after traveling two miles. So anxious was I to kill +him, that I fired at first sight and missed him, which gave us another +two miles chase. When, however, we came up, he was seated on a branch of a +tree, leisurely surveying us and the dogs, with great complacency. The +contents of my rifle brought him to the ground, and stirred his blood for +battle. One blow from his powerful paw, sent my fine greyhound some yards +distant, sprawling upon the ground, and when he renewed the attack, Bruin +met him with extended jaws, taking and munching his head in his mouth. My +rifle was now reloaded, and the second shot killed him on the spot. We +tied his legs together, and lifting him on a pole, marched in triumph into +the settlement, where guns were discharged and cheers given, in +approbation of our success. + +One winter's evening we had drawn closely around the blazing fire, for the +air was piercing cold without, and the snow four feet deep on a level. Now +and then, a traveler might be seen on snow-shoes; but though our cabin was +situated on the king's highway, we seldom saw company on such a night as +this. While the wind whistled, and the snow drifted about our dwelling, we +piled the wood higher in our ample fire-place, and seated ourselves again, +to resume the conversation, when I was startled by a loud and furious +knocking at the door. I opened it to what I supposed to be three Indians. +Their costume was that of the red man; but the voice of him who addressed +me was not that of an Indian. "Can you keep three poor devils here +to-night?" said he, and when I made farther inquiry, he repeated the same +question; "we can sleep," he continued, "on the soft side of a board; only +give us poor devils a shelter." + +I told him we were not accustomed to turn away any one on such a night; +that they were welcome to come in; and they were soon seated around our +large and cheerful fire. + +They had laid aside their snow-shoes and knapsacks, and the heat of the +fire soon made their blankets uncomfortable; but as one of them made a +move to throw it off, another was heard to whisper, "wait a little; we are +among strangers, you know; so do not make a display of yourself." The +fellow drew his blanket about him; but we had heard and seen enough to +awaken curiosity, if not suspicion. In passing out of the room soon after, +I heard one of these pretended Indians say to his companion, "I know these +folks are from the States, for I smell coffee." When they finally sat down +to table, and saw silver upon it, they cast surprised and knowing glances +at each other, all of which we closely observed, and were convinced, that +they were not red men of the forest, but belonged to that race who had so +long looked haughtily down upon the colored people; that the least +exhibition of comfort, or show of refinement astonished them beyond +measure. + +In the meantime, my wife had whispered to me that she was sure that the +principal speaker was no other than the aristocratic Mr. G----, of +Canandaigua. I could not believe it; I could not recognize in that +savage costume, one who had been bred in affluence, and "the star" of +genteel society. But my wife soon developed the affair to our mutual +satisfaction: G----, on taking from her a cup of coffee, remarked, "this +looks good; and I have had no good coffee since I left my mother's house." + +"Does your mother still reside in C----?" asked Mrs. Steward. + +"My mother! my mother! what do you know of my mother!" said he, looking +sharply at her; but observing that they were recognized, they began to +laugh, and we had a hearty congratulation all round; while G----, +starting-up from table, exclaimed, + +"Come, boys, off with this disguise; we are among friends now." + +Our Indian guests, now appeared in costume more like "Broadway dandies," +than savages. Dressed in the finest cloth, with gold chains and repeaters; +and all that constituted the toilet of a gentleman. After tea they +requested to dry some costly furs, which they took from their knapsacks +and hung around the fire. The following day they took their leave, with +many apologies and explanations, regarding their appearance and conduct. +They were in the wilderness, they said, trading for very valuable furs; +they had money, jewelry and rich goods, which they had taken that method +to conceal. + +During all this time, there had been another visitor in the house, who was +sitting in a corner, absorbed in writing. Our mock Indians had noticed him, +and not knowing who he was, expressed a determination "to quiz that deaf +old devil," after supper. We all seated ourselves around the fire, and +our Canandaigua friends, though no longer savages, had not forgotten the +silent man in the corner; they began to question him, and he aroused +himself for conversation; nor was it long before they forgot their design +to quiz him, and found themselves charmed listeners to the brilliant +conversation, of that world-renowned champion of humanity, Benjamin Lundy, +for he it was. + +On this particular evening, he gave us a sketch of his journey to Hayti; +to accompany there and settle some emancipated slaves; which I thought +very interesting, and as I have never seen it in print I will here relate +it, as near as I can, in his own words: + +In the State of Maryland, there lived a slaveholder the proprietor of some +sixty slaves, and being somewhat advanced in years, he determined to free +them, in accordance with the laws of that State, which required that they +be sent out of it. + +He had thought the matter over, but being undecided where to send them, he +sent for Mr. Lundy to assist him in his proposed plan; who was only too +glad to comply with a request calculated to carry out his own plans of +philanthropy and equal rights. + +When he had listened to the suggestions and expressed desires of the +planter, he offered his arguments in favor of the West India Islands; and +it was decided to send them to Hayti, as their future place of residence. + +Six weeks were allowed for preparations; then Mr. Lundy was to return and +take charge of them on the voyage, and see them settled in their new +homes. + +When the appointed time arrived, Mr. Lundy was there to accompany them on +board a vessel bound for Hayti; on which was furnished as comfortable +quarters, as the kindness of their conscientious master and his own +benevolent heart could suggest. When all was ready, the Christian master +came on board, to take leave of those faithful servants,--many of whom +had served him from their childhood, and all of whom he had bound to his +heart by kindness and Christian benevolence. It was a sad parting; not +because the slaves did not love liberty, but because they appreciated +their master's kind forbearance, and solicitude for their future welfare. +He had ever been a humane and indulgent master; one who lightened the +burthen of the poor slave, all in his power. A moment's reflection will +show, that it is invariably this conscientious kind of slaveholders, who +are induced to emancipate their slaves; and not the avaricious, cruel +tyrant, who neither fears God nor regards his fellow man. + +The master of the slaves had kindly informed them of his intentions,--of +the probable length of the voyage, and the unavoidable sickness they would +experience, &c.; but now, they were gazing up into his kind face for the +last time, as he knelt in prayer, commending that numerous flock--raised +on his own plantation--to the care and protection of Almighty God, +beseeching Him to protect them in the storm and dangers of the ocean; to +guide them through this life, and save them in the world to come; until +the sobs and cries of the poor slaves drowned his utterance. He at length +took his final leave of them, and of Mr. Lundy; and the ship sailed +immediately. They, however, met storms and adverse winds, which detained +them; and then the poor, ignorant slaves began to believe what they had +before suspected: that this was only some wicked plan of Mr. Lundy's, laid +to entice them away from a kind master, and to plunge them into some +dreadful degradation and suffering. "Master" had not told them of the +adverse winds, and they were certain that some mischief was intended; they +grew sullen and disobedient; and notwithstanding the kindness of Mr. +Lundy, they murmured and complained, until his kind heart sank within +him; still he pursued the even tenor of his way, trusting in God for +deliverance. He watched over them in sickness, and administered to all +their wants; but his tender solicitude for their health and comfort, only +excited suspicion, and increased their ungrateful ill humor. + +One pleasant evening, Mr. Lundy paced the deck in deep thought. He was +sad, and well nigh hopeless. He had seen enough in the fierce look and +sullen scowl; and had heard enough of the bitterness, and threatening +anger of the negroes, to know that a storm was gathering, which must soon +burst in all its wild fury over his devoted head. He was a small, feeble +man, compared with those who watched his every movement, and gnashed their +teeth upon him so fiercely. None but the Almighty could save him now; and +to Him who "rides upon the wings of the wind, and maketh the clouds His +chariot," he drew near in fervent prayer; after which he retired in peace +and confidence to his berth. During the night, a fine breeze sprang up; +and when he went on deck the next morning, they were in sight of the +luxuriant shore of Hayti! The officers of the island boarded the ship; but +their language was unintelligible to the negroes, who still looked daggers +at every one who spoke. They landed; but the fearful, and ungrateful +slaves continued sullen and forbidding. Mr. Lundy left them, however, and +went into the country, where he selected their future residence; and made +every preparation for their comfort and convenience in his power; saw them +conveyed to their neat, pleasant homes, and all happily settled. This work +was accomplished; and he merely called to bid adieu to his ungrateful +charge, when he found that one of the slaves had been appointed to speak +to him, in behalf of the whole number, and confess how deeply they had +wronged him. While they were conversing, the others gathered around, with +tears and prayers for forgiveness; and finally fell at his feet, imploring +pardon for themselves, and blessings on the kind, patient and humane +Benjamin Lundy. He hurried from the affecting scene, and soon after +returned to America. + +Thus that cold evening passed more pleasantly away in our rude cabin; and +our Canandaigua gentlemen, after an agreeable acquaintance, and pleasant +chat with Mr. Lundy, retired for the night--not like savages, but like +gentlemen as they were; and I doubt not, with a more exalted opinion of +"the deaf old devil in the corner" + + + + +CHAPTER XXV. + +PRIVATE LOSSES AND PRIVATE DIFFICULTIES. + +Soon after settling in Wilberforce, I found that the rumor I had heard in +the States, concerning the refusal to sell land to colored persons, was +literally correct, and my farm being too small to yield a support for my +family, and knowing it would be useless to apply for more land, I engaged +to carry packages for different merchants in the adjoining villages, as +well as to and from the settlement. Possessing a pair of excellent horses +and a good wagon, I found it a profitable business, and the only one I +could well do, to eke out the proceeds of my farm, and meet my expenses. + +One day as I was returning from the village, one of my horses was taken +suddenly ill. I took him to a tavern near by, and as I could discover no +cause for his illness, I concluded to leave him a few days, supposing rest +would soon restore him. I accordingly hired another horse, and returned to +the colony. In a day or two after, I collected my packages as usual, and +started on my route, designing to leave the hired horse and take my own; +but when I arrived at the tavern, I found some Indians engaged in taking +off the hide and shoes of my poor, dead horse. This was indeed, a great +loss to me; but I consoled myself with the thought that I had one good +horse left, yet he would hardly be sufficient to accomplish alone, the +labor I had engaged to perform; nor had I the means to spare, to purchase +another. I therefore hired one, and commenced business again, with the +determination to make up my loss by renewed diligence and perseverance. + +I started in good spirits; but had proceeded but a few miles, when my +remaining horse, which I had supposed perfectly sound, reeled and fell in +the harness! And before I could relieve him of it, my noble animal and +faithful servant, had breathed his last! Without a struggle or a movement +he lay lifeless on the cold earth. I was sad. I deplored the loss of my +good, and valuable team; but more the mystery and suspicion that hung over +the event. I returned home and sat down to devise some plan of procedure. +What could I do? Half the means of our support had been suddenly +and mysteriously snatched from us. What could I do next? While thus +ruminating, I arose to answer a summons at the door, and who should enter +but Mr. B. Paul, a brother to our foreign agent, who had so long absented +himself from our house, that I was indeed surprised to see him at this +time. He, however, seated himself, with great apparent concern for my +recent loss, which he soon made the subject of conversation and the +object of his visit. + +"There has been," said he, "a great deal of unpleasant feeling, and +injudicious speaking on both sides, for which I am heartily sorry. The +colony is too weak to sustain a division of feelings; and now, that your +recent losses have left you in a far less favorable condition to sustain +yourself and family, I have called to make a settlement of our former +difficulties, and to offer you two hundred and fifty dollars out of the +collections for the colony." + +I saw through the plan at once, and considered it only a bribe, to prevent +my exposing the iniquity of others. Should I consent to take a part of the +ill-gotten spoils, with what confidence could I attempt to stay the hand +of the spoiler. I wanted money very much, it is true; but after a moment's +reflection, not enough to sanction the manner in which it had been +obtained; and though I confess, the offer presented to me a strong +temptation, I am thankful that I was enabled to resist it. I refused to +accept the money; and after sending away the tempter and his offered gain, +I felt my heart lighter, and my conscience more peaceful than is often the +lot of sinful, erring man in this world of trial and conflict; and yet I +could but feel that the mystery in which the death of my horses was +involved, was partially at least, explained. + + + + +CHAPTER XXVI. + +INCIDENTS AND PECULIARITIES OF THE INDIANS. + +During our residence in Canada, we were often visited by the Indians, +which gave us an opportunity to learn their character, habits and +disposition; and some incidents illustrative of the peculiarities of that +abused people, I will here mention. + +I recollect one bitter cold night, about eleven o'clock, I happened to +awake, and looking out toward the fire, I was surprised to see standing +there, erect and quiet, a tall, brawny Indian, wrapped in his blanket; +his long hunting knife and tomahawk dangling from his belt; and his rifle +in his hand. Had he been in his own wigwam, he could not have looked +about him with more satisfaction and independence. I instantly sprang to +my feet, and demanded his errand. + +"Me lost in the woods, and me come to stay all night," was his grave +reply. + +"Then," said I, "give me your weapons, and I will make no objection." + +He disarmed himself, and gave his weapons to me, with an air of haughty +disdain for my fears. I put them in a place of safety and then prepared +his bed, which was nothing more than the floor, where they choose to +sleep, with their head to the fire. My offer of anything different from +this he proudly resented as an insult to his powers of endurance, and +would say, "beds for pale faces and women; hard board for Indians." He +threw himself down, drew his blanket about him, and was soon sleeping +soundly. As soon as the day began to dawn, he was up, called for his arms, +and after thanking me in the brief Indian style of politeness, departed +for the forest. He had found our doors all fastened, save a low back door, +through which he entered, passing through a back room so full of +miscellaneous articles, that it was difficult to go through it in the day +time without upsetting something; but the Indian understood all this, he +made no noise, nor would he have spoken at all, had I not awakened; and +yet, he would have scorned to injure any one beneath the roof that gave +him shelter, unless he had been intoxicated. + +One sabbath afternoon, one of my children was sitting in the door, when a +tall, emaciated Indian came up and said, "Will my little lady please to +give me a drink of water?" While she went for it, I invited him to a seat +within. There was something dignified and commanding in his appearance, +and something in his voice and countenance, that won my confidence and +respect at once. He remained in the place some time, and I learned his +history. + +In his younger days he had been a great warrior; and even now, when +recounting, as he often did, the scenes of the battle field, his eye would +burn with savage fire, lighting up his whole countenance with the fiercest +kind of bravery, and often with a hideous yell that would startle our very +souls, he would burst from the room and bound over the fields and forest, +with the fleetness of a deer--making the woods ring with his frightful +war-cry, until the blood seemed ready to curdle in our veins. He had also +been one of the famous Tecumseh's braves; and had stood by him when he +fell on the fifth of October, 1813. This old brave, whenever he called the +name of Tecumseh, bowed his head reverently; and would often try to tell +us how very deeply they mourned when it could no longer be doubted that +the brave heart of Tecumseh, brother of the celebrated Wabash prophet, +had ceased to beat. + +"Had an arrow pierced the sun and brought it to my feet," said the old +warrior, "I could not have been more astounded than at the fall of +Tecumseh." Then he told us that once, after a great and victorious battle, +Tecumseh, in his war paint and feathers, stood in the midst of his braves, +when a little pale faced girl made her way weeping to him and said, "My +mother is very ill, and your men are abusing her, and refuse to go away." +"Never," said the Indian, "did I see a frown so terrible on the face of +Tecumseh, as at that moment; when he with one hand clutched his tomahawk, +and with the other led the little girl to the scene of riot. He approached +the unruly savages with uplifted tomahawk, its edge glittering like +silver, and with one shout of 'begone!' they scattered as though a +thunderbolt had fallen in their midst." + +But the old warrior at Wilberforce fought no more battles, except in +imagination those of the past. After peace was declared he bought a +valuable piece of land, with the intention of spending the remainder of +his life more quietly; but unfortunately there lived not far from him a +man who had once been the possessor of that farm, and had lost it in some +way, and was now in reduced circumstances. + +He was both envious and vicious; and because he could not himself buy the +land, he was determined that the old Indian should not have it. After +having tried many ways to get it from him, he finally complained of him, +for fighting for the British and against the country where he now resided. +This was successful; he was arrested and thrown into prison, and without +a trial, removed from one prison to another, until he, with several +others, was sent South to be tried as traitors. While on the way, the +keeper of this Indian wished to call on his mother, who lived in a +little cottage by the roadside, to bid her farewell. She was an aged +woman, and when her son left her to join his companions, she followed him +to the door weeping, wringing her hands in great distress, and imploring +the widow's God to protect her only son. She had had four; all of whom +went forth, with an American mother's blessing, to fight in defence of +their country; and this one alone, returned alive from the field of +battle. Now as he took his final departure for the South, she clasped her +hands, raised her tearful eyes to heaven, and while large drops rolled +over her wrinkled cheeks, she cried, "Oh, God, protect my only one, and +return him to me in safety, ere I die." This scene, the imprisoned, and as +some supposed, heartless Indian, watched with interest; no part of it +escaped his attention; but they passed on, and safely reached Detroit. +The prisoners were conducted to a hotel and secured for the night; our +Indian hero being consigned to an attic, which they supposed a safe place +for him. There happened to be on that night, a company of showmen +stopping at that hotel, and exhibiting wax-work; among the rest, was a +figure of General Brock, who fell at Queenston Heights, and a costly cloak +of fur, worn by the General previous to his death. Nothing of this escaped +the eagle-eye and quick ear of the Indian. When all was quiet in the +hotel, he commenced operations, for he had made up his mind to leave, +which with the red man is paramount to an accomplishment of his design. He +found no great difficulty in removing the window of his lofty apartment, +out of which he clambered, and with the agility of a squirrel and the +caution of a cat, he sprang for the conductor and on it he slid to the +ground. He was now free to go where he pleased; but he had heard +something about the cloak of Gen. Brock; he knew too, that the friends of +the General had offered fifty guineas for it, and now he would just convey +it to them. + +With the sagacity of his race, he surveyed the hotel, and determined the +exact location of the show-room. Stealthily and noiselessly, he entered +it; found the cloak--took it and departed, chuckling at his good fortune. +As he was creeping out of the apartment with his booty, a thought struck +him, which not only arrested his footsteps, but nearly paralized his whole +being. Would not his keeper be made to answer, and perhaps to suffer for +his escape and theft? Of course he would. "Then in the darkness I saw +again," said the old brave, "that old pale-faced mother, weeping for the +loss of her only son," when he immediately returned the cloak to its +place, and with far more difficulty than in his descent, he succeeded in +reaching his attic prison, where he laid himself down, muttering to +himself, "not yet,--poor old pale-face got but one." + +They took him to Virginia, where, instead of a trial, they gave him about +the same liberty they do their slaves. He staid one winter; but when the +spring opened, the fire of the red man took possession of him, and when +sent to the forest to chop wood, he took a bee-line for his former +residence. But what was he to do for food? With a rifle, he could live +happily in the woods, but he had none; so after considering the matter, he +said to himself, "Me _must_ get a rifle," and instantly started for the +highway. The first cabin he saw, he entered in great apparent excitement, +and told the woman of the house, that he had seen a "big deer in the +woods, and wanted a rifle to shoot it. When you hear my gun," he said, +"then you come and get big deer." She gave him her husband's excellent +rifle and a few bullets; he looked at them, and said he must have more, +for "it was a big deer;" so she gave him the bullet-mould and a piece of +lead, with which he departed, after repeating his former injunction, to +come when she heard the rifle; but, said he, "she no hear it yet." + +He at length arrived at his own farm, from which he had been so cruelly +driven, and concealed himself behind a log in sight of his own house, to +watch the inmates. He soon learned that it was occupied by the man who had +persecuted him in order to obtain it, his wife and one child. All day +until midnight, he watched them from his hiding place, then assuming all +the savage ferocity of his nature, and giving himself the most frightful +appearance possible, he entered the house, and noiselessly passed to their +sleeping room, where he placed himself before them with a long knife in +his hand. Having assumed this frightful attitude, he commanded them in a +voice of thunder, to get up and give him some supper. They were awake now. +Oh, horror! what a sight for a guilty man, and a timid woman! "Me come to +kill you!" said the Indian, as he watched their blanched cheeks and +quivering lips. They tottered about on their trembling limbs to get +everything he asked for, imploring him for God's sake to take all, but +spare their lives. "Me will have scalps," he answered fiercely; but when +he had eaten all he desired, he adjusted his blanket, and putting on a +savage look, he remarked as if to himself, "Me go now get my men and kill +him, kill he wife, and kill he baby!" and left the house for his post of +observation. + +The frightened inmates lost no time, but hastily collecting some +provisions, fled to the frontier, and were never heard of afterwards. + +The Indian immediately took possession of his own and quite an addition +left by the former tenants. + +While the kind-hearted old Indian repeated to me the story of his wrongs, +it reminded me of the injustice practised on myself, and the colored race +generally. Does a colored man by hard labor and patient industry, acquire +a good location, a fine farm, and comfortable dwelling, he is almost sure +to be looked upon by the white man, as an usurper of _his_ rights and +territory; a robber of what he himself should possess, and too often does +wrong the colored man out of,--yet, I am happy to acknowledge many +honorable exceptions. + +I have often wondered, when looking at the remnant of that once powerful +race, whether the black man would become extinct and his race die out, as +have the red men of the forest; whether they would wither in the presence +of the enterprising Anglo-Saxon as have the natives of this country. But +now I have no such wondering inquiries to make; being persuaded that the +colored man has yet a prominent part to act in this highly-favored +Republic,--of what description the future must determine. + + + + +CHAPTER XXVII. + +OUR DIFFICULTIES WITH ISRAEL LEWIS. + +Being under the necessity of referring again to the difficulties existing +in the Wilberforce colony, I shall here introduce a circular, published in +New York city, which will give the reader an understanding of the real +cause of our embarrassments, and the character of our agent, Israel Lewis. + + +CIRCULAR + + +_New York, May 9th_, 1836. + +The committee of colored citizens of the city of New York, as servants of +the public, sincerely regret the necessity of bringing the within subject +before the public. Their duty to God, to society, and to themselves, only +actuates them in this matter. + +The fact that many individuals in different sections of the country, have +long suspected the integrity of Israel Lewis, but possessing no authentic +documentary evidence, they have been prevented from making an effort, +to counteract his too successful attempts and those of his agents, in the +collection of funds from the public, has induced us to transmit this +circular. + +THEODORE S. WRIGHT, +PETER OGDEN, +THOMAS DOWNING, +GEORGE POTTS, +CHARLES B. RAY, +DAVID RUGGLES, +JOHN STANS, +WILLIAM P. JOHNSON, +WILLIAM HAMILTON, +SAMUEL E. CORNISH. + + + * * * * * + +ISRAEL LEWIS. + +_Wilberforce, U.C., March 28th, 1836._ + + +The board of managers of the Wilberforce settlement, met and passed +unanimously the following resolutions--Present, Austin Steward, Philip +Harris, Peter Butler, William Bell, John Whitehead, Samuel Peters. + +_Resolved_, 1st. That we deeply regret the manner in which our friends in +the States have been imposed upon by Israel Lewis; and that we hereby +inform them, as a board of managers or otherwise, that we have received +less than one hundred dollars of all the money borrowed and collected in +the States. + +_Resolved_, 2d. That although we have not received one hundred dollars +from said Lewis, yet, when we shall have received the funds collected by +our agent, the Rev. Nathan Paul, in England, we will refund as far as our +abilities will allow and our friends may require, the money contributed +for our supposed benefit, by them in the States. + +_Resolved_, 3d. That we tender our sincere thanks to our beloved friends, +Arthur Tappan and others, who have taken such deep interest in the +welfare of our little colony. + +_Resolved_, 4th. That the foregoing resolutions be signed by the whole +board, and sent to the States to be published in the _New York Observer_ +and other papers. + +AUSTIN STEWARD, _President_, +PETER BUTLER, _Treasurer_, +JOHN HALMES, _Secretary_. + +PHILIP HARRIS, } +WILLIAM BELL, } +JOHN WHITEHEAD, } _Managers._ +SAMUEL PETERS, } + + * * * * * + +_New York, April 25th, 1836._ + +At a public meeting of the colored citizens of New York city, held in +Phoenix Hall, Thomas L. Jennings in the Chair, and Charles B. Ray, +Secretary, the following resolutions were passed unanimously: + +_Resolved_, That the thanks of this meeting be tendered to the Rev. +Samuel E. Cornish, for the able and satisfactory report of his mission +to Upper Canada, especially to the Wilberforce settlement. + +_Resolved_, That this meeting deem it their imperative duty, to announce +to the public, that in view of facts before them, Israel Lewis [1] has +abused their confidence, wasted their benevolence, and forfeited all claim +to their countenance and respect. + +_Resolved_, That a committee of ten, be appointed to give publicity to the +foregoing resolutions; also, to the communication from the managers of the +Wilberforce settlement, as they may deem necessary in the case. + +THOMAS L. JENNINGS, _Chairman_, +CHARLES B. RAY, _Secretary_. + +[Footnote 1: It necessarily follows that the public should withhold their +money from his subordinate agents.] + +It will now appear that I was not the only unfortunate individual who had +difficulty with Mr. Lewis. Mr. Arthur Tappan made known through the press, +about this time, that Israel Lewis was not a man to be fully relied upon +in his statements regarding the Wilberforce colony; and also, if money +was placed in his hands for the benefit of the sick and destitute among +the settlers, it would be doubtful whether it was faithfully applied +according to the wishes of the donors. + +For this plain statement of facts, Mr. Lewis commenced a suit against Mr. +Tappan, for defamation of character; laying the damages at the round sum +of ten thousand dollars. It appeared that Lewis valued his reputation +highly now that he had elevated himself sufficiently to commence a suit +against one of the best and most respectable gentlemen in New York city; +a whole souled abolitionist withal; one who had suffered his name to be +cast out as evil, on account of his devotion to the colored man's cause-- +both of the enslaved and free; one who has, moreover, seen his own +dwelling entered by an infuriated and pro-slavery mob; his expensive +furniture thrown into the street as fuel for the torch of the black man's +foe; and, amid the crackling flame which consumed it, to hear the vile +vociferations of his base persecutors, whose only accusation was his +defence of the colored man. This noble hearted, Christian philanthropist, +who took "joyfully the spoiling of his goods" for the cause of the +oppressed, was the chosen victim of Lewis' wrath and violent vituperation; +and that too, where he was well known as a most honorable, humane +gentleman; and all for naming facts which were quite generally known +already. + +Lewis returned to Wilberforce, flushed and swaggering with the idea of +making his fortune in this speculation of a law-suit against Mr. Tappan; +and to remove all obstacles, he sent a man to me, to say that if I would +publish nothing, and would abandon the interests of the colonists, he +would give me a handsome sum of money. I soon gave him to understand that +he had applied to the wrong person for anything of that kind; and he then +laid a plan to accomplish by fraud and perjury, what he had failed to do +by bribery. + +I have before mentioned the fact of my having taken up a note of +twenty-five dollars for Mr. Lewis, on condition that he would soon refund +the money. I did it as a favor, and kept the note in my possession, until +about a year afterward, when I sued him to recover my just due on the +note. We had then began to differ in our public business, which led to +other differences in our transaction of both public and private matters +relating to the colony. He of course gave bail for his appearance at +court, and it ran along for some time until he found he could not bribe me +to enter into his interests, and then for the first time, he declared that +I had stolen the note! And finally succeeded in getting me indicted before +the grand jury! + +In this I suppose Lewis and his confederates had two objects: first, to +get rid of me; secondly, that they might have a chance to account for my +continued hostility, by saying that it arose in consequence of a private +quarrel, and not for any true interest I had in their collecting money +deceptively. + +Lewis appeared so bent on my destruction, that he forgot it was in my +power to show how I came by the note. The Court of King's Bench met, but +in consequence of the cholera, was adjourned, and of course, the case +must lie over until another year. + +When the time for the trial drew near, I was, in the midst of my +preparations to attend it, counseled and advised by different persons to +flee from the country, which I had labored so hard and so conscientiously +to benefit, and received in return nothing but detraction and slander. But +conscious of my innocence, I declared I would not leave; I knew I had +committed no crime; I had violated no law of the land,--and I would do +nothing to imply guilt. He who hath formed the heart, knoweth its intent +and purpose, and to Him I felt willing to commit my cause. True, the court +might convict, imprison, and transport me away from my helpless family of +five small children; if so, I was determined they should punish an +innocent man. Nevertheless, it was a dark time; I was not only saddened +and perplexed, but my spirit was grieved, and I felt like one "wounded in +the house of his friends,"--ready to cry out, "had it been an enemy I +could have borne it," but to be arraigned, for the _first_ time in my +life, as a _criminal_, by one of the very people I had spent my substance +to benefit, was extremely trying. Guiltless as I knew myself to be, still, +I was aware that many incidents had transpired, which my enemies could +and would construe to my disadvantage; moreover, Lewis had money, which he +would freely distribute to gain his point right or wrong, and to get me +out of his way. + +In due time the trial came on, and I was to be tried for _theft_! Lewis +had reported all through the settlement that on a certain time I had +called at his house, and from a bundle of papers which his wife showed me, +I had purloined the note, which had caused me so much trouble. To prove +this it was necessary to get his wife to corroborate the statement. This +was not an easy matter. Mrs. Lewis, indignant and distressed by her +husband's unkindness, had left him and taken up her abode in the family of +a hospitable Englishman. After Lewis had been sent out as an agent for the +colony, finding himself possessed of sufficient funds to cut a swell, he +associated and was made a great deal of, by both ladies and gentlemen in +high stations of life; the consequence of which was, he looked now with +disdain upon his faithful, but illiterate wife, who like himself had been +born a slave, and bred on a Southern plantation; and who had with him +escaped from the cruel task-master, enduring with him the hardships and +dangers of the flying fugitive. + +Now her assistance was necessary to carry forward his plans, and he +endeavored in various ways to induce her to return, but in vain. When he +sent messengers to inform her how sorry he felt for his past abuse, she +said she feared it was only some wicked plot to entice her away from the +peaceable home she had found. Lewis saw that he must devise some other +method to obtain her evidence. He therefore called on the brother of the +Englishman in whose family Mrs. Lewis was, and in a threatening manner +told him that he understood his brother was harboring his wife, and that +he intended to make him pay dear for it. The brother, to save trouble, +said he would assist him to get his wife, and that night conducted Lewis +to her residence. No better proof can be given that Mrs. Lewis possessed +the true heart of a woman, than that the moment her husband made humble +concessions, and promised to love and protect her henceforth, she forgave +him all his past infidelity and neglect, and looked with hope to a +brighter future. In return Lewis presented her with a note, telling her to +take it to a certain person and present it, and he would give her twenty +dollars on it. This would, he doubtless thought, leave her in his power. + +As Mrs. Lewis could not read, the unsuspecting wife presented the paper +all in good faith. The gentleman looked at her sharply, suspiciously,--and +then asked her, if she was not aware that she was presenting him a paper +completely worthless! The poor woman was mortified and astonished; and +instead of returning to her husband, fled to Wilberforce, and called at +our house. Knowing how disastrous to me would be her false statement, and +ignorant of her state of mind, I asked her if she had come to assist Mr. +Lewis by swearing against me. I saw at once, that she had not yet been +informed of her husband's design. + +"Swear against you, Mr. Steward!" said she. "I know nothing to swear that +would injure you; I have always known you as an honest, upright man, and +you need not fear my turning against an innocent person, for the benefit +of one I know to be guilty. Nor would I have left my place, had I known +what I now do." So all help and fear was ended in that quarter. + +When at length the appointed morning arrived, I arose early, but with a +saddened heart. I looked upon my wife and helpless family, reflecting that +possibly this might be the last time we should all assemble around the +breakfast table in our hitherto quiet home, and I could scarcely refrain +from weeping. I, however, took my leave, and a lad with me, to bring back +a message of the result, if the court found sufficient cause to detain me +for trial. But when I found that I must be tried, I felt too unhappy to +make others so, and kept out of the lad's way. He returned without a +message; and I took my seat in the prisoner's box. I had just taken a +letter out of the post office, from Rochester, containing recommendations +and attestations from the first men in the city, of my good character, +which relieved my feelings somewhat: nevertheless, my heart was heavy, and +especially when, soon after I took my seat, a trap-door was opened and a +murderer was brought up and seated by my side! + +Chief Justice Robinson, made his appearance in great pomp--dressed in the +English court style-then the crier, in a shrill voice, announced the +opening of the court, and finished by exclaiming, "God save the King!" +His lordship then called the attention of the jury to the law of the land; +particularly to that portion relating to their present duty; and the grand +jury presented me to the court, for feloniously taking a certain +promissory note from the house of Israel Lewis. The King's Attorney had +but one witness, and that was Lewis. He was called to the stand, permitted +to relate his story, and retire without any cross-examination on the part +of my Attorney; but that gentleman called up three respectable white men, +all of whom swore that they would not believe Israel Lewis under oath! +Then submitted the case to the jury without remark or comment, and the +jury, without leaving their seats, brought in a verdict of "NOT GUILTY." +Thus ended my first and last trial for theft! Oh, how my very soul +revolted at the thought of being thus accused; but now that I stood +justified before God and my fellow-men, I felt relieved and grateful; nor +could I feel anything but pity for Lewis, who, like Hainan, had been so +industriously engaged in erecting "a gallows fifty cubits high" for me, +but found himself dangling upon it He raved like a madman, clutched the +arm of the Judge and demanded a new trial, but he shook him off with +contempt and indignation, as though he had been a viper. In his wild fury +and reckless determination to destroy my character, he had cast a foul +stain upon his own, never to be effaced. I had felt bound to preserve my +reputation when unjustly assailed, but it had been to me a painful +necessity to throw a fellow-being into the unenviable and disgraceful +attitude in which Lewis now stood; and yet, he would not, and did not +yield the point, notwithstanding his ignominious defeat. + +He very soon began to gather his forces for another attack upon me, and +followed the same direction for his accusation,--the land purchase. + +The reader will recollect without further repetition, that as I could +purchase no land of the Canada Company, because of their indignation +against Lewis, I was glad to accept of the contract he had made with Mr. +Ingersoll, for lot number four in the colony; that I paid the sum +demanded, and took his assignment on the back of the contract, and as we +then were on good terms, it never occurred to me that a witness was +necessary to attest to the transaction. But after his failure to prove me +a thief; his next effort was to convict me of forgery! It will be +remembered that Lewis after selling out to me, returned the contract to +Mr. Ingersoll, and that I had lost by the means, the land, and at least +five hundred dollars' worth of improvements. Then I brought a suit against +Lewis, to recover the money I had paid him for the contract; and then it +was that he asserted and attempted to prove, that I had forged the +assignment, and therefore, had no just claim on him for the amount paid. +But in this, as in the other case, he met a defeat and made an entire +failure. I recovered all that I claimed, which, was only my just due. One +would suppose that after so many unsuccessful attempts to ruin me, he +would have left me alone,--but not so with Lewis: he had the ambition of a +Bonaparte; and doubtless had he possessed the advantages of an education, +instead of having been born and bred a slave, he might, like an Alexander +or Napoleon, have astonished the world with his deeds of daring. I am, +however, no admirer of what the world call "great men,"--one humble, +self-sacrificing Christian, like Benjamin Lundy, has far greater claim on +my respect and reverence. + +Lewis, failing in his second attack, backed up as he had been in all his +wicked course, by a friend wearing the sacred garb of a minister of the +gospel, cooled off, and it became evident to all, that he was meditating +some different mode of warfare. To this concealed confederate, I must +attach great blame, on account of the influence his station and superior +learning gave him, not only over Mr. Lewis, but the colonists generally, +and which should have been exerted for the good of all, in truth and +honesty. + + + + +CHAPTER XXVIII. + +DESPERATION OF A FUGITIVE SLAVE. + +We had as yet received no funds from our foreign agent, N. Paul, and the +board of managers had resolved to send a man after him. An Englishman and +a white man named Nell, would gladly undertake the mission, leaving his +wife and five children among the settlers. Again was I under the necessity +of returning to New York, to obtain the funds required to send out Mr. +Nell after our agent in England. + +The night before I left home, I had a singular dream which I will briefly +relate. I dreamed of journeying on a boat to Albany, and of stopping at a +house to take tea. Several persons, I thought, were at the table, and as a +cup of tea was handed me, I saw a woman slyly drop something into it. I, +however, drank the tea, and dreamed that it made me very sick. + +I found it difficult to drive from my mind the unpleasant impression this +dream had made upon it, but finally succeeded in doing so, attributing it +to the many and malicious threatenings which had been made by Lewis and +his associates. They had boldly asserted, that "if I went to the States, I +would never return alive," and several other threats equally malignant. +I, however, started with Mr. Nell for Rochester, where we made an effort +to raise money to aid in defraying the expenses of the voyage, and +succeeded in collecting about a hundred dollars. From thence we passed on +to Albany, where we fell in company with a number of Mr. Paul's friends, +who appeared to be terribly indignant, and accused me of coming there to +expose their friends,--Paul and Lewis. We had some warm words and +unpleasant conversation, after which they left me very unceremoniously, +and appeared to be very angry. A short time after, one of them returned, +and in the most friendly manner invited me to his house to tea. I was glad +of an opportunity to show that I harbored no unpleasant feelings toward +them, and immediately accompanied him home. The moment that we were all +seated at the table, an unpleasant suspicion flashed through, my mind. +The table, the company--all seemed familiar to me, and connected with +some unpleasant occurrence which I could not then recall. But when the +lady of the house poured out a cup of tea, and another was about to pass +it, I heard her whisper, "I intended that for Mr. Steward," my dream for +the first time, flashed through my mind, with all the vivid distinctness +of a real incident. I endeavored to drive it from my thoughts, and did so. +Pshaw! I said to myself; I will not be suspicious nor whimsical, and I +swallowed the tea; then took my leave for the steamboat, on our way to +New York city. + +When we had passed a few miles out of Albany, the boat hove to, and there +came on board four men--one of the number a colored man. The white men +repaired to their state-rooms, leaving the colored man on deck, after the +boat had returned to the channel. He attracted my attention, by his +dejected appearance and apparent hopeless despair. He was, I judged, +about forty years of age; his clothing coarse and very ragged; and the +most friendless, sorrowful looking being I ever saw. He spake to no one, +but silently paced the deck; his breast heaving with inaudible sighs; his +brow contracted with a most terrible frown; his eyes dreamily fastened on +the floor, and he appeared to be considering on some hopeless undertaking, +I watched him attentively, as I walked to and fro on the same deck, and +could clearly discover that some fearful conflict was taking place in his +mind; but as I afterwards repassed him he looked up with a happy, patient +smile, that lighted up his whole countenance, which seemed to say plainly, +I see a way of escape, and have decided on my course of action. His whole +appearance was changed; his heart that before had beat so wildly was quiet +now as the broad bosom of the Hudson, and he gazed alter me with a look of +calm deliberation, indicative of a settled, but desperate purpose. I +walked hastily forward and turned around, when, Oh, my God! what a sight +was there! Holding still the dripping knife, with which he had cut his +throat! and while his life-blood oozed from the gaping wound and flowed +over his tattered garments to the deck, the same exultant smile beamed on +his ghastly features! + +[Illustration: "I walked hastily forward and turned around, when, Oh, my +God! what a sight was there! He still held the dripping knife, with which +he had cut his throat."] + +The history of the poor, dejected creature was now revealed: he had +escaped from his cruel task-master in Maryland; but in the midst of his +security and delightful enjoyment, he had been overtaken by the human +blood-hound, and returned to his avaricious and tyrannical master, now +conducting him back to a life of Slavery, to which he rightly thought +death was far preferable. + +The horrors of slave life, which he had so long endured, arose in all +their hideous deformity in his mind, hence the conflict of feeling which I +had observed,--and hence the change in his whole appearance, when he had +resolved to endure a momentary pain, and escape a life-long scene of +unrequited toil and degradation. + +There happened to be on the boat at the time, several companies of citizen +soldiers, who, shocked by the awful spectacle, expressed their decided +abhorrence of the institution of Slavery, declaring that it was not for +such peculiar villainy, that their fathers fought and bled on the battle +field. So determined were they in their indignation; so loudly demanded +they a cessation of such occurrences on board our boats, and the soil of +a free State, that the slaveholders became greatly alarmed, and with all +possible dispatch they hurriedly dragged the poor bleeding slave into a +closet, and securely locked the door; nor have I ever been able to learn +his final doom. Whether the kindly messenger of death released him from +the clutches of the man-stealer, or whether he recovered to serve his +brutal master, I have never been informed. + +After this exciting scene had passed, I began to realize that I was +feeling quite ill; an unusual load seemed to oppress my stomach, and by +the time we had reached New York city, I was exceedingly distressed. I +hastened to a boarding house, kept by a colored woman, who did everything +in her power to relieve me; but I grew worse until I thought in reality, I +must die. The lady supposed I was dying of cholera, sent to Brooklyn after +Mr. Nell; but having previously administered an emetic, I began to feel +better; and when I had finally emptied my stomach of its contents, _tea +and all_, by vomiting, I felt into a profound sleep, from which I awoke +greatly relieved. The kindness of that lady I shall not soon forget. She +had a house full of boarders, who would have fled instantly, had they +known that, as she supposed, I was suffering from cholera; and instead of +sending me to the hospital, as she might have done, she kept all quiet +until it was over, doing all she could for my relief and comfort; yet, it +was a scene of distress which I hope may never be repeated. + +On the following morning, I saw in the city papers, "A Card," inserted by +the owner of the poor slave on board the steamboat, informing the public +that he was returning South with a fugitive slave, who, when arrested, +evinced great willingness to return; who had confessed also, that he had +done very wrong in leaving his master, for which he was sorry,--but he +supposed that the abolitionists had been tampering with him. That was all! +Not a word about his attempt to take his life! Oh no, he merely wished to +allay the excitement, that the horrid deed had produced on the minds of +those present. + +I was indignant at the publication of such a deliberate falsehood, and +immediately wrote and published that I too was on board the same boat with +the fugitive; that I had witnessed an exhibition of his willingness to +return to Slavery, by seeing him cut his throat, and lay on the deck +wallowing in his blood; that the scene had so excited the sympathies of +the soldiers present, that his owner had been obliged to hurry him out of +their sight, &c. + +When this statement appeared in the newspapers, it so exasperated the +friends of the slaveholder, that I was advised to flee from the city, lest +I might be visited with personal violence; but I assured my advisers that +it was only the wicked who "flee when no man pursueth, but the righteous +are bold as a lion." I therefore commenced the business that brought me +to that city. Messrs. Bloss, Nell, and myself, made an effort, and raised +between three and four hundred dollars for the purpose of sending Mr. Nell +after Rev. N. Paul. + +Most of the funds collected, we gave to Mr. Nell, who sailed from New York, +and arrived safely in England, just as N. Paul was boarding a vessel to +return to New York. + +Had Mr. Nell acted honorably, or in accordance with his instructions, he +would have returned with the agent; but he remained in England, and for +aught I know is there yet. He was sent expressly after Mr. Paul, and when +he left that kingdom, Nell's mission was ended. He proved himself less +worthy of confidence than the agent, for he _did_ return when sent for, +and he did account for the money he had collected, though he retained it +all; but Mr. Nell accounted for nothing of the kind; and if he has ever +returned, I have not seen him. Mr. N. Paul arrived in New York in the +fall of 1834, and remained there through the winter, to the great +disappointment and vexation of the colonists. I wrote him concerning our +condition and wants, hoping it would induce him to visit us immediately; +but he had married while in England, an English lady, who had accompanied +aim to New York, where they were now living; nor did he appear to be in +any haste about giving an account of himself to the board of managers who +had employed him. + + + + +CHAPTER XXIX. + +A NARROW ESCAPE FROM MY ENEMIES. + +During my absence in New York city, Lewis and his confederates were +prophesying that I would never trouble them more, and shaking their heads +quite ominously at the happy riddance. One day, our hired man entered the +house and inquired of my wife, when I was expected home. She told him she +did not know, having received no intelligence from me. He assured her that +a letter had been received by some one in the colony; that he had seen it, +and had heard Mr. Lewis speak of conveying it to her,--but as it did not +come, she gave it up, supposing some mistake had been made. I had, +however, written, naming the time when she might expect me; but no letter +of mine reached her, during my long absence, for which she could not +account. A short time before that specified for my return, a woman, whose +husband was an associate of Mr. Lewis, came to my house, and urged my +wife "to leave word at the village of London, to have Mr. Steward detained +there, should he arrive toward evening, and by no means allow him to start +for the colony after dark." My family had so often been alarmed by such +warnings, and had so frequently been annoyed by the violent threatenings +of Lewis, that they ceased to regard them, and paid little attention, to +this one. + +I arrived at London on the day I had appointed for my return, but was +detained there until a late hour; feeling anxious, however, to get home +that night, supposing that I was expected,--I therefore hired a horse to +ride the remaining fifteen miles to the settlement. + +The road from London to Wilberforce led through a swamp, known as +"McConnell's Dismal Swamp," and it was indeed, one of the most dreary +places in all that section of country. I am certain that a hundred men +might conceal themselves within a rod of the highway, without being +discovered. + +The horse I had engaged, was a high spirited animal, and to that fact, I +doubtless owe my life. The moon shone brightly, and nothing broke the +stillness of the night, as I rode onward, but the clatter of my horse's +hoofs, and an occasional "bow-wow" of some faithful watch-dog. + +When I reached the swamp and entered its darkened recesses, the gloom and +stillness was indeed fearful; my horse started at every rustling leaf or +crackling brush, until I attempted to pass a dense thicket, when I was +started by the sharp crack of a rifle, and a bullet whizzed past me, close +to my ear! The frightened horse reared and plunged, and then springing as +if for life, he shot off like an arrow, amid the explosion of fire arms +discharged at me as I rode away. I lost my balance at first, and came near +falling, but recovering it I grasped the rein tightly, while my fiery +steed flew over the ground with lightning speed; nor did I succeed in +controlling him until he had run two miles, which brought me to my own +door. + +I found my family well, and very grateful that I had arrived safely after +so fearful an encounter. + +When morning came I sent a person out to inquire whether any of the +settlers were out the night previous, and the report was, "Israel Lewis +and two other men were out all night; that they had been seen near the +Dismal Swamp;" moreover, Lewis was seen to come in that morning with his +boots covered with swamp mud,--these the Rev. Mr. Paul's boys cleaned for +him, all of which was evidence that he it was, who had way-laid me with +criminal intent. + +I afterwards learned, that those three men left the settlement at dusk, +for the swamp; that they stationed themselves one rod apart, all on one +side of the road, each man with a loaded rifle,--the poorest marksman was +to fire first, and if he did not bring me down, probably the second +would; but Lewis being the best shot of the three, was to reserve his fire +until the last, which they supposed I could not escape. It was quite dark +in the thicket, and my spirited horse plunged in every direction so +furiously, that they could take no aim at me, until he had started to run, +when we were soon beyond their reach. + +We had already had so much difficulty in our little colony that we were +getting heartily sick of it. I was well aware that Lewis was thirsting for +revenge; that he wished to do me a great wrong; and yet I was thankful on +his account, as well as on my own, that he had been prevented from +imbruing his hands in the blood of a fellow being. + +Had he succeeded in taking my life, as he undoubtedly intended to do, he +would have been arrested immediately, and most likely punished as a +murderer. He had boldly threatened my life, and the colonists were +expecting something of the kind to take place. Had I not arrived at the +colony, it was known at London that I had started for the settlement that +night, and an immediate search would have been instituted; nor could the +wicked deed have brought the least peace to the mind of Lewis or his +companions, + + "No peace of mind does that man know, + Who bears a guilty breast; + His conscience drives him to and fro, + And never lets him rest." + + + + +CHAPTER XXX. + +DEATH OF B. PAUL, AND RETURN OF HIS BROTHER. + +The bold and wicked attempt to take my life, recorded in the preceding +chapter, aroused a feeling of indignation in the community against Lewis, +and completely destroyed the little influence he had left; moreover, he +had now been so extensively published as an impostor, that he could +collect no more money on the false pretense of raising it for the benefit +of the colony. As soon as his money was gone and his influence destroyed, +--many who had been his firmest friends, turned against him, and among +this class was the Rev. Benjamin Paul. He had ever professed the greatest +friendship for, and interest in the success of Mr. Lewis. Heretofore, +whenever he went to the States he was commissioned by that gentleman's +family, to purchase a long list of expensive articles, which the poor +colonists were seldom able to buy; and he generally returned to them +richly laden with goods, purchased with, money given to the poor, sick, +and destitute in the colony. + +Mr. B. Paul had ever been a very proud man, but not a very healthy one. He +was inclined to pulmonary diseases; but had kept up pretty well, until +Lewis was effectually put down, and his own character involved in many of +his notorious proceedings, together with the disappointment occasioned by +his brother remaining so long in England, when his health failed, and he +sank rapidly under accumulating disasters, to the grave. + +The Welshmen had partially engaged him to preach for them the ensuing +year, but something they had heard of him changed their minds, and they +were about appointing a meeting to investigate his conduct, when they were +informed of his illness, and concluded to let it pass. His son, with whom +he lived, became deranged, and his oldest daughter on whom he was greatly +dependent, had been dismissed from school, where she had been for some +time engaged in teaching. All these unpleasant circumstances in his sickly +state weighed heavily upon his proud heart; and he not only declined in +health, but sank into a state of melancholy and remorse for his past +course of living. As he lay pining and murmuring on his death bed, I +could but reflect how different the scene from that of an apostle of the +Lord Jesus Christ, who could exclaim, when about to be offered, "I have +fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith; +henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness." + +I called to see him as he lay writhing in agony, his sunken eyes gleaming +wildly, rolling and tossing from side to side, while great drops of +perspiration stood upon his forehead, continually lamenting his misspent +time, and the life he had led! He took my hand in his cold, bony fingers, +thanking me that I did not so despise him, that I could not come to see +him in his sorrow and affliction. Generally, however, when he raved and +talked of his wicked life, his family excluded all persons from his room +except his attendants. + +Pride, which had ever been his besetting sin, displayed itself in his +conduct to the last, for he had a lengthy will made, dispensing some +sixteen hundred dollars to different individuals, when he must have known +that his whole possessions would not amount to half that sum. As I looked +upon him I could but reflect on the mysterious ways of Providence. Before +me lay a man, who had for years arrayed himself against me, using all his +influence as a man and a minister to injure me, by setting Lewis forward +in his wickedness; his family living in extravagance and a style far +beyond their means, while mine had labored hard and were sometimes +destitute, often harassed and perplexed on every side by himself and +party. And for what? Because I would not join hands with iniquity, and +deeds of darkness. Notwithstanding the contrast, when I heard his bitter +lamentations and self-reproaches, I could lift my heart to God, in +gratitude for His protecting goodness, which had preserved me an _honest +man_. I had often erred no doubt, but it had never been designedly; and +never did I value a good conscience more than when standing by the +death-bed of Benjamin Paul, who now had passed the Jordan of death; and it +is enough to know that his future, whether of joy or woe, will be meted +out to him, by a merciful and just God,--nevertheless, his last moments on +earth were such as ought to arouse every professed Christian, to redoubled +diligence in watchfulness and prayer, lest they fall into temptation,-- +lest they determine to become rich, and thereby fall into diverse and +hurtful lusts, and pierce themselves through with many sorrows. + +Soon after the event above narrated, a law was passed in the Province, +allowing each township to elect three commissioners, whose duty it should +be, to transact the public business pertaining to the township. Each +township should also elect one township clerk, whose business it should +be, to hold and keep all moneys, books, and papers belonging to said town; +with power to administer oaths, and in fact, he, with the commissioners, +were to constitute a board, possessing all the power of a court, in +relation to township business. + +In our colony, located in the township of Bidulph, the colored people were +a large majority of the inhabitants, which gave us the power to elect +commissioners from our own settlement, and therefore, three black men +where duly chosen, who entered on the duties of their office, while your +humble servant, A. Steward, was elected township clerk, with all the +responsibility of the office resting upon him and the same power given him +as though he had been born in Her Britannic Majesty's dominion, with a +face as white as the driven snow. I felt the responsibility of my office, +but not more deeply than I did this assurance of entire confidence, and +respect shown me by my townsmen, after all the cruel persecutions I had +met; after all the accusations of theft, forgery, &c., that vicious person +could bring against me. + +The Rev. Nathaniel Paul, with his lady, arrived at Wilberforce in the +spring of 1835, to the great joy of the colonists, to find that his +brother had gone the way of all the earth, and his remains quietly resting +on his own premises, where his afflicted family still resided. + +In the colony there was a great deal of excitement regarding the course +our agent would pursue, and all waited with anxious expectancy to see him +enrich the treasury with his long-promised collections. + +We had agreed, on sending him forth as an agent for the colony, to give +him fifty dollars per month for his services, besides bearing his expenses. + +The reverend gentleman, charged, on his return to the colony, the sum +specified, for four years, three months and twenty days. We spent several +days in auditing his account, with increased fearful forebodings. We found +his receipts to be, in the United Kingdoms of Great Britain, one thousand +six hundred and eighty-three pounds, nineteen shillings; or, eight +thousand and fifteen dollars, eighty cents. His expenditures amounted to +one thousand four hundred and three pounds, nineteen shillings; or, seven +thousand and nineteen dollars, eighty cents. Then his wages for over four +years, at fifty dollars per month, left a balance against the board of +several hundred dollars, which we had no funds to cancel, inasmuch as the +reverend gentleman had paid us nothing of all he had collected in Europe, +nor even paid a farthing toward liquidating the debts incurred for his +outfit and expenses. + +There was also in Mr. Paul's charge against the board of managers, an item +of two hundred dollars, which he had paid to Wm. Loyd Garrison, while that +gentleman was also in England; but by whose authority he had paid or given +it, it was hard to determine. We gave him no orders to make donations of +any kind. To take the liberty to do so, and then to charge it to our poor +and suffering colony, seemed hard to bear; still we allowed the charge. +Had we, in our straitened and almost destitute circumstances, made a +donation of that, to us, large sum of money to Mr. Garrison or any body +else, certainly _we_ should, at least, have had the credit of it; and as +Mr. Garrison had made no acknowledgment of the receipt, I wrote him on +the subject, and his answer will be found, heading our correspondence, in +this volume. + +Not a dollar did the treasurer ever receive of the Rev. N. Paul, unless we +call the donations he had made without our permission, a payment. He did, +it is true, award to the board, the sum of two hundred dollars, paid by +him to Mr. Garrison, and fifty dollars more given by himself to Mr. Nell, +on his departure from England. Not a farthing could we get of him; and in +short, as far as the monied interest of the colony was concerned, his +mission proved an entire failure. How much good the reverend gentleman +may have done in spreading anti-slavery truth, during his stay in Europe, +is not for me to say. The English, at that time held slaves; and report +speaks well of his labors and endeavors to open the eyes of that nation +to the sin of slavery and the injustice of the colonization scheme. It +is said that he continually addressed crowded and deeply interested +audiences, and that many after hearing him, firmly resolved to exert +themselves, until every chain was broken and every bondman freed beneath +the waving banner of the British Lion. Perhaps his arduous labors assisted +in freeing the West India islands of the hateful curse of Slavery; if so, +we shall not so much, regret the losses and severe trials, it was ours to +bear at that time. + +The indignant and disappointed colonists, however, took no such view of +his mission; and knowing as they did, that he had paid not a cent of cash +into the treasury, nor liquidated one debt incurred on his account, they +became excited well nigh to fury,--so much so, that at one time we found +it nearly impossible to restrain them from having recourse to Lynch law. +They thought that the reverend gentleman must have large sums of money at +his command somewhere--judging from his appearance and mode of living, and +that a little wholesome punishment administered to his reverence, by grave +Judge Lynch, enthroned upon a "cotton bale," might possibly bring him to +terms, and induce him to disgorge some of his ill-gotten wealth, which he +so freely lavished upon himself, and was withholding from those to whose +wants it had been kindly contributed. + +Just, as was their dissatisfaction, I was satisfied by the examination of +his accounts, that he had spent nearly all of the money collected for us; +his expenses had been considerable; beside, he had fallen in love, during +his stay in England, with a white woman, and I suppose it must have +required both time and money to woo and win so fine and fair an English +lady, said also to possess quite a little sum of money, that is, several +thousand dollars, all of which our poor, little suffering colony must pay +for,--the reverend gentleman's statement to the contrary notwithstanding. + +We succeeded at last, after a tedious effort, in satisfying the minds of +the settlers to the extent, that a violent outbreak was no longer to be +feared or dreaded. When all was quiet in the colony, I ventured to make my +first call on the wife of N. Paul, who was then stopping with the widow of +the late Rev. B. Paul, residing some three miles from us. + +The houses of the colonists were generally built of logs, hewn on both +sides, the spaces chinked with mortar, and the roof constructed of boards. +The lower part was generally left in one large room, and when another +apartment was desired, it was made by drawing a curtain across it. When +we arrived at the residence of Mrs. Paul, we were immediately ushered into +the presence of Mrs. Nathaniel Paul, whom we found in an inner apartment, +made by drawn curtains, carpeted in an expensive style, where she was +seated like a queen in state,--with a veil floating from her head to the +floor; a gold chain encircling her neck, and attached to a gold watch in +her girdle; her fingers and person sparkling with costly jewelry. Her +manners were stiff and formal nor was she handsome, but a tolerably fair +looking woman, of about thirty years of age: and this was the wife of our +agent for the poor Wilberforce colony! + +N. Paul had now settled his business with the colonists, and being about +to leave for the States, we appealed to his honor as a man and a +Christian, to call at Rochester and pay the seven hundred dollar bank +debt, for which he was justly and legally holden, and relieve honorably, +those kind gentlemen who had raised the money for him. He well knew the +condition of our friend E. Peck, and that the names of some of our colored +friends were also attached to the note; all of whom were relying +implicitly on his or our honor to pay the obligation. That we had no funds +in the treasury he was well aware; also, that all were deeply concerned +about that debt. All this he knew; and in answer to our earnest and +repeated injunction, he promised most faithfully and solemnly that he +would call at Rochester, and take up the note. On those conditions he was +allowed to leave the colony, and when parting with me, no more to meet in +this life, his last assurance was, that he would cancel that obligation. +What then could we think of his word, when we learned soon after that he +passed Rochester, without calling, direct to Albany; nor did he ever +return, or make any explanation of his conduct; nor give any reason why +his promise was not redeemed and the money paid. + +He preached in Albany until his health failed, then he was obliged to live +the best way he could, and at last to depend on charity. + +His disease was dropsy, from which he suffered deeply, being unable to lie +down for some time previous to his death. I have been told that his +domestic life was far from a peaceable or happy one, and that in poverty, +sorrow and affliction, he lingered on a long time, till death at last +closed the scene. + + + + +CHAPTER XXXI. + +MY FAMILY RETURN TO ROCHESTER. + +I was now seriously meditating a return to Rochester. My purpose in going +to Canada, has already been made known to the reader, as well as some of +the disappointments I met, and some of the trials and difficulties I had +to encounter. + +Now, after laboring, and suffering persecution for about five years, my +way was comparatively clear; still I wished to leave the Province and +return to the States, in which prospect my family greatly rejoiced. +Doubtless most persons in the position I then occupied, would have chosen +to remain; but for several reasons, I did not. + +Notwithstanding I had been during my youth, a poor, friendless, and +illiterate slave, I had, through the mercy of God and the kindness of +friends, not only obtained my freedom, but I had by the industry and +perseverance of a few years, acquired a tolerable English education, +established a profitable business, built for myself a good and extensive +business reputation, and had laid the foundation for increasing wealth and +entire independence. + +Indeed, so far as a competency is concerned, I possessed that when I left +Rochester. My house and land was paid for; my store also, and the goods it +contained were free from debt; beside, I had several hundred dollars in +the bank for future use,--nor do I boast, when I say that the comfort and +happiness of myself and family, required no further exertion on my part to +better our worldly condition. We were living in one of the best countries +on the earth, surrounded by friends,--good and intelligent society, and +some of the noblest specimens of Christian philanthropy in the world. My +wife and children, had not only been accustomed to the comforts, if not +the luxuries of life, but also to associate with persons of refinement and +cultivation; and although they had willingly accompanied me to Canada, +where they had experienced little less than care, labor and sorrow, it +cannot be thought very strange that they should desire to return. We were +colored people to be sure, and were too often made to feel the weight of +that cruel prejudice, which small minds with a perverted education, know +so well how to heap upon the best endeavors of our oppressed race. Yet +truth and justice to my friends, compel me to say, that after a short +acquaintance, I have usually been treated with all that kindness and +confidence, which should exist between man and man. + +At my house of entertainment in Canada, it was not uncommon for gentlemen +of my former acquaintances, to stop for a friendly chat; merchants, +journeying through our settlement, after goods, would frequently call, +with their money, watches, and other valuables, carefully concealed about +their persons; but when they learned our name, and had become acquainted +a little, they would not only freely expose their wealth, but often place +all their money and valuables in my hands, for safe keeping; nor was their +confidence ever misplaced to my knowledge. + +Another thing: when I went to Wilberforce, I supposed that the colonists +would purchase the whole township of Bidulph, and pay for it, which might +have been done, had they been fortunate enough to put forward better men. +Then when we had a sufficient number of inhabitants, we could have sent a +member to Parliament, one of our own race, to represent the interests of +our colony. In all this we were disappointed. The Canada Company, in their +unjust judgment of a whole people, by one dishonest man, had stopped the +sale of lands to colored persons, which of course, put an end to the +emigration of respectable and intelligent colored men to that place; nor +was there any prospect of a favorable change. Moreover, the persecutions +which gave rise to the colony, had in a great measure ceased; anti-slavery +truth was taking effect on the minds of the people, and God was raising up +many a friend for the poor slave, to plead with eloquent speech and tears, +the cause of the dumb and down-trodden. + +These, with other considerations, influenced me in my decision to leave +Canada. As soon, however, as my intentions were made known, I was +importuned on all sides, by persons both in and out of the settlement, +to remain awhile longer, at least. This will be seen by a reference to the +appendix. + +After due deliberation, I concluded to send my family to the States, and +remain myself, until my year should terminate, for which I had been +elected township clerk. In accordance with this determination, I made +preparation to take my family to Port Stanley, forty miles distant. But +what a contrast was there between our leaving Rochester, five years +before, and our removing from the colony! Then, we had five two-horse +wagon loads of goods and furniture, and seven in family; now, our +possessions were only a few articles, in _a one-horse wagon_, with an +addition of two members to our household! The settlers collected about us, +to take an affectionate leave of my wife and children; but tears and sobs, +prevented an utterance of more than a "God bless you," and a few like +expressions. The scene was indeed an affecting one: all the weary days +of our labor; all the trials and difficulties we had passed; all the sweet +communion we had enjoyed in our religious and social meetings; all the +acts of neighborly kindness, seemed now to be indelibly impressed on every +memory, and we felt that a mutual regard and friendship had bound us +closer to each other, in the endearing bonds of Christian brotherhood-- +bonds not to be broken by the adverse scenes incident to frail human life. + +Arrived at Port Stanley, we were kindly entertained by a Mr. White, a +fugitive slave from Virginia, who owned a snug little farm on the bank of +Kettle Creek, and who appeared to be in a good and prosperous condition. +Being detained there, waiting for a boat, on which I was anxious to see +my family comfortably situated before I left them, I was aroused at an +early hour on the second morning of our stay, by a loud rapping at the +door; and hearing myself inquired for, I dressed myself immediately, and +followed Mr. White into the sitting room, where I saw two strange men, +armed with bludgeons! I soon learned, however, that one of them was the +under-sheriff, who had come to arrest me for a debt of about forty +dollars, and the other armed man had come to assist him, I assured them +I was ready to accompany them back to London, which I was obliged to do, a +prisoner, leaving my family among comparative strangers. The debt had +become due to a man who had worked for us in the building of a saw-mill. I +arranged the matter without going to jail, but before I could return to +Port Stanley, my family, kindly assisted by Mr. White, had departed for +Buffalo. The weather was cold and the lake very rough, but they safely +arrived in Rochester, after a journey of three days. During their passage +up the lake my oldest daughter took a severe cold, from which she never +recovered. + +I returned to the colony to attend to the duties of my office, and to +close my business with the colony, preparatory to joining my family, who +were now settled in Rochester, but in very different circumstances from +those in which they had left it. I had deposited quite a sum of money in +the Rochester Bank; but our continual expenditures at Wilberforce, in my +journeyings for the benefit of the colony, and in the transacting of +business pertaining to its interests, had left not one dollar for +the support of my family, or to give me another start in business. +Nevertheless, I felt willing to submit the case to Him who had known the +purity of my intentions, and who had hitherto "led me through scenes dark +and drear," believing he would not forsake me now, in this time of need. + +Consoling myself with these reflections, I renewed my endeavors to do my +best, leaving the event with my God. + + + + +CHAPTER XXXII. + +THE LAND AGENT AND THE SQUATTER. + +I have named, I believe, that all the colored people, who purchased lands +of Lewis, could get no deed nor any remuneration for their improvements. +This they thought hard and unfair. Some had built a house and barn, +cleared land, &c.; but when they wished to pay for their farms, they could +get no deed, and were obliged to lose all their labor. + +This raised such a general complaint against the land agents, that they +finally agreed to pay the squatters for their improvements, if they would +leave their farms. An opportunity was soon offered to test their sincerity +in this agreement. A shrewd fellow, who had been many years a sailor, +named William Smith, had made valuable improvements on land, for which he +could get no deed, and then he wished to leave it. His wife, also, died +about this time, leaving him with eight children, which determined him to +leave the colony, and after providing homes for his children, to return to +his former occupation on the high seas; but he also determined not to +leave without receiving the pay which the agents had agreed to give for +his improvements. + +"Oh yes," said they, in answer to his repeated solicitations, "you shall +be paid, certainly, certainly; you shall be paid every farthing." But when +the appointed day came for the pompous land agents to ride through the +settlement, you might see Smith station himself at first one and then +another conspicuous place on the road, hoping they would have the +magnanimity to stop and pay him, especially, as he had informed them of +his destitute and almost desperate condition, with eight young children to +maintain, and no means to do so, after giving up to them the farm. Before +them as usual rode their body servant, of whom Smith would inquire at what +hour the agents might be expected. And most blandly would he be informed +of some particular hour, when perhaps, within the next ten minutes, the +lordly agent would fly past him, on their foaming steeds, with the speed +of a "lightning train." This course they repeated again and again. One +day, when all of the land agents rode through the settlement in this +manner, Smith followed them on foot over fifty miles. He at last +intercepted them, and they promised with the coolest indifference, that on +a certain day, not far distant, they would certainly pay him all he +claimed, if he would meet them at a certain hotel in London. To this he +agreed; and the poor fellow returned to the colony almost exhausted. + +His funds were nearly all spent, and he wished to take his children to New +York; yet his only hope was in the integrity and honor of the land agents. + +On the day appointed, he was at London long before the hour to meet, had +arrived. He entered the village with a determined air, and saw the agents +just riding up to a hotel,--but not the one they had told him to call at. +He, however, waited for no invitation, but entered the hotel and inquired +of the servant for his master. He said his master was not there! + +"I know he is," said Smith, "and I want to see him." + +The servant withdrew, but soon returned to say that his master was engaged +and could not see him that day. Smith followed the servant into the hall, +calling out to him in the most boisterous manner, demanding to be told the +reason _why_ he could not see his master. The noise which Smith purposely +made, soon brought into the hall one of the agents, a Mr. Longworth, a +short, fat man,--weighing in the neighborhood of three hundred pounds! +When he saw Smith, he strutted about, assuring him that this disgraceful +uproar was quite uncalled for, and finally putting on a severe look, told +him that he could not have anything for his improvements; of course not,-- +he really could not expect; certainly not, &c. Smith plainly assured the +agent that his "blarney" would avail him nothing; he had come by their own +appointment to get his pay, and that he certainly should _have_--if not in +the way they themselves agreed upon, he would choose his own method of +getting it! Thus saying, he stepped back, threw down his woolly head, and +goat fashion, let drive into the fat Englishman's "bread basket!" He +sprawled about and soon recovered his standing, but continued to scream +and halloo with rage and mortification, more than with pain, until he had +brought to the spot landlord, boarders, and servants, to witness the +affray; but Smith, nothing daunted, administered two or three more +effectual butts with his hard head into the lordly agent, when the subdued +and now silent English gentleman, drew from his pocket book, and carefully +counted out, every dollar Smith had at first demanded. Smith accepted it +pleasantly, thanked him and withdrew, amid the shouts and jeers of the +spectators, which the agent was more willing to avoid than he. That was +the way the land agent paid the squatter. + +It seemed, however, a little too bad, to make a fine English gentleman, +feel as "flat" as Longworth appeared to feel; yet it was undoubtedly the +only method by which Smith could recover a farthing. The agents, it was +supposed, did not design to pay for any improvements; indeed, some very +hard and unjust incidents occurred in connection with, that matter, and +probably Smith was about the only one, who ever received the full value of +his claim. + +There was committed about this time, a most shocking murder, in the London +district. A farmer who had a respectable family, consisting of a wife and +several children, became so addicted to the use of spirituous liquors, +that he neglected both his family and farm so much, that his friends felt +called upon to request the distiller, who was his near neighbor, to +furnish him with no more intoxicating drink. This, so exasperated the +poor, ruined and besotted wretch, that he raved like a madman--such as he +undoubtedly was--crazed and infuriated, by the contents of the poisoned +cup of liquid damnation, held to his lips by a neighboring distiller; a +fellow-being, who for the consideration of a few shillings, could see his +neighbor made a brute and his family left in destitution and sorrow. +Perhaps, however, he did not anticipate a termination so fearful; yet that +is but a poor excuse for one who lives by the sale of rum. When a +rumseller gives that to a man, which he knows will "steal away his +brains," and make him a maniac, how can he anticipate his future conduct? +And who is responsible? Ah, who? + +When Severin found he could get no more intoxicating beverage, he in his +demoniacal rage, conceived the idea of despatching his whole family, and +set about his purpose by first snatching the young babe and casting it +into the fire! When the poor wife and mother came shrieking to the rescue +of her darling infant, he with one furious blow, laid her a bleeding +corpse at his feet! Two other young children he next murdered, and left +them mingling their blood with that of their mother's, while he ran +furiously after the two older ones, who were endeavoring to escape to a +neighbor's for assistance; and overtaking, killed them both! When the +miserable wretch had completed his hellish design, he started for his +nearest neighbor, named Smith, and told him that there was a black and a +white man at his house, murdering his family, requesting him to go to +their assistance. Mrs. Smith, believing that Severin designed to murder +her husband, insisted on his calling his young men to assist him, which he +did; and on arriving at the scene of slaughter, a most horrid spectacle +was before them: five dead bodies weltering in blood, aside from that of +the innocent babe, whose little form lay roasted and charred, on the fatal +and bloody hearthstone of the drunkard! Victims all, of an intoxicated +husband and father! When the guilty man saw the mangled remains of his +household, he only increased his depravity by trying to make others +responsible for the wicked deed,--exclaiming in feigned anguish, "my dear +wife! my poor children! I was afraid they would murder you! Oh, my lost +family!" &c. Community was soon alarmed; Severin, arrested, tried, +convicted, and sentenced to suffer the extreme penalty of the law. + +It is sufficient for us to say, that the evidence was clear and +conclusive, that he was the only murderer of his family; nor was it +doubted that Mrs. Smith's suspicion was correct; yet, with all the array +of positive testimony brought against him, he denied the commission of the +crime to the last moment of his life! When brought out for execution, he +was placed under the gallows, and the rope with its fatal noose adjusted +around his neck, when one of the attorneys arose, and with great +solemnity, addressed him, in the most impressive manner: "We have done," +said he, "all in our power to save your life; but you are justly +condemned, and in a few minutes more, will enter the presence of the +All-seeing eye of Jehovah; now let me beseech you, in the name of God, to +tell the truth, before you die." Severin declared himself innocent of the +crime, for which he was about to suffer; but was consoled, he said, with +the belief that he should, in a few short moments, meet in blissful +re-union his dear, murdered wife and children in heaven, to part no more! + +Prayers were read; and during the reading of the Lord's prayer, at the +words "Thy will be done," the hardened wretch was launched into eternity. + +No room was left to doubt the fact, that Severin with his own hand +destroyed the life of his unhappy and abused wife, and also that of his +helpless family. Yet in one sense, may we say with the murderer, it was +not he who committed the awful and inhuman deed, but boldly and truthfully +charge it to man's bitterest foe--Rum! What but the maddening effects of +spirituous liquors, could so demoralize, so demonize a man, as to convert +the once loving husband and proud father, into a reckless fiend, a +heartless savage? Oh, Rum! earth contains not another so fell a foe! + +Should any who may read these humble pages, find an effectual warning in +the unhappy end of Severin, one which shall induce them to pause in their +course, or at once and forever abandon the use of alcoholic drinks, I +shall gratefully feel that I have not written this incident in vain. + +Before I left Wilberforce, the Rev. S.E. Cornish, made a visit, and +preached the Word of Life to the colony, greatly to the satisfaction and +comfort of the settlers. After distributing liberally of his abundance, +to his poor brethren, he departed for the States, attended by the prayers +and blessings of the Wilberforce colonists. + + + + +CHAPTER XXXIII. + +CHARACTER AND DEATH OF I. LEWIS. + +I have spoken in the preceding chapter, of a visit from the Rev. S.E. +Cornish, to the colony. He had previously written me, concerning the +object of his proposed visit, which was to obtain the depositions of the +board of managers, relative to all the money received through their agents +for the colony. He was sent to Canada then, and once afterwards, for and +at the expense of A. Tappan, on business pertaining to the law-suit +instituted by I. Lewis against that gentleman, for defamation of +character. The depositions taken in the colony, with the expense of twice +sending an agent to Canada, must have made a round sum for that kind +gentleman to pay, merely for telling a truth already known! + +Mr. Cornish had also been informed of my intention to leave the colony, +and that my family were already gone. He, knowing something concerning the +state of things, urged me to remain at least, until his arrival, as will +be seen by a reference to his letter in the appendix. + +As I look back on those scenes of labor and trial, I find cause for +deep humiliation and gratitude to God, for His goodness and gracious +protection, over my frail life, through unseen dangers of various kinds, +and for his continued favors and unmerited blessings. Many of my fellow +men have fallen in death's cold embrace since that time, while my health +and life has been mercifully preserved. + +Three of the leading characters of the Wilberforce colony are now dead. +Rev. Benjamin Paul, lies in the silent grave-yard in Wilberforce, C.W. His +brother, Rev. Nathaniel Paul, also sleeps the dreamless sleep of death, +and his dust rests in the beautiful cemetery in Albany, N.Y. + +Israel Lewis has also finished his earthly career after robbing the poor +of their just dues, and persecuting those who endeavored to defend them; +after living in extravagance--"faring sumptuously every day,"--he became +reduced in circumstances; despised and dishonored, his proud spirit was at +last broken. His health gave way; when at length, unattended and alone, he +found his way to a hospital in Montreal, where he soon after died, leaving +not enough of all his gains to afford him a decent burial! + +Oh, what a reward "for all his labor under the sun!" His fame, his wealth, +and his law-suits, all have perished with his memory. Poor man! + +Israel Lewis was born a slave, raised on a Southern plantation, and +subjected to all the cruelties and deprivations of a bondman. His natural +abilities were above mediocrity, but having never had the advantages of an +education, or the privileges of a society calculated to cultivate and +refine his natural aspiring intellect, and to direct his indomitable will +in the acquirement of the more imperishable graces of the human heart, he +had come to manhood with a determined, selfish disposition, to accomplish +whatever gratified his vanity or administered to the wants of his animal +nature. + +And may we not, with propriety here inquire, whether our common Father, +who has declared himself to be "no respecter of persons," has endowed men +with enlarged capacities for the attainment of that knowledge and wisdom, +so requisite to the elevation of character,--for the express purpose +of seeing them made beasts of burden, and their superior faculties +prostituted by the sensuality imposed by Slavery, and to be sold as +chattels, with impunity? I tell you, nay. The day when Almighty God will +avenge the work of his own hands, hasteth greatly! Were it not so, we +might rejoice in the ignorance of the poor slaves, and pray that none of +them may ever be endowed with a superior intellect to that of the brutes +they are made to resemble. Then would the proud spirit no longer chafe, +and manhood writhe in the unbroken chain; but, like the ox to the yoke or +the horse to the harness, they might submit, without a conscious violation +of their dearest and God given rights. But we were speaking of Israel +Lewis. + +A natural energy and strength of character, he had inherited; a malicious, +selfish, and consequently a deceptive disposition, his life as a slave had +undoubtedly bestowed upon him. Intellect must have scope, and when nothing +is left within its grasp but vice, can we wonder that the slave possessing +the most talent, should generally prove the greatest villain. + +Uneducated as was Lewis, his quick perception, his ungoverned passions, +and his native independence, not only made him a dangerous slave, but an +unfaithful and overbearing companion. He, however, took a wife--a slave +like himself,--whose devotedness and good sense, cannot be made manifest, +more than in her willingness to leave all that was dear to her on earth, +and flee from their birth-place, she knew not whither; but confiding in +the professed love and protection of her husband, she cheerfully followed +him to the dense forest, in search of that freedom, denied them in their +native country,--submitting herself gladly to all the hardships and +fearful anxieties of a fugitive slave. What to her were horsemen, armed +with dirk and rifle! What though the trained and inhuman blood-hound bayed +upon their track! Was not he who had sworn a life-long allegiance to her +by her side! Should he be killed or retaken, what could she desire, but to +be his companion still! Slavery even, bitter as was the cup, might contain +for her _one sweet drop_, while connubial love lighted up their rude +cabin, and sweetened their daily toil; but the additional anticipation of +LIBERTY, to their domestic happiness--oh blessed hope! How it quickened +their weary footsteps, and, with fixed eyes upon the star of the North, +they pressed forward through every difficulty, until they finally reached +Cincinnati, O. There they lived quietly, and with others, suffered the +terrors of the mob, where also he was chosen agent, to seek a more safe +and quiet home for his afflicted and outcast countrymen. The office was +accepted, and Lewis became the founder of the Wilberforce colony. + +The personal appearance of Israel Lewis was prepossessing; his manner and +address easy and commanding. To those unacquainted with his private life, +his ungoverned passions, and his unprincipled, revengeful disposition, he +could appear the gentleman, the philanthropist, and the Christian. + +His education was limited; yet he had managed to gather a sufficient +knowledge of the sciences to enable him to read and write, together with +quite a fund of general information; and then his shrewdness and tact +accomplished all the rest. To strangers he could appear a ripe scholar, if +left unquestioned. He was a good speaker, and once spake with eloquence +and marked effect before the Legislature, assembled in the Senate Chamber, +at Albany, N.Y. + +Had the childhood of Mr. Lewis been passed under more favorable auspices; +had his intellectual faculties been so cultivated as to predominate over +his animal propensities, and his towering aspirations directed toward the +accomplishment of acts, lofty in their benevolence, noble in their +sacrifice, high in their honorable purpose, and great in their purity; I +can but believe that his powerful intellect would have achieved the fame +of a Lundy, or would have bequeathed to his brethren a memory like that of +a Clarkson. Instead, we have found him devoting his energies to the +gratification of his avarice, pride, and ambition--characteristics +directly opposed to the deportment of the humble Christian, and such as +our Heavenly Father has never promised to prosper. How truly has "the wise +man" said, "He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that +hateth gifts shall live." How strikingly has this passage been verified in +the course of Lewis! For a few paltry sums of gain, could he consent, not +alone to rob the poor, for whom it was kindly given as unto the Lord, but +to turn scornfully away from that poor, illiterate, and humble slave wife, +whom he had, in their mutual adversity, vowed to cherish in _prosperity_ +as well as in all other circumstances through life. That wife, who had +borne with him the sorrows of Slavery--the humble choice of a bondman! +She, who fled with him anticipating additional happiness in a life of +freedom! Poor woman! Disappointment is of an earthly growth, yet God is +merciful; notwithstanding we have the same authority as above, for saying +that "Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord: +though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished." + +In the hands of a righteous Judge we leave him, who, for the wealth that +perisheth,--who, for worldly honor and selfish gratification, could barter +his honesty and integrity, as "Esau, who sold his birth-right for a mess +of pottage." + +To me the lesson is an impressive one, and I am thinking it would be well +for us all to examine the foundation on which we stand. If based upon the +solid and broad foundation of christianity, doing to others in all things +as we would they should do to us, sacrificing on all occasions our own +ease, and worldly honor, for the benefit of our fellow-men, and the +good of our country, then indeed, we need fear no evil; if the winds +of adversity howl about our dwelling, we shall find it will stand, +being founded on a ROCK. But if we build upon "the sands" of fame or +self-aggrandizement, and, like the towering oak, lift our insignificant +heads in proud defiance of the coming storm, we may expect that our +superstruction will fall! "And great will be the fall of it!" + + + + +CHAPTER XXXIV. + +MY RETURN TO ROCHESTER. + +Having closed my business in Wilberforce, I prepared to leave on the +expiration of my term of office as township clerk, which was now near +at hand. Notwithstanding, I ever felt a sensation of relief and pleasure, +when I thought of returning to my old home and friends in the States, yet +as often as I look abroad over the settlement and remember all my glowing +hopes,--all my delightful anticipations of a prosperous future for those +poor, struggling colonists; when I recollected with what zeal and honest +purpose, with what sincerity and sacrifice I had prosecuted my labor among +them,--a dark shadow of disappointment would flit across my mind, however +welcome it might be. That I had firm and tried friends in the colony, I +had never the least reason to doubt, not to suppose their number less +after a five years residence with them; but our expectations had not been +realized. Our hope of settling a township, to be represented in Parliament +by one of our own people, was now forever blasted. I remembered too, that +many of the colonists had been unjustly incited against my course; but in +the retrospect my heart did not condemn me. Errors many, no doubt I had +committed; but I was grateful, when reviewing the whole ground, for a +conscience void of offence toward God and man; and I finally took my leave +of all, craving the choicest blessings of Heaven to rest upon that infant +colony and its interests. + +On the nineteenth day of January, 1837, I left Wilberforce, passing +through Brantford, Hamilton, Queenston, Lewiston, and from thence +to Rochester. During my journey, I could not avoid feeling sad and +despondent, as my mind incessantly returned to the review of my mission, +upon which I could look with no other decision than that of an entire +failure. I had spent my time, wasted my substance for naught, and was now +returning to my dependant family,--that, with myself, had been stripped of +nearly every means of comfort and support. + +What would my Rochester friends think of my conduct? Notwithstanding all +my despondency and evil foreboding at that time, I am now well satisfied +that my labor was not all in vain, but that some good did result from it. + +As I drew near the city, a gloom like thick darkness overshadowed me: I +thought of the unfavorable transactions which had occurred between the +directors of the colony and my friends in Rochester, and fell to +wondering how they would receive me. + +On the twenty-third of January, 1837, I finally re-entered the city +penniless; but as I soon found, not so friendless as my fears would have +it. Among, the first to welcome me back to my old home, was that friend +of "blessed memory," Everard Peck, who had been apprised of some of the +losses I had met and the trials I had passed through. This gentleman was +also one of the first to propose to be one of five men, who should loan me +one hundred dollars each, for five years. Through the disinterested +kindness of this worthy gentleman, I was in a few days after my arrival, +well established in a store of provisions and groceries. The five kind +gentlemen, to whom I was so deeply indebted for the loan, were: Everard +Peck, George A. Avery, Samuel D. Porter, Levi W. Sibley, and Griffith, +Brother & Co. + +This noble act of generosity and kindness, on the part of my friends, to +furnish me with the means to commence business, especially when their +prospect was anything but flattering, regarding my ever being able to +refund their well-timed and gracious liberality,--affected me more deeply +than all the censure and persecution I had elsewhere received. Their frown +and displeasure, I was better prepared to meet than this considerate act +of Christian sympathy, which I am not ashamed to say melted me to tears, +and I resolved to show my appreciation of their kindness by an industry +and diligence in business hitherto unsurpassed. + +E. Bardwell, then a merchant on Exchange Street, next laid me under a +lasting obligation by offering to sell me goods on credit; others +proffered assistance by promising their continual patronage, which was to +me the same as cash,--and soon the store I had opened on Main Street, was +doing an extensive business. My profits were small to be sure, and I had +a heavy rent to pay for my store and dwelling, yet I was making a +comfortable living for my family, and laying by something to reimburse the +kind friends who had helped me in the time of need, when I found that the +health of my family required more of my time and assistance than ever +before. My oldest daughter, who, I have before mentioned, having taken a +violent cold on Lake Erie, was now confined to her bed. All that could be +done to save the life of a darling child--our first born--was done; and if +we sometimes went beyond our means, it was a satisfaction to us to see her +enjoy some of the comforts of life of which my mission to Canada had +deprived her. One physician after another was employed to stay the +approach of the destroyer: some said they could cure her, if paid in +advance; to all of which I cheerfully acceded, but only to see our beloved +sink lower, and patiently pine away. + +No one but a parent who has watched the rapid decline of a darling child, +and marked with a bursting heart the approaching footsteps of the spoiler, +can imagine how powerless we felt at that time. The wealth of the Indias, +had we possessed it, would have been freely given, although it would have +been unavailing, to shield that loved and gentle form from pain, and we +were obliged to look hopelessly on, while our little patient, suffering +daughter sank lower and lower every day. In vain were our parental arms +outstretched for her protection; from death we could not save her. She had +long since ceased to glide about the house, and soothe with her silvery +tones all the childish fears of the little ones. Helpless she now lay, +burning with fever, and wasting from our sight, "till soft as the dew on +the twilight descending," the cold damps of death gathered on her youthful +brow. One pleasant morning after passing a restless night, I observed her +to gaze earnestly upward, and a moment after I called her name but +received no answer. + + "Her languishing head was at rest; + Its thinkings and achings were o'er; + Her quiet, immoveable breast, + Was heaved by affliction no more." + +On the fifteenth day of April, 1837, she sweetly fell asleep, aged eleven +years. Sorrowfully we followed her remains to Mount Hope, where we laid +her down to rest until the resurrection morning. Death had now made its +first inroad in our family circle, and since then we have laid two other +loved ones by her side. We sorrowed, but not without hope. + +My business continued to prosper, and I concluded to buy a small variety +store, containing some three or four hundred dollars worth of goods on the +corner of Main and North Streets, formerly owned by Mr. Snow, but, having +two stores on my hands, I did not make much by the trade. + +The first summer after I returned to Rochester, the friends of temperance +made a fine celebration, and gave me the privilege of providing the +dinner. + +I considered it not only a privilege, but an honor, and felt very grateful +to the committee who conferred the favor upon me. + +The celebration came off on the Fourth of July, and was indeed a splendid +affair. The multitude were addressed on the public square, by some of the +best speakers in the country. I laid in a large quantity of provisions of +every available kind, built a bower, hired waiters, and prepared seats for +five hundred to dine; but when the oration was over, and the multitude +came to the table, I found that as many more seats were wanted. We, +however, accommodated as many as we could, at one dollar each, and all +passed off well, to the great satisfaction of all concerned. + +When all was over, and the friends learned that I had on hand a large +amount of cooked provision, they continued their kindness by purchasing +it, thus preventing any loss on my part. + +My store on the corner of Main and North Streets, was at the head of the +market, and I was enabled to supply both of my stores with country produce +on the best possible terms. I kept two clerks at each store, and all +seemed prosperous for a time, when from some cause, which I could never +understand, my business began to fail. My family had ever lived prudently, +and I knew that was not the cause. I thought to better my circumstances by +taking a store in the Rochester House, but that proved to be a bad stand +for my business, and after one year, I removed to Buffalo Street, opposite +the Court House. I ought to say, that as soon as I found that my income +was getting less than my expenses, I went to the gentlemen who had loaned +me the five hundred dollars, and showed them the true state of my affairs, +and they kindly agreed to take fifty per cent., which I paid them. + +After locating on Buffalo Street, I took in a partner, named John Lee, a +young man, active and industrious, who paid into the firm three hundred +dollars, with which we bought goods. With what I had on hand, this raised +the joint stock to about a thousand dollars, on which we were making +frequent additions, and on which we had an insurance of six hundred +dollars. Our business was now more prosperous than at any previous time, +and we began to look up with hope and confidence in our final success. +One night I returned to my home as usual, leaving Lee in the store. About +twelve o'clock, Mr. Morris awoke me with a few loud raps, and the +announcement that my store was on fire and a part of my goods in the +street! I hastened to the place, where I found, as he had said, what was +saved from the fire piled up in the street and the fire extinguished. The +building was greatly damaged and the goods they rescued were nearly +ruined. Now we were thrown out of business, and the firm was dissolved. +With the assistance of W.S. Bishop, a lawyer, we made out the amount of +damage, which was readily paid by the agent for the insurance company. + +When the Fourth of July came round again, the temperance men resolved on +having another demonstration, and as before, I was requested to supply the +dinner, which I did, after the same manner as the year previous. + +Having been thrown out of business by the fire, I began to examine my +pecuniary matters, and found that I was some three or four hundred +dollars in debt, which I had no means of paying. True, I had met with a +great misfortune, but I felt that to be an honest man I must meet all +obligations, whether legally bound to do so or not; yet it was beyond my +power at that time, and I finally concluded to leave the city, and try to +better my condition by some other business, or at least to clear myself +from debt. + + + + +CHAPTER XXXV. + +BISHOP BROWN--DEATH OF MY DAUGHTER. + +I removed with my family to the village of Canandaigua, where I commenced +teaching a school for colored children, assisted by my daughter. The +school was sustained partly by the liberality of the citizens of the +village, and partly by donations from abroad. It was continued two years, +and the children made rapid progress while they were under our tuition. + +Soon after I left Rochester, I visited New York city, and while there, I +joined "The African Methodist Episcopal Conference." Bishop Brown, of +Philadelphia, presided over the deliberations of that body, and appeared +to be a man of deep piety, as well as apt in business, and was a native of +one of the Carolinas. I found a pleasing acquaintance also, with Bishop +Walters of Baltimore, Md. He was small in stature; but a powerful speaker, +and discharged every duty with "an eye single to the glory of God." He has +now gone to give an account of his stewardship, and I pray that "his +mantle may fall" upon one as capable of leading our people as he. The +conference consisted of some sixty or seventy ministers of the gospel, +with these two Bishops at their head. The conference continued its session +ten days. When it was closed, Bishop Brown, with several others, started +on a visit to the West. They called at Rochester, and then passed over to +Canada, where a conference was to be holden. We arrived, after a pleasant +journey, at Hamilton, where the English government have a regiment of +black soldiers stationed. It was common, in passing through the streets of +Hamilton, to meet every few rods, a colored man in uniform, with a sword +at his side, marching about in all the military pomp allowed only to white +men in this _free republic_. + +All being in readiness, Bishop Brown opened the conference under the +authority of Her Britannic Majesty, with great solemnity, which seemed +to be felt by the whole assembly. This meeting appeared to me far +more interesting than the one we had attended in New York city. The +colored people were much more numerous in Hamilton, and in far better +circumstances than in New York. It is a hard case to be poor in any large +city, but to be both poor and black, as was the condition of the majority +of our friends in New York, was indeed a terrible calamity. Every class, +no matter how worthless they might be, would be allowed to rent a house in +preference to a colored man. The consequence was, our people were crowded +back into the most unhealthy alleys, in old dilapidated tenements unfit +for human beings to dwell in, and such as could not be disposed of to any +other class of people. I am happy to say, however, that a favorable change +has taken place in New York, since the time of which I am speaking. +Capitalists have noted the good reputation of the colored people as +tenants, and have of late erected good dwellings for their accommodation. +In Hamilton there was none of that wretchedness and squalid poverty, nor +any of that drunken rowdyism so common in Eastern cities, perceivable +among the colored people. + +Our conference was largely attended by all classes, both black and white, +--many of the latter invited the Bishop with his associates to their +dwellings to dine, indeed we seldom took a meal at our lodgings, so +constantly were we solicited by friends to accompany them home. + +We also found many fugitive slaves in that city, many of whom were +intelligent mechanics. Some of them took us about the place, showing us +the different buildings they were engaged in erecting; quite a number +were employed in building a church which appeared to be done in a +workman-like manner. + +In the meantime our meeting was progressing in a very interesting +manner, and when the closing services were commenced, the house was filled +to overflowing; still many could not be accommodated. The preaching was +solemn and impressive, and it really seemed to me that the glory of God +filled the house in which we worshipped; saints rejoiced and shouted +"glory to God, in the highest," while sinners trembled and cried out, +"what must we do to be saved from the wrath to come." There were several +hopeful conversions during the session of conference; and after its close +we spent one day in making social calls, and viewing the city and its +surroundings. + +Burlington Bay makes an excellent harbor for shipping, while Burlington +Heights loom up on the north in all their wild and terrific grandeur. Near +the bay resides Mr. McNab, so notorious in the history of the Canadian +revolution. We went in a large company to look at his beautiful grounds +and residence, over which we were politely conducted by his amiable lady. + +It was indeed a lordly mansion, with its surroundings laid out in the +English style of princely magnificence. + +On our return to the city at evening, we were invited to attend a grand +soiree, got up in honor of the Bishop's first visit to that place. Several +families of colored people combined to provide the splendid entertainment, +while one lady presided at the board. She was very beautiful and very +dark; but a complete model of grace and elegance, conversing with perfect +ease and intelligence with all, both black and white ministers, who +surrounded the festive board, as well as our Irish friends, not a few of +whom were present. One honest son of the Emerald Isle entered, and not +understanding the matter, inquired of his brother "Pat," in rather a loud +whisper, "What's all them nagurs setting to that table for?" He, however, +soon satisfied himself, and all passed off quietly and in excellent order. +At a late hour the company, after a benediction, withdrew and dispersed. + +We left Hamilton the following morning, feeling grateful and pleased with +our meeting and visit. + +It was a beautiful morning; the lake was still, no sound was heard but the +rushing waves, as our boat moved on through its placid waters, toward our +destination, then called Fort George, now Niagara, where we took stage for +the Falls. + +At that place of resort, we stopped to view the stupendous work of +Almighty God, and listen to the ceaseless thundering of the cataract. How +tame appear the works of art, and how insignificant the bearing of proud, +puny man, compared with the awful grandeur of that natural curiosity. Yet +there, the rich from all parts of the world, do congregate! There you will +find the idle, swaggering slaveholder, blustering about in lordly style; +boasting of his wealth; betting and gambling; ready to fight, if his +slightest wish is not granted, and lavishing his cash on all who have the +least claim upon him. Ah, well can he afford to be liberal,--well can he +afford to spend thousands yearly at our Northern watering places; he has +plenty of human chattels at home, toiling year after year for his benefit. +The little hoe-cake he gives them, takes but a mill of the wealth with +which they fill his purse; and should his extravagance lighten it +somewhat, he has only to order his brutal overseer to sell--soul and body +--some poor creature; perchance a husband, or a wife, or a child, and +forward to him the proceeds of the sale. While the wretched slave marches +South with a gang, under the lash, he lavishes his funds in extravagant +living,--funds gathered from the tears and blood of a helpless human +being. Have you, dear reader, ever watched the slaveholder at such places +as I have, gliding through the shady groves, or riding in his splendid +carriage, dressed in the richest attire, and with no wish ungratified that +gold can purchase; and have you ever been guilty of envying him, or of +wishing yourself in his condition? If so, think of the curse which rests +on him who grinds the face of the poor. Think of his doom in the day of +final retribution, when he shall receive at the bar of a righteous Judge, +"according to the deeds done in the body," and not according to his wealth +and power. Think you, that the prayers, cries, and pleadings of the +down-trodden slave that for years have been ascending to the throne of a +just God, will never be avenged? Yea, verily, the day of reckoning hastens +on apace, and though, "He bear long with them; He will surely avenge them +of their adversaries; and that speedily!" + +As we pursued our journey to Buffalo, we passed Grand Island, from whence +Mordecai Emanuel Noah, some years ago issued a proclamation, calling on +the Jews to come and build on that island the "City of Refuge," but which +I believe was not responded to, as I saw it remained in its native +wildness. He had also a monument erected there at the time, which might be +seen from the highway and canal, consisting of a white marble slab, six +feet in height, with a suitable inscription upon it, to direct the poor +Jew to the City of Refuge. + +It was quite conspicuous, but not so magnificent as Gen. Brock's at +Queenston Heights. + +Arrived at Buffalo, we held several meetings which were very interesting. +The colored people were then numerous in that city, and owned one of the +largest churches in Western New York. We found a large and prosperous +society under the superintendence of Elder Weir, who was a good and +talented man, setting a godly example for his flock to imitate. At Buffalo +I parted with my pleasant and instructive traveling companion, Bishop +Brown, never to meet again on the shores of time. Soon after that pleasant +journey he died, and passed from his labor to reward. + +Buffalo was then, as now a great place for business. Vessels from all +parts of the country crowded the docks, and I then thought that it must in +time become one of the largest cities in the Union. After a pleasant visit +with our people there, I returned to my home in Canandaigua, where I now +began to feel quite settled. + +I had been requested to act as agent for the "Anti-Slavery Standard," with +which I complied, and leaving my daughter to teach the school, I spent the +most of my time in traveling through the country to advance the interests +of that paper. + +When I returned from Buffalo, she was complaining of poor health, nor was +it long before we saw that she was rapidly declining. + +This beloved daughter, I had spared no pains nor money to educate and +qualify for teaching. I had encountered all the trials and difficulties +that every colored man meets, in his exertions to educate his family. I +had experienced enough to make me fear that I should not always be able to +get my children, into good schools, and therefore determined at whatever +cost, to educate this child thoroughly, that she might be able, not only +to provide for her own wants, but to teach her younger brothers and +sisters, should they be deprived of the advantages of a good school. +Well had she rewarded my labor; well had she realized all my fondest hopes +and expectations,--but alas! for human foresight and worldly wisdom! The +accomplishments and qualifications of a teacher were attained; and proudly +we looked for the achievement of our long-contemplated design. How hard to +believe that the fell destroyer was upon her track! Her education had +qualified her for teaching the sciences; but now I saw, that her faith in +the religion of the blessed Christ, was assisting her to teach her own +heart a lesson of patience, and quiet submission to the will of Him who +holds the issues of life,--and Oh, how difficult for us to learn the +solemn lesson, that her wasting form, her gradual sinking away, was +hourly setting before us. + +Slowly her strength failed; she, however, saw our sorrowful anxiety, and +would try to relieve it with a cheerful appearance. One day perhaps she +would be able to walk about, which would revive our wavering hope; the +next she was prostrate and suffering; then hope died and we were sad! All +the spring time she languished; the summer came, the roses bloomed, and +the grain began to ripen, but she was wasting away. The orchard yielded +its golden harvest; the birds sang merrily on the trees, but a dark shadow +had fallen on our hearthstone, and a gloom, like the pall of death, rested +on our household. Her place at table was already vacant; no longer she +called the little ones about her to hear them repeat their tasks,--all of +which admonished us, that soon the bed where we could now see her, would +be vacated; and we should no longer witness her patient smile, and know +that she was still with us. The pastor of the Baptist church often called +to pray with, and for, the quiet sufferer, which she appreciated very +highly, for she was a Christian in every sense of the word. + +On the thirtieth day of August, at about eleven o'clock, A.M., without a +struggle or a groan, her spirit returned to God who gave it. "Sweetly as +babes sleep," she sank into the embrace of death. Happily, triumphantly, +had she seen the grim messenger approach; but she knew whom she had +believed, and that He was able to keep that which she had committed to +Him, unto the resurrection of the just. + +She had previously made a confession of her faith in Christ, and had been +buried with Him in baptism. A few days after her demise, a long, sad train +wound its way to the village church yard, where we deposited the remains +of our beloved,--Patience Jane Steward, in the eighteenth year of her age; +and then returned to our desolate house, to realize that she had left a +world of pain and sorrow, where the fairest rose conceals a thorn, the +sweetest cup a bitter drop, for a home where the flowers would never fade, +and where pain, sorrow and death will never come. We all felt the solemn +and impressive warning, "Be ye also ready, for in such an hour as ye think +not, the Son of Man cometh." + +As often as I recalled her triumphant, peaceful death, her firm reliance +on God, and sweet submission to His will, I could not forbear contrasting +her departure with that of Mrs. Helm, whose death I have elsewhere +described; and could fervently pray, that I might live the life of the +righteous, that my last end might be like hers. + + "Behold the Western evening light, + It melts in deep'ning gloom; + So calmly Christians sink away, + Descending to the tomb. + + The winds breathe low, the withering leaf + Scarce whispers from the tree,-- + So gently flows the parting breath, + When good folks cease to be. + + How beautiful on all the hills, + The crimson light is shed; + 'Tis like the peace the Christian gives, + To mourners round his bed. + + How mildly on the wandering cloud, + The sunset beam is cast,-- + 'Tis like the mem'ry left behind, + When loved ones breathe their last. + + And now above the dews of night, + The yellow star appears; + So faith springs in the breast of those, + Whose eyes are bathed in tears. + + But soon the morning's happier light, + Its glory shall restore; + And eyelids that are sealed in death, + Shall wake to close no more." + + + + +CHAPTER XXXVI. + +CELEBRATION OF THE FIRST OF AUGUST. + +The anti-slavery friends in Canandaigua, had resolved to celebrate the +anniversary of the West India emancipation, in suitable manner in that +village, for which funds had been unsparingly collected, to defray the +expenses of the coming demonstration. The first of August, 1847, fell on +Sunday, and our people concluded to devote that day to religious meetings, +and the second to their proposed celebration. + +Frederick Douglass and Mr. Van Loon, from Poughkeepsie, addressed the +people on the Sabbath; and also, on the same evening, a large concourse at +the Court House. The day following, there were not less than ten thousand +people assembled on the beautiful grounds, belonging to the village +Academy-attentive listeners all to the eloquent speeches delivered, and +interested spectators of the imposing exercises. + +When the vast multitude had convened, the exercises were commenced by the +Rev. S.R. Ward, who addressed the throne of grace, after which, Mr. +Frederick Douglass delivered an oration, in a style of eloquence which +only Mr. Douglass himself can equal, followed by a song from the Geneva +choir, and music by Barring's band. Rev. H.H. Garnet, editor of "The +National Watchman," next spake, and with marked effect, followed by +Messrs. Ward and Douglass; after which, the assemblage formed a +procession, and marching to the Canandaigua Hotel, partook of a sumptuous +dinner, provided by the proprietor of that house. At six P.M., they again +assembled on the square, and were most eloquently addressed by both Ward +and Garnet; at the close, they repaired to the ladies' fair, where they +found everything in a condition which spake well for the enterprise and +industry of our colored sisters. Their articles for sale, were of a choice +and considerate selection, and such as sold rapidly and at fair prices. +When all was pleasantly over, the ladies contributed twenty dollars +toward paying the speakers present. + +A most beautiful ode was composed by a warm and generous friend of the +cause, which was sung in the grove, in a spirit which produced a thrilling +interest. Gladly would I give the reader the whole composition, but its +length makes it objectionable for this place, but should they happen to +hear a soul-stirring and sublime ode, commencing with, + + "Hail! to this day returning; + Let all to Heaven aspire," &c., + +they may know it is the one to which I refer. + +It was indeed, a glorious day for the colored population generally; and +many were the indications of a diminution of that prejudice so prevalent +everywhere. Some, who had supposed the colored man so inferior to +themselves as to be incapable of making an interesting speech, were +convinced of their error, after hearing Messrs. Douglass, Ward and Garnet. +Mr. Van Loon was a white clergyman, but a brother indeed; his soul +illumined by the pure light of the gospel of peace; his heart full of +sympathy for the oppressed; his tongue pleading eloquently for equal +rights; and his hands busily engaged in breaking every yoke, resting on +the necks of poor humanity. So vigorously, so zealously did he unfold the +horrors of the slave system; so truthfully and faithfully did he expose +the treachery of northern politicians, and so pathetically did he appeal +to the humanity of every professed Christian to speak out boldly for the +dumb; to shield, by the holy principles of their religion, the poor, +bound, illiterate slave, from Southern cruelty and bondage,--that some of +our aristocratic citizens, some of our white savans, repaid his truthful +eloquence, by visiting upon him the bitterest maledictions. From the +negro, said they, we will accept these statements as true,--from him, they +are pertinent and forcible; but when such unpalatable truths are uttered +by a white clergyman, we cannot abide, nor will we listen to them! + +Let consistency blush, and justice hang down its head! Is not truth the +same, whether proclaimed by black or white,--bond or free? Is a falsehood +to be pardoned because uttered by a negro? If indeed, as was admitted, the +sentiments expressed by our eloquent colored speakers, were _true_, could +they be false, when enforced by our intellectual friend, Van Loon? +Certainly not; nor would the case have been so decided by these Solons, in +any other case: or where the prejudice against color had not warped and +blinded their otherwise good judgments. Our speaker, however, performed +his duty faithfully, and with great satisfaction to the colored people and +their true friends present. + +The remains of this fearless champion of liberty; this humble disciple of +the despised Nazarene, now sleeps in death, beside the placid waters +of the Hudson, while his cherished memory lives in the affections of +thousands, who "are ready to perish," and is honored by the pure in heart, +wherever his name has been known throughout the land. In the day of final +reckoning, think you, he will regret having plead the cause of the +bondman? Ah, no; nor can we doubt that to him will be rendered the +welcome plaudits: "Well done, good and faithful servant; enter thou into +the joy of thy Lord. Thou hast been faithful over a few things; I will +make thee a ruler over many things." What then are the few light +afflictions endured in this life, when compared with "an eternal weight +of glory," awarded to the faithful in that which is to come? + +Pleasant, happy, and beneficial, as had been the reunion of old and tried +friends, to celebrate a glorious event, yet, like all earthly enjoyments, +it was brought to a termination, reluctant as were the friends to +separate. Since that day, many have been the demonstrations of grateful +joy and gladness on the glorious anniversary of the emancipation of slaves +on the West India Islands; and yet, in this boasted "land of the free, and +home of the brave;" this famous and declared _free_ Republic,--the +American slave still clanks his heavy chain, and wears the galling yoke +of the bondman! + + + + +CHAPTER XXXVII. + +CONCLUSION. + +For several years past, anti-slavery truth has been spreading, and in +proportion as light has shone upon the "peculiar institution," exposing to +the world its crimes and blood,--enstamping upon its frontlet, "THE SUM OF +ALL VILLAINIES,"--has the wrath of the impious slaveholder been kindled, +and his arm outstretched to strengthen the chain, and press closer the +yoke upon the helpless slave, proving conclusively that he loves darkness +because his deeds are evil. Nor is this all; he and his apologists will +insolently tell you, that _you_ are the guilty ones who have tightened the +bonds of the slave, increased his hardships, and blighted his prospect of +freedom, by your mistaken kindness, in showing the slaveholder the +enormity of his sin! Can this be so? Have we any direct influence over his +human chattels? None. Then who is it that rivets the chain and increases +the already heavy burden of the crushed slave, but he who has the power to +do with him as he wills? He it is, who has been thrust, unwillingly +perhaps, into sufficient light to show him his moral corruption, and the +character of the sin he is daily committing; he it is, whose avarice and +idleness induces to hold fast that which is to him a source of wealth,-- +and by no means to allow the same light to fall in upon the darkened +intellect of his slave property, lest his riches "take to themselves +wings;" or, as may be more properly said, _take to themselves legs and run +away_. + +What stronger proof can we ask in favor of our position, than the +intolerant spirit of the South? If the system and practice of Slavery is a +righteous one, instituted by an All-wise God, certainly no human power-- +especially one so impotent and futile as the abolition power is said to be +--can ever overthrow it. Why then are the mails so closely examined, and +fines imposed on prohibited anti-slavery documents? Is it beyond their +power to confute the arguments adduced, or are they fearful that a ray of +Northern light may fall on the mind of some listening slave, and direct +him to the depot of an under-ground railroad? Judge ye! + +What but this same fearful and intolerant spirit,--this over-bearing, +boasting spirit, was it, that cowardly attacked a Christian Senator, while +seated unsuspectingly at his desk, and felled him to the floor, bleeding +and senseless? Was not the villainous blow which fell upon the honored +head of CHARLES SUMNER, dealt by the infamous Brooks of South Carolina, +aimed at the free speech of the entire North? Was it, think you, a +personal enmity that the cowardly scoundrel had toward our worthy Northern +Senator, which induced the attack? No, no. Brooks spake for the South, and +boldly has it responded--Amen! + +It has said through its representatives, that you Northerners are becoming +too bold in speaking of our sin, and we will use brute force to repel it-- +an argument with which we are familiar. You have told us that we ought not +to hold slaves, nor extend slave territory, which will in a measure +destroy our slave market, and prove injurious to our slave-breeding +population. You have told us we have no right to usurp Kansas,--no right +to murder "Free State men," and no right to sustain there, a set of +"ruffians" to make Kansas a slave State. You have told us, that we have +no right to live on the unrequited toil of our slaves; nor to sell +them to the highest bidder; nor spend the proceeds of the sale in idle +extravagance. Now know, all ye Northerners, by this cowardly blow on the +devoted head of your honored and respected Senator, that we shall no +longer permit you to tell us such unpalatable truths, nor allow you the +privilege of free speech! We have too long held the balance of power in +the government to yield it now; and we give you to know, that whatever we +ask of this government, we expect to obtain; nor will we hear any of your +objections. When we desire you to turn blood-hound, and hunt for us our +fugitive slaves, we expect you to do it, and to see them returned to their +masters, without a murmur on your part. Should you object or dare refuse, +we shall certainly _cane somebody_, or else do what we have threatened for +the last quarter of a century,--"DISSOLVE THE UNION!" Bah! + +My house has ever been open to the fugitive slaves; but more particularly +when I resided in Rochester, did I have occasion to see and feel the +distresses of that class of persons; and it appears to me, that the heart +must be of adamant, that can turn coldly away from the pleadings of the +poor, frightened, flying fugitive from Southern bondage. + +For many years past, I have been a close and interested observer of my +race, both free and enslaved. I have observed with great pleasure, the +gradual improvement in intelligence and condition of the free colored +people of the North. In proportion as prejudice has diminished, they have +gradually advanced; nor can I believe that there is any other great +impediment in the way to a higher state of improvement. That prejudice +against color is not destroyed, we very well know. Its effects may be +seen in our down-cast, discouraged, and groveling countrymen, if no where +else. Notwithstanding the late diminution, it exists in many of our +hotels: some of them would as soon admit the dog from his kennel, at +table, as the colored man; nevertheless, he is sought as a waiter; +allowed to prepare their choicest dishes, and permitted to serve the white +man, who would sneer and scorn to eat beside him. Prejudice is found also, +in many of our schools,--even in those to which colored children are +admitted; there is so much distinction made by prejudice, that the poor, +timid colored children might about as well stay at home, as go to a school +where they feel that they are looked upon as inferior, however much they +may try to excel. + +Nor is that hateful prejudice--so injurious to the soul, and all the best +interests of the negro--excluded from the professed church of Christ. Oh, +no; we often find it in the house of worship, in all its cruel rigor. +Where people assemble to worship a pure and holy God, who can look upon no +sin with allowance--the creator of all, both white and black,--and where +people professing to walk in the footsteps of the meek and quiet Jesus, +who has taught us to esteem others better than ourselves; we often see the +lip of some professed saint, curled in scorn at a dusky face, or a scowl +of disapprobation if a colored person sits elsewhere than by the door or +on the stairs. How long, O Lord, must these things be! + +Of my enslaved brethren, nothing so gratifies me, as to hear of their +escape from bondage; and since the passage of that iniquitous "Fugitive +Slave Bill," I have watched with renewed interest the movements of the +fugitives, not only from Slavery direct, but those who have been compelled +to flee from the nominally free States, and ask the protection of a +monarchial government, to save them from their owners in a land of boasted +liberty! + +The knowledge I have of the colored men in Canada, their strength and +condition, would cause me to tremble for these United States, should a war +ever ensue between the English and American governments, which I pray may +never occur. These fugitives may be thought to be a class of poor, +thriftless, illiterate creatures, like the Southern slaves, but it is not +so. They are no longer slaves; many of whom have been many years free men, +and a large number were never slaves. They are a hardy, robust class of +men; very many of them, men of superior intellect; and men who feel deeply +the wrongs they have endured. Driven as they have been from their native +land; unprotected by the government under which they were born, and would +gladly have died,--they would in all probability, in case of a rupture, +take up arms in defense of the government which has protected them and the +country of their adoption. England could this day, very readily collect a +regiment of stalwart colored men, who, having felt the oppression of our +laws, would fight with a will not inferior to that which actuated our +revolutionary forefathers. + +And what inducement, I ask, have colored men to defend with their lives +the United States in any case; and what is there to incite them to deeds +of bravery? + +Wherever men are called upon to take up arms in defense of a country, +there is always a consciousness of approaching wrong and oppression, which +arouses their patriotism and incites to deeds of daring. They look abroad +over fields of their own cultivation; they behold too, churches, schools, +and various institutions, provided by their labor, for generations yet to +come; they see their homes, their cherished hearthstone, about to be +desecrated, and their wives and little ones, with their aged sires, +exposed to the oppression of a ruthless foe. Then, with what cheerful +and thrilling enthusiasm, steps forward the husband, the father, the +brother, and bares his bosom to the sword,--his head to the storm of the +battle-field, in defence of his country's freedom, and the God-given +rights of himself and family! But what sees the oppressed negro? He sees a +proud and haughty nation, whose Congressmen yearly meet to plot his ruin +and perpetuate his bondage! He beholds, it is true, a few Christ-like +champions, who rise up with bleeding hearts to defend his cause; but while +his eye kindles with grateful emotion, he sees the bludgeon of the South-- +already reeking in the blood of freemen--raised and ready to fall with +murderous intent upon the head of any one, who, like the illustrious +Sumner, dare open his mouth in defence of Freedom, or speak of the wrongs +of the poor negro, and the sins of the Southern autocrat! + +What inducement then, has the slave to shoulder his musket, when the +American drum beats the call, "To Arms! To Arms!" Does he not remember +that the wife of his bosom; the children,--"bone of his bone, and flesh of +his flesh,"--and the rude hearth-stone they for a time are allowed to +surround, belong not to himself, but to the tyrannical master, who claims +dominion over all he possesses. As his property then, let the slave owner +go forth in defence of his own, and lay down his life if he please; but +the poor slave has no home, no family to protect; no country to defend; +nor does he care to assist in sustaining a government that instead of +offering him protection, drives him from the soil which has been +cultivated by his own labor,--to beg at the hand of England's Queen, +"life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." + +Humiliating as it is for an American citizen to name these things, they +are nevertheless true; and I would to God that America would arise in her +native majesty, and divest herself of the foul stain, which Slavery has +cast upon her otherwise pure drapery! Then would she be no longer a +hissing and by-word among the nations; but indeed what she professes to +be, "the land of the free, and the home of the brave;" an asylum for the +oppressed of every clime. + +But should the monarchial government of England call for the services of +the colored man, freely would his heart's blood be poured out in her +defence,--not because he has a particular preference for that form of +government; not because he has ceased to love his native country,--but +because she has acknowledged his manhood, and given him a home to defend. +Beneath the floating banner of the British Lion, he finds inducements to +lay down his life, if need be, in defence of his own broad acres, his +family and fireside,--all of which were denied him under the Stars and +Stripes of his fatherland. But a short time ago, the colored men of +Cincinnati, O., were promptly denied the privilege they had solicited, to +join with other citizens, in celebrating the anniversary of WASHINGTON'S +Birth Day! Oh, no; there must be no colored man in the company, met to +honor him who still lives in the heart of every American citizen,--"the +father of his country,"--and yet, who scorned not to sleep beside his +faithful negro! Nor did the nephew of the illustrious General, despise the +command of the black regiment, which Gen. Jackson so proudly commended for +their bravery, and bestowed upon it his personal thanks, for their +services on the field of battle. + +Do the Northern or Free States of the Union think to clear their skirts of +the abomination of Slavery, by saying that they own no slaves? Very true. +But is the poor, flying fugitive from the house of bondage, safe one +moment within your borders? Will he be welcomed to your homes, your +tables, your firesides? Will your clergymen bid you clothe and feed him, +or give him a cup of cold water, in the name of a disciple of that holy +Christ, who has said,--"inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least +of these little ones, ye have done it unto me?"--Or will your own +miserable Fugitive Slave Law, close the mouth of your clergy; crush down +the rising benevolence of your heart; and convert you into a human +blood-hound, to hunt down the panting fugitive, and return him to the +hell of Slavery? Oh, my God!--the fact is too horrible to acknowledge, +and yet it is a stubborn one. Not on one foot of land under the broad +folds of Columbia's banner, can the slave say, "I am free!" Hungry, naked, +and forlorn, he must flee onward; nor stop short of the outstretched arms +of an English Queen. Yet, thanks be to our Heavenly Father, that all have +not bowed the knee to the Southern autocrat or slave power. A few noble +souls, thank God, remain, who, in defiance of iniquitous laws, throw open +wide their doors to the trembling, fleeing bondman, whose purses are +freely emptied to supply his wants, and help him on in his flight to the +British dominion. But can these out-gushings of a benevolent heart--the +purest impulses of a noble nature--be permitted to flow out spontaneously, +in open daylight? Alas, no! You must be quiet; make no noise, lest an +United States' Marshal wrest from you the object of your Christian +sympathy, and impose on you a heavy fine, for your daring to do to another +as you would he should do to you. + +Is not the necessity of an "_under ground railroad_," a disgrace to the +laws of any country? Certainly it is; yet I thank God, that it does afford +a means of escape to many, and I pray that the blessings of Heaven may +ever rest upon those who willingly superintend its interests. Oh, my +country! When will thy laws, just and equal, supersede this humiliating +necessity! + +Is my reader about to throw the blame of our nation's wrong on England, +and accuse her of first tolerating Slavery? We admit it; but did she not +repent of the evil she had done, and speedily break every yoke, and let +the oppressed go free? Certainly; no slave now breathes in England's +atmosphere. But, say you, her white poor are slaves to the aristocracy, +from which sentiment I beg leave to differ. Oppressed they may be, and +doubtless are, as the poor are apt to be in any and every country; but +they are not sold in the market, to the highest bidder, like beasts of +burden, as are the American slaves. No Englishman, however poor, +destitute, or degraded he may be, but owns himself, his wife and children; +nor does he fear that they be sold and torn from his embrace, while he is +laboring for their support. Poverty, my friend, does not comprise the +bitterness of Slavery, no more than "one swallow makes a summer,"--nor +does it consist solely in ignorance and degradation. Its bitterness arises +from a consciousness of wrong; a sense of the violation of every right God +has given to man, and the uncertainty of his future, over which he has no +control. + +If the American people flatter themselves with the idea of getting rid of +the hated negro race, by colonizing them on the sickly soil of Liberia, +or any other country, they will surely find themselves mistaken. They +are Americans; allied to this country by birth and by misfortune; and here +will they remain,--not always as now, oppressed and degraded,--for all who +have any interest in the matter, well know that the free colored people, +are rapidly advancing in intelligence, and improving their condition in +every respect. Men of learning and genius, are now found among those with +fleecy locks, and good mechanics with dusky complexion. + +This marked improvement in the condition and rapid advancement in +intelligence among our people, seems to have alarmed the colonizationists, +and made them fearful that those very down-trodden slaves, who have for +years labored for nought; whose blood and tears have fertilized the +Southern soil, may, perchance, become their equals in intelligence, and +take vengeance on their oppressors for the wrongs done them; and lest +they should do so, they would gladly remove them to some far-off country. + +Yet here, in North America, will the colored race remain, and ere long in +my opinion, become a great people, equal with the proud Anglo-Saxon in all +things. The African has once been a powerful nation, before Christian +Englishmen invaded her coasts with rum, and incited her chiefs to war, by +purchasing with gaudy, but worthless trinkets, her conquered captives; and +we have every reason to believe, that though her glory as a nation has +departed, that her sons will yet be acknowledged free men by the white +population of this country. + +There have been black generals in the world before Napoleon was born, and +there may be again; and to-day, notwithstanding all the prejudice against +color, that everywhere exists in this guilty nation, there are men of +talent among us, inferior to none on the earth; nor are their numbers few, +though rapidly increasing. + +Well may the South arouse herself, form societies, replenish its treasury +with a tax imposed on the free colored people, to defray the expense of +sending manumitted slaves to Liberia! + +Listen a moment to the cant of the colonizationist. Hear him talk of the +duty he owes to Africa, and how happy, how intelligent, how prosperous +everything is in Liberia. But when that delightful country asks to be +taken into fellowship with the United States, and to have her independence +recognized--ah, then he lifts his hands in horror and begs to be excused +from so close a relation. + +This is all cant, in my humble opinion; and when I see men so anxious to +send the negro out of their sight, I feel quite certain that they are +conscious of having deeply wronged him, and think to remove him, to atone +for their guilty consciences. Would they refuse to acknowledge the +independence of Liberia, if their interest in the colored people was +genuine, especially when several other nations had done so? Oh, no. But +that is not "_the rub_." How could one of our lordly nabobs of the South, +sit in Congress with perhaps one of his own manumitted slaves as a +representative from Liberia or Hayti! He would die of mortification. Very +well then; but let him talk no more of sending colored men to that country +to make them free men. + +The colored people generally, I am happy to say, have a right conception +of the colonization plan, and will never be induced to go to Africa, +unless they go as missionaries to the heathen tribes, who certainly +should have the gospel preached to them. Some, from a sense of duty, may +go as teachers,--which is all well enough,--but certain it is, that no +amount of prejudice or abuse, will ever induce the colored race to leave +this country. Long have they been oppressed; but they are rising-coming +up to an elevated standard, and are fast gathering strength and courage, +for the great and coming conflict with their haughty oppressors. + +That there must be ere long, a sharp contest between the friends of +Freedom and the Southern oligarchy, I can no longer doubt. + +When our worthy ministers of the gospel, are sent back to us from the +South, clothed with a coat of tar and feathers; when our best and most +sacrificing philanthropists are thrown into Southern dungeons; when our +laboring men are shot down by haughty and idle Southern aristocrats, in +the hotels of their employers, and under the very eye of Congress; when +the press is muzzled, and every editor, who has the manliness to speak +in defence of Freedom, and the wickedness of the slaveholder, is caned or +otherwise insulted by some insignificant Southern bully; and when at last, +our Mr. SUMNER is attacked from behind, by a Southern, cowardly scoundrel, +and felled senseless on the floor of the Senate chamber, for his defence +of Liberty,--then, indeed, may Northern men look about them! Well may they +be aroused by the insolence and tyranny of the South! + +And for what _is_ all this? Do not our Southern men know, that if light +and truth are permitted to reach the minds of the people, that Kansas will +be lost to them as slave territory, wherein the Southern slave-breeder can +dispose of his own flesh to the highest bidder! Hear them talk as they do, +in their pious moments, with upturned faces, in solemn mockery, of +returning the negro to his _native_ Africa! How many pure Africans, think +you, can be found in the whole slave population of the South, to say +nothing of their nativity? Native Africa, indeed! Who does not know, that +in three-fourths of the colored race, there runs the blood of the white +master,--the breeder of his own chattels! Think you, that a righteous God +will fail to judge a nation for such flagrant sins? Nay, verily. If the +All-wise God, who has created of one blood all nations of the earth, has +designed their blood to commingle until that of the African is absorbed in +that of the European,--then is it right, and amalgamation of all the +different races should be universally practiced and approved. If it be +right for the Southern slaveholder, to cruelly enforce the mixture of the +races, to gratify his lust, and swell the enormity of his gains, certainly +it cannot be wrong to amalgamate from choice and affection. Let us ask +then, why did our Omnipotent Creator make the marked distinction? +Certainly not for the purpose that one race might enslave and triumph +over another; but evidently, that each in his own proper sphere might +glorify God, to whom their respective bodies and spirits belong. Why, +indeed, was the black man created, if not to fulfil his destiny _as a +negro_, to the glory of God? + +Suffer me then to exhort you, my countrymen, to cease looking to the white +man for example and imitation. Stand boldly up in your own national +characteristics, and show by your perseverance and industry, your honor +and purity, that you are men, colored men, but of no inferior quality. The +greatest lack I see among you, is unity of action, pardonable, to be sure, +in the eyes of those who have seen your oppression and limited advantages; +but now that many of you have resolved to gain your rights or die in +the struggle, let me entreat you to band yourselves together in one +indissoluble bond of brotherhood, to stand shoulder to shoulder in the +coming conflict, and let every blow of yours tell for Freedom and the +elevation of your race throughout the land. Speak boldly out, for the dumb +and enslaved of your unfortunate countrymen, regardless of the frowns and +sneers of the haughty tyrants, who may dare lift their puny arm, to +frustrate the design of the Almighty, in preserving you an unmixed and +powerful race on the earth. + +While I would not that you depend on any human agency, save your own +unyielding exertion, in the elevation of our race; still, I would not have +you unmindful of, nor ungrateful for, the noble exertions of those kind +white friends, who have plead the cause of the bondman, and have done all +in their power to aid you, for which, may the God of the oppressed +abundantly bless them. + +Let your attention be given to the careful training and education of the +rising generation, that they may be useful, and justly command the respect +of their fellow-men. Labor for a competency, but give not your whole +attention to amassing the wealth that perishes; but seek to lay up for +yourselves "treasures where moth doth not corrupt, nor thieves break +through and steal." + +Suppose not, my brethren, that your task is a light one, or one that can +be performed without years of patient toil and unyielding perseverance. +Our oppressors are not very ready to credit our exertion,--too often +forgetting the effects of our long degradation, and vainly expecting to +see us arise at once, to the highest standard of elevation, able to cope +successfully with those who have known no such discouragements or +disadvantages, as has been our lot to bear. + +These and many other obstacles must be bravely met, and assiduously +removed,--remembering that Slavery has robbed some of us, and prejudice +many others, of that perseverance so necessary to the accomplishment of +any enterprize; but in the elevation of ourselves and race, let us never +falter and grow weary, until we have reached the elevated station God +designed us to occupy, and have fitted the rising generation to fill and +improve it after our earthly course is finished and we leave to them the +stage of action. + +Allow me, however, to entreat, that no success which may attend your +determined efforts; no position which you may attain,--may ever so occupy +your mind, as to cause you to forget for one moment, the afflictions of +your countrymen, or to cease to remember the groaning millions in bonds, +until every slave shall triumphantly chant the song of deliverance from +Slavery's dark prison house. + +Bear with me, my dear brethren, while I claim a friend's license, to say, +that I would not that you place implicit confidence in any of the +political organizations of the present time; but remember that the +majority of those parties are diligently laboring for their own interest. +Look you then to yours; are you less capable of securing your rights than +they? Never was there a time when indolence and supineness among us, would +be so unpardonable as now, nor when so much depended on our active and +judicious exertions. + +Let us not forget, that in the past, we could and did truthfully complain, +that we had no helper,--bound and crushed beneath an overwhelming weight +of prejudice and ignorance, we lay helpless at the feet of our political +spoilers. A favorable change has since been effected in the public +sentiment; and now that we see thousands who are willing to aid us, and +as many more who will not hinder our labor,--shall we fold our hands in +idleness?--or shall we renew our energies, in the cause of freedom and of +our own advancement? Although we may not implicitly rely upon the +political exertion of others, let us not fear to co-operate with the +friends of liberty everywhere, as far as a good conscience will permit, +and our limited privileges will allow, by our determined zeal for the +right, make our influence felt in the nation. See what wrong and +oppression our white brethren have met in Kansas, from the slave power; +and let their noble deeds of patriotism; their liberal sacrifices for +freedom, be not only our example, but an incentive to do our duty. Have +they more at stake in that mighty struggle than we, that they should leave +their homes of refinement and comfort, take their lives in their hands and +bravely contend for their rights, surrounded by scenes of blood and +carnage? Certainly not. No people on the earth can have greater incentives +to arouse them to action, than the colored people of this country now +have; I trust therefore, that our future independence and prosperity, will +suffer nothing from the inactivity of our race. + +Some may entertain the belief that the African slave trade is entirely +abandoned. I think not. Often are seen strange, suspicious looking +vessels, lying along the African coast, for no other purpose than that +of kidnapping the poor, ignorant natives. Stealthily the slave-trader +lands his wicked crew, in the vicinity of some negro village or cluster of +huts, and when a favorable opportunity occurs, he and his men rush upon +the frightened African, burn their huts, and amid the shrieks of the +captives, and the groans of the helpless and aged, who have been trampled +down in their rude haste to secure the young and able-bodied natives, bear +them to the vessel, where they are stowed away in the hold of the ship, +which bears them to Christian (?) America, where they are sold as slaves. + +Some years ago, a woman engaged in washing clothes, near the sea coast, +had a lad with her to take care of her two younger children--one a young +babe--while she was at work. They wandered away a short distance, and +while amusing themselves under some bushes, four men, to them strange +looking creatures, with white faces, surrounded them; and when the lad +attempted to run away, they threw the infant he held in his arms, on the +ground, and seizing the other two children, bore them screaming with fear, +to the ship. Frantic and inconsolable, they were borne to the American +slave market, where they were sold to a Virginia planter, for whom they +labored sorrowfully and in tears, until old age deprived them of farther +exertion, when they were turned out, like an old horse, to die; and did +die destitute and uncared for, in their aged infirmity, after a long life +of unrequited toil. That lad, stolen from Africa's coast, was my +grand-father. + +It is not, however, necessary for us to look beyond our own country, to +find all the horrors of the slave traffic! A tour through the Southern +States will prove sufficient to satisfy any one of that fact; nor will +they travel over one of them, before--if they have a heart of flesh--they +will feel oppressed by the cruel outrage, daily inflicted on their +fellow-beings. The tourist need not turn aside to seek evidences: he will +very readily observe the red flag of the auctioneer floating over the +slave pen, on which he may read in large letters, waving in the pure +air of heaven, "SLAVES, HORSES, AND OTHER CATTLE, _in lots to suit +purchasers!_" He may halt a moment, and look at the multitude, collecting +under the folds of that infamous banner, where will be found a few +gentlemanly appearing slave holding planters, superbly mounted, and +perhaps with their servants in waiting; but the larger number he will find +to be drunken, coarse, brutal looking men, swaggering about in the +capacity of slave-traders. + +Let him enter the low, dingy, filthy building, occupied by human +merchandize, and he will there behold husbands and wives, parents and +children, about to be sold, and perhaps separated forever! See the trader, +as he examines with inhuman indifference the bones and sinews, the teeth +and joints of the _articles_ on hand, even of females, and hear him make +inquiries concerning her capabilities, that would make a savage blush! And +see the miserable woman lift her red and swollen eyes to the face of the +heartless trader, and the next moment cast a despairing glance over the +motley crowd, in search of a compassionate look--a pitying eye. Should she +see one countenance wearing a kind, humane expression, it will most likely +bring her frantically to his feet, where, kneeling, with uplifted hands, +she pleads: "Oh, Massa, do buy me! Do buy me and little Sam! He be all of +the chil'ens I got left! O, Lord! O, Lord! Do, Massa, buy me, and this one +baby! Oh, do Massa!" But the weight of the cow-hide drives her to the +auction block, where in mock solemnity she is represented as "an article +of excellent breed, a good cook, a good seamstress, and withal a good +Christian, a ra'al genewine lamb of the flock!"--and then she is struck +off to the highest bidder, who declares that he "won't have the young'un +any how, 'cause he's gwine to drive her down to Lousianny." + +He may see, too, the wild, despairing look of some frightened young slave +girl, passing under the lustful gaze of some lordly libertine, who +declares himself "in search of a fancy article for his own use!" + +One after another is taken from the block, until all are disposed of, amid +the agonized wail of heartbroken wives and mothers, husbands and fathers, +and the piercing screams of helpless children, torn from a parent's +embrace, to be consigned to the care of strangers. + +Nor need I inform our traveler of the inhuman method generally approved, +in hunting with trained blood-hounds, kept and advertised for the purpose +of recapturing any poor slave who may attempt to escape from this cruel +bondage. He may perchance, come across the mangled and lifeless body of +some fugitive, which has just been run down and torn in pieces by the dogs +of the hunter! Should he stop a few moments, he will soon see a hole dug +in the ground, and the remains of the slave pitched into it, covered +sufficiently to hide the unsightly mass from view, and there will be an +end of the whole matter! "Shall I not visit for these things? saith the +Lord; and shall not my soul be avenged on such a nation as this?" + +In giving to the public this unvarnished, but truthful narrative, of some +of the occurrences of my humble and uneventful life, I have not been +influenced by a vain desire for notoriety, but by a willingness to gratify +a just and honorable request, repeatedly made by numerous and respected +friends, to learn the truth concerning my connection with the Wilberforce +colony; the events which there transpired during my stay, and the cause of +my losing a hard-earned property. Regarding the affairs of the colony, I +have, therefore, endeavored to be particular,--believing that duty to +myself and brethren, required me to give them the within information; but +nothing have I set down in malice. Much more might have been said relative +to some of the leading characters in that settlement, had I not been +fearful of its assuming the character of a personal enmity or retaliation. +He who knows and will judge the actions of men, will bear me witness, that +I have cherished no such feelings toward any of those who then lived, but +now sleep in death. + +In justification, however, of my statements regarding the character of Mr. +Lewis, I will call the attention of the reader to some of the many letters +received from good and eminent men, to show that I was not alone in the +low estimate of his virtues. Gladly I leave that unpleasant subject, +hoping that nothing in our past history will serve to becloud the bright +future beginning to dawn on the prospects of our disfranchised and +oppressed countrymen. + + + + +CORRESPONDENCE. + +LETTER FROM A. STEWARD TO WM. L. GARRISON. + +MR. GARRISON, + +Dear Sir:--In a recent examination of the business transactions between +the Board of Managers of the Wilberforce Colony, and their agent Rev. N. +Paul, I find a charge made by him, and allowed by the board, of the sum of +two hundred dollars, which he paid to yourself. Finding no receipt or +acknowledgment from you, I write to ask you to favor me with one, or an +explanation of the facts in the case, either of which will greatly oblige +me, as I design to make it public. Truly Yours, &c., + +A. STEWARD. + +Canandaigua, N.Y., May, 1856. + + * * * * * + +MR. GARRISON'S REPLY TO A. STEWARD. + +DEAR SIR: + +You state that Rev. N. Paul, as agent for the Wilberforce Settlement, +U.C., in rendering his accounts on his return from England, charged the +Board of Managers with the sum of two hundred dollars, paid by him to me +while in England; that said sum was allowed by the board; adding that you +do not recollect of my acknowledging or giving credit to the Settlement +for it. + +In reply, I can only assure you that there must be a mistake in regard to +this item. I borrowed no money, nor had I any occasion to ask a loan of my +friend Paul, my expenses being defrayed by funds contributed by friends in +this country; nor could I with propriety receive, nor he give me any part +of the money contributed for the benefit of the Wilberforce Settlement; +hence, a loan or gift from him, could have been nothing more than a +personal matter between ourselves. Moreover, had he at that time or +any other, given me in good faith the sum named as belonging to the +Settlement, (believing that as we were laboring together, for the interest +of one common cause, the board would not hesitate to allow it,) he would +certainly have demanded a receipt, which it would have pleased me to give, +of course, that he might satisfy the board that their liberality had been +disbursed according to their wishes, or his judgment. But receiving no +money from your agent, will be a sufficient reason for not acknowledging +it, or giving due credit to the Settlement. + +I can account for this charge on his part, in no way, except that as he +was with me a part of the time I was in London, and we traveled together +a part of the time, during which, he ably and effectively assisted me in +exposing that most iniquitous combination, "The American Colonization +Society,"--he charged to me, (that is, to my mission) sundry items of +expense which he undoubtedly believed justly incurred by his helping me +to open the eyes of British philanthropists to the real design of that +society; and I shall ever remember with gratitude, his heartiness and zeal +in the cause and in my behalf. I owe much to the success that so signally +crowned my mission, to his presence, testimony, and eloquent denunciation +of the colonization scheme. I, however, received no money from him, and +can but think that the above explanation was the occasion of his making +the charge, and which I trust will leave on his memory, no intentional +[final word missing from text]. + + + * * * * * + +FROM MR. BAKER TO A. STEWARD. + +MR. A. STEWARD, + +Dear Sir:--Israel Lewis, the former agent of your Settlement, last spring +represented to me the suffering condition of your poor, and requested that +I should forward some goods, for which I should be paid; I did so, +and sent goods to the amount of one hundred thirty-six dollars and +ninety-eight cents. The goods were sold at cost. + +I am also endorsed on a note for two hundred thirteen dollars and ten +cents, which falls due 24th of this month, and which I shall have to pay. +This note was given by Lewis for the purpose of raising money to fit out +Mr. Paul, on his mission to England. I was promised that the money should +be here to meet it. + +I have heard nothing from Lewis or this business since, and as I +understand you are the agent, I must look to you to make provision to meet +the note, and pay for the goods. Good faith requires that all contracts by +your agency be fulfilled. + +Yours, Respectfully, + +CORNAL BAKER. + +New York City, Dec., 1833. + + * * * * * + + +FROM MR. L.A. SPALDING TO A. STEWARD + +DEAR FRIEND: + +In August last, Israel Lewis, accompanied by Rev. Nathaniel Paul called +upon me and exhibited a power of attorney, signed by you as president of +the trustees of the colony, authorizing Lewis to take loans, &c., for the +benefit of the colony. + +Feeling a deep interest in the progress of the colony, I agreed to become +security with E. Peck, at the Bank of Rochester, for the payment of seven +hundred dollars, which soon was raised by Lewis on the note, for the +benefit of the colony. I was in hopes to have seen you. E. Peck and +myself, both are willing to aid you in your noble enterprise,--and may +others feel the same disposition. But as we have families and friends, who +look to us for support and protection, it is proper that we should have +your personal pledge to save us from embarrassment. + +We know your character _well_, and we have also great confidence in Israel +Lewis, and the others engaged with you,--but none of them are so +thoroughly known to us as yourself. + +Our asking for your personal pledge, does not arise from any fears that +the note will not be paid; but as it was signed to aid you, we think it +proper that you should respond by guaranteeing that we shall not be +injured. + +I accordingly copy the note in question, and write a guarantee which I +wish you to sign and hand to my brother. + +I feel much anxiety in regard to your progress; in your forming schools; +religious and temperance societies; and in your taking every measure to +elevate the unfortunate colored man who may go to your colony for +protection and improvement. + +Very Respectfully Yours, + +LYMAN A. SPALDING. + +AUSTIN STEWARD. + +Lockport, N.Y. 1831. + + * * * * * + +FROM THE CONVENTIONAL BOARD, PHILADELPHIA, PA., TO A. STEWARD. + +MR. AUSTIN STEWARD, Wilberforce, U.C., + +Esteemed Friend:--I am charged by the conventional board, to inform you +that at the last session of the general convention, you was duly elected +their _General Corresponding Agent_, for the Wilberforce Settlement and +parts adjacent. Respectfully and in an official capacity, would I ask you +to accept the appointment. + +And in pursuance of the said appointment, the board would be happy to have +at least a monthly correspondence from you, on all such matters as may, in +your opinion, be thought conducive to the prosperity of the settlement, +the elevation and future happiness of the free people of color. + +In particular, we would wish you to give as accurate an account as +possible, of the number of settlers; the number of acres as purchased; at +what price; what number are improved and under culture; what number of +houses or tenements are in the Settlement, &c., &c. + +What are your present prospects in regard to crops; your political +advantages or disadvantages. + +We would also respectfully ask you to inform us, what number of settlers +might emigrate there each year, without injuring the Settlement. Also, +what kind of machines you most need; also, what are the terms for which +laborers are contracted for and how paid. + +The board have been thus particular, because they rely with full +confidence on your _patriotism_ and capability, which have been +unanimously assigned to you. + +You will perceive our object is, to contribute, as far as lays in our +power, pecuniary_ aid, and assist in securing you such _agricultural_ and +_mechanical_ emigrants as, in your opinion, the Settlement may need; and +in all our recommendations to you, we shall endeavor to have an eye to +character, knowing full well that by that alone you must _stand_ or +_fall_. + +We have been informed here by a letter (purporting to be written by a Mr. +Stover), that the Canada Company actually refuses to sell land to colored +persons; and that they are anxious to buy out the colored settlers at +Wilberforce. + +Be pleased to inform me if that be a fact, with its particulars; and if +there be any disadvantages in purchasing land by colored emigrants. + +The board would be happy to know if you have had any news from your agent +in England. If any, what are his prospects? + +You will please be particular and candid in stating your wants (as well as +disadvantages) to us, as we will do our utmost to satisfy them, as well +as promote the happiness of the settlers, and the prosperity of the +Settlement. + +Be pleased to answer as soon as possible, for we as brothers in common, +feel deeply interested. + +With sentiments of sincere friendship, + +I remain, yours, + +JUNIUS C. MORRELL. + +A true copy from the record. + + * * * * * + +RESOLUTIONS PASSED BY THE BOARD OF MANAGERS OF THE WILBERFORCE COLONY. + +At a meeting of the Board of Managers, held September 30th, 1831, to call +the Agents to an account: + +Resolved, That the Report of N. Paul be accepted, and unanimously agreed +to. + +At a meeting of the Board of Directors, all the members present, March +18th, 1832: + +Resolved, That we disapprove of the conduct of Israel Lewis, in his being +absent so long, and also his not communicating with the Board of +Directors, and not informing them from time to time, how he is prosecuting +his agency. + +Resolved, That the chairman of this board be instructed to write to said +Lewis, to return home, and lay before this board his doings. + +At a meeting of the Board, held April 1st, 1832, all the members and +Israel Lewis present with them, he made the following Report, and resigned +his office as agent, which was accepted: + +Lewis said that seven hundred dollars was all that he had collected. That +he paid one hundred and fifty dollars for board in New York, thirty-five +dollars for clothes, and two hundred dollars to N. Paul, as an out-fit for +England. + + * * * * * + +CIRCULAR. + +THE BOARD OF MANAGERS FOR THE COLONY, + +_To the Christians and Philanthropists in the United States:_ + +We, the undersigned inhabitants and Board of Managers for the Colony of +Wilberforce, beg leave to state that the frost cut off the crops in this +part of the country last year, and some of the colonists are in great +need of assistance. And we flatter ourselves that when the peculiar +circumstances of this infant Settlement are duly considered, this appeal, +to a generous and discriminating public, will not be made in vain. + +The board are sensible from the cause above stated, that the inhabitants +of Wilberforce will be _compelled_ to ask _aid_ from the friends of +humanity in the States, or they must _suffer_. + +Under these circumstances they commissioned the Rev. James Sharp, as +their agent, and sent him to the States; but owing to the opposition of +Israel Lewis,--who had been formerly employed as agent, but was removed +from the agency--his labors were almost wholly lost to the board. + +We would simply say, that Lewis was acting for a _certain_ company here; +but we have made inquiries, and find but _one man_ in Wilberforce that +belongs to said company, and he is an old man, in his dotage. That man is +_Simon Wyatt_. We might say _more_, but we think there has been enough +written to satisfy the public. + +In consequence of the unfaithfulness of Israel Lewis, and the numerous +agents that may be looking around the country after him, the board have +come to the conclusion to dispense with a traveling agent for the present. + +And we would humbly request Lyman A. Spalding, Esq., of Lockport; E. Peck, +Esq., of Rochester; Rev. Dr. Budd, of Auburn; Charles Davis, Esq., of +Ludlowville, Tompkins County, N.Y.; Arthur Tappan, Esq., city of New +York; to act as receivers for the Colony. The above named gentlemen, will +see that the funds which they may receive, be faithfully applied according +to the wishes of the donors. + +All money placed in each of the banks at Rochester and a duplicate sent on +to the Colony, may be cashed here without any discount. + +To Christians we appeal: by the brotherhood of Christ, and by their own +hopes of being united in him, to extend to us the means of obtaining +bread; give us, in the name of Jesus, of your abundance; give us, as God +has blessed you, for the poor among us want bread and clothing. + +It is to be hoped that every clergyman in the States, will lay this +circular before their respective congregations, and give every person an +opportunity to throw in their mite into the treasury of the Lord! + +AUSTIN STEWARD, _Pres't_ +JOSEPH TAYLOR, _Sec'y._ +PHILIP HARRIS, + +JOHN WHITEHEAD, +PETER BUTLER, +SAMUEL PETERSON, +WILLIAM BROWN. + + * * * * * + +FROM REV. J. BUDD TO A. STEWARD AND OTHERS. + +MESSRS. PAUL AND STEWARD: + +I have ever taken a great degree of interest in the welfare of your +colony, and have in various ways, brought it before the public. + +It has pained me deeply to learn that there are divisions among you. The +whole deportment and manner of Lewis, who has been here, has evidently +impressed the public in his favor. Although I do not wish to take ground +as his advocate, to the extinction of others, I am not inclined to think +him dishonest from the testimony now before me. + +But, apart from him, my present impression is that the most effectual way +for you to promote the cause of the Colony, is not, at this stage of the +business, to appear before the public in a hostile attitude to Lewis. + +I know some excellent and prominent gentlemen in this quarter, who think +he is unkindly treated; at any rate, while the investigation, lately +commenced at Albany, is going on, it appears to me not wise in you to put +forth any further publication reflecting upon Lewis. He may have acted +imprudently; but he has excited himself very much, and should the idea +prevail that you and he are in a state of collision, it would be very bad +for you. + +I consider your Colony as a very important matter, and will do all in my +power to promote your welfare, but it is very material not to prejudice +the public against you. + +Before I move in the matter, I wish to know the real state of the matter +between Lewis and the Colony. As soon as I can know that he has defrauded +you and deceived the public, I will not hesitate to give my views on the +subject, and put forth any efforts in my power for your advancement. + +There should no sectarian or party feeling be allowed to creep into your +institution. + +I thank you for naming me as a receiver for your Colony, and should +anything come to me, I shall hand it over to James S. Seymour, Esq., +Cashier of the Bank of Auburn, who should have been named instead of me. I +hope you will put his name in my place, or at any rate, name him with me, +for he has been from the first, much interested in your behalf. + +If you will allow me, I will briefly say, that my opinion is, your best +way to relieve your immediate wants, would be to issue a brief circular, +stating the failure of your crops, your newness of settlement, &c., &c.; +and call upon the public for help, without naming Lewis or alluding to +your difficulty with him; let your papers be properly authorized, and say +that the agent you employ is not engaged in getting funds to pay for land, +found schools, &c., but to get _immediate_ provisions for the Colony. + +If you will send an agent here and prepare your circular in this way--let +it be short--and I will print it and give copies of it to him for +circulation, free of charge. + +With many prayers for the prosperity of your Colony, + +I am your Friend, + +JOHN BUDD. + +Auburn, N.Y., May, 1833. + + * * * * * + +REPLY TO J. BUDD BY A. STEWARD. + +To THE REV. J. BUDD, + +Sir:--We feel under renewed obligation to you, for you friendly advice; +but we have already sent out several copies of our circular to different +places, and probably some of them have been printed before this time. + +We have no object in view, but truth, justice,--the greatest good of the +Settlement, and of our brethren in general. Israel Lewis has, however, +collected large sums of money, for our relief, of which we have not had +the benefit. Nearly two years ago, he was appointed agent for the Colony, +to collect funds to build a meeting-house, to endow schools, &c. In less +than one year he received more than two thousand dollars, which he +squandered; and we have neither _meeting-house_ nor _schools_, nor never +_will have_, so long as the money goes into the hands of Lewis. All that +we would have forgiven him gladly, if he would consent to be _still_ and +not _usurp_ the agency _against_ the wishes of the people. + +Sir, is it not expected that he would appear well; as you say, that "the +whole deportment and manner of Lewis, who has been in this place, +evidently have impressed the people in his favor,"--while collecting +money with the eye of the public upon him. But follow him home into +another kingdom, and there see the man in his true character; stripped +of his borrowed plumage,--and we will guarantee that you would agree with +us, in believing that he _is_ an _arch hypocrite_. + +We should be sorry to prejudice the public against our Settlement, more +especially when we are actuated by the purest motives,--that of preventing +the Christian public from being imposed upon, by drawing large sums from +them for us, as they suppose, when in _truth_ such sums _never_ reach us +at all. + +Sir, we know that you are actuated by the purest motives, but you are +deceived in the character of the man, (Lewis). When I was living in +the States and only saw him there, collecting money for the poor, I +thought him honest as you now do; but two or three years' residence in +Wilberforce Colony, has abundantly satisfied me that his object is to +get money, that he may live in a princely style, and not for the benefit +of the poor as he pretends. + +Such are the true facts in the case. We should be glad to have the name of +James S. Seymour, Esq., added to the list, and any other prominent citizen +you may think would help the cause. + +In regard to the investigation at Albany, we do not see how the public are +to arrive at the facts in the case from any statement Lewis may make; for +all his statements that I have seen in print, are positively void of +truth, in the most essential part, so that they are of little or no +importance at all unless substantiated by other testimony. + +The circular contains no testimony that has not been heretofore laid +before the public. Mr. Benjamin Paul recently wrote a letter to the +editors of "The Baptist Register," in which he stated that Lewis had fed +and clothed the colonists like a father, which is not true; and so +sensible was Paul of the fact, that when the letter reached here, together +with the surprise it created wherever Lewis was known, that Paul +cheerfully contradicted it, confessed that he was mistaken, and thus made +it known to the public. + +We certainly have no sectional feelings in the matter, though Lewis has +labored hard to impress the public with a contrary belief; and he has even +brought false charges of the basest kind against our more respectable +citizens, all to draw the attention of the public from the true facts in +the case. + +It is a general time of health here in the Colony. The season is very +favorable; our crops look well, and with the blessings of God we shall +raise enough to supply our wants this year. + +Yours, with due respect, + +In behalf of the Colonists, + +A. STEWARD. + +Wilberforce, June, 1833. + + * * * * * + +FROM A. STEWARD TO G. BANKS AND OTHERS. + +MESSRS. BANKS, WILBER, BROCKENBERG & HARRIS: + +I have received a communication through your corresponding secretary, Mr. +James C. Brown, and I hasten to answer it. The last communication I have +received from Mr. N. Paul, was in December, 1833, at which time he was +vigorously prosecuting his mission, as will more fully appear by the +annexed copy of said letter, which I cheerfully send you. His return is +expected daily. + +[Copy OF N. PAUL'S LETTER.] + +MY DEAR BROTHER STEWARD: + +When I last addressed you, I informed you that I expected to leave this +country before a return letter from you could be expected. I therefore +stated, if I remember correctly, that you need not write. + +I now find that I shall be detained much longer than I then calculated; +and this detention is owing to the Slavery question. The friends of the +cause, advised me to forego my object, until that question was settled; +and then they would turn their attention to my cause, and render me what +assistance they could. + +All their united strength was needed now, while that question was +pending. But thanks be to God, that is now settled. On the first day of +August next, will be the proudest day that ever Britain knew; for from +that time henceforth, there will not remain a single slave throughout His +Majesty's dominions. + +The friends of the cause are now turning their attention to Slavery in the +United States, and are about to form a society for the abolition of +Slavery throughout the world. They all think highly of our Settlement, and +will give it their cordial support. + +The leading abolitionists have given me letters of recommendation +throughout the Kingdom, and have appointed one of their most effective men +to travel with me,--his name is John Scoble, a very ready, intelligent, +earnest, and an eloquent speaker. I think I can do more now in one month, +than I could in three before the question was settled in regard to their +own slaves. + +You will at once see that although the people concluded my object to be an +important one, yet, they generally thought that they ought to lend all +their aid in removing the stain from their own land first This stain is +now effectually effaced, and my meetings are exceedingly crowded. I +addressed an audience at Norwich of from three to four thousand persons, +week before last, when about five hundred dollars was collected. So you +see I am getting on. I start, the Lord willing, next week for Scotland, +and shall spend the winter there and in the North of England. In the +spring I shall return and take passage for Canada. I doubt not, that you +are anxiously looking for my return; yet, you cannot want to see me more +than I want to return; but I tell you now as I have told you before, that +I shall not return until I have done all that can be done by my labor. + +Yours, + +N. PAUL. + +SIRS: + +The above copy will give you all the recent information we have received +concerning the mission of our foreign agent. + +Please accept my kindest regards, with my acknowledgments of your +distinguished consideration, while I remain, + +Yours truly, + +AUSTIN STEWARD. + +Wilberforce, U.C. + + * * * * * + +FROM A. STEWARD TO MR. NELL. + +DEAR SIR: + +We are glad to acknowledge your favor of October last, and to hear of your +safe arrival in England, your health and fair prospects. + +Since my removal to Wilberforce, I have opened a school, which Mrs. +Steward has engaged to teach for one year; while I shall probably devote +my time to traveling through the States, for the benefit of the Colony, +which is indeed poor, and in want of some assistance; and yet, not a +dollar have we in the treasury to help them with. + +Mr. Paul has not returned, though we are daily expecting him. Our friends +in New York, still have confidence in his pledge to do right; and we are +anxiously expecting its fulfilment. + +Your wife, Mrs. Nell, and the children are well, and we are still doing +all in our power for their comfort; but my means, in consequence of having +been so much abroad the past season, are limited; by which you will see, +my dear Sir, the necessity of remitting funds to me, that I may make your +family more comfortable in all things, without distressing my own. + +The settlers are well, and are looking with hopeful expectancy for you to +do something handsome for them, in which I do hope they may not be +disappointed. Lewis is still in New York. We have appointed another agent, +named Scott, but who is doing nothing for the Colony now. + +May the blessings of God rest upon you, and your endeavors; your good +deportment put to silence your enemies; may they who foresee that you will +cheat the poor colored children, be sadly mistaken, and your good deeds +finally enrol your name on the proud list of philanthropists, headed by a +Wilberforce and a Clarkson. + +Yours, in great haste, + +AUSTIN STEWARD. + +Wilberforce, Dec., 1835. + + * * * * * + +FROM L.A. SPALDING TO A. STEWARD AND OTHERS. + +DEAR FRIENDS: + +I have received a letter from Israel Lewis, New York, requesting me to +forward fifty dollars to the treasurer of the Wilberforce Colony, which +I will do at the first convenience. I sent fifty dollars some time since, +which I presume was received. + +I have also received a letter from B. Lundy, who speaks very flatteringly +of the Settlement; but gives me some information relating to Lewis, which +will injure you, unless you act wisely. + +Now I suggest for your consideration, whether it would not be best to keep +perfectly quiet relative to him, until after he returns and settles with +the directors. If he cannot then satisfy you, he will no doubt surrender +up his documents and agency like a man, and leave you to appoint another. + +By all means you must agree among yourselves, not suffering any difference +of opinion to become public. Your enemies will seize upon this, and injure +your prospects; besides, you gain nothing by it. Your friends too, could +then say that you acted imprudently. I hope to have a good account of the +settlement of your difficulties if any should exist. + +Respectfully your Friend, + +LYMAN A. SPALDING. + +AUSTIN STEWARD & BENJ. PAUL. + +Lockport, N.Y., 2d Mo., 4th, 1832. + + * * * * * + +FROM REV. S.E. CORNISH TO A. STEWARD. + +DEAR STEWARD: + +I have this day received your letter, and God willing, I will be with you +in the course of ten or twelve days. Please to keep your people together, +until I come. I will see that they be not oppressed by that notorious +Israel Lewis. I believe him to be one of the worst men living, whose deeds +will yet come to light. Do stay in the Colony and keep all things as they +are until I come. + +Yours, with high esteem, + +SAMUEL E. CORNISH. + +P.S.--I am glad that Mrs. Steward is in Rochester; your Colony is by no +means suited to her talents and refined mind. She never could be happy +there. My love to all the Colonists; I will do every thing for them in my +power. S.E.C. + + * * * * * + +FROM B. LUNDY TO A. STEWARD AND OTHERS. + +ESTEEMED FRIENDS: + + +Again I take this method of communicating some private information to my +personal friends, relative to my proceedings in Mexico. My last visit to +that country, (like the one preceding), having been prolonged far beyond +the time which I had anticipated, I feel it incumbent on me to explain the +causes thereof especially to such as take an interest in the enterprize in +which I have engaged, and those who have kindly assisted me with, means to +defray the expenses of my journey, &c. + +Soon after the date of my last printed letter, which was issued from this +place, I went to New Orleans, with the intention of taking a passage by +sea, to some port in Mexico; but after waiting in that city about two +weeks, and finding no opportunity to obtain one, I proceeded up the Red +River, and journeyed through Texas again by land. My health continued very +good for some length of time; but when I reached the middle part of the +Texas country, it was my misfortune to come again in contact with the +direful "cholera," and again I was the subject of its virulent attacks. My +detention was great, and affliction severe; though I finally expelled the +disorder as I had done before. My sufferings were somewhat aggravated in +several instances, by the fearful prejudices of the people among whom I +traveled. I was very anxious to get through my journey, and often assayed +to travel before I was in fact well enough. The consequence was, that I +frequently took relapses, and sometimes had to lie out under trees, even +in time of rain, within sight of houses, the people being unwilling to +give me shelter therein, fearing that my disorder was contagious. + +At length I reached the Mexican town of San Antonio de Bexar, and there I +tarried, until I had got pretty well rid of the cholera. I then pursued my +journey to Monclova, the seat of government for the State of Coahuila and +Texas, in company with several Mexican gentlemen and foreigners. Previous +to this time, I had traveled several hundred miles entirely alone, and +generally encamped in the woods or plains at night. On my arrival at +Monclova, I was doomed to encounter "misfortune" of a very different +character. Here I found that the Englishman, (mentioned in my other +letter), with whom I had contracted to petition for two grants of land, +_had totally failed in his application_. The petition had been laid before +the Governor, and he was about issuing the grants, when he received a +_decree_ from the Legislature--which was then in session--forbidding him +to grant any more land, under any pretext. This measure was taken to +prevent the great land speculators from carrying on their swindling +operations in Texas. An act was soon after passed by that body, repealing +all their Colonization laws; and thus every hope that I had so fondly +entertained, and each fair prospect, seemingly so near its realization, +_was instantly blasted and utterly destroyed_! If ever the fortitude +of man was tried, mine was then. If ever stoic philosophy might be +successfully called to the aid of human courage, I felt the necessity +of invoking it upon that occasion. Nearly two years of toil, privation and +peril, have been wasted. My sufferings had been great, though my spirit +soared on the bouyancy of hope. Now the fair superstructure of an +important enterprise, whose ideal magnitude had employed my mind, to the +exclusion of many hardships endured, suddenly vanished from my sight, and +left before me a hideous and gloomy void with no other encouragement than +total disappointment, conscious poverty and remediless despair! What +_should_ I then have done? My health was restored, but my detention and +consequent expenses had been so great that my funds were nearly exhausted. +I came to the country for an important purpose; and I reasoned with +myself thus; although my way is closed in this State, cannot something be +done _elsewhere_? I will not boast of the stoutest heart among men, but +mine _must not quail_. Something further _must_ be done if possible, and +I will try. + +In the course of my travels, I had seen a part of the adjoining State of +Tamaulipas, and had been informed that the colonization laws thereof were +liberal. I was even aware that some parts of it are more suitable for the +culture of the sugar cane, than any tract I could have obtained in +Coahuila and Texas. And upon a little reflection, I determined to make +further investigations in Tamaulipas, and had been informed of the State. +As soon as my horse was a little rested, I set out, _alone_, on a journey +of between four and five hundred miles, part of the way through an awfully +mountainous region, and much of it an uninhabited wilderness. I encamped +out almost every night, during the whole journey; very seldom near any +human habitation. I had no fire-arms nor anything to defend myself +against the ferocious beasts of the forest, which I had evidence to +convince me were frequently numerous, and not far distant. In two weeks I +reached the city of Matamoras, in the State of Tamaulipas, quite destitute +of funds, after parting with almost every disposable article belonging to +my wardrobe, &c. The people of this place being all perfect strangers to +me, I did not for a while unfold to them the real object of my visit; but +instead thereof, I opened a shop, and commenced working at my old trade-- +the saddling business. I soon got as much work as I could do--supported +myself, replenished my pocket, made some acquaintance with a number of +people, and obtained more information respecting the Colonization laws of +the State. A few weeks elapsed, while I was employed in this way. I then +mounted my horse again, and proceeded to the capital of the State; and +after negotiating for some time with the Governor and Council of the +State, I succeeded in obtaining a grant of land, upon advantageous terms. +I then performed another journey of almost two hundred and fifty miles, +"alone," to Matamoras again; and soon thereafter embarked for the United +States. + +My friends will thus perceive that I have not been idle; though much time +has been occupied in my last expedition. I shall not attempt to excite +their sympathy by exhibiting the twentieth part of what I have suffered. I +do not even like to look back upon some of the scenes through which I have +passed. But thanks to a kind and all-sustaining Providence, complete +success has at last crowned my exertions. I strove hard to command it; and +I leave it to others to say whether I have _deserved_ it or not. + +The terms upon which I have obtained my grant of land will be noticed in a +public address, which I shall forward with this letter. + +Since my arrival in this place, I have been confined by sickness; but am +now convalescent, and shall visit my friends to the eastward, as soon as +circumstances will permit. I cannot close this communication without an +expression of my sincere thanks to those kind friends who rendered me +assistance in defraying the expenses of my last Mexican tour. Their favors +will be most gratefully remembered, and I shall feel myself under +additional obligations to labor for the melioration of the condition of +the poor and suffering _slave_. + +In the next number of the "Genius of Universal Emancipation," I shall +insert the names of those who contributed to aid me in the prosecution of +my enterprise; and correct information relative to all proceedings +therein, will be given in the pages of that work, as the business +connected with it progresses. + +I am, most respectfully, your Friend, + +B. LUNDY. + +N. & B. PAUL, +AUSTIN STEWARD, +REV. J. SHARP. + +Nashville, 5th Mo., 1835. + + +THE END. + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Twenty-Two Years a Slave, and Forty +Years a Freeman, by Austin Steward + +*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 11137 *** diff --git a/11137-h/11137-h.htm b/11137-h/11137-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..4229fee --- /dev/null +++ b/11137-h/11137-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,9275 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> + <head> + <meta content="pg2html (binary v0.17)" name="linkgenerator" /> + <title> + Twenty-two Years a Slave, by Austin Steward + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .75em; margin-bottom: .75em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 5%; margin-right: 5%; text-align: justify; font-size: 80%; font-style: italic;} + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + .xx-small {font-size: 60%;} + .x-small {font-size: 75%;} + .small {font-size: 85%;} + .large {font-size: 115%;} + .x-large {font-size: 130%;} + .indent5 { margin-left: 5%;} + .indent10 { margin-left: 10%;} + .indent15 { margin-left: 15%;} + .indent20 { margin-left: 20%;} + .indent25 { margin-left: 25%;} + .indent30 { margin-left: 30%;} + .indent35 { margin-left: 35%;} + .indent40 { margin-left: 40%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {position: absolute; right: 1%; font-size: 0.6em; + font-variant: normal; font-style: normal; + text-align: right; background-color: #FFFACD; + border: 1px solid; padding: 0.3em;text-indent: 0em;} + .side { float: left; font-size: 75%; width: 15%; padding-left: 0.8em; + border-left: dashed thin; text-align: left; + text-indent: 0; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; + font-weight: bold; color: black; background: #eeeeee; border: solid 1px;} + .head { float: left; font-size: 90%; width: 98%; padding-left: 0.8em; + border-left: dashed thin; text-align: center; + text-indent: 0; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; + font-weight: bold; color: black; background: #eeeeee; border: solid 1px;} + p.pfirst, p.noindent {text-indent: 0} + span.dropcap { float: left; margin: 0 0.1em 0 0; line-height: 0.8 } + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} +</style> + </head> + <body> +<div>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 11137 ***</div> + <div style="height: 8em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h1> + TWENTY-TWO YEARS A SLAVE, + </h1> + <h2> + AND FORTY YEARS A FREEMAN; + </h2> + <h3> + EMBRACING A CORRESPONDENCE OF SEVERAL YEARS, WHILE PRESIDENT OF + WILBERFORCE COLONY, LONDON, CANADA WEST, + </h3> + <h2> + BY AUSTIN STEWARD + </h2> + <h3> + 1856 + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h3> + FROM GOVERNOR CLARK. + </h3> + <p> + STATE OF NEW YORK, EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, + </p> + <p> + Albany, May 10, 1856. + </p> + <p> + MR. A. STEWARD, Canandaigua, + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir:—I notice a paragraph in the "Ontario Times" of this date, + making the announcement that you are preparing "a sketch of events + occurring under your own observation during an eventful life," to be + entitled, "Twenty Years a Slave, and Forty Years a Freeman;" and that you + design soon to make an effort to obtain subscribers for the book. + </p> + <p> + Being desirous of rendering you what encouragement I may in the work, you + are permitted to place my name on your list of subscribers. + </p> + <p> + Respectfully Yours, + </p> + <h3> + MYRON H. CLARK. + </h3> + <hr /> + <h3> + ROCHESTER, SEPTEMBER, 1856 + </h3> + <h3> + MR. WM. ALLING, + </h3> + <p> + Dear Sir:—The undersigned have heard with pleasure, that you are + about issuing a Book made up from incidents in the life of Austin STEWARD. + We have been the early acquaintances and associates of Mr. Steward, while + a business man in Rochester in an early day, and take pleasure in bearing + testimony to his high personal, moral and Christian character. In a world + of vicissitude, Mr. Steward has received no ordinary share, and we hope, + while his book may do the world good, it may prove a substantial benefit + to him in his declining years. + </p> + <p> + ASHLEY SAMPSON, THOMAS KEMPSHALL, FREDERICK STARR, CHAS. J. HILL, L.A. + WARD, EDWIN SCRANTOM, JACOB GOULD. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + RECOMMENDATORY. + </h3> + <h3> + ROCHESTER, JULY 1, 1856. + </h3> + <h3> + A. STEWARD, ESQ., + </h3> + <p> + Dear Sir:—In reply to your letter upon the propriety of publishing + your life, I answer, that there is not only no objection to it, but it + will be timely, and is demanded by every consideration of humanity and + justice. Every tongue which speaks for Freedom, which has once been held + by the awful gag of Slavery, is trumpet-tongued—and he who pleads + against this monstrous oppression, if he can say, "here are the scars," + can do much. + </p> + <p> + It is a great pleasure to me to run back to my boyhood, and stop at that + spot where I first met you. I recollect the story of your wrongs, and your + joy in the supposition that all were now ended in your freedom; of your + thirst for knowledge, as you gathered up from the rudimental books—not + then very plenty—a few snatches of the elements of the language; of + playing the school-master to you, in "setting copies" for your writing— + book; of guiding your mind and pen. I remember your commencement in + business, and the outrage and indignity offered you in Rochester, by white + competitors on no other ground than that of color.[1] I saw your + bitter tears, and recollect assuring you—what afterwards proved true—that + justice would overtake the offenders, and that you would live to see these + enemies bite the dust! I remember your unsullied character, and your + prosperity, and when your word or endorsement was equal to that of any + other citizen. I remember too, when yourself, and others of your kind, + sunk all the gatherings of years of toil, in an unsuccessful attempt to + establish an asylum for your enslaved and oppressed brethren—and, + not to enumerate, which I might do much farther, I remember when your "old + master," finding you had been successful, while he himself had lost in the + changes on fortune's wheel—came here and set up a claim to yourself + and your property—a claim which might have held both, had not a + higher power suddenly summoned him to a tribunal, where both master and + slave shall one day answer each for himself! + </p> + <p> + But to the book. Let its plain, unvarnished tale be sent out, and the + story of Slavery and its abominations, again be told by one who has felt + in his own person its scorpion lash, and the weight of its grinding heel. + I think it will do good service, and could not have been sent forth at a + more auspicious period. The downfall of the hateful system of Slavery is + certain. Though long delayed, justice is sure to come at length; and he + must be a slow thinker and a poor seer, who cannot discern in the elements + already at work, the mighty forces which must eventually crush this + oppression. I know that you and I have felt discouraged at the long delay, + years ago,—when we might have kept up our hopes by the fact that + every thing that is slow is <i>sure</i>. Your book may be humble and your + descriptions tame, yet truth is always mighty; and you may furnish the + sword for some modern Sampson, who shall shout over more slain than his + ancient prototype. I close with the wish, that much success may attend + your labors, in more ways than one, and that your last days may be your + best—and am, + </p> + <p> + Your old Friend, + </p> + <p> + And obed't serv't, + </p> + <h3> + EDWIN SCRANTOM. + </h3> + <p> + [Note 1: The indignity spoken of was this: Mr. Steward had established a + grocery and provision store on Buffalo Street, in a part of Abner + Wakelee's building, opposite the Eagle Hotel. He put up his sign, a very + plain and proper one, and at night, some competitors, whom he knew, as + well as he could know anything which he could not prove, smeared his sign + with black paint, utterly destroying it! But the misguided men who stooped + to such an act—the victims of sensuality and excess—have years + ago ended their journey, and passed to the bar of a higher adjudication.] + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + <b>CONTENTS</b> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_PREF"> PREFACE. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I. — SLAVE LIFE ON THE PLANTATION. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II. — AT THE GREAT HOUSE. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III. — HORSE-RACING AND ITS + CONSEQUENCES. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV. — JOURNEY TO OUR NEW HOME IN + NEW YORK. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V. — INCIDENTS AT SODUS BAY. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI. — REMOVAL FROM SODUS TO BATH. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII. — DUELING. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII. — HORSE-RACING AND GENERAL + TRAINING. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER IX. — DEATH BED AND BRIDAL SCENES. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER X. — HIRED OUT TO A NEW MASTER. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XI. — THOUGHTS ON FREEDOM. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XII. — CAPT. HELM—DIVORCE—KIDNAPPING. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XIII. — LOCATE IN THE VILLAGE OF + ROCHESTER. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XIV. — INCIDENTS IN ROCHESTER AND + VICINITY. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XV. — SAD REVERSES OF CAPT. HELM. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XVI. — BRITISH EMANCIPATION OF + SLAVERY. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER XVII. — ORATION—TERMINATION + OF SLAVERY. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XVIII. — CONDITION OF FREE COLORED + PEOPLE. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XIX. — PERSECUTION OF THE COLORED + PEOPLE. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XX. — REMOVAL TO CANADA. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXI. — ROUGHING IT IN THE WILDS OF + CANADA. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER XXII. — NARROW ESCAPE OF A + SMUGGLER. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0023"> CHAPTER XXIII. — NARRATIVE OF TWO FUGITIVES + FROM VIRGINIA. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0024"> CHAPTER XXIV. — PLEASANT RE-UNION OF OLD + AND TRIED FRIENDS. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0025"> CHAPTER XXV. — PRIVATE LOSSES AND PRIVATE + DIFFICULTIES. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0026"> CHAPTER XXVI. — INCIDENTS AND PECULIARITIES + OF THE INDIANS. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0027"> CHAPTER XXVII. — OUR DIFFICULTIES WITH + ISRAEL LEWIS. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0028"> CHAPTER XXVIII. — DESPERATION OF A FUGITIVE + SLAVE. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0029"> CHAPTER XXIX. — A NARROW ESCAPE FROM MY + ENEMIES. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0030"> CHAPTER XXX. — DEATH OF B. PAUL, AND RETURN + OF HIS BROTHER. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0031"> CHAPTER XXXI. — MY FAMILY RETURN TO + ROCHESTER. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0032"> CHAPTER XXXII. — THE LAND AGENT AND THE + SQUATTER. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0033"> CHAPTER XXXIII. — CHARACTER AND DEATH OF I. + LEWIS. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0034"> CHAPTER XXXIV. — MY RETURN TO ROCHESTER. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0035"> CHAPTER XXXV. — BISHOP BROWN—DEATH OF + MY DAUGHTER. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0036"> CHAPTER XXXVI. — CELEBRATION OF THE FIRST + OF AUGUST. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0037"> CHAPTER XXXVII. — CONCLUSION. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0039"> CORRESPONDENCE. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_PREF" id="link2H_PREF"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + PREFACE. + </h2> + <p> + The author does not think that any apology is necessary for this issue of + his Life and History. He believes that American Slavery is now the great + question before the American People: that it is not merely a political + question, coming up before the country as the grand element in the making + of a President, and then to be laid aside for four years; but that its + moral bearings are of such a nature that the Patriot, the Philanthropist, + and all good men agree that it is an evil of so much magnitude, that + longer to permit it, is to wink at <i>sin</i>, and to incur the righteous + judgments of God. The late outrages and aggressions of the slave power to + possess itself of new soil, and extend the influence of the hateful and + God-provoking "Institution," is a practical commentary upon its benefits + and the moral qualities of those who seek to sustain and extend it. The + author is therefore the more willing—nay, anxious, to lay alongside + of such arguments the history of his own life and experiences <i>as a + slave</i>, that those who read may know what are some of the + characteristics of that highly favored institution, which is sought to be + preserved and perpetuated. "Facts are stubborn things,"—and this is + the reason why all systems, religious, moral, or social, which are founded + in injustice, and supported by fraud and robbery, suffer so much by + faithful exposition. + </p> + <p> + The author has endeavored to present a true statement of the practical + workings of the system of Slavery, as he has seen and <i>felt it himself.</i> + He has intended "nothing to extenuate, nor aught set down in malice;" + indeed, so far from believing that he has misrepresented Slavery as an + institution, he does not feel that he has the power to give anything like + a true picture of it in all its deformity and wickedness; especially <i>that</i> + Slavery which is an institution among an enlightened and Christian people, + who profess to believe that all men are born <i>free</i> and <i>equal</i>, + and who have certain inalienable <i>rights</i>, among which are <i>life, + liberty</i>, and the pursuit of happiness. + </p> + <p> + The author claims that he has endeavored since he had his freedom, as much + as in him lay, to benefit his suffering fellows in bondage; and that he + has spent most of his free life in efforts to elevate them in manners and + morals, though against all the opposing forces of prejudice and pride, + which of course, has made much of his labor vain. In his old age he sends + out this history—presenting as it were his <i>own body</i>, with the + marks and scars of the tender mercies of slave drivers upon it, and asking + that these may plead in the name of Justice, Humanity, and Mercy, that + those who have the power, may have the magnanimity to strike off the + chains from the enslaved, and bid him stand up, a Freeman and a Brother! + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. — SLAVE LIFE ON THE PLANTATION. + </h2> + <p> + I was born in Prince William County, Virginia. At seven years of age, I + found myself a slave on the plantation of Capt. William Helm. Our family + consisted of my father and mother—whose names were Robert and Susan + Steward—a sister, Mary, and myself. As was the usual custom, we + lived in a small cabin, built of rough boards, with a floor of earth, and + small openings in the sides of the cabin were substituted for windows. The + chimney was built of sticks and mud; the door, of rough boards; and the + whole was put together in the rudest possible manner. As to the furniture + of this rude dwelling, it was procured by the slaves themselves, who were + occasionally permitted to earn a little money after their day's toil was + done. I never knew Capt. H. to furnish his slaves with household utensils + of any description. + </p> + <p> + The amount of provision given out on the plantation per week, was + invariably one peck of corn or meal for each slave. This allowance was + given in meal when it could be obtained; when it could not, they received + corn, which they pounded in mortars after they returned from their labor + in the field. The slaves on our plantation were provided with very little + meat In addition to the peck of corn or meal, they were allowed a little + salt and a few herrings. If they wished for more, they were obliged to + earn it by over-work. They were permitted to cultivate small gardens, and + were thereby enabled to provide themselves with many trifling + conveniences. But these gardens were only allowed to some of the more + industrious. Capt. Helm allowed his slaves a small quantity of meat during + harvest time, but when the harvest was over they were obliged to fall back + on the old allowance. + </p> + <p> + It was usual for men and women to work side by side on our plantation; and + in many kinds of work, the women were compelled to do as much as the men. + Capt. H. employed an overseer, whose business it was to look after each + slave in the field, and see that he performed his task. The overseer + always went around with a whip, about nine feet long, made of the toughest + kind of cowhide, the but-end of which was loaded with lead, and was about + four or five inches in circumference, running to a point at the opposite + extremity. This made a dreadful instrument of torture, and, when in the + hands of a cruel overseer, it was truly fearful. With it, the skin of an + ox or a horse could be cut through. Hence, it was no uncommon thing to see + the poor slaves with their backs mangled in a most horrible manner. Our + overseer, thus armed with his cowhide, and with a large bull-dog behind + him, followed the slaves all day; and, if one of them fell in the rear + from any cause, this cruel weapon was plied with terrible force. He would + strike the dog one blow and the slave another, in order to keep the former + from tearing the delinquent slave in pieces,—such was the ferocity + of his canine attendant. + </p> + <p> + It was the rule for the slaves to rise and be ready for their task by + sun-rise, on the blowing of a horn or conch-shell; and woe be to the + unfortunate, who was not in the field at the time appointed, which was in + thirty minutes from the first sounding of the horn. I have heard the poor + creatures beg as for their lives, of the inhuman overseer, to desist from + his cruel punishment. Hence, they were usually found in the field "betimes + in the morning," (to use an old Virginia phrase), where they worked until + nine o'clock. They were then allowed thirty minutes to eat their morning + meal, which consisted of a little bread. At a given signal, all hands were + compelled to return to their work. They toiled until noon, when they were + permitted to take their breakfast, which corresponds to our dinner. + </p> + <p> + On our plantation, it was the usual practice to have one of the old slaves + set apart to do the cooking. All the field hands were required to give + into the hands of the cook a certain portion of their weekly allowance, + either in dough or meal, which was prepared in the following manner. The + cook made a hot fire and rolled up each person's portion in some cabbage + leaves, when they could be obtained, and placed it in a hole in the ashes, + carefully covered with the same, where it remained until done. Bread baked + in this way is very sweet and good. But cabbage leaves could not always be + obtained. When this was the case, the bread was little better than a + mixture of dough and ashes, which was not very palatable. The time allowed + for breakfast, was one hour. At the signal, all hands were obliged to + resume their toil. The overseer was always on hand to attend to all + delinquents, who never failed to feel the blows of his heavy whip. + </p> + <p> + The usual mode of punishing the poor slaves was, to make them take off + their clothes to the bare back, and then tie their hands before them with + a rope, pass the end of the rope over a beam, and draw them up till they + stood on the tips of their toes. Sometimes they tied their legs together + and placed a rail between. Thus prepared, the overseer proceeded to punish + the poor, helpless victim. Thirty-nine was the number of lashes ordinarily + inflicted for the most trifling offence. + </p> + <p> + Who can imagine a position more painful? Oh, who, with feelings of common + humanity, could look quietly on such torture? Who could remain unmoved, to + see a fellow-creature thus tied, unable to move or to raise a hand in his + own defence; scourged on his bare back, with a cowhide, until the blood + flows in streams from his quivering flesh? And for what? Often for the + most trifling fault; and, as sometimes occurs, because a mere whim or + caprice of his brutal overseer demands it. Pale with passion, his eyes + flashing and his stalwart frame trembling with rage, like some volcano, + just ready to belch forth its fiery contents, and, in all its might and + fury, spread death and destruction all around, he continues to wield the + bloody lash on the broken flesh of the poor, pleading slave, until his arm + grows weary, or he sinks down, utterly exhausted, on the very spot where + already stand the pools of blood which his cruelty has drawn from thee + mangled body of his helpless victim, and within the hearing of those + agonized groans and feeble cries of "Oh do, Massa! Oh do, Massa! Do, Lord, + have mercy! Oh, Lord, have mercy!" &c. + </p> + <p> + Nor is this cruel punishment inflicted on the bare backs of the male + portion of slaves only. Oh no! The slave husband must submit without a + murmur, to see the form of his cherished, but wretched wife, not only + exposed to the rude gaze of a beastly tyrant, but he must unresistingly + see the heavy cowhide descend upon her shrinking flesh, and her manacled + limbs writhe in inexpressible torture, while her piteous cries for help + ring through his ears unanswered. The wild throbbing of his heart must be + suppressed, and his righteous indignation find no voice, in the presence + of the human monster who holds dominion over him. + </p> + <p> + After the infuriated and heartless overseer had satiated his thirst for + vengeance, on the disobedient or delinquent slave, he was untied, and left + to crawl away as best he could; sometimes on his hands and knees, to his + lonely and dilapidated cabin, where, stretched upon the cold earth, he lay + weak and bleeding and often faint from the loss of blood, without a friend + who dare administer to his necessities, and groaning in the agony of his + crushed spirit. In his cabin, which was not as good as many of our stables + at the North, he might lie for weeks before recovering sufficient strength + to resume the labor imposed upon him, and all this time without a bed or + bed clothing, or any of the necessaries considered so essential to the + sick. + </p> + <p> + Perhaps some of his fellow-slaves might come and bathe his wounds in warm + water, to prevent his clothing from tearing open his flesh anew, and thus + make the second suffering well nigh equal to the first; or they might from + their scanty store bring him such food as they could spare, to keep him + from suffering hunger, and offer their sympathy, and then drag their own + weary bodies to their place of rest, after their daily task was finished. + </p> + <p> + Oh, you who have hearts to feel; you who have kind friends around you, in + sickness and in sorrow, think of the sufferings of the helpless, + destitute, and down-trodden slave. Has sickness laid its withering hand + upon you, or disappointment blasted your fairest earthly prospects, still, + the outgushings of an affectionate heart are not denied you, and you may + look forward with hope to a bright future. Such a hope seldom animates the + heart of the poor slave. He toils on, in his unrequited labor, looking + only to the grave to find a quiet resting place, where he will be free + from the oppressor. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. — AT THE GREAT HOUSE. + </h2> + <p> + When eight years of age, I was taken to the "great house," or the family + mansion of my master, to serve as an errand boy, where I had to stand in + the presence of my master's family all the day, and a part of the night, + ready to do any thing which they commanded me to perform. + </p> + <p> + My master's family consisted of himself and wife, and seven children. His + overseer, whose name was Barsly Taylor, had also a wife and five children. + These constituted the white population on the plantation. Capt. Helm was + the owner of about one hundred slaves, which made the residents on the + plantation number about one hundred and sixteen persons in all. One + hundred and seven of them, were required to labor for the benefit of the + remaining nine, who possessed that vast domain; and one hundred of the + number doomed to unrequited toil, under the lash of a cruel task-master + during life, with no hope of release this side of the grave, and as far as + the cruel oppressor is concerned, shut out from hope beyond it. + </p> + <p> + And here let me ask, why is this practice of working slaves half clad, + poorly fed, with nothing or nearly so, to stimulate them to exertion, but + fear of the lash? Do the best interests of our common country require it? + I think not. Did the true interest of Capt. Helm demand it? Whatever may + have been his opinion, I cannot think it did. Can it be for the best + interest or good of the enslaved? Certainly not; for there is no real + inducement for the slaveholder to make beasts of burden of his fellow men, + but that which was frankly acknowledged by Gibbs and other pirates: "we + have the power,"—the power to rob and murder on the high seas!—which + they will undoubtedly continue to hold, until overtaken by justice; which + will certainly come some time, just as sure as that a righteous God reigns + over the earth or rules in heaven. + </p> + <p> + Some have attempted to apologize for the enslaving of the Negro, by saying + that they are inferior to the Anglo-Saxon race in every respect. This + charge I deny; it is utterly false. Does not the Bible inform us that "God + hath created of one blood all the nations of the earth?" And certainly in + stature and physical force the colored man is quite equal to his white + brother, and in many instances his superior; but were it otherwise, I can + not see why the more favored class should enslave the other. True, God has + given to the African a darker complexion than to his white brother; still, + each have the same desires and aspirations. The food required for the + sustenance of one is equally necessary for the other. Naturally or + physically, they alike require to be warmed by the cheerful fire, when + chilled by our northern winter's breath; and alike they welcome the cool + spring and the delightful shade of summer. Hence, I have come to the + conclusion that God created all men free and equal, and placed them upon + this earth to do good and benefit each other, and that war and slavery + should be banished from the face of the earth. + </p> + <p> + My dear reader will not understand me to say, that all nations are alike + intelligent, enterprising and industrious, for we all know that it is far + otherwise; but to man, and not to our Creator, should the fault be + charged. But, to resume our narrative, + </p> + <p> + Capt. Helm was not a very hard master; but generally was kind and + pleasant. Indulgent when in good humor, but like many of the southerners, + terrible when in a passion. He was a great sportsman, and very fond of + company. He generally kept one or two race horses, and a pack of hounds + for fox-hunting, which at that time, was a very common and fashionable + diversion in that section of country. He was not only a sportsman, but a + gamester, and was in the habit of playing cards, and sometimes betting + very high and losing accordingly. + </p> + <p> + I well remember an instance of the kind: it was when he played cards with + a Mr. W. Graham, who won from him in one sweep, two thousand and seven + hundred dollars in all, in the form of a valuable horse, prized at sixteen + hundred dollars, another saddle-horse of less value, one slave, and his + wife's gold watch. The company decided that all this was fairly won, but + Capt. Holm demurred, and refused to give up the property until an + application was made to Gen. George Washington, ("the father of his + country,") who decided that Capt. Helm had lost the game, and that Mr. + Graham had fairly won the property, of which Mr. G. took immediate + possession, and conveyed to his own plantation. + </p> + <p> + Capt. Helm was not a good business man, unless we call horse-racing, + fox-hunting, and card-playing, business. His overseer was entrusted with + every thing on the plantation, and allowed to manage about as he pleased, + while the Captain enjoyed himself in receiving calls from his wealthy + neighbors, and in drinking what he called "grog," which was no more nor + less than whisky, of which he was extremely fond, notwithstanding his + cellar contained the choicest wines and liquors. To show his partiality + for his favorite beverage, I will relate an incident which occurred + between Capt. Helm and Col. Charles Williamson. The Colonel, believing + wine to be a healthier beverage than whisky, accepted a bet made by Capt. + Helm, of one thousand dollars, that he would live longer and drink whisky, + than the Colonel, who drank wine. Shortly after, Col. Williamson was + called home by the British government, and while on his way to England, + died, and his body, preserved in a cask of brandy, was taken home. The bet + Capt. Helm made considerable effort to get, but was unsuccessful. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Helm was a very industrious woman, and generally busy in her + household affairs—sewing, knitting, and looking after the servants; + but she was a great scold,—continually finding fault with some of + the servants, and frequently punishing the young slaves herself, by + striking them over the head with a heavy iron key, until the blood ran; or + else whipping them with a cowhide, which she always kept by her side when + sitting in her room. The older servants she would cause to be punished by + having them severely whipped by a man, which she never failed to do for + every trifling fault. I have felt the weight of some of her heaviest keys + on my own head, and for the slightest offences. No slave could possibly + escape being punished—I care not how attentive they might be, nor + how industrious—punished they must be, and punished they certainly + were. Mrs. Helm appeared to be uneasy unless some of the servants were + under the lash. She came into the kitchen one morning and my mother, who + was cook, had just put on the dinner. Mrs. Helm took out her white cambric + handkerchief, and rubbed it on the inside of the pot, and it crocked it! + That was enough to invoke the wrath of my master, who came forth + immediately with his horse-whip, with which he whipped my poor mother most + unmercifully—far more severely than I ever knew him to whip a horse. + </p> + <p> + I once had the misfortune to break the lock of master's shot gun, and when + it came to his knowledge, he came to me in a towering passion, and charged + me with what he considered the <i>crime</i> of carelessness. I denied it, + and told him I knew nothing about it; but I was so terribly frightened + that he saw I was guilty, and told me so, foaming with rage; and then I + confessed the truth. But oh, there was no escaping the lash. Its + recollection is still bitter, and ever will be. I was commanded to take + off my clothes, which I did, and then master put me on the back of another + slave, my arms hanging down before him and my hands clasped in his, where + he was obliged to hold me with a vise-like grasp. Then master gave me the + most severe flogging that I ever received, and I pray God that I may never + again experience such torture. And yet Capt. Helm was not the worst of + masters. + </p> + <p> + These cruelties are daily occurrences, and so degrading is the whole + practice of Slavery, that it not only crushes and brutalizes the wretched + slave, but it hardens the heart, benumbs all the fine feelings of + humanity, and deteriorates from the character of the slaveholders + themselves,—whether man or woman. Otherwise, how could a gentle, and + in other respects, amiable woman, look on such scenes of cruelty, without + a shudder of utter abhorrence? But slaveholding ladies, can not only look + on quietly, but with approbation; and what is worse, though very common, + they can and do use the lash and cowhide themselves, on the backs of their + slaves, and that too on those of their own sex! Far rather would I spend + my life in a State's Prison, than be the slave of the best slaveholder on + the earth! + </p> + <p> + When I was not employed as an errand-boy, it was my duty to stand behind + my master's chair, which was sometimes the whole day, never being allowed + to sit in his presence. Indeed, no slave is ever allowed to sit down in + the presence of their master or mistress. If a slave is addressed when + sitting, he is required to spring to his feet, and instantly remove his + hat, if he has one, and answer in the most humble manner, or lay the + foundation for a flogging, which will not be long delayed. + </p> + <p> + I slept in the same room with my master and mistress. This room was + elegantly furnished with damask curtains, mahogany bedstead of the most + expensive kind, and every thing else about it was of the most costly kind. + And while Mr. and Mrs. Helm reposed on their bed of down, with a cloud of + lace floating over them, like some Eastern Prince, with their slaves to + fan them while they slept, and to tremble when they awoke, I always slept + upon the floor, without a pillow or even a blanket, but, like a dog, lay + down anywhere I could find a place. + </p> + <p> + Slaves are never allowed to leave the plantation to which they belong, + without a written pass. Should any one venture to disobey this law, he + will most likely be caught by the <i>patrol</i> and given thirty-nine + lashes. This patrol is always on duty every Sunday, going to each + plantation under their supervision, entering every slave cabin, and + examining closely the conduct of the slaves; and if they find one slave + from another plantation without a pass, he is immediately punished with a + severe flogging. + </p> + <p> + I recollect going one Sunday with my mother, to visit my grand-mother; and + while there, two or three of the patrol came and looked into the cabin, + and seeing my mother, demanded her pass. She told them that she had one, + but had left it in another cabin, from whence she soon brought it, which + saved her a whipping but we were terribly frightened. + </p> + <p> + The reader will obtain a better knowledge of the character of a Virginia + patrol, by the relation of an affair, which came off on the neighboring + plantation of Col. Alexander, in which some forty of Capt. Helm's slaves + were engaged, and which proved rather destructive of human life in the + end. + </p> + <p> + But I must first say that it is not true, that slave owners are respected + for kindness to their slaves. The more tyrannical a master is, the more + will he be favorably regarded by his neighboring planters; and from the + day that he acquires the reputation of a kind and indulgent master, he is + looked upon with suspicion, and sometimes hatred, and his slaves are + watched more closely than before. + </p> + <p> + Col. Alexander was a very wealthy planter and owned a great number of + slaves, but he was very justly suspected of being a kind, humane, and + indulgent master. His slaves were always better fed, better clad, and had + greater privileges than any I knew in the Old Dominion; and of course, the + patrol had long had an eye on them, anxious to flog some of "those + pampered niggers, who were spoiled by the indulgence of a weak, + inefficient, but well-meaning owner." + </p> + <p> + Col. A. gave his slaves the liberty to get up a grand dance. Invitations + were sent and accepted, to a large number of slaves on other plantations, + and so, for miles around, all or many of the slaves were in high + anticipation of joining in the great dance, which was to come off on + Easter night. In the mean time, the patrol was closely watching their + movements, and evinced rather a joyful expectancy of the many they should + find there without a pass, and the flogging they would give them for that, + if not guilty of any other offence, and perhaps they might catch some of + the Colonel's slaves doing something for which they could be taught "to + know their place," by the application of the cowhide. + </p> + <p> + The slaves on Col. A.'s plantation had to provide and prepare the supper + for the expected vast "turn out," which was no light matter; and as slaves + like on such occasions to pattern as much as possible after their master's + family, the result was, to meet the emergency of the case, they <i>took</i> + without saying, "by your leave, Sir," some property belonging to their + master, reasoning among themselves, as slaves often do, that it can not be + <i>stealing</i>, because "it belongs to massa, and so do <i>we</i>, and we + only use one part of his property to benefit another. Sure, 'tis all + massa's." And if they do not get detected in this removal of "massa's + property" from one location to another, they think no more of it. + </p> + <p> + Col. Alexander's slaves were hurrying on with their great preparations for + the dance and feast; and as the time drew near, the old and knowing ones + might be seen in groups, discussing the matter, with many a wink and nod; + but it was in the valleys and by-places where the younger portion were to + be found, rather secretly preparing food for the great time coming. This + consisted of hogs, sheep, calves; and as to master's <i>poultry</i>, that + suffered daily. Sometimes it was missed, but the disappearance was always + easily accounted for, by informing "massa" that a great number of hawks + had been around of late; and their preparation went on, night after night, + undetected. They who repaired to a swamp or other by-place to cook by + night, carefully destroyed everything likely to detect them, before they + returned to their cabins in the morning. + </p> + <p> + The night for the dance <i>came</i> at last, and long before the time, the + road leading to Col. Alexander's plantation presented a gay spectacle. The + females were seen flocking to the place of resort, with heads adorned with + gaudy bandanna turbans and new calico dresses, of the gayest colors, + —their whole attire decked over with bits of gauze ribbon and other + fantastic finery. The shades of night soon closed over the plantation, and + then could be heard the rude music and loud laugh of the unpolished slave. + It was about ten o'clock when the <i>aristocratic slaves</i> began to + assemble, dressed in the cast-off finery of their master and mistress, + swelling out and putting on airs in imitation of those they were forced to + obey from day to day. + </p> + <p> + When they were all assembled, the dance commenced; the old fiddler struck + up some favorite tune, and over the floor they went; the flying feet of + the dancers were heard, pat, pat, over the apartment till the clock warned + them it was twelve at midnight, or what some call "low twelve," to + distinguish it from twelve o'clock at noon; then the violin ceased its + discordant sounds, and the merry dancers paused to take breath. + </p> + <p> + Supper was then announced, and all began to prepare for the sumptuous + feast. It being the pride of slaves to imitate the manners of their master + and mistress, especially in the ceremonies of the table, all was conducted + with great propriety and good order. The food was well cooked, and in a + very plentiful supply. They had also managed in some way, to get a good + quantity of excellent wine, which was sipped in the most approved and + modern style. Every dusky face was lighted up, and every eye sparkled with + joy. However ill fed they might have been, here, for once, there was + plenty. Suffering and toil was forgotten, and they all seemed with one + accord to give themselves up to the intoxication of pleasurable amusement. + </p> + <p> + House servants were of course, "the stars" of the party; all eyes were + turned to them to see how they conducted, for they, among slaves, are what + a military man would call "fugle-men." The field hands, and such of them + as have generally been excluded from the dwelling of their owners, look to + the house servant as a pattern of politeness and gentility. And indeed, it + is often the only method of obtaining any knowledge of the manners of what + is called "genteel society;" hence, they are ever regarded as a privileged + class; and are sometimes greatly envied, while others are bitterly hated. + And too often justly, for many of them are the most despicable + tale-bearers and mischief-makers, who will, for the sake of the favor of + his master or mistress, frequently betray his fellow-slave, and by + tattling, get him severely whipped; and for these acts of perfidy, and + sometimes downright falsehood, he is often rewarded by his master, who + knows it is for his interest to keep such ones about him; though he is + sometimes obliged, in addition to a reward, to send him away, for fear of + the vengeance of the betrayed slaves. In the family of his master, the + example of bribery and treachery is ever set before him, hence it is, that + insurrections and stampedes are so generally detected. Such slaves are + always treated with more affability than others, for the slaveholder is + well aware that he stands over a volcano, that may at any moment rock his + foundation to the center, and with one mighty burst of its long suppressed + fire, sweep him and his family to destruction. When he lies down at night, + he knows not but that ere another morning shall dawn, he may be left + mangled and bleeding, and at the mercy of those maddened slaves whom he + has so long ruled with a rod of iron. + </p> + <p> + But the supper, like other events, came to an end at last. The expensive + table service, with other things, which had been secretly brought from the + "great house," was hurriedly cleansed by the slaves, and carefully + returned. The floor was again cleared, the violin sounded, and soon they + were performing another "break down," with all the wild abandon of the + African character,—in the very midst of which, the music suddenly + ceased, and the old musician assumed a listening attitude. Every foot was + motionless; every face terrified, and every ear listening for the cause of + the alarm. + </p> + <p> + Soon the slave who was kept on the "look-out," shouted to the listeners + the single word "<i>patrol!</i>" and then the tumult that followed that + announcement, is beyond the power of language to describe! Many a poor + slave who had stolen from his cabin, to join in the dance, now remembered + that they had no pass! Many screamed in affright, as if they already felt + the lash and heard the crack of the overseer's whip; others clenched their + hands, and assumed an attitude of bold defiance, while a savage frown + contracted the brow of all. Their unrestrained merriment and delicious + fare, seemed to arouse in them the natural feelings of self-defence and + defiance of their oppressors. But what could be done? The patrol was + nearing the building, when an athletic, powerful slave, who had been but a + short time from his "fatherland," whose spirit the cowardly overseer had + labored in vain to quell, said in a calm, clear voice, that we had better + stand our ground, and advised the females to lose no time in useless + wailing, but get their things and repair immediately to a cabin at a short + distance, and there remain quiet, without a light, which they did with all + possible haste. The men were terrified at this bold act of their leader; + and many with dismay at the thought of resistance, began to skulk behind + fences and old buildings, when he opened the door and requested every + slave to leave who felt unwilling to fight. None were urged to remain, and + those who stood by him did so voluntarily. + </p> + <p> + Their number was now reduced to twenty-five men, but the leader, a + gigantic African, with a massive, compact frame, and an arm of great + strength, looked competent to put ten common men to flight. He clenched + his powerful fist, and declared that he would resist unto death, before he + would be arrested by those savage men, even if they promised not to flog + him. They closed the door, and agreed not to open it; and then the leader + cried, "Extinguish the lights and let them come! we will meet them hand to + hand!" Five of the number he stationed near the door, with orders to rush + out, if the patrol entered, and seize their horses, cut the bridles, or + otherwise unfit them for use. This would prevent them from giving an alarm + and getting a reinforcement from surrounding plantations. In silence they + awaited the approach of the enemy, and soon the tramping of horses' feet + announced their approach, but when within a few yards of the house they + halted, and were overheard by one of the skulking slaves, maturing their + plans and mode of attack. There was great hesitancy expressed by a part of + the company to engage in the affair at all. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Coming events cast their shadow before." +</pre> + <p> + The majority, however, seemed to think it safe enough, and uttered + expressions of triumph that they had got the rascals at last. + </p> + <p> + "Are you not afraid that they will resist?" said the weaker party. + </p> + <p> + "Resist?" was the astonished answer. "This old fellow, the Colonel, has + pampered and indulged his slaves, it is true, and they have slipped + through our fingers whenever we have attempted to chastise them; but they + are not such fools as to dare resistance! Those niggers know as well as + we, that it is <i>death</i>, by the law of the State, for a slave to + strike a white man." + </p> + <p> + "Very true," said the other, "but it is dark and long past midnight, and + beside they have been indulging their appetites, and we cannot tell what + they may attempt to do." + </p> + <p> + "Pshaw!" he answered, contemptuously, "they are unarmed, and I should not + fear in the least, to go in among them <i>alone</i>, armed only with my + cowhide!" + </p> + <p> + "As you please, then," he said, rather dubiously, "but look well to your + weapons; are they in order?" + </p> + <p> + "In prime order, Sir." And putting spurs to their horses, were soon at the + house, where they dismounted and requested one of the party to remain with + the horses. + </p> + <p> + "What," said he, "are you so chicken-hearted as to suppose those d——d + cowardly niggers are going to get up an insurrection?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh no," he replied, carelessly, but would not consent to have the horses + left alone. "Besides," said he, "they may forget themselves at this late + hour; but if they do, a few lashes of the cowhide will quicken their + memory, I reckon." + </p> + <p> + The slaves were aware of their movements, and prepared to receive them. + </p> + <p> + They stepped up to the door boldly, and demanded admittance, but all was + silent; they tried to open it, but it was fastened. Those inside, ranged + on each side of the door, and stood perfectly still. + </p> + <p> + The patrol finding the slaves not disposed to obey, burst off the slight + fastening that secured the door, and the chief of the patrol bounded into + their midst, followed by several of his companions, all in total darkness! + </p> + <p> + Vain is the attempt to describe the tumultuous scene which followed. Hand + to hand they fought and struggled with each other, amid the terrific + explosion of firearms,—oaths and curses, mingled with the prayers of + the wounded, and the groans of the dying! Two of the patrol were killed on + the spot, and lay drenched in the warm blood that so lately flowed through + their veins. Another with his arm broken and otherwise wounded, lay + groaning and helpless, beside the fallen slaves, who had sold their lives + so dearly. Another of his fellows was found at a short distance, mortally + wounded and about to bid adieu to life. In the yard lay the keeper of the + horses, a stiffened corpse. Six of the slaves were killed and two wounded. + </p> + <p> + It would be impossible to convey to the minds of northern people, the + alarm and perfect consternation that the above circumstance occasioned in + that community. The knowledge of its occurrence was carried from one + plantation to another, as on the wings of the wind; exaggerated accounts + were given, and prophecies of the probable result made, until the + excitement became truly fearful. Every cheek was blanched and every frame + trembled when listening to the tale, that "insurrection among the slaves + had commenced on the plantation of Col. Alexander; that three or four of + the patrol had been killed, &c." The day after, people flocked from + every quarter, armed to the teeth, swearing vengeance on the defenceless + slaves. Nothing can teach plainer than this, the constant and tormenting + fear in which the slaveholder lives, and yet he repents not of his deeds. + </p> + <p> + The kind old Colonel was placed in the most difficult and unenviable + position. His warm heart was filled with sorrow for the loss of his + slaves, but not alone, as is generally the case in such instances, because + he had lost so much property. He truly regretted the death of his faithful + servants, and boldly rebuked the occasion of their sudden decease. When + beset and harassed by his neighbors to give up his slaves to be tried for + insurrection and murder, he boldly resisted, contending for the natural + right of the slaves, to act in their own defence, and especially when on + his own plantation and in their own quarters. They contended, however, + that as his slaves had got up a dance, and had invited those of the + adjoining plantations, the patrol was only discharging their duty in + looking after them; but the gallant old Colonel defended his slaves, and + told them plainly that he should continue to do so to the extent of his + ability and means. + </p> + <p> + The poor slaves were sad enough, on the morning after their merry meeting, + and they might be seen standing in groups, conversing with a very + different air from the one they had worn the day before. + </p> + <p> + Their business was now to prepare the bodies of their late associates for + the grave. Robert, the brave African, who had so boldly led them on the + night before, and who had so judiciously provided for their escape, was + calmly sleeping in death's cold embrace. He left a wife and five slave + children. Two of the other slaves left families, whose pitiful cries it + was painful to hear. + </p> + <p> + The Colonel's family, deeply afflicted by what was passing around them, + attended the funeral. One of the slaves, who sometimes officiated as a + minister, read a portion of Scripture, and gave out two hymns;—one + of which commences with + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Hark! from the tomb a doleful sound." +</pre> + <p> + Both were sung with great solemnity by the congregation, and then the good + old man offered a prayer; after which he addressed the slaves on the + shortness of human life and the certainty of death, and more than once + hinted at the hardness of their lot, assuring, however, his fellow-slaves, + that if they were good and faithful, all would be right hereafter. His + master, Col. Alexander, was deeply affected by this simple faith and + sincere regard for the best interests of all, both master and slave. + </p> + <p> + When the last look at their fellow-servants had been taken, the procession + was formed in the following manner: First, the old slave minister, then + the remains of the dead, followed by their weeping relatives; then came + the master and his family; next the slaves belonging to the plantation; + and last, friends and strangers, black and white; all moved on solemnly to + the final resting-place of those brave men, whose descendants may yet be + heard from, in defence of right and freedom. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III. — HORSE-RACING AND ITS CONSEQUENCES. + </h2> + <p> + Capt. Helm had a race-course on his plantation, on which he trained young + horses for the fall races. One very fine horse he owned, called <i>Mark + Anthony</i>, which he trained in the most careful manner for several + months previous to the races. He would put him on the course every + morning, sometimes covering him with a blanket, and then put him to his + utmost speed, which he called "sweating him." Mark Anthony was to be put + on the race-course in October following, as a competitor for the purse of + ten thousand dollars, which was the amount to be lost or gained on the + first day of the fall races. Capt. H. had also another young horse, called + <i>Buffer</i>, under a course of training, which he designed to enter the + lists for the second day. His course of training had been about the same + as Mark Anthony's, but being a year or two younger, it was thought that he + had not sufficient "bottom" to risk so much money on, as was at stake on + the first day. + </p> + <p> + When the time for the races to commence came, all was bustle and + excitement in the house and on the plantation. It was a fine October + morning, and the sun shed a mellow radiance on all around, when people + began to throng the race-course. Some came with magnificent equipages, + attended by their numerous train of black servants, dressed in livery, + —some in less splendid array,—and others on foot, all hurrying + on to the exciting scene. There the noblest blood of Old Virginia, of + which many are wont to boast, was fully represented, as was also the + wealth and fashion of the country for many miles around. + </p> + <p> + All were in high spirits, and none seemed to fear that they would be the + losers in the amount of money about to change hands. And for what, pray, + is all this grand outlay—this vast expenditure? Merely the pleasure + and gratification of witnessing the speed of a fine horse, and the vanity + of prejudging concerning it. + </p> + <p> + The arrangements were at length completed,—the horses regularly + entered, Mark Anthony among the rest,—and then the word "go!" was + given, when each horse sprang as if for his life, each striving to take + the lead. Away they go, sweeping round the course with lightning speed, + while every spectator's eye is strained, and every countenance flushed + with intense anxiety. + </p> + <p> + Some of the noble animals were distanced the first heat, and others were + taken away by their owners. + </p> + <p> + The judges allowed twenty minutes to prepare the horses for the second + trial of their speed—a trial which must enrich or empoverish many of + the thousands present. Already there were sad countenances to be seen in + the crowd. + </p> + <p> + The horses were again in readiness, and the word given,—away they + flew with the fleetness of the wind, to come in the second time. + </p> + <p> + But who can describe the anxiety written on every face, as they prepared + for the third and last trial? I cannot. Many had already lost all they had + staked, and others who had bet high began to fear for the result. Soon, + however, all was again prepared and those foaming steeds, after having + exerted their animal power to the utmost, have accomplished their task and + come in for the last time. The purse was won, <i>but not by Mark Anthony</i>. + Capt. Helm was more fortunate the second day. Buffer won the smaller + purse, but the Captain came from the races, a much poorer man than when + they commenced. These repeated failures and heavy losses had the effect to + arouse him to a sense of his pecuniary position, and he soon after began + to think and talk about going to some new country. + </p> + <p> + He resolved at last to visit the far-off "Genesee Country," which he + shortly after put in practice, and after an absence of about three weeks + he returned in good health, and delighted with the country; the more so, + doubtless, because he said, "the more slaves a man possessed in that + country the more he would be respected, and the higher would be his + position in society." + </p> + <p> + Capt. Helm finally concluded to sell his plantation and stock, except the + slaves, and remove to the Genesee Country, where he designed to locate his + future residence. + </p> + <p> + The plantation and stock (retaining the slaves) were advertised for sale, + and on a certain day named, all would be disposed of at a public sale, or + to the highest bidder. + </p> + <p> + When the day of sale arrived, there flocked from all parts of the + surrounding country the largest assemblage of people I ever saw in that + place. A large number of wealthy and respectable planters were present, + whose gentlemanly behavior should have been an example to others. + </p> + <p> + The majority of that vast crowd, however, were a rough, quarrelsome, + fighting set, just such as might be expected from slave-holding districts. + There were several regularly fought battles during the first day of the + sale. + </p> + <p> + One Thomas Ford, a large, muscular, ferocious-looking fellow, a good + specimen of a southern bully and woman-whipper, had been victorious + through the day in numerous fights and brawls; but he had to pay dear for + it when night came. Some one or more of the vanquished party, took + advantage of the dark night to stab him in both sides. The knife of the + assassin had been thrust into his thigh, tearing the flesh upward, leaving + a frightful and dangerous wound; but what is most singular, both sides + were wounded in nearly the same manner, and at the same time, for so + quickly was the deed committed that the offenders made their escape, + before an alarm could be raised for their detection; nor have I ever heard + of any one being arrested for the crime. + </p> + <p> + Ford's groans and cries were painful to hear, but his brother acted like a + madman; rushing hither and thither, with a heavy bludgeon in his hand, + with which he indiscriminately beat the fences and whatever came in his + way, crying "Oh my brother, my poor brother! Who has murdered my poor + brother?" + </p> + <p> + Physicians came to the aid of the wounded man who at first thought he + might recover, but in a climate like that of Virginia it was impossible. + His friends did all they could to save him, but the poor wretch lingered a + few days and died. Thus ended the life of a bad man and a hard master. + </p> + <p> + And who will wonder, if his slaves rejoiced to hear of his death? If they + must be sold to pay his debts, they could not fall into the hands of a + more heartless tyrant. Who then can blame those feeble women and helpless + children, long held as chattels in his iron grasp, if they are grateful + that the man-stealer is no more? + </p> + <p> + This Ford was a fair specimen of that class, known in more modern parlance + as a "Border Ruffian." Such as are at this time endeavoring, by their + swaggering and bullying, to cast on the fair fields of Kansas the deep + curse of Slavery—a curse which, like the poison of the deadly Upas, + blights all within its influence: the colored and the white man, the slave + and the master. We were thankful, however, that no more lives were lost + during the vendue, which was commenced with the stock; this occupied two + days. + </p> + <p> + The reader will see that we had cause to be grateful, when he takes into + consideration that drinking and fighting was the order of the day, and + drunkenness and carousing the order of the night. + </p> + <p> + Then too, the practice of dueling was carried on in all its hideous + barbarity. If a gentleman thought himself insulted, he would immediately + challenge the offender to mortal combat, and if he refused to do so, then + the insulted gentleman felt bound by that barbarous code of honor, to take + his life, whenever or wherever he might meet him, though it might be in a + crowded assembly, where the lives of innocent persons were endangered. + </p> + <p> + A case of this kind happened in Kentucky, where the belligerent parties + met in a large concourse of people, the majority of them women and + children; but the combat ensued, regardless of consequences. One woman was + shot through the face, but that was not worthy of notice, for she was only + a <i>colored woman</i>; and in that, as in other slave States, the laws + give to the white population the liberty to trample under foot the claims + of all such persons to justice. Justly indignant ladies present + remonstrated, but all to no purpose. The Governor of the State was there + and was in danger of being wounded by their flying bullets, and it is + possible that if he had been in the place of the poor African, some action + would have been taken, and laws made to protect the people against such + inhuman practices. But I must return to Capt. Helm and the vendue. + </p> + <p> + The sale continued for several days, during which there was no such thing + as rest or sleep or one quiet moment on the premises. As was customary in + that State, Capt. Helm provided the food and drink for all who came, and + of course a great many came to drink and revel and not to buy; and that + class generally took the night time for their hideous outbreaks, when the + more respectable class had retired to their beds or to their homes. And + many foul deeds and cruel outrages were committed; nor could the + perpetrators be detected or brought to justice. Nothing could be done but + to submit quietly to their depredations. + </p> + <p> + One peaceable old slave was killed by having his head split open with an + ax. He was found in the morning lying in the yard, with the bloody + instrument of death by his side. This occasioned some excitement among the + slaves, but as the white people paid but little attention to it, it soon + passed off, and the sorrowful slaves put the old man's remains in a rough + box, and conveyed them to their last resting-place. + </p> + <p> + After the sale was over, the slaves were allowed a holiday, with + permission to go and visit their friends and relatives previous to their + departure for their new home in a strange land. + </p> + <p> + The slaves generally on Capt. Helm's plantation looked upon this removal + as the greatest hardship they had ever met; the severest trial they had + ever endured; and the separation from our old home and fellow-slaves, from + our relatives and the old State of Virginia, was to us a contemplation of + sorrowful interest. Those who remained, thought us the most unfortunate of + human beings to be taken away off into the State of New York, and, as they + believed, beyond the bounds of civilization, where we should in all + probability be destroyed by wild beasts, devoured by cannibals, or scalped + by the Indians. We never expected to meet again in this life, hence our + parting interviews were as solemn as though we were committing our friends + to the grave. But He whose tender mercies are over all his creatures, knew + best what was for our good. + </p> + <p> + Little did Capt. Helm think when bringing his slaves to New York that in a + few short years, they would be singing the song of deliverance from + Slavery's thralldom; and as little thought he of the great and painful + change, to be brought about in his own circumstances. Could any one have + looked into futurity and traced the difficult path, my master was to + tread,—could any one have foreseen the end to which he must soon + come, and related it to him in the days of his greatness and prosperity, + he would, I am certain, have turned from such a narrator of misfortune in + a greater rage than did Namaan when the man of God told him "to go and dip + seven times in the Jordan." + </p> + <p> + He could not have believed, nor could I, that in a few years the powerful, + wealthy slaveholder, living in luxury and extravagance, would be so + reduced that the <i>necessaries</i> of life even, were beyond his means, + and that he must be supported by the town! + </p> + <p> + But I anticipate. Let us return to the old plantation which seems dearer + than ever, now that we are about to leave it forever. + </p> + <p> + We thought Capt. Helm's prospects pretty fair, and yet we shuddered when + we realized our condition as slaves. This change in our circumstances was + calculated to awaken all our fears that had been slumbering, and bring all + the perilous changes to which we might be subjected most vividly to mind. + </p> + <p> + We were about to leave the land of our birth, the home of our childhood, + and we felt that untried scenes were before us. We were slaves, it is + true, but we had heart-felt emotions to suppress, when we thought of + leaving all that was so familiar to us, and chose rather to "bear the ills + we had, than to fly to those we knew not of." And oh, the terrible + uncertainty of the future, that ever rests on the slave, even the most + favored, was now felt with a crushing weight. To-day, they are in the old + familiar cabin surrounded by their family, relatives and friends; + to-morrow, they may be scattered, parted forever. The master's + circumstances, not their own, may have assigned one to the dreadful + slave-pen, and another to the distant rice-swamp; and it is this continual + dread of some perilous future that holds in check every joyous emotion, + every lofty aspiration, of the most favored slave at the South. They know + that their owners indulge in high living, and they are well aware also + that their continual indulgences engender disease, which make them very + liable to sudden death; or their master may be killed in a duel, or at a + horse-race, or in a drunken brawl; then his creditors are active in + looking after the estate; and next, the blow of the auctioneer's hammer + separates them perhaps for life. + </p> + <p> + Now, after the lapse of so many years, when my thoughts wander back, as + they often do, to my native State, I confess that painful recollections + drive from my mind those joyful emotions that should ever arise in the + heart of man, when contemplating the familiar scenes of his youth, and + especially when recurring to the venerable shades and the sheltering roof + under which he was born. True, around the well-remembered spot where our + childhood's years were spent, recollection still loves to linger; yet + memory, ever ready with its garnered store, paints in glowing colors, + Virginia's crouching slaves in the foreground. Her loathsome slave-pens + and slave markets—chains, whips and instruments of torture; and back + of all this is as truthfully recorded the certain doom, the retributive + justice, that will sooner or later overtake her; and with a despairing + sigh I turn away from the imaginary view of my native State. + </p> + <p> + What though she may have been justly styled, "The Mother of Presidents?" + What avails the honor of being the birth-place of the brave and excellent + Washington, while the prayers and groans of the down-trodden African daily + ascend to heaven for redress? What though her soil be fertile, yielding a + yearly product of wealth to its possessors? And what matter is it, that + their lordly mansions are embowered in the shade of trees of a century's + growth, if, through their lofty and tangled branches, we espy the rough + cabin of the mangled bondman, and know that the soil on which he labors + has drunk his heart's blood? + </p> + <p> + Ah! to me, life's sweetest memories are all embittered. Slavery had cast + its dark and fearful shadow over my childhood, youth, and early manhood, + and I went out from the land of my birth, a fettered slave. A land which I + can regard only as "the house of bondage and the grave of freedom." But + God forgive me for having envied my master his fair prospects at this + time. + </p> + <p> + After the sale of the plantation, Capt. Helm was in possession of quite a + large sum of money, and having never paid much attention to his pecuniary + interests, he acted as if there could be no end of it. He realized about + forty thousand dollars from the sale of his estate in Virginia, which + would have been a pretty sum in the hands of a man who had been accustomed + to look after his own interests; but under the management of one who had + all his life lived and prospered on the unrequited toil of slaves, it was + of little account. He bought largely of every thing he thought necessary + for himself or the comfort of his family, for which he always paid the + most extravagant prices. The Captain was not as well qualified to take + care of himself and family as some of his slaves were; but he thought + differently, and so the preparations for leaving the old plantation for a + home in the wilds of New York, went on under his direction, and at last we + bade a final adieu to our friends and all we held dear in the State of + Virginia. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV. — JOURNEY TO OUR NEW HOME IN NEW YORK. + </h2> + <p> + All things having been prepared for our departure, our last "Good-bye" + spoken, and our last look taken of the old plantation, we started, amid + the sobs and prolonged cries of separating families, in company with our + master, the overseer and another white man named Davis, who went with us + to take back the five-horse "Pennsylvania team," which was provided for + the conveyance of the food for the slaves, and what little baggage they + might have, and also that of the overseer. + </p> + <p> + Capt. Helm had determined to leave his family until he could get his + slaves settled in their future quarters, and a home provided for himself, + when they were expected to join him. + </p> + <p> + We traveled northward, through Maryland, Pennsylvania, and a portion of + New York, to Sodus Bay, where we halted for some time. We made about + twenty miles per day, camping out every night, and reached that place + after a march of twenty days. Every morning the overseer called the roll, + when every slave must answer to his or her name, felling to the ground + with his cowhide, any delinquent who failed to speak out in quick time. + </p> + <p> + After the roll had been called, and our scanty breakfast eaten, we marched + on again, our company presenting the appearance of some numerous caravan + crossing the desert of Sahara. When we pitched our tents for the night, + the slaves must immediately set about cooking not their supper only, but + their breakfast, so as to be ready to start early the next morning, when + the tents were struck; and we proceeded on our journey in this way to the + end. + </p> + <p> + At Sodus Bay there was then one small tavern, kept by a man named Sill. + </p> + <p> + The bay is ten miles in length and from a half to two miles in breadth, + and makes an excellent harbor. The surrounding country then was almost an + unbroken wilderness. + </p> + <p> + After Capt. Helm had rested a few days at Sodus, he went six miles up the + bay and purchased a large tract of land lying on both sides of that + beautiful sheet of water, and put his slaves on to clear and cultivate it. + Then came the "tug of war." Neither the overseer nor the slaves had the + least knowledge of <i>clearing</i> land, and that was the first thing to + be done. It was useless to consult the Captain, for he knew still less + about matters of that kind. To obviate this difficulty, our master bought + out a Mr. Cummings, who had some cleared land on the west side of the bay. + On this he put the overseer and a part of the slaves, and then hired a Mr. + Herrington to take charge of the remainder. Herrington and his gang of + slaves was sent to the east side to chop down the heavy timber and clear + the land for cultivation, all of which had first to be learned, for we + knew nothing of felling trees, and the poor slaves had rather a hard time + of it. + </p> + <p> + Provisions were scarce and could not be procured for cash in that section. + There was no corn to be had, and we had but little left. We had no + neighbors to assist us in this trying time, and we came near starvation. + True, the wild, romantic region in which we were located abounded in game,—elk, + deer, bear, panther, and wolves, roamed abroad through the dense forest, + in great abundance, but the business of the slaves was not hunting or + fishing, but clearing the land, preparatory to raising crops of grain the + coming season. + </p> + <p> + At last Capt. Helm chartered a boat, and manned it to go to the mouth of + the Genesee River to buy corn. They embarked under favorable auspices, but + soon there came on such a tremendous storm, that the boat could no longer + be managed, and the crew in despair threw themselves on the bottom of the + boat to await their inevitable destruction, when one of their number, a + colored man named Dunbar, sprang to the helm, and with great difficulty + succeeded in running her safely into a Canadian port, where they were + obliged to part with every thing in their possession to obtain the means + to return to their families in Sodus, who had given them up as lost. But, + to the great joy of all, they came back at last with their lives, but with + nothing for the famishing slaves. Before another boat could be sent for + our relief, we were reduced to the last extremity. We became so weak we + could not work, and it was difficult to drag ourselves about, as we were + now obliged to do, to gather up all the old bones we could find, break + them up fine and then boil them; which made a sort of broth sufficient + barely to sustain life. This we drank, and merely existed, until at last, + the long looked for boat returned, loaded with provision, which saved us + from starvation and gave us strength to pursue our labor. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V. — INCIDENTS AT SODUS BAY. + </h2> + <p> + About this time two slaves who were laboring in the forest, instead of + returning to their cabin as was expected, got lost, and wandered eight + days in the dense forest without provision, except what they could procure + from roots and the bark of trees. Great exertion was made to find them; + guns were fired, horns blown, and shouts raised, but all to no purpose. + Finally, we gave them up, supposing they had starved to death or had been + killed by wild beasts. One of them was an elderly man, named Benjamin + Bristol, and the other, Edmund Watkins, a lad of about eighteen years of + age. They wandered in an easterly direction, a distance of some sixty or + seventy miles, through an unbroken wilderness, vainly trying to find their + way home. On the eighth day, to their inexpressible joy, they came out on + the shore of Lake Ontario, near Oswego; but young Watkins was so + completely exhausted that he declared himself incapable of further + exertion, and begged to be left to his fate. Bristol, however, who chewed + tobacco, which it was supposed kept him from sinking so low as his + companion, took him on his back, and carried him home, which they reached + in a famished state and reduced to skeletons. All were thankful for the + preservation of their lives, and, with the best we could do for them, they + soon recruited and became strong as ever. + </p> + <p> + One day, two others and myself thought we saw some animal swimming across + the bay. We got a boat and went out to see what it was. After rowing for + some time we came near enough to perceive it was a large bear. Those who + watched us from the shore expected to see our boat upset, and all on board + drowned, but it was not so to be; the, bear was struck on the nose with a + blow that killed him instantly, and he was hauled ashore in great triumph. + </p> + <p> + While these things were transpiring on the east side of the bay, the + overseer on the west side determined to punish one of the slaves who + worked on the east side. The name of the slave was Williams; a strong, + athletic man, and generally a good workman, but he had unfortunately + offended the overseer, for which nothing could appease his wrath but the + privilege of flogging him. The slave, however, thought as he was no longer + in Virginia, he would not submit to such chastisement, and the overseer + was obliged to content himself with threatening what he would do if he + caught him on the west side of the bay. + </p> + <p> + A short time after, the overseer called at the cabin of one of the slaves, + and was not a little surprised to find there the refractory slave, + Williams, in company with three other men. He immediately walked up to him + and asked him some question, to which Williams made no reply. Attended, as + he always was, by his ferocious bull-dog, he flourished his cowhide in + great wrath and demanded an instant reply, but he received none, whereupon + he struck the slave a blow with the cowhide. Instantly Williams sprang and + caught him by the throat and held him writhing in his vise-like grasp, + until he succeeded in getting possession of the cowhide, with which he + gave the overseer such a flogging as slaves seldom get. Williams was + seized at once by the dog who endeavored to defend his brutal master, but + the other slaves came to the rescue, and threw the dog into a huge fire + which was near by, from which, after a singeing, he ran off, howling worse + than his master when in the hands of Williams. He foamed and swore and + still the blows descended; then he commanded the slaves to assist him, but + as none obeyed, he commenced begging in the most humble manner, and at + last entreated them as "gentlemen" to spare him; but all to no purpose. + When Williams thought he had thrashed him sufficiently, he let him go and + hurried to his boat and rowed down the bay, instead of crossing it. The + overseer no sooner found himself at liberty than he ran out, calling to a + servant girl to bring his rifle, which was loaded. The rifle was brought, + but before he could get to the bay, Williams had gone beyond his reach; + but unfortunately another boat was at this moment crossing the bay, which + he, mad with rage, fired into. The men in the boat immediately cried out + to him not to repeat the shot, but he was so angry that he swore he would + shoot somebody, and sent another bullet after them. No one was hurt, + however, but the brave overseer was vanquished. Crest-fallen and + unrevenged, he shortly after called on Capt. Helm for a settlement, which + was granted, and bidding a final adieu to the "Genesee Country," he + departed for Virginia, where he could beat slaves without himself + receiving a cow-hiding. No one regretted his absence, nor do I think any + but the most heartless would cordially welcome his return to the land of + Slavery. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI. — REMOVAL FROM SODUS TO BATH. + </h2> + <p> + Capt. Helm went to Virginia for his family, and returning with them, + concluded to locate his future residence in the village of Bath, Steuben + County. He purchased a large tract of land near the village, a large grist + mill, and two saw mills; also, two farms; one called the "Maringo," east + of the village; and the other, called "Epsam," north of it; and a fine + house and lot in the village. He also kept a distillery, which in those + days was well patronized, for nearly every body drank whisky; and with + Capt. Helm it was a favorite beverage. + </p> + <p> + The slaves were removed to Bath, where our master was well suited, and was + everywhere noted for his hospitality. He had a great deal of land to + cultivate, and carried on a multiplicity of business. + </p> + <p> + Soon after we were settled at Bath, Capt. Helm's eldest daughter, Jenny, + was married to Mr. John Fitzhugh, her cousin, who had come from Virginia + to claim his bride. + </p> + <p> + The wedding was a splendid affair. No pains were spared to make it more + imposing than any thing that had ever happened in that country. Never + before had the quiet village of Bath seen such splendor. All that wealth, + power and ambition could do, was done to make the event one of great + brilliancy. Europe contributed her full proportion; Turkey, the Indias, + East and West, were heavily taxed to produce their finest fabrics to adorn + the bride and bridal guests; and contribute delicacies to add elegance to + the festal scene. Two days previous to the wedding, the invited guests + began to arrive with their retinue of servants, and on the evening of the + marriage the large mansion was thrown open, and there was the most + magnificent assemblage I ever beheld. In the drawing-room, where the + ceremony took place, every thing was surpassingly elegant. Costly + chandeliers shed their light on the rich tapestry, and beautiful dresses + glittering with diamonds, and the large mirrors everywhere reflecting the + gay concourse. While the servants were preparing supper it was announced + that the hour had arrived for the ceremony to commence. The bridal pair + took their place in the center of the apartment. Pearls, diamonds, and + jewelry glittered on the bride with such luster, that it was almost + painful to the eye to look upon her. + </p> + <p> + The minister, after asking God to bless the assembled guests, and those he + was about to unite in the holy bonds of wedlock, proceeded in a very + solemn and impressive manner with the marriage service. The ceremony + concluded, and good wishes having been expressed over the sparkling wine, + the man of God took his leave, two hundred dollars richer than when he + came. The company were all very happy, or appeared so; mirth reigned + supreme, and every countenance wore a smile. They were seated at tables + loaded with luxuries of every description, and while partaking, a band of + music enlivened the scene. + </p> + <p> + All business was suspended for several days, the wedding party making a + tour of ten days to Niagara Falls. After a while, however, affairs assumed + their usual aspect, and business took its regular routine. + </p> + <p> + The grist mill belonging to the Captain was the only one for many miles + around, and was a source of great profit to him; the saw mills also, were + turning out a large quantity of lumber, which was in good demand; and the + distillery kept up a <i>steaming</i> business. It yielded, however, a + handsome income to Capt. Helm, who was now, for the first time since I + knew him, overseeing his affairs himself, dispensing altogether with the + service of a regularly installed overseer. + </p> + <p> + The oldest son of our master had been absent from home for sometime, nor + did he return to attend his sister's grand wedding. He had sought and + obtained a commission in the United States service as a Lieutenant. This + had been his own choice; he had preferred the service and hardships of a + soldier, to a plantation well stocked with slaves, and the quietude of + domestic life. He had cheerfully given up his friends and prospects as a + planter, and entered the service of his country. Frank Helm, the second + son, soon followed the example of his older brother, Lina. He obtained a + like commission, but he did not, like his brother, get along quietly. His + prospects as an officer were soon blighted, and all hope of being + serviceable to his country vanished forever. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII. — DUELING. + </h2> + <p> + Lina Helm was an easy, good-natured, clever fellow; but his brother Frank + was his opposite in nearly every thing; proud, fractious and unyielding. + As might be expected, Frank, soon after entering the army, got into an + "affair of honor," according to the duelist's code of laws. He was not, + however, the principal in the difficulty. One of his friends and a brother + officer, had a quarrel with a gentleman whom he challenged to mortal + combat. Frank was the bearer of his friend's challenge, and on presenting + it, the gentleman refused to accept it, saying that the challenger "was no + gentleman." Then, according to the rules of dueling, no alternative was + left for Frank, but to take his brother officer's place, and fight. This + he did and came from the bloody field disabled for life. In consequence of + his lameness, he was under the necessity of resigning his commission in + the army, which he did, and came home a cripple, and nearly unfitted for + any kind of business whatever. + </p> + <p> + While on the subject of dueling, permit me to record some of the incidents + of another "affair of honor," which occurred in the District of Columbia, + between Gen. Mason and Mr. M'Carter, two antagonistic politicians. + </p> + <p> + M'Carter offered his vote to the inspectors, and Mason challenged it. + M'Carter offered to swear it in, when Mason said if he did so he would + perjure himself. This blew what appeared to be but a spark into an angry + blaze, and a duel was momentarily expected; but their warlike propensities + subsided into a newspaper combat, which was kept up for several weeks, + each party supposing they had the advantage of their adversary. In this + stage of the quarrel, Gen. Jackson, with one of his aid-de-camps, Dr. + Bruno, visited Washington. Dr. Bruno was a friend of Gen. Mason's, and to + him the General submitted the correspondence, desiring his opinion + relative to the advantage one had obtained over the other. Dr. Bruno + decided against his friend, which probably exasperated him still more, and + the General expressed his determination to fight his antagonist. Dr. Bruno + wrote to M'Carter to come to Washington, and he came immediately, and was + as readily waited upon by the Doctor, who inquired if he would receive a + communication from his friend, Gen. Mason. M'Carter replied, that he + "would receive no communication from Gen. Mason, except a challenge to + fight." The challenge was therefore sent, and accepted, and the Doctor + appointed to make the necessary arrangements for the duel. He proposed the + weapons to be pistols, and the distance, ten paces; to which M'Carter + objected, because he said, "the General was a dead shot with the pistol, + while he hardly knew how to use one." Then it was left to M'Carter to + choose the mode of warfare. He proposed muskets and ten paces distance. + This was agreed upon, and finally the morning arrived for the conflict, + and people began to assemble in great numbers to witness this murderous + scene. + </p> + <p> + The belligerent parties unflinchingly took their place, each with his + loaded musket at his shoulder, and gazing in each other's face, with + feelings of the most bitter hatred, while their eyes flashed vengeance. + </p> + <p> + Oh! what a state of mind was this in which to meet inevitable death? How + could intelligent men, or gentlemen, if you please so to term them, look + placidly on such a horrid scene? Was there no heart of humanity to + interfere and arrest the murderous designs of these madmen? Alas, no! The + slaveholder's "code of honor" must be acknowledged, though it outrage the + laws of God and his country. + </p> + <p> + Dr. Bruno asks, "Gentlemen, are you ready?" and the duelists take their + deadly aim at each other. The signal to fire is given, and both weapons + are discharged, and when the smoke had cleared away, what a spectacle was + there presented to the duelist and spectator? Gen. Mason, a husband, a + father, a statesman, and a kind friend, lies bleeding, and gasping for + breath. He is no more! Who will bear to his loving and unsuspecting wife, + the sad intelligence of her sudden bereavement? Who will convey his + lifeless body to his late residence, and throw grief and consternation + into the bosom of his family, and drape in sadness his whole household? + And yet this painful task must be performed. The family of General Mason + remained entirely ignorant of what was transpiring regarding the duel, + until his mangled corpse was brought into his dwelling, from which he had + so recently gone forth in all the vigor of life and manhood. And here let + us drop the curtain, nor intrude on that scene of domestic affliction + around the deserted hearth-stone of the bereaved family of General Mason. + </p> + <p> + But where is Mr. M'Carter, the more fortunate party in the duel? Hurrying + away from the frightful scene, his hands dripping with the blood of his + fellow-man, he skulks about, until an opportunity is given him to step on + board a vessel bound to a foreign port; he leaves home, friends and + country, in the vain hope of finding peace of mind, and ridding himself of + that guilt and censure which must attach itself to a crime so heinous as + that of taking the life of another. I can but regard the inhuman practice + of dueling as the legitimate fruit of Slavery. + </p> + <p> + Men who have been raised in the Slave States, where, if the laws do not + give them the power, they do not restrain them from cruelly punishing + every offender with personal violence, even unto death, if their insulted + dignity seems to demand it. It is, however, encouraging to know that for a + few years past the practice of dueling has somewhat fallen into disrepute + among the more humane and candid class of community. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII. — HORSE-RACING AND GENERAL TRAINING. + </h2> + <p> + After the return of the wedding party, Mr. Fitzhugh purchased a tract of + land near that of Capt. Helm, on which the newly-married couple commenced + keeping house. They, however, became dissatisfied with their location, and + soon after sold their possessions and returned to the South. + </p> + <p> + Capt. Helm still continued to take the oversight of his slaves, and was + out every day, superintending his business, just as his overseer used to + do. + </p> + <p> + About this time a man named Henry Tower came to Bath to hire "slave boys," + as we were called. The Captain hired to him Simon and myself, and a Mr. + Baker also hired to him one slave named Vol. McKenzie. We three started + for Dresden, Ontario County, where we arrived in due time. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Tower had just bought a tract of land, three miles this side of the + village of Lyons, on the Canandaigua outlet. Here Mr. Tower contemplated + making great improvements, building mills, opening stores &c. This + tract of land was comparatively wild, there being but a small frame house + for a dwelling, one for a store, and another for a blacksmith shop. Mr. + Tower had two brothers; James, the eldest, who took charge of the store, + and John, the younger, who took charge of the hands who worked on the + farm; Henry himself superintending the building of the mills. This firm + had a great number of men in their employ that year. I was kept busy + helping the women about the cooking and house-work. And here, for the + first time in my life, I had a comfortable bed to sleep on, and plenty of + wholesome food to eat; which was something both new and strange to me. + </p> + <p> + The Towers were thorough-going business-men; they built a large grist + mill, with four run of stone, and also a distillery. In those days it was + customary for nearly all classes to drink spirituous liquors; hence, the + distilleries were sources of great pecuniary interest to those who owned + them. But having lived to see the dreadful evils which the drinking of + alcoholic beverages have produced on community, I can hardly speak of + distilleries in the favorable light in which they were then regarded. + </p> + <p> + The Towers, with commendable enterprise, cleared a great number of acres + of land during the first year I lived with them, besides doing a heavy + business in the mill, store and distillery. + </p> + <p> + It was customary then for men to assemble at some public place for the + purpose of drinking whisky and racing horses. + </p> + <p> + One Saturday afternoon there was to be a race, and all was excitement. + Being young, I wished to go with the rest. I hurried through my work as + fast as possible, and then, with a trembling heart, set off in search of + my master, fearing lest he would refuse me the simple request. But he + happened to be in uncommon good humor, and readily gave his consent; and + away I went, "as happy as a lark." When I reached the race-ground, they + were just preparing to run the horses. Seeing me, they knew me to be a + poor friendless little slave boy, helpless and unprotected, and they could + therefore do with me as they pleased, and have some fine sport at my + expense. + </p> + <p> + When I was asked to ride one of the fast horses, I felt proud of the honor + conferred, and was assisted to mount, feeling highly elated with the lofty + position I had gained. + </p> + <p> + The word "go," was shouted, and the horse whirled off, and it seemed to me + as if he flew with the speed of lightning. My hat fell off the first + thing; and there I was, clinging with might and main to the neck of the + fiery animal, my head bare, my feet bootless, and my old stripped shirt + blown from my back, and streaming out behind, and fluttering like a banner + in the breeze; my ragged pants off at the knees, and my long legs dangling + down some length below; and at the same time crying "Whoa! whoa!" as loud + as I could. Nor was this all; frightened as I was, nearly to death, I cast + a despairing look behind me, and the loud, derisive laugh of the + bystanders rung in my ears. + </p> + <p> + Ludicrous as I must have appeared, this was too much,—I felt a + giddiness coming over me, my brain reeled, my hold relaxed, and the next + instant I had fallen to the ground, where all consciousness left me. When + I came to my senses I was lying in bed, surrounded by all the + appurtenances of a dying person. + </p> + <p> + The first thing I heard was Mr. Tower scolding the men who put me on the + horse, and threatening them with a law-suit for presuming to do such a + thing without his permission. Mr. Tower considered himself holden to Capt. + Helm for my safe return, and was therefore justly indignant at their + placing my life in such peril. It was indeed a narrow escape, for the + horse was running with all his speed when I fell. My bones were unbroken, + however, and I suppose it must have been the tremendous jar I got when I + fell that rendered me unconscious; nor do I think it impossible that the + fright may not have contributed somewhat to the catastrophe. + </p> + <p> + It was while I was living with that gentleman that the greatest "general + training" ever known in Western New York, came off at "Oak's Corners," in + the town of Phelps. It really seemed to me that the whole world were going + to the training, and I, of course, felt a great curiosity to go where "all + creation" appeared to be going. Mr. Tower permitted me to go, and I + started off in high spirits. When I arrived within two or three miles of + the place the road was almost blocked up with people, and when I got to + Oak's Corners the crowd beggared all description; carriages of all sorts + were there, containing eatables of all kinds, and tents of all dimensions + were on the road-side, for the houses could not begin to accommodate the + people. The entire brigade was to meet at that place, and Gov. Lewis was + expected to review the different companies, and all were anxious to see + the Governor, for, in those days, it was a rare thing to see so high a + dignitary in Western New York; the eastern portion of the State having had + every thing of that kind their own way. + </p> + <p> + Nor was the means and mode of traveling brought to such perfection as now. + The roads were new and rough, and our best public conveyances only the + slow lumbering stage-coach; yet, notwithstanding these inconveniences, + there was an innumerable crowd gathered at that place. I spent the day in + walking about the encampment, and seeing what was to be seen, for it was + all new to me. + </p> + <p> + Officers were riding over the ground, dressed in uniform, and mounted on + their splendid steeds: their plumes waving over their cocked-hats in true + military array. A band of music, as is usual, accompanied the soldiers. + There was also a "sham-fight," before the breaking up of the encampment, + and it was really terrifying to me, who had never seen a battle fought, to + witness two columns of troops drawn up, and, at the roll of the drum, + behold them engage in deadly conflict, to all appearance, and the smoke + curling up in a blackened mass toward heaven; and, above all, the neighing + of horses, with the feigned groans of the wounded and dying. I inwardly + prayed to God that those men might ever draw their weapons in a feigned + encounter. + </p> + <p> + The first night I spent at the encampment was one long to be remembered; + it was like the confusion of Babel. Of all the hideous noises I ever heard + none could exceed those made there that night. They fired guns, quarreled, + drank, and swore, till day light. There was such a crowd at the tavern + that I did not suppose I could get a bed, so I threw myself down upon a + door-step, and began to compose myself to sleep, when a man came and + wakened me, inquiring at the same time whose boy I was. I replied that I + lived with Mr. Tower. "Follow me," said he; I arose and followed him into + the house, where he procured for me a bed, to be shared with another + "boy," who had already occupied it. + </p> + <p> + I had just began to doze, when the explosion of firearms startled all in + the house. The keeper of the tavern ran up stairs in great alarm, and when + an examination was made, we found that a drunken fellow had discharged his + musket in the room below the one where we were sleeping, and that the ball + had passed up through the second floor and completely through the bed on + which I slept, to the roof, where, having passed through that also, rolled + from thence to the ground! And yet, strange as it may appear, no one was + injured, though the house was filled to overflowing with guests. + </p> + <p> + There were groups of disorderly and drunken men continually roaming over + the camp-ground at night, who seemed to have no other object than to annoy + others, and torment any one they might find sleeping, by shaking them, or, + if soundly asleep, dragging them out of their beds by their feet. Among + these thus annoyed by them was a physician from Canandaigua. Being a + passionate man, they seemed to think it fine sport to arouse him from + sleep and hear him scold. The first time they dragged him from his tent he + merely remonstrated in a very gentlemanly manner, and quietly crept back + again. The rowdies were disappointed; they had expected a "scene." As soon + as he was asleep they attacked him again, dragging him out by the heels; + then he was angry, and told them if they repeated the offence it would be + at the peril of their lives, and a third time retired to his tent; but a + third party soon came, and one, more bold than the rest, entered the tent + and laid hold of the Doctor. He sprang to his feet and drew his sword, + which he ran through the body of a man supposed to be that of his + tormentor; but oh! what sorrow and consternation possessed him when he + found he had taken the life of a quiet, unoffending person who happened to + be standing by, attracted to the spot probably by the noise of the + revelers. The unhappy Doctor was obliged to flee from his country for a + time, but after a while the shadows which had so suddenly fallen on his + fair prospects were cleared away, and he returned to his home and country. + </p> + <p> + The second day of the encampment was one of surpassing beauty. The sun + shone in all its softened radiance on that vast concourse of human beings. + The field presented a spectacle which must have been imposing to those of + more experienced vision than mine; but to me, in my ignorant simplicity, + it was superbly grand; fascinating beyond my power of resistance, and made + an impression on my mind never to be effaced. + </p> + <p> + The brigade was drawn up in a line, each colonel stationed just so many + paces in front of the line, and all the other officers, such as majors, + quarter-masters, &c., were stationed at an equal distance in the rear. + When all were paraded, the Governor of the State made his appearance, + dressed in full uniform, his hat being one of the Bonaparte style, + attended by his aid-de-camp, who was dressed much in the same manner as + his Excellency Governor Lewis, who, after the salute, took his place at + the head of the brigade, and the military exercises commenced. When the + Governor issued his orders, they were first given to his aid, who passed + them to the officers, and they gave the word of command to the soldiers; + for instance if the Governor wished the brigade to "shoulder arms,"—the + order went to the officer who commanded the first regiment, and he + repeated the order, and was obeyed; then the same order passed to the + next, and so on, until the whole brigade had complied with the order of + his Excellency. + </p> + <p> + But this, I believe, was the first and last time that the military were + ever called out on so large a scale, in the State of New York. It was + supposed that the effect would be decidedly injurious to a community and + the idea was abandoned. Young men were so liable to be fascinated by the + magnificent spectacle, that not the rabble only were attracted by the + "trappings of war," but they have a tendency to induce young, and <i>old + men even</i>, of fair prospects, to neglect <i>their agricultural + interests</i> for military pursuits, which, in a new country, were + certainly of paramount importance, if not the greater of the two. + </p> + <p> + I know that it became very hard for me to content myself to labor as I had + done, after witnessing this grand display. I was completely intoxicated + with a military spirit, and sighed for the liberty to go out "on the + lines" and fight the British. + </p> + <p> + The martial music, the waving plumes, and magnificent uniform, had driven + from my mind entirely the bloodshed and carnage of the battle field; + beside, I was sick and tired of being a slave, and felt ready to do almost + any thing to get where I could act and feel like a free man. + </p> + <p> + I became acquainted with a Mr. McClure, a merchant in Bath, who, while on + a journey to Philadelphia, to purchase goods, was taken suddenly ill and + died; when his brother, George McClure, came on to attend to his diseased + brother's business. He was a fine, persevering kind of man, and very soon + got to be General McClure, and commanded the brigade in Steuben County, + and, as such, was liable to be called at any time when his services were + required, to go to the frontier and guard our lines from the invasion of + the English army. + </p> + <p> + To him I applied for a situation as waiter, which he readily agreed to + give me if I could get the consent of Captain Helm. I thought there would + be no trouble about that; and oh! how I dreamed of and anticipated the + happiness of being <i>something</i> beside a slave, for a <i>little while + at least</i>. Almost every day I went to the store to talk to Gen. McClure + of this greatest happiness imaginable, "going to the lines!" and was + impatient for the chance to arrive that would send me there. + </p> + <p> + At last Gen. McClure wrote to Gen. Armstrong, to say that he was ready to + obey any order that he might send him, and march to "the lines," if his + services were needed; and, to <i>my</i> inexpressible joy, marching orders + were returned. I nearly flew in search of Capt. Helm, never once + suspecting that he would object; because I knew that he did not then + require my services himself, and the pay would be quite as good as he had + been receiving for my time; besides I had so completely set my heart on + going, that it was impossible for me to dream of a disappointment so + bitter as that of being denied going "to the lines." + </p> + <p> + Oh! how then were my high hopes fallen, and how much more hateful appeared + that slavery which had blighted all my military prospects? Nor was Capt. + Helm's heartless and mercenary reply to my humble pleading any antidote to + my disappointed feelings and desire for freedom. He said, "you shall not + go; I will permit nothing of the kind, so let there be an end to it. The + <i>pay</i> is all well enough, I know, but if you get killed your wages + will stop; and then who, do you suppose, will indemnify me for the loss? + Go about your business, and let me hear no more of such nonsense!" + </p> + <p> + There was an emergency I had not provided for; and, as I then believed, + the master could make no demand on or for the slaves beyond the grave, I + was silent; but both master and myself were mistaken on that point; for I + have since learned numerous instances where slaves have fought and died in + the service of their master's country, and the slave-owner received his + wages up to the hour of his death, and then recovered of the United States + the full value of his person as property! + </p> + <p> + Gen. McClure left soon after for the frontier; my saddened heart followed + him, and that was all; my body was in slavery still, and painful though it + was, I must quietly submit. + </p> + <p> + The General, however, reaped but few if any laurels in that campaign; he + burned the small village of Newark, in Canada, for which he got very + little credit on either side of the lake; so I comforted myself as well as + I could with the reflection, that all who "went to the wars" did not + return covered with glory and laurels of victory. + </p> + <p> + I continued to live with the Towers; and in the fall of that year, I had + the misfortune to cut my foot badly. While chopping fire wood at the door, + I accidentally struck my ax against a post, which glanced the blow in such + a manner that it came down with sufficient force to nearly sever my great + toe from my left foot, gashing upward completely through the large joint, + which made a terrible wound. Dr. Taylor was immediately called, and sewed + the flesh together, taking two stitches on the upper, and one on the + under, side of the foot, before it began to swell; but when the swelling + came on, the stitches on the upper side gave way, which occasioned the toe + to fall over so much, that I have been slightly lame from that day to + this. For several weeks I was unable to be moved, and was regularly + attended by Dr. Taylor, but as soon as it could be done without danger, I + was taken back to Capt. Helm's, where I found things in much the same + condition as when I left them over a year before. + </p> + <p> + On leaving the family of Mr. Tower, I endeavored to express to them as + well in my power the gratitude I felt for their kindness, and the + attention I had received during my lameness. + </p> + <p> + We returned to Bath in a sleigh, and arrived without accident or any great + suffering. But the kind treatment I had always received from the Messrs. + Tower and family, made it very hard for me to reconcile myself to my + former mode of living; especially now that I was lame and weak, from + sickness and long confinement; besides, it was cold weather. Oh! how hard + it did seem to me, after having a good bed and plenty of bed clothes every + night for so long time, to now throw myself down, like a dog, on the "<i>softest + side</i>" of a rough board, without a pillow, and without a particle of + bedding to cover me during the long cold nights of winter. To be reduced + from a plentiful supply of good, wholesome food, to the mere pittance + which the Captain allowed his slaves, seemed to me beyond endurance. + </p> + <p> + And yet I had always lived and fared thus, but I never felt so bitterly + these hardships and the cruelties of Slavery as I did at that time; making + a virtue of necessity, however, I turned my thoughts in another direction. + </p> + <p> + I managed to purchase a spelling book, and set about teaching myself to + read, as best I could. Every spare moment I could find was devoted to that + employment, and when about my work I could catch now and then a stolen + glance at my book, just to refresh my memory with the simple lesson I was + trying to learn. But here Slavery showed its cloven foot in all its + hideous deformity. It finally reached the ears of my master that I was + learning to read; and then, if he saw me with a book or a paper in my + hand, oh, how he would swear at me, sending me off in a hurry, about some + employment. Still I persevered, but was more careful about being seen + making any attempt to learn to read. At last, however, I was discovered, + and had to pay the penalty of my determination. + </p> + <p> + I had been set to work in the sugar bush, and I took my spelling book with + me. When a spare moment occurred I sat down to study, and so absorbed was + I in the attempt to blunder through my lesson, that I did not hear the + Captain's son-in-law coming until he was fairly upon me. He sprang + forward, caught my poor old spelling book, and threw it into the fire, + where it was burned to ashes; and then came my turn. He gave me first a + severe flogging, and then swore if he ever caught me with another book, he + would "whip every inch of skin off my back," &c. + </p> + <p> + This treatment, however, instead of giving me the least idea of giving it + up, only made me look upon it as a more valuable attainment. Else, why + should my oppressors feel so unwilling that their slaves should possess + that which they thought so essential to themselves? Even then, with my + back bleeding and smarting from the punishment I had received, I + determined to learn to read and write, at all hazards, if my life was only + spared. About this time Capt. Helm began to sell off his slaves to + different persons, as he could find opportunity, and sometimes at a great + sacrifice. It became apparent that the Captain, instead of prospering in + business, was getting poorer every day. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX. — DEATH BED AND BRIDAL SCENES. + </h2> + <p> + Neither Capt. Helm nor his wife made any religious pretensions. I hardly + know whether or not they were avowed infidels; but they alike ridiculed + all religious professions and possessed some very singular notions + regarding life and death. + </p> + <p> + I have often heard the Captain say, that no person need die unless they + choose to do so; and his wife was of the same belief. I have frequently + heard her remark that if mankind would firmly resist death it would flee + from them. + </p> + <p> + An opportunity, however, was soon after given to test the truth of this + strange dogma. Mrs. Helm's health began to decline, but she would pay no + attention to it, following her usual course and regular routine of + household duties; but all in vain; she was taken down, alarmingly ill, and + it became apparent to all, that the "king of terrors" had chosen his + victim. She tried with all her natural energy of character, to baffle his + pursuit and escape his steady approach, but all to no purpose. "The valley + and the shadow of death" were before her, and she had no assurance that + the "rod and staff" of the Almighty would sustain and comfort her through + the dark passage. She shrank with perfect horror from the untried scenes + of the future. + </p> + <p> + If any one had ever envied Mrs. Helm in her drawing-room, richly attired + and sparkling with jewels, or as she moved with the stately step of a + queen among her trembling slaves, they should have beheld her on her death + bed! They should have listened to her groans and cries for help, while one + piercing shriek after another rang through the princely mansion of which + she had been the absolute mistress! + </p> + <p> + Surrounded as she was with every elegance and luxury that wealth could + procure, she lay shrieking out her prayers for a short respite, a short + lengthening out of the life she had spent so unprofitably; her eyes + wandering restlessly about the apartment, and her hands continually + clinching the air, as if to grasp something that would prevent her from + sinking into the embrace of death! There was not a slave present, who + would have exchanged places with her. Not one of those over whom she had + ruled so arbitrarily would have exchanged their rough, lowly cabin and + quiet conscience, for all the wealth and power she had ever possessed. + </p> + <p> + Nothing of all she had enjoyed in life, nor all that she yet called her + own, could give her one hour of life or one peaceful moment in death! + </p> + <p> + Oh! what a scene was that! The wind blew, and great drops of rain fell on + the casements. The room lighted only with a single taper; the wretched + wife mingles her dying groans with the howling of the storm, until, as the + clock struck the hour of midnight she fell back upon her pillow and + expired, amid the tears and cries of her family and friends, who not only + deplored the loss of a wife and mother, but were grieved by the manner in + which she died. + </p> + <p> + The slaves were all deeply affected by the scene; some doubtless truly + lamented the death of their mistress; others rejoiced that she was no + more, and all were more or less frightened. One of them I remember went to + the pump and wet his face, so as to appear to weep with the rest. + </p> + <p> + What a field was opened for reflection, by the agonizing death of Mrs. + Helm? Born and reared in affluence; well educated and highly accomplished, + possessed of every means to become a useful woman and an ornament to her + sex; which she most likely would have been, had she been instructed in the + Christian religion, and had lived under a different influence. As + infidelity ever deteriorates from the female character, so Slavery + transforms more than one, otherwise excellent woman, into a feminine + monster. Of Mrs. Helm, with her active intellect and great force of + character, it made a tyrannical demon. Her race, however, is ended; her + sun gone down in darkness, and her soul we must leave in the keeping of a + righteous God, to whom we must all give an account for the deeds done in + the body. But in view of the transitory pleasures of this life; the + unsatisfactory realization of wealth, and the certainty of death, we may + well inquire, "What shall it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose + his own soul?" + </p> + <p> + Some little time after the scene just recorded, there came to Bath a young + physician named Henry, who commenced practice under very flattering + prospects. He was an accomplished young man, well educated and very + skillful in his profession. He was affable and gay in his manners, and + very fond of company. An intimate acquaintance was soon formed with Capt. + Helm and family, and he called almost daily to chat and drink wine with + the Captain,—both being quite fond of a social glass. + </p> + <p> + One night in the depth of winter, the Doctor was called to see a patient + who lived six miles down the Conhocton river. Previous, however, to the + call, he had accepted an invitation to attend a party at Capt. Helm's, and + there he was found. They had music and dancing, while the wine passed + around very freely. None seemed to join in the dance and other amusements + of the evening with more enjoyment than did Dr. Henry; but after he was + sent for, it being a most bitter cold night, he asked the Captain for a + horse to ride to see his patient, to which he readily assented, and had + his fine <i>race-horse</i> (for the Captain had not left off all his old + habits), brought out from the stable, and the Doctor sprang lightly into + the saddle. Unfortunately his way led by the race-course, and when the + trained animal came to it he started with such speed as to throw the + Doctor to the ground, where he lay all that terrible cold night. In the + morning, some person going after wood, came in sight of the Doctor as he + was trying to creep away on his frozen hands and feet. He was put into the + sleigh and taken to the village with all possible speed. All was done for + him that could be, but his feet and legs were frozen solid. His uncle, Dr. + Henry, was brought as soon as possible, who decided that nothing could + save his life but the amputation of both legs, just below the knee. This + was done; but what a change in the prospects of this promising young man! + Instead of stepping lightly about as he used to do, with a smiling + countenance, he at last came forth after a tedious confinement, a cripple + for life, hobbling about on his knees, sad and dejected. And what, think + you, was the cause of this terrible calamity? What prevented the Doctor + from an exertion to save his life? Wine, intoxicating wine, was + undoubtedly the occasion of the heedless and reckless conduct of both + himself and Capt. Helm. And should not this circumstance be a warning to + parents and guardians, to young men and children, "to look not upon the + wine when it is red," and remember that at last "it will bite like a + serpent and sting like an adder?" Should it not also remind those who have + guests to entertain, of the sinfulness of putting the cup to their + neighbor's lips? Certainly it should. But I must resume my story. + </p> + <p> + About this time Major Thornton of Bath, died. He had long been an intimate + friend and acquaintance of Capt. Helm, and as the reader is already + informed of the death of Mrs. Helm, they will not be surprised to know + that he began to look earnestly after the widow of his late friend. It + become apparent that his solicitude for the loneliness of Madam Thornton + was not so much as a disconsolate widow, as that of making her the future + Mrs. Helm; nor was it less observable that the new-made widow accepted the + Captain's attentions with great favor, and more as a lover than a + comforter. + </p> + <p> + The result was, after the Major had been dead six weeks, Capt. Helm was + married to his widow, and brought her and her servants in great triumph to + his house, giving her the charge of it. His own servants were discharged, + and hers took their places. + </p> + <p> + All went on pleasantly for a while; then the slaves began to grow sullen + and discontented; and two of them ran away. Capt. Helm started a man named + Morrison, a Scotchman, in pursuit, who hunted them ten days, and then + returned without any tidings of the absconding slaves. They made good + their escape and were never heard from afterwards, by those whose interest + suffered by the loss. + </p> + <p> + I was one afternoon at a neighbor's house in the village, when I was + suddenly taken so violently ill with pain in my head and side, that I had + to be carried home. When we arrived there, I was allowed a pallet of straw + to lie on, which was better than nothing. Day after day, my disease + increased in violence, and my master employed a physician to attend me + through my illness, which brought me very low indeed. I was constantly + burning with fever, and so thirsty that I knew not what I would have given + for a draught of cold water, which was denied me by the physician's + direction. I daily grew weaker until I was reduced to helplessness, and + was little else than "skin and bones." I really thought my time had come + to die; and when I had strength to talk, I tried to arrange the few little + business affairs I had, and give my father direction concerning them. And + then I began to examine my own condition before God, and to determine how + the case stood between Him and my poor soul. And "there was the rub." I + had often excused myself, for frequent derelictions in duty, and often + wild and passionate outbreaks, on account of the hardness of my lot, and + the injustice with which I was treated, even in my best endeavors to do as + well as I knew how. But now, with death staring me in the face, I could + see that though I was a friendless "slave-boy," I had <i>not</i> always + done as well as I knew how; that I had <i>not</i> served God as I knew I + ought, nor had I always set a good example before my fellow-slaves, nor + warned them as well as I might, "to flee the wrath to come." Then I prayed + my Heavenly Father to spare me a little longer, that I might serve Him + better; and in His mercy and gracious goodness, He did so; though when the + fever was turning they gave me up; and I could hear them say, when they + came to feel my pulse, "he is almost gone," "it will soon be over," &c., + and then inquire if I knew them. I did, but was too weak to say so. I + recollect with gratitude, the kindness of Mrs. H.A. Townsend, who sent me + many delicacies and cooling drinks to soften the rigor of my disease; and + though I suppose she has long since "passed away" and gone to her reward, + may the blessing of those who are ready to perish, rest upon the + descendants of that excellent woman. + </p> + <p> + Capt. Helm was driving on in his milling, distillery and farming business. + He now began to see the necessity of treating his slaves better by far + than he had ever done before, and granted them greater privileges than he + would have dared to do at the South. Many of the slaves he had sold, were + getting their liberty and doing well. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X. — HIRED OUT TO A NEW MASTER. + </h2> + <p> + While I was staying with my master at Bath, he having little necessity for + my services, hired me out to a man by the name of Joseph Robinson, for the + purpose of learning me to drive a team. Robinson lived about three miles + from the village of Bath, on a small farm, and was not only a poor man but + a very mean one. He was cross and heartless in his family, as well as + tyrannical and cruel to those in his employ; and having hired me as a + "slave boy," he appeared to feel at full liberty to wreak his brutal + passion on me at any time, whether I deserved rebuke or not; nor did his + terrible outbreaks of anger vent themselves in oaths, curses and + threatenings only, but he would frequently draw from the cart-tongue a + heavy iron pin, and beat me over the head with it, so unmercifully that he + frequently sent the blood flowing over my scanty apparel, and from that to + the ground, before he could feel satisfied. + </p> + <p> + These kind of beatings were not only excessively painful, but they always + reminded me of the blows I had so often received from the key, in the hand + of Mrs. Helm, when I was but a little waiter lad; and in truth I must say + that the effect of these heavy blows on the head, have followed me thus + far through life; subjecting me to frequent and violent head-aches, from + which I never expect to be entirely free. Even to this day I shudder at + the thought, when I think how Robinson used to fly at me, swearing, + foaming, and seeming to think there was no weapon too large or too heavy + to strike me with. + </p> + <p> + He and I were at one time logging with a yoke of oxen, which it was my + business to drive. At that time rattle-snakes were numerous, and a great + terror to the inhabitants. To be bitten by one of these poisonous reptiles + was certain and almost instant death; hence, the greatest caution and + constant vigilance was necessary to avoid them while at work. I had been + sent with the oxen to draw a log to the pile, and when I came up to it, I + observed that it appeared to be hollow; but stepping forward, with the + chain in my hand, ready to attach it to the log, when, oh, horror! the + warning rattle of a snake sounded like a death knell in my ears, + proceeding from the log I was about to lay hold of. I was so much + frightened by the sound, that I dropped the chain as though it were red + hot, left my team, and ran with all the speed in my power, screaming + "murder, murder!" as loud as I could. + </p> + <p> + This proceeding, which was the fearful impulse of the moment, offended + Robinson, and gave him another opportunity to beat me most cruelly. He was + himself as much afraid of rattle-snakes as I; but he was the master and I + the "slave boy," which made a vast difference. He caught hold of me, and, + with horrid oaths, beat me with his fist again and again; threatening me + with awful punishment if I did not instantly return and bring the log to + the desired spot. I never can forget the mortal agony I was in, while + compelled by his kicks and blows to return and fasten the chain around the + log containing the deadly serpent. I, however, succeeded with trembling + hands, and drove the oxen, but keeping myself at the fartherest possible + distance from them and the log. When I finally arrived at the pile, Mr. + Robinson and some other men, cut a hole with an ax in the log, and killed + the large, venomous rattle-snake that had occasioned me so much alarm and + such a cruel beating. Nor was the uncontrollable and brutal passion of + Robinson his only deficiency; he was mean as he was brutal. + </p> + <p> + He had, at one time, borrowed a wagon of a neighbor living two miles + distant, through a dense forest. On the day of the total eclipse of the + sun, it entered his head that it would be fine sport, knowing my my + ignorance and superstition, to send me, just as the darkness was coming + on, to return the borrowed wagon. I accordingly hitched the ox-team to it + and started. As I proceeded through the wood, I saw, with astonishment and + some alarm, that it was growing very dark, and thought it singular at that + hour of the day. When I reached the place of my destination it was almost + total darkness, and some persons, ignorant as myself, were running about, + wringing their hands, and declaring that they believed the Day of Judgment + had come, and such like expressions. + </p> + <p> + The effect of all this was, however, very different from what my master + had expected. I thought, of course, if the judgment day had come, I should + be no longer a slave in the power of a heartless tyrant. I recollect well + of thinking, that if indeed all things earthly were coming to an end, I + should be free from Robinson's brutal force, and as to meeting my Creator, + I felt far less dread of that than of meeting my cross, unmerciful master. + I felt that, sinful as I had been, and unworthy as I was, I should be far + better off than I then was; driven to labor all day, without compensation; + half starved and poorly clad, and above all, subjected to the whims and + caprices of any heartless tyrant to whom my master might give the power to + rule over me. But I had not much time for reflection, I hurried home; my + mind filled with the calm anticipation that the end of all things was at + hand; which greatly disappointed my expectant master, who was looking for + me to return in a great fright, making some very ludicrous demonstration + of fear and alarm. But after a few months more of hardship I was permitted + to return to Capt. Helm's, where I was treated much better than at + Robinson's, and much, better than the Captain used to treat his slaves. + </p> + <p> + Capt. Helm, not having demand for slave labor as much as formerly, was in + the practice of hiring out his slaves to different persons, both in and + out of the village; and among others, my only sister was hired out to a <i>professed</i> + gentleman living in Bath. She had become the mother of two or three + children, and was considered a good servant. + </p> + <p> + One pleasant Sabbath morning, as I was passing the house where she lived, + on my way to the Presbyterian church, where I was sent to ring the bell as + usual, I heard the most piteous cries and earnest pleadings issuing from + the dwelling. To my horror and the astonishment of those with me, my poor + sister made her appearance, weeping bitterly, and followed by her inhuman + master, who was polluting the air of that clear Sabbath morning, with the + most horrid imprecations and threatenings, and at the same time + flourishing a large raw-hide. Very soon his bottled wrath burst forth, and + the blows, aimed with all his strength, descended upon the unprotected + head, shoulders and back of the helpless woman, until she was literally + cut to pieces. She writhed in his powerful grasp, while shriek after + shriek died away in heart-rending moanings; and yet the inhuman demon + continued to beat her, though her pleading cries had ceased, until obliged + to desist from the exhaustion of his own strength. + </p> + <p> + What a spectacle was that, for the sight of a brother? The God of heaven + only knows the conflict of feeling I then endured; He alone witnessed the + tumult of my heart, at this outrage of manhood and kindred affection. God + knows that my will was good enough to have wrung his neck; or to have + drained from his heartless system its last drop of blood! And yet I was + obliged to turn a deaf ear to her cries for assistance, which to this day + ring in my ears. Strong and athletic as I was, no hand of mine could be + raised in her defence, but at the peril of both our lives;—nor could + her husband, had he been a witness of the scene, be allowed any thing more + than unresisting submission to any cruelty, any indignity which the master + saw fit to inflict on <i>his wife</i>, but the other's <i>slave</i>. + </p> + <p> + Does any indignant reader feel that I was wanting in courage or brotherly + affection, and say that he would have interfered, and, at all hazards, + rescued his sister from the power of her master; let him remember that he + is a <i>freeman</i>; that he has not from his infancy been taught to cower + beneath the white man's frown, and bow at his bidding, or suffer all the + rigor of the slave laws. Had the gentlemanly woman-whipper been seen + beating his horse, or his ox, in the manner he beat my poor sister, and + that too for no fault which the law could recognize as an offence, he + would have been complained of most likely; but as it was, she was but a + "slave girl,"—with whom the slave law allowed her master to do what + he pleased. + </p> + <p> + Well, I finally passed on, with a clinched fist and contracted brow, to + the church, and rung the bell, I think rather furiously, to notify the + inhabitants of Bath, that it was time to assemble for the worship of that + God who has declared himself to be "no respecter of persons." With my own + heart beating wildly with indignation and sorrow, the kind reader may + imagine my feelings when I saw the smooth-faced hypocrite, the inhuman + slave-whipper, enter the church, pass quietly on to his accustomed seat, + and then meekly bow his hypocritical face on the damask cushion, in the + reverent acknowledgment of that religion which teaches its adherents "to + do unto others as they would be done by," just as if nothing unusual had + happened on that Sabbath morning. Can any one wonder that I, and other + slaves, often doubted the sincerity of every white man's religion? Can it + be a matter of astonishment, that slaves often feel that there is no just + God for the poor African? Nay, verily; and were it not for the comforting + and sustaining influence that these poor, illiterate and suffering + creatures feel as coming from an unearthly source, they would in their + ignorance all become infidels. To me, that beautiful Sabbath morning was + clouded in midnight darkness, and I retired to ponder on what could be + done. + </p> + <p> + For some reason or other, Capt. Helm had supplied every lawyer in that + section of country with slaves, either by purchase or hire; so when I + thought of seeking legal redress for my poor, mangled sister, I saw at + once it would be all in vain. The laws were in favor of the slave owner, + and besides, every legal gentleman in the village had one or more of the + Captain's slaves, who were treated with more or less rigor; and of course + they would do nothing toward censuring one of their own number, so nothing + could be done to give the slave even the few privileges which the laws of + the State allowed them. + </p> + <p> + The Captain sold my aunt Betsy Bristol to a distinguished lawyer in the + village, retaining her husband, Aaron Bristol, in his own employ; and two + of her children he sold to another legal gentleman named Cruger. One day + Captain Helm came out where the slaves were at work, and finding Aaron was + not there, he fell into a great rage and swore terribly. He finally + started off to a beach tree, from which he cut a stout limb, and trimmed + it so as to leave a knot on the but end of the stick, or bludgeon rather, + which was about two and a half feet in length. With this formidable weapon + he started for Aaron's lonely cabin. When the solitary husband saw him + coming he suspected that he was angry, and went forth to meet him in the + street. They had no sooner met than my master seized Aaron by the collar, + and taking the limb he had prepared by the smaller end, commenced beating + him with it, over the head and face, and struck him some thirty or more + terrible blows in quick succession; after which Aaron begged to know for + what he was so unmercifully flogged. + </p> + <p> + "Because you deserve it," was the angry reply. Aaron said that he had ever + endeavored to discharge his duty, and had done so to the best of his + ability; and that he thought it very hard to be treated in that manner for + no offence at all. Capt. Helm was astonished at his audacity; but the + reader will perceive that the slaves were not blind to the political + condition of the country, and were beginning to feel that they had some + rights, and meant to claim them. + </p> + <p> + Poor Aaron's face and head, however, was left in a pitiable condition + after such a pummeling with a knotty stick. His face, covered with blood, + was so swollen that he could hardly see for some time; but what of that? + Did he not belong to Capt. Helm, soul and body; and if his brutal owner + chose to destroy his own property, certainly had he not a right to do so, + without let or hindrance? Of course; such is the power that Slavery gives + one human being over another. + </p> + <p> + And yet it must be confessed that among the poor, degraded and ignorant + slaves there exists a foolish pride, which loves to boast of their + master's wealth and influence. A white person, too poor to own slaves, is + as often looked upon with as much disdain by the miserable slave as by his + wealthy owner. This disposition seems to be instilled into the mind of + every slave at the South, and indeed, I have heard slaves object to being + sent in very small companies to labor in the field, lest that some + passer-by should think that they belonged to a poor man, who was unable to + keep a large gang. Nor is this ridiculous sentiment maintained by the + slaves only; the rich planter feels such a contempt for all white persons + without slaves, that he does not want them for his neighbors. I know of + many instances where such persons have been under the necessity of buying + or hiring slaves, just to preserve their reputation and keep up + appearances; and even among a class of people who profess to be opposed to + Slavery, have I known instances of the same kind, and have heard them + apologize for their conduct by saying that "when in Rome, we must do as + the Romans do." + </p> + <p> + Uncle Aaron Bristol was one of Capt. Helm's slaves who had a large amount + of this miserable pride; and for him to be associated with a white man in + the same humble occupation, seemed to give him ideas of great superiority, + and full liberty to treat him with all the scorn and sarcasm he was + capable of, in which my uncle was by no means deficient. + </p> + <p> + At this time the Captain owned a fine and valuable horse, by the name of + <i>Speculator</i>. This horse, groomed by uncle Aaron, stood sometimes at + Bath and sometimes at Geneva; and at the latter village another horse was + kept, groomed by a white man. The white groom was not very well pleased + with Aaron's continual disparagement of the clumsy animal which my uncle + called "a great, awkward plow-horse;" and then he would fling out some of + his proud nonsense about "<i>poor white people</i> who were obliged to + groom their own old dumpy horses," &c. + </p> + <p> + Well, things went on in this unpleasant manner for several weeks, when at + last the white groom and Aaron met at Geneva, and the horse belonging to + the former, designedly or accidentally, escaped from his keeper, and came + with full speed, with his mouth wide open, after Speculator. When the + fiery fellow had overtaken uncle Aaron he attempted to grasp the wethers + of Speculator with his teeth, instead of which he caught Aaron on the + inside of his thigh, near the groin, from whence he bit a large piece of + flesh, laying the bone entirely bare; at the same moment flinging Aaron to + the ground, some rods off; and the next instant he kicked Speculator down + a steep embankment Aaron was taken up for dead, and Dr. Henry sent for, + who dressed his wounds; and after several months' confinement he finally + recovered. It is probable that the biting and overthrow of Aaron saved his + life, as he must have otherwise been killed in the encounter of the two + horses. + </p> + <p> + A while after his recovery, uncle Aaron succeeded in procuring a team and + some kind of vehicle, in which he put his wife and children, and between + two days, took "French leave" of his master as well as of the lawyer to + whom his wife belonged. + </p> + <p> + The lawyer, however, was far from being pleased when he missed his + property, and immediately set his wits to work to reclaim her. All was + kept secret as possible, but it was whispered about that it was to be done + by a State's warrant, for removing the clothing and furniture they had + taken, and so, being thus arrested, "Madam Bristol" would be glad to + return to her work in the lawyer's kitchen. But Aaron was a smart, shrewd + man, and kept out of their reach, where he soon found friends and + employment, and could go where he pleased, without having an infuriated + master to beat and disfigure him with a knotted stick, until his clothes + were bespattered with blood. They appreciated their liberty, and lived and + died in peace and freedom. + </p> + <p> + Capt. Helm continued his old manner of treating slaves, dealing out their + weekly allowance of corn or meal; but living as we now did, so much more + intimately with white inhabitants, our condition was materially improved. + The slaves became more refined in manners and in possession of far greater + opportunities to provide for themselves, than they had ever before + enjoyed, and yet it was <i>Slavery</i>. Any reverse in the fortunes of our + master would be disadvantageous to us. Oh, how this fearful uncertainty + weighed upon us as we saw that our master was not prospering and + increasing in wealth; but we had not the dismal fears of the loathsome + slave-pen, rice swamps, and many other things we should have to fear in + Virginia. We were still <i>slaves</i>, and yet we had so much greater + chance to learn from the kind, intelligent people about us, so many things + which we never knew before, that I think a slave-trader would have found + it a difficult task to take any one of us to a Southern slave market, if + our master had so ordered it. + </p> + <p> + The village of Bath is rather an out-of-the-way place, hemmed in on all + sides by mountains of considerable height, leaving an opening on the + north, through a pleasant valley, to the head of Crooked Lake. Produce of + every kind, when once there, met a ready sale for the New York market. + </p> + <p> + In the first settlement of the country this was the only outlet for the + country produce, which was transported in rude boats or vessels called <i>arks</i>, + built during the winter season to await the spring freshet; then they + loaded them with wheat or other produce, and sent them to Baltimore or + elsewhere. They used also to obtain great quantities of fine lumber, and + floated it through the same rivers every spring; but it was attended with + great loss of life and property. + </p> + <p> + Bath assumed a warlike appearance during the last war with Great Britain; + the public square was dotted all over with officers, marquees, and + soldiers' tents. Some of these soldiers were unprincipled and reckless + men, who seemed to care very little what they did. + </p> + <p> + One evening I was walking around the encampment in company with a Mr. + James Morrison, a clerk in the land office, looking at the soldiers, until + we came near a sentinel on duty. He kept his gun to his shoulder until we + came near enough, and then he attempted to run me through with his + bayonet. Young Morrison sprang forward, and seizing the musket, told me to + run; I did so, which probably saved my life. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI. — THOUGHTS ON FREEDOM. + </h2> + <p> + After living sometime in Bath, and having the privilege of more + enlightened society, I began to think that it was possible for me to + become a free man in some way besides going into the army or running away, + as I had often thought of doing. I had listened to the conversation of + others, and determined to ask legal counsel on the subject the first + opportunity I could find. Very soon after, as I was drawing wood, I met on + the river bridge, Mr. D. Cruger, the eminent lawyer before mentioned, and + I asked him to tell me if I was not free, by the laws of New York. He + started, and looked around him as if afraid to answer my question, but + after a while told me I was <i>not</i> free. I passed on, but the answer + to my question by no means satisfied me, especially when I remembered the + hesitancy with which it was given. + </p> + <p> + I sought another opportunity to speak with Mr. Cruger, and at last found + him in his office alone; then he conversed freely on the subject of + Slavery, telling me that Capt. Helm could not hold me as a slave in that + State, if I chose to leave him, and then directed me to D. Comstock and J. + Moore; the first being at the head of a manumission society, and the last + named gentleman one of its directors. + </p> + <p> + Our condition, as I have said before, was greatly improved; and yet the + more we knew of freedom the more we desired it, and the less willing were + we to remain in bondage. The slaves that Capt. Helm had sold or hired out, + were continually leaving him and the country, for a place of freedom; and + I determined to become my own possessor. + </p> + <p> + There is no one, I care not how favorable his condition, who desires to be + a slave, to labor for nothing all his life for the benefit of others. I + have often heard fugitive slaves say, that it was not so much the cruel + beatings and floggings that they received which induced them to leave the + South, as the idea of dragging out a whole life of unrequited toil to + enrich their masters. + </p> + <p> + Everywhere that Slavery exists, it is nothing but <i>slavery</i>. I found + it just as hard to be beaten over the head with a piece of iron in New + York as it was in Virginia. Whips and chains are everywhere necessary to + degrade and brutalize the slave, in order to reduce him to that abject and + humble state which Slavery requires. Nor is the effect much less + disastrous on the man who holds supreme control over the soul and body of + his fellow beings. Such unlimited power, in almost every instance + transforms the man into a tyrant; the brother into a demon. + </p> + <p> + When the first of our persecuted race were brought to this country it was + to teach them to reverence the only true and living God; or such was the + answer of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth of England, when her subjects + desired the liberty to bring from their native land the poor, ignorant + African. "Let them," said the Queen, "be brought away only by their own + consent, otherwise the act will be detestable, and bring down the + vengeance of heaven upon us." A very different position truly, from the + one assumed at the present day by apologists for the traffic in human + flesh. But, to return to myself. + </p> + <p> + I had determined to make an effort to own myself, and as a preliminary + step, I obtained permission of Capt. Helm to visit some friends living in + Canandaigua and Geneva. This was in the winter of 1814. I went first to + Geneva; from there to Canandaigua. Between the two villages I met a + company of United States' troops, returning from Buffalo, where they had + been to repel an invasion of the British. + </p> + <p> + The two villages above named, were small but very pretty, having been laid + out with taste and great care. Some wealthy and enterprising gentlemen had + come from the East into this great Western country, who were making every + improvement in their power. The dense forest had long since fallen under + the stroke of the woodman's ax, and in that section, flourishing villages + were springing up as if by magic, where so lately roamed wild beasts and + rude savages, both having fallen back before the march of civilization. + </p> + <p> + I called on James Moore, as directed by Mr. Cruger, and found he was one + of the directors of the "Manumission Society," as it was then called. This + was an association of humane and intelligent gentlemen whose object it was + to aid any one who was illegally held in bondage. The funds of the society + were ample; and able counsel was employed to assist those who needed it. + The late lamented John C. Spencer, one of the most eminent lawyers in + Western New York, was then counsel for that society. + </p> + <p> + I soon got an interview with Mr. Moore, to whom I related the history of + my life,—the story of my wrongs and hardships. I told him about my + having been hired out by Capt. Helm, which he said was sufficient to + insure my freedom! Oh! how my heart leaped at the thought! The tears + started, my breast heaved with a mighty throb of gratitude, and I could + hardly refrain from grasping his hand or falling down at his feet; and + perhaps should have made some ludicrous demonstration of my feelings, had + not the kind gentleman continued his conversation in another direction. + </p> + <p> + He said that indispensable business called him to Albany, where he must go + immediately, but assured me that he would return in March following; then + I must come to him and he would see that I had what justly belonged to me—my + freedom from Slavery. He advised me to return to Bath and go on with my + work as usual until March, but to say nothing of my intentions and + prospects. I returned according to his directions, with a heart so light, + that I could not realize that my bonds were not yet broken, nor the yoke + removed from off my neck. I was already free in spirit, and I silently + exulted in the bright prospect of liberty. + </p> + <p> + Could my master have felt what it was to be relieved of such a crushing + weight, as the one which was but partially lifted from my mind, he would + have been a happier man than he had been for a long time. + </p> + <p> + I went cheerfully back to my labor, and worked with alacrity, impatient + only for March to come; and as the time drew near I began to consider what + kind of an excuse I could make to get away. I could think of none, but I + determined to go without one, rather than to remain. + </p> + <p> + Just before the time appointed for me to meet Mr. Moore, a slave girl + named Milly, came secretly to Bath. She had been one of Capt. Helm's + slaves, and he had a while before sold her to a man who lived some + distance west of the village. Milly had now taken the matter into her own + hands. She had left her master to take care of himself, and was in short, + "running away," determined as myself, that she would be a slave no longer; + resolved on death, or freedom from the power of the slaveholder. + </p> + <p> + The time I had set for my departure was so near at hand, that I concluded + to accompany her in her flight. When the dark night came on, we started + together, and traveled all night, and just as the day dawned we arrived at + Manchester, where we stopped a short time with one Thomas Watkins. + </p> + <p> + But I was not to be let go so easily. I had been missed at Capt. Helm's, + and several men started in immediate pursuit. I was weary, and so intent + on getting a little rest that I did not see my pursuers until they had + well nigh reached the house where I was; but I <i>did</i> see them in time + to spring from the house with the agility of a deer, and to run for the + woods as for life. And indeed, I so considered it. I was unarmed to be + sure, and not prepared to defend myself against two or three men, armed to + the teeth; but it would have gone hard with me before I surrendered myself + to them, after having dreamed as I had, and anticipated the blessings of a + free man. I escaped them, thank God, and reached the woods, where I + concealed myself for some time, and where I had ample opportunity to + reflect on the injustice and cruelty of my oppressors, and to ask myself + why it was that I was obliged to fly from my home. Why was I there panting + and weary, hungry and destitute—skulking in the woods like a thief, + and concealing myself like a murderer? What had I done? For what fault, or + for what crime was I pursued by armed men, and hunted like a beast of + prey? God only knows how these inquiries harrowed up my very soul, and + made me well nigh doubt the justice and mercy of the Almighty, until I + remembered my narrow escape, when my doubts dissolved in grateful tears. + </p> + <p> + But why, oh why, had I been forced to flee thus from my fellow men? I was + guilty of no crime; I had committed no violence; I had broken no law of + the land; I was not charged even with a fault, except of <i>the love of + liberty</i> and a desire to be <i>free</i>! I had claimed the right to + possess my own person, and remove it from oppression. Oh my God, thought + I, can the American People, who at this very hour are pouring out their + blood in defence of their country's liberty; offering up as a sacrifice on + the battle field their promising young men, to preserve their land and + hearthstones from English oppression; can they, will they, continue to + hunt the poor African slave from their soil because he desires that same + liberty, so dear to the heart of every American citizen? Will they not + blot out from their fair escutcheon the foul stain which Slavery has cast + upon it? Will they not remember the Southern bondman, in whom the love of + freedom is as inherent as in themselves; and will they not, when + contending for equal rights, use their mighty forces "to break <i>every + yoke</i>, and let the oppressed go free?" God grant that it may be so! + </p> + <p> + As soon as I thought it prudent, I pursued my journey, and finally came + out into the open country, near the dwelling of Mr. Dennis Comstock, who, + as I have said, was president of the Manumission Society. To him I freely + described my situation, and found him a friend indeed. He expressed his + readiness to assist me, and wrote a line for me to take to his brother, + Otis Comstock, who took me into his family at once. I hired to Mr. + Comstock for the season, and from that time onward lived with him nearly + four years. + </p> + <p> + When I arrived there I was about twenty-two years of age, and felt for the + first time in my life, that I was my own master. I cannot describe to a + free man, what a proud manly feeling came over me when I hired to Mr. C. + and made my first bargain, nor when I assumed the dignity of collecting my + own earnings. Notwithstanding I was very happy in my freedom from Slavery, + and had a good home, where for the first time in my life I was allowed to + sit at table with others, yet I found myself very deficient in almost + every thing which I should have learned when a boy. + </p> + <p> + These and other recollections of the past often saddened my spirit; but <i>hope + </i>,—cheering and bright, was now mine, and it lighted up the + future and gave me patience to persevere. + </p> + <p> + In the autumn when the farm work was done, I called on Mr. Comstock for + some money, and the first thing I did after receiving it I went to + Canandaigua where I found a book-store kept by a man named J.D. Bemis, and + of him I purchased some school books. + </p> + <p> + No king on his throne could feel prouder or grander than I did that day. + With my books under my arm, and money of my own earning in my pocket, I + stepped loftily along toward Farmington, where I determined to attend the + Academy. The thought, however, that though I was twenty-three years old, I + had yet to learn what most boys of eight years knew, was rather a damper + on my spirits. The school was conducted by Mr. J. Comstock, who was a + pleasant young man and an excellent teacher. He showed me every kindness + and consideration my position and ignorance demanded; and I attended his + school three winters, with pleasure and profit to myself at least. + </p> + <p> + When I had been with Mr. Comstock about a year, we received a visit from + my old master, Capt. Helm, who had spared no pains to find me, and when he + learned where I was he came to claim me as "his boy," who, he said he + "wanted and must have." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Comstock told him I was <i>not</i> "his boy," and as such he would not + give me up; and further, that I was free by the laws of the State. He + assured the Captain that his hiring me out in the first instance, to Mr. + Tower, forfeited his claim to me, and gave me a right to freedom,—but + if he chose to join issue, they would have the case tried in the Supreme + Court; but this proposition the Captain declined: he knew well enough that + it would result in my favor; and after some flattery and coaxing, he left + me with my friend, Mr. Comstock, in liberty and peace! + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII. — CAPT. HELM—DIVORCE—KIDNAPPING. + </h2> + <p> + The business affairs of Capt. Helm had for some time been far from + prosperous; and now he was quite poor. His slave property proved a bad + investment, and Madam Thornton a far worse one. She had already applied + for a divorce, and a good share of the estate as alimony; both of which + she succeeded in getting, the Captain allowing her to take pretty much her + own course. These troubles, with costs of lawsuits, bad management, &c., + had now emptied the coffers of my old master almost to the last farthing; + and he began to cast about him for some way to replenish his purse, and + retrieve his fallen fortunes. + </p> + <p> + Had Capt. Helm been brought up to honorable industry, and accustomed to + look after his own pecuniary interests, he doubtless would have sustained + his position; or if reverses were unavoidable, he would have by + persevering industry, regained what he had lost. But he had been raised in + a slave State, and Southern principles were as deeply instilled into his + mind, as Southern manners were impressed on his life and conduct. + </p> + <p> + He had no partiality for labor of any kind; horse-racing and card-playing + were far more congenial to his tastes; reduced as he now was, he would + deny himself no luxury that his means or credit would procure. His few + remaining slaves were given into the hands of an idle, brutal overseer + —while they, half fed, half clothed, grew more and more + discontented, and ran away on every opportunity that offered. + </p> + <p> + The Captain at last hit upon a method of making money, which, if it had + been carried into operation on the high seas, would in all probability + have been called by its right name, and incurred the penalty of the + gallows—as piracy. Ought it then to be deemed less criminal because + transpiring on the free soil of the American Republic? I think not. Nor + was it less censurable on account of its failure. + </p> + <p> + The Captain's plan was to collect all the slaves he had once owned, many + of whom had escaped to the surrounding villages, and when once in his + grasp, to run them speedily into a slave State, and there sell them for + the Southern market. To carry forward this hellish design, it was + necessary to have recourse to stratagem. Some person must be found to lure + the unsuspecting slaves into the net he was spreading for them. At last he + found a scoundrel named Simon Watkins, who for the consideration of fifty + dollars, was to collect as many of the slaves as he could at one place; + and when he had done so, he was to receive the money, leaving Capt. Helm + to do the rest. + </p> + <p> + Simon set immediately about the business, which was first to go to + Palmyra, and in great kindness and generosity, give a large party to the + colored people,—desiring that all Capt. Helm's former slaves, <i>in + particular</i>, should be present to have a joyous re-union, and celebrate + their freedom in having a fine time generally. + </p> + <p> + Invitations were sent to all, and extensive preparation made for a large + "social party," at Palmyra, at the house of Mrs. Bristol. My parents were + invited; and Simon took the pains to come to Farmington to give me a + special invitation. When the time arrived for the party, I went to Palmyra + with the intention of attending. I had not the least suspicion of any + thing wrong; yet, by some mysterious providence, or something for which I + can not account, a presentiment took possession of my mind that all was + not right. I knew not what I feared, and could in no way define my + apprehensions; but I grew so uneasy, that I finally gave up the party and + returned home, before the guests were assembled. + </p> + <p> + Capt. Helm and his assistants came on to Palmyra in disguise, before + evening, and secreted themselves in one of the hotels to await the arrival + of their victims. + </p> + <p> + At the appointed hour the slaves began to assemble in large numbers and + great glee, without the least suspicion of danger. They soon began their + amusements, and in the midst of their mirth, Capt. Helm and party + stealthily crept from their hiding place and surrounded the house; then + bursting in suddenly upon the revelers, began to make arrests. Such a + tumult, such an affray as ensued would be hard to describe. + </p> + <p> + The slaves fought for their lives and their liberty, and the Captain's + party for their property and power. Fists, clubs, chairs, and any thing + they could get hold of, was freely used with a strength and will of men + who had tasted the joys of freedom. Cries and curses were mingled, while + blows fell like hail on both sides. Commands from our old master were met + with shouts of bold defiance on the part of the negroes, until the + miserable kidnappers were glad to desist, and were driven of—not + stealthily as they came, but in quick time and in the best way they could, + to escape the threatened vengeance of the slaves, who drove them like + "feathers before the wind." But it was a terrible battle and many were + severely wounded; among them was my father. He was taken to his home, + mangled and bleeding, and from the effects of that night's affray he never + recovered. He lingered on in feeble health until death finally released + him from suffering, and placed him beyond the reach of kidnappers and + tyrants. + </p> + <p> + The Captain and his party, enraged and disappointed in their plans at + Palmyra, returned to Bath to see what could be done there toward success, + in getting up a gang of slaves for the Southern market. When they came + among the colored people of Bath, it was like a hawk alighting among a + flock of chickens at noon-day. They scattered and ran in every direction, + some to the woods, some hid themselves in cellars, and others in their + terror plunged into the Conhocton River. In this manner the majority of + the negroes escaped, but not all; and those were so unfortunate as to get + caught were instantly thrown into a large covered "Pennsylvania wagon," + and hurried off, closely guarded, to Olean Point. Among those taken were + Harry Lucas, his wife, Lucinda, and seven children; Mrs. Jane Cooper and + four children, with some others, were also taken. + </p> + <p> + When Capt. Helm arrived at Olean Point with his stolen freight of human + beings, he was unexpectedly detained until he could build a boat,—which, + to his great dismay took him several days. + </p> + <p> + The sorrow and fearful apprehension of those wretched recaptured slaves + can not be described nor imagined by any one except those who have + experienced a like affliction. They had basked for a short season in the + sunshine of liberty, and thought themselves secure from the iron grasp of + Slavery, and the heel of the oppressor, when in the height of their + exultation, they had been thrust down to the lowest depths of misery and + despair, with the oppressor's heel again upon their necks. To be snatched + without a moment's warning from their homes and friends,—hurried and + crowded into the close slave wagon, regardless of age or sex, like sheep + for the slaughter, to be carried they knew not whither; but, doubtless to + the dismal rice swamp of the South,—was to them an agony too great + for endurance. The adult portion of the miserable company determined at + last to go no farther with their heartless master, but to resist unto + death if need be, before they surrendered themselves to the galling chains + they had so recently broken, or writhed again under the torturing lash of + the slave-driver. + </p> + <p> + Harry Lucas and wife, and Jane Cooper, silently prepared themselves for + the conflict, determined to sell their lives as dearly as possible. When + they were nearly ready to start, Jane Cooper sent her oldest daughter and + younger sister, (she who is now our worthy friend Mrs. P. of Bath), into + the woods, and then when the men undertook to get Lucas and the two women + on board the boat the struggle commenced. The women fought the Captain and + his confederates like a lioness robbed of her whelps! They ran and dodged + about, making the woods ring with their screams and shouts of "Murder! + Murder! Help! Help! Murder!" until the Captain's party, seeing they could + do nothing to quell them, became so exceedingly alarmed lest they should + be detected in their illegal proceedings, that they ran off at full speed, + as if they thought an officer at their heels. In their hurry and fright + they caught two of Harry's children, and throwing them into the boat, + pushed off as quick as possible, amid the redoubled cries of the agonized + parents and sympathizing friends, all trying in every way possible, to + recover from the merciless grasp of the man-stealer, the two frightened + and screaming children. Guns were fired and horns sounded, but all to no + purpose—they held tightly the innocent victims of their cupidity, + and made good their escape. + </p> + <p> + Mr. D. C——, a gentleman of wealth and high standing in Steuben + County, became responsible for the fifty dollars which Capt. Helm promised + to pay Simon Watkins for his villainy in betraying, Judas-like, those + unsuspecting persons whom it should have been his pleasure to protect and + defend against their common oppressor,—his own as well as theirs. + </p> + <p> + In addition to this rascality, it can not appear very creditable to the + citizens of Steuben County, that Capt. Helm and Thomas McBirney should + both hold high and important offices at the time, and <i>after</i> they + had been tried and convicted of the crime of kidnapping. Both of these + gentlemen, guilty of a State's prison offence, were judges of the common + pleas. T. McBirney was first judge in the county, and Capt. Helm was side + judge; and notwithstanding their participation in, and conviction of, a + flagrant outrage on the laws of God and man, they managed not only to + escape the penalty, but to retain their offices and their respectable + standing in community for years after. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII. — LOCATE IN THE VILLAGE OF ROCHESTER. + </h2> + <p> + I continued to labor in the employ of Mr. O. Comstock, whose son, Zeno, + was married during the year 1816, and purchased a farm on the site of the + present flourishing village of Lockport, to which he moved his family and + effects; but from a mistaken supposition that the Erie Canal, which was + then under contemplation, would take a more southern route, he was induced + to sell his farm in Hartland, which has proved a mine of wealth to the + more fortunate purchaser. + </p> + <p> + In the winter of that year, I was sent by my employer to Hartland with a + sleigh-load of produce, and passed through the village of Rochester, which + I had never before seen. It was a very small, forbidding looking place at + first sight, with few inhabitants, and surrounded by a dense forest. + </p> + <p> + I recollect that while pursuing my journey, I overtook a white man driving + a span of horses, who contended that I had not a right to travel the + public highway as other men did, but that it was my place to keep behind + him and his team. Being in haste I endeavored to pass him quietly, but he + would not permit it and hindered me several hours, very much to my + annoyance and indignation. This was, however, but a slight incident + indicating the bitter prejudice which every man seemed to feel against the + negro. No matter how industrious he might be, no matter how honorable in + his dealings, or respectful in his manners,—he was a "nigger," and + as such he must be treated, with a few honorable exceptions. + </p> + <p> + This year also, my father died in the village of Palmyra, where, as I have + before mentioned, he received injuries from which he never entirely + recovered. After about six months severe illness which he bore with + commendable patience and resignation, his spirit returned to God who gave + it; and his sorrowing friends and bereaved family followed his remains to + their final abode, where we laid him down to rest from unrequited labor + and dire oppression, until "all they who are in their graves shall hear + the voice of the Son of God, and they that hear shall live forever," where + the "tears shall be wiped from off all faces"—and where the + righteous bondman shall no longer fear the driver's lash or master's + frown, but freely join in the song of "Alleluia! The Lord God Omnipotent + reigneth!" + </p> + <p> + My father had a good reputation for honesty and uprightness of character + among his employers and acquaintances, and was a kind, affectionate + husband and a fond, indulgent parent. His, I believe was the life and + death of a good man. "Peace be to his ashes." + </p> + <p> + The following season I commenced a new business—that of peddling in + the village of Rochester such articles as my employer, Mr. Comstock, + desired to sell: the products of his farm,—wheat, corn, oats, + butter, cheese, meat, and poultry—all of which met a ready sale, + generally for cash at liberal prices. That market was then but little + known to the generality of farmers, and the enterprising gentlemen of that + place, were desirous of encouraging commerce with the surrounding country, + offered every encouragement in their power. Hence, we found it a + profitable business, which I continued in for several months. + </p> + <p> + The present flourishing city of Rochester was then, as I have said, but a + village in its infancy, situated near the upper falls of the Genesee + River, and about seven miles from its mouth. Here, some time previously, + three gentlemen from Maryland bought a large tract of land, and as no + business man could fail to observe and appreciate its rare advantages they + commenced laying out a village. Sirs Fitzhugh, Carroll, and Rochester, + composed the company; but the management of the business devolved almost + wholly on Col. Rochester, whose wealth, enterprise, and intelligence well + qualified him for the undertaking; and as it had been assigned him to + cognominate the new village, I have heard it said that he jocularly gave + his reason for selecting its present title, as follows: "Should he call it + <i>Fitzhugh</i> or <i>Carroll</i>, the slighted gentleman would certainly + feel offended with the other; but if he called it by his own name, they + would most likely <i>both</i> be angry with him; so it was best to serve + them alike." + </p> + <p> + There was then two grist mills,—one owned by Mr. Ely, and the other + by Mr. Brown; one small building for religious worship, occupied by the + Presbyterians on Carroll street (now State street); and but two stone + buildings within what now comprises that beautiful city. There were then + no brick buildings at all, but business was good; merchants and mechanics + from the East soon began to settle there and give it a thriving aspect. + </p> + <p> + About this time another company was formed, whose moving spirit was Mr. E. + Stone, a man of worth and talent; the object of which was to locate + another village at the head of navigation and about half way between the + mouth of the river and Rochester, which they called <i>Carthage</i>. + </p> + <p> + The company commenced building and improving the place so rapidly, that + many who came to purchase residences and business stations were at a loss + to decide which of the two places would finally become the center of + business. It, however, was soon perceivable that the advantage of water + privileges, stone, and access to both, was greatly in favor of Rochester. + At Carthage the Genesee is narrow and its banks steep and abrupt, rising + in many places three hundred feet above the bed of the river, which of + course render the privileges and business on it far less easy of access + for building purposes. I may have occasion to speak hereafter of the + expensive and magnificent bridge at Carthage, which was the wonder and + admiration of the times. + </p> + <p> + The following year I concluded to go into business for myself, and was as + much at loss as others, whether to locate at Rochester or Carthage; but + after considering the matter in all its bearings, and closely watching the + progress of events, my choice preponderated in favor of Rochester, and to + that place I went, designing to enter into business on my own account. + </p> + <p> + It was indeed painful to my feelings to leave the home and family of Mr. + Comstock, where I had experienced so much real comfort and happiness, + where I had ever been treated with uniform kindness, where resided those + kind friends to whom I felt under the greatest obligation for the freedom + and quietude I then enjoyed, as well as for the little knowledge of + business and of the world that I then possessed. Thinking, however, that I + could better my condition, I subdued, as well as I could, my rising + emotions, and after sincerely thanking them for their goodness and favors—wishing + them long life and prosperity,—I took my departure for the chosen + place of my destination. + </p> + <p> + Soon after I left Mr. Comstock's, that gentleman, sent his hired man, + named John Cline, to Rochester with a wagon load of produce to sell, as + had been his custom for some time. In vain the family looked for his + return at the usual hour in the evening, and began to wonder what had + detained him; but what was their horror and surprise to find, when they + arose the next morning, the horses standing at the door, and the poor + unfortunate man lying in the wagon, <i>dead</i>! How long they had been + there nobody knew; no one had heard them come in; and how the man had been + killed was a matter of mere conjecture. The coroner was sent for and an + inquest held, and yet it was difficult to solve the whole mystery. + </p> + <p> + The most probable explanation was, that he was sitting in the back part of + the wagon, and fell over on his left side, striking his neck on the edge + of the wagon box, breaking it instantly. + </p> + <p> + The verdict of the jury was, in accordance with these facts, "accidental + death," &c. + </p> + <p> + When I left Mr. Comstock's I had acquired quite a knowledge of reading, + writing, arithmetic, and had made a small beginning in English grammar. + </p> + <p> + It had been for some time a question which I found hard to decide, whether + or not I should pursue my studies as I had done. If I went into business + as I contemplated, I knew it would end my proficiency in the sciences; and + yet I felt a desire to accumulate more of the wealth that perisheth. + Considering too that I was advancing in age, and had no means of support + but by my own labor, I finally concluded to do what I have from that time + to this deeply regretted,—give up the pursuit of an education, and + turn my attention wholly to business. I do not regret having desired a + competency, nor for having labored to obtain it, but I <i>do</i> regret + not having spared myself sufficient leisure to pursue some regular system + of reading and study; to have cultivated my mind and stored it with useful + knowledge. + </p> + <p> + Truly has it been said, "knowledge is power." But it is not like the + withering curse of a tyrant's power; not like the degrading and + brutalizing power of the slave-driver's lash, chains, and thumb-screws; + not like the beastly, demonical power of rum, nor like the brazen, + shameless power of lust; but a power that elevates and refines the + intellect; directs the affections; controls unholy passions; a power so + God-like in its character, that it enables its possessor to feel for the + oppressed of every clime, and prepares him to defend the weak and + down-trodden. + </p> + <p> + What but ignorance renders the poor slave so weak and inefficient in + claiming his right to liberty, and the possession of his own being! Nor + will that God who is "no respecter of persons," hold him guiltless who + assumes unlimited control over his fellow. The chain of Slavery which + fetters every slave south of Mason and Dixon's Line, is as closely linked + around the master as the slave. The time has passed by when African blood + alone is enslaved. In Virginia as well as in some other slave States, + there is as much European blood in the veins of the enslaved as there is + African; and the increase is constantly in favor of the white population. + This fact alone speaks volumes, and should remind the slave-breeding + Southerner of that fearful retribution which must sooner or later overtake + him. + </p> + <p> + In September, 1817, I commenced business in Rochester. Having rented a + room of Mr. A. Wakely, I established a meat market, which was supplied + mostly by my former employer, Mr. Comstock, and was liberally patronized + by the citizens; but there were butchers in the village who appeared to be + unwilling that I should have any share in public patronage. Sometimes they + tore down my sign, at others painted it black, and so continued to annoy + me until after I had one of their number arrested, which put a stop to + their unmanly proceedings. + </p> + <p> + The village was now rapidly increasing, and yet the surrounding country + was mostly a wilderness. Mr. E. Stone, who then owned the land on the east + side of the river, thought his farm a very poor one; he, however, + commenced clearing it in the midst of wild beasts and rattlesnakes, both + of which were abundant, and in a few years was richly rewarded for his + labor, in the sale of village lots, which commanded high prices. + </p> + <p> + In the summer of 1818, I commenced teaching a Sabbath School for the + neglected children of our oppressed race. For a while it was well + attended, and I hoped to be able to benefit in some measure the poor and + despised colored children, but the parents interested themselves very + little in the undertaking, and it shortly came to naught. So strong was + the prejudice then existing against the colored people, that very few of + the negroes seemed to have any courage or ambition to rise from the abject + degradation in which the estimation of the white man had placed him. + </p> + <p> + This year, also, I purchased a lot of land, eighteen by fifty feet, + situated on Main street, for which I was to pay five hundred dollars. + Having secured my land, I began making preparations for building, and soon + had a good two story dwelling and store, into which I moved my effects, + and commenced a more extensive business. + </p> + <p> + Some disadvantage as well as sport was occasioned on business men, who + resided on the confines of Ontario and Genesee Counties. It was indeed + laughable to witness the races and maneuvering of parties in those days + when men were imprisoned for debt. If a man in Ontario County had a + suspicion that an officer was on his track, he had only to step over the + line into Genesee, to be beyond the power of an officer's precept. + </p> + <p> + A great deal of trouble as well as unpleasant feeling was engendered by + the exercise of that law, which allowed the creditor so great advantage + over the debtor. This, together with the fact that very many of the + citizens of Rochester were men of small means, the more wealthy portion + felt called upon to protect their interests, by forming themselves into + what was called a "Shylock Society," the object of which was to obtain a + list of all the names of persons who had been, or were then, on "the + limits" for debt. This list of names was printed, and each member of the + society furnished with a copy, which enabled him to decide whether or not + to trust a man when he came to trade. The formation of this society gave + rise to another, whose members pledged themselves to have no dealing with + a member of the "Shylock Society," and also to publish all defaulters in + "high life," which served to check these oppressive measures and restore + harmony. + </p> + <p> + Among others who came to settle in the thriving village of Rochester, was + a colored man named Daniel Furr, who came from the East. He soon became + acquainted with a very respectable young white lady, of good family, who + after a short acquaintance appeared to be perfectly enamored of her dusky + swain; and notwithstanding the existing prejudice, she did not scruple to + avow her affection for him,—a devotion which appeared to be as + sincerely returned by the young "Othello." They resolved to marry; but to + this, serious objections arose, and all that the lady's family and friends + could do to break off the match was done, but without effect. They could, + however, prevail on no one to perform the marriage ceremony in the + village, and finally concluded to go to a magistrate in the town of + Brighton, four miles distant. At this stage of the proceedings I was + appealed to, to accompany them. I took the matter into consideration and + came to the conclusion that I could take no active part in the affair, nor + bear any responsible station in the unpleasant occurrence. Is it no sin in + the sight of the Almighty, for Southern gentlemen(?) to mix blood and + amalgamate the races? And if allowed to them, is it not equally + justifiable when the commerce is prompted by affection rather than that of + lust and force? But I at length consented to accompany them, after + learning that all the mischief was already done that could be feared, and + that the gallant lover desired to marry the lady as the only atonement he + could make for the loss of her reputation. + </p> + <p> + We arrived at the house of the magistrate about one o'clock at night, and + all were soundly sleeping. They were, however, aroused, and when our + business was made known, an exciting scene followed. The magistrate + refused at first to marry them; and the lady of the house took aside the + intended bride, spending two hours in endeavoring to dissuade her from the + contemplated union; assuring her that her house should be freely opened to + her, that no attention should be spared during her expected confinement, + &c.; but all to no purpose. They returned to the parlor where the + magistrate again tried his power of persuasion, but with as little success + as his lady had met: and then he reluctantly married them. The newly-made + husband paid a liberal fee, and we took our leave. I returned to my home + to reflect on the scenes of the past night, and Mr. and Mrs. Furr to the + house of a friend of the bride in Penfield. + </p> + <p> + The report soon reached the village that the marriage had been + consummated, which produced a great excitement. Threats of an alarming + character were openly made against the "nigger" who had dared to marry a + white woman, although at her own request. And there was also a class of + persons who associated together, professing great friendship for the + persecuted husband, and often drew him into their company, pretending to + defend his cause while they were undoubtedly plotting his destruction. + </p> + <p> + One day, after Furr had been drinking rather freely with his pretended + friends, he was taken so violently ill, that a physician was immediately + called. I was with him when the doctor arrived. He gazed upon the + suffering man with an angry expression, and inquired in a tone of command, + "Daniel, what have you been doing?" In vain the poor creature begged for + relief, the doctor merely repeating his question. After looking at him for + some time, he finally administered a potion and hastily left the room, + saying as he did so, "that Furr was as sure to die as though his head had + been cut off." And so it proved, though not so speedily as the medical man + had predicted; nor did he ever visit him again, notwithstanding he + lingered for several days in the most intense agony. It was a strong man + grappling with disease and death, and the strife was a fearful one. But + death at last ended the scene, with none of all his professed friends, + except his faithful but heart-broken wife, to administer to his + necessities. No sound save that of the moaning widow broke the stillness + of his death-chamber. A few friends collected, who prepared the emaciated + body for the grave; enclosing it in a rude board coffin it was conveyed to + its last resting place, followed by three or four men, just as the shades + of evening had fallen upon this sin-cursed world; there in darkness and + silence we lowered his remains, and left the gloomy spot to return to his + disconsolate wife, who had been too ill to join the meager procession. + </p> + <p> + It has ever been my conviction that Furr was poisoned, most likely by some + of his false friends who must have mingled some deadly drug with his + drinks or food; nor do I believe that the medicine administered by the + physician was designed to save his life. But to Him who knoweth all + things, we leave the matter. + </p> + <p> + His despised, forsaken, and bereaved wife soon followed him to the grave, + where she sleeps quietly with her innocent babe by her side; and where + probably this second Desdemonia finds the only refuge which would have + been granted her by a heartless and persecuting world. + </p> + <p> + Oh, when will this nation "cease to do evil and learn to do well?" When + will they judge character in accordance with its moral excellence, instead + of the complexion a man unavoidably bears to the world? + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV. — INCIDENTS IN ROCHESTER AND VICINITY. + </h2> + <p> + After long petitioning, the inhabitants of that section succeeded in + having the new county of Monroe set off from Genesee and Ontario Counties, + in 1821, which gave a new impulse to the business interests of the already + flourishing town, which had heretofore labored under some disadvantages in + consequence of having all public business done at Canandaigua or Batavia. + </p> + <p> + About this time, too, was the Carthage bridge built by a company of + enterprising gentlemen of that village which at that day was considered + one of the wonders of the age; but as its history is well known to all + interested in the enterprises of those days, it is only necessary to say, + that the magnificent structure, so grand in its appearance, such a pattern + of mechanical ingenuity, exhibiting in all its vast proportions, both + strength and beauty, combined with utility and grandeur; and erected at + such an enormous expense of time, labor, and cash, was destined soon to + fall. + </p> + <p> + It had cost some ten thousand dollars; and had been warranted by the + builders to stand one year. How great then must have been the loss and + disappointment when in a little more than twenty-four hours after the time + specified, the ruins of that beautiful structure were found floating on + the broad bosom of the Genesee! And yet when we take into consideration + the vast amount of human life which hourly passed over its solid surface, + we can but wonder at the intervention of a kind Providence which prevented + any loss of life at the time of its fall. A child had but just passed over + it, when with one general crash it sank to the waters below; mocking in + its rapid flight, the wisdom of the architect and foresight of frail + humanity. The fall of Carthage bridge was indeed a calamity felt by the + public generally, and sounded the death-knell of all future greatness to + Carthage, or at least for some years to come. + </p> + <p> + About this time the village was thrown into a state of excitement by the + arrest of a colored woman named Ellen, who it was charged had escaped from + service due to a Mr. D., south of Mason and Dixon's Line. She had been + arrested in accordance with a law passed by Congress in 1793, which + forbids persons owing service in one State to flee to another; and which + also obliges those receiving such service, to render to the claimant any + fugitive from labor due, &c. Poor Ellen! She had many friends and able + counsel, but nothing short of an open violation of the law of the land, + could prevent her return to the house of bondage. She was tried and given + up to him who claimed dominion over her. Hopeless and heart-broken, she + was escorted from the boasted land and village of freedom, by a company of + the "Light Horse," under the command of Capt. Curtis. One poor, persecuted + slave woman, upon whose heart had fallen a shadow darker than death's; + driving every earthly hope of liberty from her wounded spirit; helpless + and forlorn! She indeed must have required this military parade—this + show of power! And that too, by men who throw up their caps with a shout + for freedom and equal rights! Oh, "consistency, thou art a jewel!" + </p> + <p> + As I recollect but one other incident of the kind occurring in Rochester, + I will now name it. + </p> + <p> + A colored man named Davis, generally known as "Doctor Davis," with a + reputation unsullied for industry, truth and sobriety, was arrested as a + fugitive from slave labor in Kentucky. Two men came on from that State, + acting in the double capacity of agents for the claimant and witnesses + against the slave. They employed Mr. L. as counsel, and hastened on the + trial of the afflicted African. When it became generally known that Davis + was arrested, and about to be tried, the excitement grew intense among all + classes; but more particularly among the colored people. When the trial + came on, the Court room was crowded to overflowing, and every avenue + leading to it densely thronged with deeply anxious persons, assembled to + witness the result. It became evident, however, that the poor man must be + given up to his grasping master, unless some means were devised to rescue + him from the power of an unjust law. His friends were on the alert, and as + the trial proceeded, the colored men found an opportunity to get him into + a corner of the crowded apartment; where, while the officers stood at the + door, they dressed him in disguise, and otherwise so completely changed + his personal appearance, that he passed out of the Court room, undetected + by the officers, and as all supposed was safely pursuing his way to + Canada. + </p> + <p> + The hawk-eyed counsel for the Kentuckians, however, too soon observed + exultation written on every dusky countenance, to keep quiet. Starting to + his feet in great alarm, he cried out "Where is Davis?" And oh, how that + question startled every one present. Every eye gazed hither and thither, + and every ear intently listened for the answer. After a moment of + breathless silence, the excited counselor was assured that the "bird had + flown," which announcement was received with a rapturous shout of joy by + the audience, greatly, however, to the discomfiture of the gentlemen from + Kentucky, who had thought themselves so sure of their prize. Nor would + they be thwarted now. It was not yet too late to overtake their victim, + and slavery required at their hands a sacrifice which they were ready to + make. Hand-bills were in immediate circulation, offering a reward of fifty + dollars for the apprehension of the flying fugitive. Fifty dollars, for + the body and soul of a man to plunge into the degradation of Slavery! + Fifty dollars for the ruin of a fellow being, for whom Christ gave his + precious life! Yes, fifty dollars are offered to any human blood-hound who + will hunt and worry the poor slave, who must fly from this boasted land of + liberty, to seek protection in the dominion of England's Queen! + </p> + <p> + Unfortunately for Davis, some of these hand-bills were thrown on board the + very packet on which he had embarked for Buffalo; nor was this all. The + bills would have left him uninjured, but a scoundrel—an apology for + a man—was there also, who, for the consideration of fifty dollars + was willing to compromise all pretensions to manhood and humanity, and + drag from the boat the panting slave, whom he cast beneath the heel of his + oppressor. When Davis was finally retaken, those Kentucky dealers in human + chattels, held him with a grasp that banished all hope of escape by + flight; and then in his sorrow and despair the wretched, hopeless man + cried out "Oh, my God, must I return to the hell of Slavery? Save me, Oh, + dear Lord, save this, thy helpless, friendless servant, from a fate so + dreadful! Oh, Christian friends and neighbors, I appeal to you to rescue + me from a life far more terrible than death in any form! Oh, God, is there + no protection for me in the laws of New York? I claim it, by all that is + sacred in her past history! Give me liberty or death! or death!" he + repeated, with a shudder; then casting one glance of hopeless agony on his + persecutors, he secretly drew from his pocket a razor, and before he could + be prevented he drew it across his throat, and fell gasping in the midst + of his slave-hunting tormentors, while a collection of bystanders cried + "Shame! shame! on the institution of Slavery!" + </p> + <p> + Poor Davis was not dead, but supposing he soon would be, these gentlemen + were requested to give security, and indemnify the town for all expenses + it might incur on Davis' account. But instead of giving their bond as + requested, they took a sudden start for Kentucky, where it was very + generally desired they might remain. + </p> + <p> + With good treatment, Davis, after a long time, recovered sufficiently to + be removed by his friends to a place of safety; and when so far restored + as to be able he returned to Rochester, where he received assistance which + enabled him to reach Canada. I have often heard from him during his + residence in that country, where no slaves exist and he has done well, + having quite an extensive practice in medicine, and lives in the quiet + enjoyment of that liberty which he struggled so hard to obtain and came so + near losing; yet, to this day he prefers death to Slavery. And who does + not? None, who have breathed the air of freedom after an experience of + unrequited toil to enrich a brutal and selfish master. Truly is it said, + "a contented slave is a degraded being." + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV. — SAD REVERSES OF CAPT. HELM. + </h2> + <p> + I must again introduce to the kind reader my old master, Capt. Helm, who + we left residing in Bath, several years ago. And as I have before + intimated he had now become a very poor man; indeed so reduced was he now + that he lived with one of his slave women, and was supported by public + charity! Learning, too, that I had saved by my industry a few hundred + dollars, it seemed very congenial with his avaricious habits to endeavor + to obtain what I possessed. In accordance with his plan he employed a + lawyer named Lewland to come to my place of business, which he did, and + demanded of me to pay Capt. Helm two hundred dollars. He also left a + notice, forbidding all persons to take or destroy any property in my + possession; and then impudently inquired how I expected to gain my + freedom; if I thought of applying for a writ of <i>habaeus corpus</i>; and + many other questions; to which I replied that I should pay no money on the + order of Capt. Helm; apply for no writ; but should continue to maintain my + personal rights and enjoy the freedom which was already mine, and which I + designed to keep, assuring him that the Captain had forfeited his claim, + if he had any, to me or my services, when he hired me to Mr. Tower. + </p> + <p> + He hung about me for a day or two, and then left me to pursue my business + —I saw no more of him. Some time afterward Mr. H.E. Rochester + informed me that he had a <i>subpoena</i> for me, which I found was issued + by the direction of Capt. Helm. By Mr. Rochester's counsel, I took it to + Mr. A. Sampson, who assured me that my old master had commenced a suit + against me in the Court of Equity, and the case would be tried before Wm. + B. Rochester, Esq., who was one of the circuit judges. Capt. Helm claimed + every particle of property I possessed; a claim that occasioned me great + anxiety and some cost. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Sampson encouraged me to hope, however, that the case would be + dismissed as two other cases of that kind had been. + </p> + <p> + I labored to the best of my ability to prepare myself for the trial, which + was to decide whether I had a right to possess myself and command my own + services and earnings, or whether all belonged to Capt. Helm. As I looked + forward with anxious forebodings to the day appointed for the suit to + commence, I was startled by the announcement of my old master's <i>death</i>! + Yes, Capt. Helm was dead; and with him died the law suit. He who had so + wronged me, who had occasioned me so much suffering and sorrow had gone to + his account. He who had once been thought to be one of the wealthiest as + well as one of the greatest men in the county, died a pauper—neglected + and despised, and scarcely awarded a decent burial. Like his wife, who + died such a horrid death, he had been reared in affluence and was an + inheritor of vast possessions, but his home was in a slave State; he was + raised on a plantation, and nurtured in the atmosphere of Slavery. + </p> + <p> + In his youth he had contracted the habit of drinking to excess, beside + that of gambling, horse-racing and the like, which followed him through + life. Forgotten and scorned in his poverty by many who had partaken of his + abundance, sipped his wine, and rode his fast horses. + </p> + <p> + During the last war his princely mansion was ever open to the officers of + the army, and many a wounded soldier has been cheered and comforted by his + hospitality. But now he is regarded as no better than his poorest slave, + and lies as lowly as they, in the narrow house appointed for all the + living. + </p> + <p> + My old master had two brothers: the oldest, Thomas Helm, was a Captain in + the United States Army, and had been in many hard-fought battles. His + younger brother, William, was a Captain also; but Thomas was the man to + awaken curiosity. I have lived with him, but never knew of his going + unarmed for an hour, until he left Virginia and came to Steuben County, + where he died. When at the South, I have seen strangers approach him, but + they were invariably commanded to "stand" and to "approach him at their + peril." He finally came to the State of New York, bringing with him his + "woman" with whom he lived, and two children, with whom he settled on a + piece of land given him by my old master, where the old soldier lived, + died, and was buried on one of his small "clearings" under an old apple + tree. He owned a few slaves, but at his death his "woman" collected every + thing she could, and among the rest, two or three slave children, to whom + she had no right or claim whatever, and made her way to Kentucky. About a + year ago I visited the spot where the brave old defender of his country + had been buried, but found very little to mark the resting place of the + brother of my old master. They had passed away. Their wealth, power and + bravery had come to nought; and no tribute was now paid to the memory of + one of "Old Virginia's best families." The <i>blood</i> of which they were + wont to boast, was now no more revered than that which commingled with the + African and circulated in the veins of his despised and downtrodden + slaves. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI. — BRITISH EMANCIPATION OF SLAVERY. + </h2> + <p> + As time passed on I found myself progressing in a profitable business. I + had paid for my house and lot, and purchased another adjoining, on which I + had erected a valuable brick building. The Lord prospered all my + undertakings and I felt grateful for my good fortune. I kept all kinds of + groceries and grain, which met a ready sale; and now I began to look about + me for a partner in life, to share my joys and sorrows, and to assist me + on through the tempestuous scenes of a life-long voyage. Such a companion + I found in the intelligent and amiable Miss B——, to whom I was + married on the eleventh of May, 1825. She was the youngest daughter of a + particular friend, who had traveled extensively and was noted for his + honesty and intelligence. + </p> + <p> + About this time, too, "Sam Patch" made his last and fatal leap from a + scaffold twenty five feet above the falls of Genesee, which are ninety-six + feet in height. From thence he plunged into the foaming river to rise no + more in life. The following spring the body of the foolish man was found + and buried, after having lain several months in the turbulent waters of + the Genesee. + </p> + <p> + This year was also rendered memorable by the efficient labors of Professor + Finney, through whose faithful preaching of the gospel, many were brought + to a saving knowledge of the truth. + </p> + <p> + The "Emancipation Act" had now been passed, and the happy time for it to + take effect was drawing nigh. Slavery could no longer exist in the Empire + State nor receive the protection of her laws. Would to God it had so + continued to be what it professed—the refuge of the bondman and the + home of the free. But alas! Now the flying fugitive from Slavery finds no + security within her borders; he must flee onward, to the dominion of Queen + Victoria, ere he rests, lest the exaction of the odious "Fugitive Slave + Law" return him to the house of bondage. + </p> + <p> + But the Emancipation Bill had been passed, and the colored people felt it + to be a time fit for rejoicing. They met in different places and + determined to evince their gratitude by a general celebration. In + Rochester they convened in large numbers, and resolved to celebrate the + glorious day of freedom at Johnson's Square, on the <i>fifth</i> day of + July. This arrangement was made so as not to interfere with the white + population who were everywhere celebrating the day of their independence—"the + Glorious Fourth,"—for amid the general and joyous shout of liberty, + prejudice had sneeringly raised the finger of scorn at the poor African, + whose iron bands were loosed, not only from English oppression, but the + more cruel and oppressive power of Slavery. + </p> + <p> + They met according to previous appointment, Mr. A. H——, having + been chosen president, Mr. H. E——, marshal, and Mr. H. D——, + reader of the "Act of Emancipation," and "The Declaration of + Independence." A large audience of both white and colored people + assembled, and the day which had been ushered in by the booming cannon, + passed by in the joyous realization that we were indeed free men. To the + music of the band the large procession marched from the square to the + hotel, where ample provision was made for dinner, after listening to the + following oration, which I had been requested to deliver. + </p> + <p> + I must not omit to mention that on the morning of that happy day, a + committee of colored men waited upon the Hon. Matthew Brown, and in behalf + of the citizens of Monroe County, presented their thanks for his noble + exertions in the Legislature, in favor of the Act by which thousands were + made free men. + </p> + <p> + They were received by that worthy gentleman with grateful and pleasing + assurances of his continued labor in behalf of freedom. + </p> + <p> + Now I will lay before the reader my address to the audience on that + eventful day. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVII. — ORATION—TERMINATION OF SLAVERY. + </h2> + <p> + The age in which we live is characterised in no ordinary degree, by a + certain boldness and rapidity in the march of intellectual and political + improvements. Inventions the most surprising; revolutions the most + extraordinary, are springing forth, and passing in quick succession before + us,—all tending most clearly to the advancement of mankind towards + that state of earthly perfection and happiness, from which they are yet so + far distant, but of which their nature and that of the world they inhabit, + are most certainly capable. It is at all times pleasing and instructive to + look backward by the light of history, and forward by the light of + analogical reasoning, to behold the gradual advancement of man from + barbarism to civilization, from civilization toward the higher perfections + of his nature; and to hope—nay, confidently believe, that the time + is not far distant when liberty and equal rights being everywhere + established, morality and the religion of the gospel everywhere diffused,—man + shall no longer lift his hand for the oppression of his fellow man; but + all, mutually assisting and assisted, shall move onward throughout the + journey of human life, like the peaceful caravan across the burning sands + of Arabia. And never, on this glorious anniversary, so often and so + deservedly celebrated by millions of free men, but which we are to-day for + the first time called to celebrate—never before, has the eye been + able to survey the past with so much satisfaction, or the future with + hopes and expectations so brilliant and so flattering; it is to us a day + of two-fold joy. We are men, though the strong hand of prejudice and + oppression is upon us; we can, and we will rejoice in the advancement of + the rapidly increasing happiness of mankind, and especially of our own + race. We can, and we will rejoice in the growing power and glory of the + country we inhabit. Although Almighty God has not permitted us to remain + in the land of our forefathers and our own, the glories of national + independence, and the sweets of civil and religious liberty, to their full + extent; but the strong hand of the spoiler has borne us into a strange + land, yet has He of His great goodness given us to behold those best and + noblest of his gifts to man, in their fairest and loveliest forms; and not + only have we beheld them, but we have already felt much of their benignant + influence. Most of us have hitherto enjoyed many, very many of the dearest + rights of freemen. Our lives and personal liberties have been held as + sacred and inviolable; the rights of property have been extended to us, in + this land of freedom; our industry has been, and still is, liberally + rewarded; and so long as we live under a free and happy government which + denies us not the protection of its laws, why should we fret and vex + ourselves because we have had no part in framing them, nor anything to do + with their administration. When the fruits of the earth are fully afforded + us, we do not wantonly refuse them, nor ungratefully repine because we + have done nothing towards the cultivation of the tree which produces them. + No, we accept them with lively gratitude; and their sweetness is not + embittered by reflecting upon the manner in which they were obtained. It + is the dictate of sound wisdom, then, to enjoy without repining, the + freedom, privileges, and immunities which wise and equal laws have awarded + us—nay, proudly to rejoice and glory in their production, and stand + ready at all times to defend them at the hazard of our lives, and of all + that is most dear to us. + </p> + <p> + But are we alone shut out and excluded from any share in the + administration of government? Are not the clergy, a class of men equally + ineligible to office? A class of men almost idolized by their countrymen, + ineligible to office! And are we alone excluded from what the world + chooses to denominate polite society? And are not a vast majority of the + polar race excluded? I know not why, but mankind of every age, nation, and + complexion have had lower classes; and, as a distinction, they have chosen + to arrange themselves in the grand spectacle of human life, like seats in + a theater—rank above rank, with intervals between them. But if any + suppose that happiness or contentment is confined to any single class, or + that the high or more splendid order possesses any substantial advantage + in those respects over their more lowly brethren, they must be wholly + ignorant of all rational enjoyment. For what though the more humble orders + cannot mingle with the higher on terms of equality. This, if rightly + considered, is not a curse but a blessing. Look around you, my friends: + what rational enjoyment is not within your reach? Your homes are in the + noblest country in the world, and all of that country which your real + happiness requires, may at any time be yours. Your industry can purchase + it; and its righteous laws will secure you in its possession. But, to + what, my friends, do you owe all these blessings? Let not the truth be + concealed. You owe them to that curse, that bitter scourge of Africa, + whose partial abolishment you are this day convened to celebrate. Slavery + has been your curse, but it shall become your rejoicing. Like the people + of God in Egypt, you have been afflicted; but like them too, you have been + redeemed. You are henceforth free as the mountain winds. Why should we, on + this day of congratulation and joy, turn our view upon the origin of + African Slavery? Why should we harrow up our minds by dwelling on the + deceit, the forcible fraud and treachery that have been so long practised + on your hospitable and unsuspecting countrymen? Why speak of fathers torn + from the bosom of their families, wives from the embraces of their + husbands, children from the protection of their parents; in fine, of all + the tender and endearing relations of life dissolved and trampled under + foot, by the accursed traffic in human flesh? Why should we remember, in + joy and exultation, the thousands of our countrymen who are to-day, in + this land of gospel light, this boasted land of civil and religious + liberty, writhing under the lash and groaning beneath the grinding weight + of Slavery's chain? I ask, Almighty God, are they who do such things thy + chosen and favorite people? But, away with such thoughts as these; we will + rejoice, though sobs interrupt the songs of our rejoicing, and tears + mingle in the cup we pledge to Freedom; our harps though they have long + hung neglected upon the willows, shall this day be strung full high to the + notes of gladness. On this day, in one member at least of this mighty + Republic, the Slavery of our race has ceased forever! No more shall the + insolent voice of a master be the main-spring of our actions, the sole + guide of our conduct; no more shall their hands labor in degrading and + profitless servitude. Their toils will henceforth be voluntary, and be + crowned with the never failing reward of industry. Honors and dignities + may perhaps never be ours; but wealth, virtue, and happiness are all + within the compass of our moderate exertions. And how shall we employ a + few moments better than in reflecting upon the means by which these are to + be obtained. For what can be more proper and more profitable to one who + has just gained an invaluable treasure, than to consider how he may use it + to the best possible advantage? And here I need not tell you that a strict + observance to all the precepts of the gospel ought to be your first and + highest aim; for small will be the value of all that the present world can + bestow, if the interests of the world to come are neglected and despised. + None of you can be ignorant of what the gospel teaches. Bibles may easily + be obtained; nor can there be a greater disgrace, or a more shameful + neglect of duty than for a person of mature age, and much more, for any + father of a family to be without that most precious of all books—the + Bible. If, therefore, any of you are destitute of a Bible, hasten to + procure one. Will any of you say that it can be of no use to you, or that + you cannot read it? Look then to that noblest of all remedies for this + evil, the Sunday School—that most useful of all institutions. There + you may learn without loss of time or money, that of which none should be + ignorant—to read. + </p> + <p> + Let me exhort you with earnestness to give your most sincere attention to + this matter. It is of the utmost importance to every one of you. Let your + next object be to obtain as soon as may be, a competency of the good + things of this world; immense wealth is not necessary for you, and would + but diminish your real happiness. Abject poverty is and ought to be + regarded as the greatest, most terrible of all possible evils. It should + be shunned as a most deadly and damning sin. What then are the means by + which so dreadful a calamity may be avoided? I will tell you, my friends, + in these simple words—hear and ponder on them; write them upon the + tablets of your memory; they are worthy to be inscribed in letters of gold + upon every door-post—"industry, prudence, and economy." Oh! they are + words of power to guide you to respectability and happiness. Attend, then, + to some of the laws which industry impose, while you have health and + strength. Let not the rising sun behold you sleeping or indolently lying + upon your beds. Rise ever with the morning light; and, till sun-set, give + not an hour to idleness. Say not human nature cannot endure it. It can—it + almost requires it. Sober, diligent, and moderate labor does not diminish + it, but on the contrary, greatly adds to the health, vigor, and duration + of the human frame. Thousands of the human race have died prematurely of + disease engendered by indolence and inactivity. Few, very few indeed, have + suffered by the too long continuance of bodily exertion. As you give the + day to labor, so devote the night to rest; for who that has drunk and + reveled all night at a tippling shop, or wandered about in search of + impious and stolen pleasures, has not by so doing not only committed a + most heinous and damning sin in the sight of Heaven, but rendered himself + wholly unfit for the proper discharge of the duties of the coming day. Nor + think that industry or true happiness do not go hand in hand; and to him + who is engaged in some useful avocation, time flies delightfully and + rapidly away. He does not, like the idle and indolent man, number the slow + hours with sighs—cursing both himself and them for the tardiness of + their flight. Ah, my friends, it is utterly impossible for him who wastes + time in idleness, ever to know anything of true happiness. Indolence, + poverty, wretchedness, are inseparable companions,—fly them, shun + idleness, as from eminent and inevitable destruction. In vain will you + labor unless prudence and economy preside over and direct all your + exertions. Remember at all times that money even in your own hands, is + power; with it you may direct as you will the actions of your pale, proud + brethren. Seek after and amass it then, by just and honorable means; and + once in your hand never part with it but for a full and fair equivalent; + nor let that equivalent be something which you do not want, and for which + you cannot obtain more than it cost you. Be watchful and diligent and let + your mind be fruitful in devises for the honest advancement of your + worldly interest. So shall you continually rise in respectability, in rank + and standing in this so late and so long the land of your captivity. + </p> + <p> + Above all things refrain from the excessive use of ardent spirits. There + is no evil whose progress is so imperceptible; and at the same time so + sure and deadly, as that of intemperance; and by slow degrees it + undermines health, wealth, and happiness, till all at length tumble into + one dreadful mass of ruin. If God has given you children, he has in so + doing imposed upon you a most fearful responsibility; believe me, friends, + you will answer to God for every misfortune suffered, and every crime + committed by them which right education and example could have taught them + to avoid. Teach them reverence and obedience to the laws both of God and + man. Teach them sobriety, temperance, justice, and truth. Let their minds + be rightly instructed—imbued with kindness and brotherly love, + charity, and benevolence. Let them possess at least so much learning as is + to be acquired in the common schools of the country. In short, let their + welfare be dearer to you than any earthly enjoyment; so shall they be the + richest of earthly blessings. + </p> + <p> + My countrymen, let us henceforth remember that we are men. Let us as one + man, on this day resolve that henceforth, by continual endeavors to do + good to all mankind, we will claim for ourselves the attention and respect + which as men we should possess. So shall every good that can be the + portion of man, be ours—this life shall be happy, and the life to + come, glorious. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + The opinion of the public regarding the celebration and performances of + that day, together with the behavior of the colored people, will be seen + by the following short extract from the <i>Rochester Daily Advertiser</i>, + published soon after the occurrence of those events: + </p> + <h3> + "ABOLITION OF SLAVERY. + </h3> + <p> + "The extinction of that curse by the laws of our State, was marked with + appropriate rejoicings on the part of the African race in this + neighborhood. A procession of considerable length and respectable + appearance, preceded by a band of music, moved from Brown's Island through + the principal streets to the public square, yesterday forenoon, where a + stage and seats were erected, for the speakers and audience. The throne of + Grace was addressed by the Rev. Mr. Allen, a colored clergyman. The act + declaring all slaves free in this State, on the fourth day of July, 1827, + was read, which was succeeded by the reading of the Declaration of + Independence and delivery of an oration by Mr. Steward. We have heard but + one opinion from several gentlemen who were present, and that was highly + complimentary to the composition and delivery of the same. + </p> + <p> + "The exercises were concluded by a short discourse from the Rev. Mr. + Allen, and the procession moved off to partake of an entertainment + prepared for the occasion. The thing was got up in good order, and passed + off remarkably well. The conduct of the emancipated race was exemplary + throughout, and if their future enjoyment of freedom be tinctured with the + prudence that characterised their celebration of its attainment, the + country will have no reason to mourn the philanthropy that set them free." + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + Thus ended our first public celebration of our own and our country's + freedom. All conducted themselves with the strictest propriety and + decorum, retiring to their homes soberly and in proper season. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVIII. — CONDITION OF FREE COLORED PEOPLE. + </h2> + <p> + Pursuant to a call given in the summer of 1830, by the colored residents + of Philadelphia, for a National Convention of their race, I started in + company with a friend to attend it; having previously engaged seats inside + Mr. Coe's stage-coach as far as Utica, N.Y., to which place we had paid + our fare the same as other passengers. + </p> + <p> + We rode on to Auburn very pleasantly, but when at that place, we with + others moved to resume our seats; we were met by a stern rebuke for + presuming to seat ourselves on the inside, and were ordered to ride on the + outside of the coach. In vain we expostulated; in vain we reminded the + driver of the agreement, and of our having paid for an inside seat; we + were told to take the outside of the coach or remain behind. + </p> + <p> + Desiring to attend the convention, we concluded to go on, submitting to + this rank injustice and dishonesty, until our return, when we determined + to sue the proprietor of that line of stages. An opportunity was offered + soon after, when I commenced a suit for damages against Mr. Sherwood, who + was the great stage proprietor of those days. He, however, cleared himself + by declaring that he was in no way responsible for the failures of Mr. + Coe, to whom I must look for remuneration. I never found it convenient to + sue Mr. Coe, and so the matter ended. + </p> + <p> + We passed through New York City to the place of our destination, where we + found many of our brethren already assembled. + </p> + <p> + Philadelphia, which I now saw for the first time, I thought the most + beautiful and regularly laid out city I ever beheld. Here had lived the + peaceable, just, and merciful William Penn; and here many of his adherents + still reside. Here, too, was the place where the Rt. Rev. Bishop Allen, + the first colored American bishop in the United States, had labored so + successfully. When the Methodists sought to crush by cruel prejudice the + poor African, he stepped boldly forward in defence of their cause, which + he sustained, with a zeal and talent ever to be revered. + </p> + <p> + Thousands were brought to a knowledge of the truth, and induced "to seek + first the kingdom of heaven and its righteousness," through his + instrumentality. Through the benign influence of this good man, friends + and means were raised for his poor brethren, to build houses of worship, + where they would no more be dragged from their knees when in prayer, and + told to seat themselves by the door. Oh, how much good can one good and + faithful man do, when devoted to the cause of humanity—following in + the footsteps of the blessed Christ; doing unto others as they would be + done by; and remembering those in bonds as bound with them. What though + his skin be black as ebony, if the heart of a brother beats in his bosom? + Oh, that man could judge of character as does our Heavenly Father; then + would he judge righteous judgment, and cease to look haughtily down upon + his afflicted fellow, because "his skin is colored not like his own." + </p> + <p> + We convened at the specified time, and organized by appointing Rev. R. + Allen, president, A. Steward, vice-president, and J.C. Morrell, secretary. + The convention which continued in session three days, was largely attended + by all classes of people, and many interesting subjects were ably + discussed; but the most prominent object was the elevation of our race. + Resolutions were passed calculated to encourage our brethren to take some + action on the subjects of education and mechanism. Agricultural pursuits + were also recommended;—and here allow me to give my opinion in favor + of the latter, as a means of sustenance and real happiness. + </p> + <p> + I knew many colored farmers, all of whom are well respected in the + neighborhood of their residence. I wish I could count them by hundreds; + but our people mostly flock to cities where they allow themselves to be + made "hewers of wood and drawers of water;" barbers and waiters,—when, + if they would but retire to the country and purchase a piece of land, + cultivate and improve it, they would be far richer and happier than they + can be in the crowded city. It is a mistaken idea that there is more + prejudice against color in the country. True, it exists everywhere, but I + regard it less potent in the country, where a farmer can live less + dependant on his oppressors. The sun will shine, the rains descend, and + the earth bring forth her increase, just as readily for the colored + agriculturist as for his pale face neighbor. Yes, and our common mother + Earth will, when life is ended, as readily open her bosom to receive your + remains in a last embrace, as that of the haughty scorner of our rights. + </p> + <p> + In the city, however, there is no escape from the crushing weight of + prejudice, to ramble over fields of your own cultivation; to forget your + sorrows in the refreshing air that waves the loaded branches of an orchard + of your own planting; nor to solace yourself with a gambol over the green + meadow with your little ones. It is all toil, toil, with a burthened heart + until shadows fall across the hearth-stone, and dismal forebodings darken + the fireside, from whence the weary wife retires to refresh herself in + broken slumber for the renewed toil of another day. Will not my friends + think of these and many other advantages in favor of a country life, and + practice accordingly? + </p> + <p> + After the close of the convention, I returned to my business in Rochester. + </p> + <p> + Until the discussion, which commenced about this time on the subject of + temperance, I had been engaged, as most other grocers were at that time, + in the sale of spirituous liquors somewhat extensively. My attention had + never before been called especially to the subject, though I had witnessed + some of its direst evils; but now, when I saw the matter in its true + light, I resolved to give it up. I was doing well and making handsome + profits on the sale of alcoholic beverages. I had also experienced a good + deal of trouble with it. My license allowed me to sell any quantity less + than five gallons; but it was a fine of twenty-five dollars if drunk on + the premises,—one half of the sum to go to the complainant. If a + vicious man got out of funds it became both easy and common for him to + give some person a sixpence, half of which was to be spent for whisky, + which made him a witness for the other, who would make immediate + complaint, and collect his share of the fine. Nor could I prevent men who + came with bottles, and purchased whisky, from drinking it where they + pleased; consequently I was often called to answer to such complaints. + </p> + <p> + One morning a man entered my store and called for liquor, which the clerk + gave him. After drinking it, he went directly to the office of A. House, + Esq., and entered a complaint against the clerk who had served him; then + stepped out for consultation with his counsel. At that moment I arrived at + the office of the magistrate to whom I immediately made complaint against + myself, relating to him also just how the event happened. In a few minutes + the original complainant returned, to whom 'Squire House explained that he + should have arraigned the proprietor of the store, and not the clerk as he + had done. Determined on making a speculation, however, he demanded a + precept for myself. The 'Squire, laughing most heartily, informed him that + he was too late,—that Mr. Steward had the start of him, having just + entered a complaint against himself, by which he saves one half of the + fine. The man walked out, looking rather "cheap," nor did he or others + annoy me afterwards by making complaints of that kind. + </p> + <p> + But now I saw, as never before, the sin of selling that which would make + beasts of men, and only stopped to inquire what was duty in the matter. + All the arguments in favor of its sale were more forcible then than now. + All classes of persons used and drank the article; and it required more + moral courage, to relinquish the business than it does now. Nevertheless, + it appeared plain to my mind, that duty to God and my fellow-men required + it, and I cheerfully gave it up forever. + </p> + <p> + I could not conscientiously, nor do I see how any man can, continue to + traffic in this most fruitful source of pauperism and crime. No benefit + whatever arises from its use as a beverage or from its sale. It is a curse + to the drinker, to the seller, and to the community. Those who are + licensed venders take from the government fifty dollars for every one put + into the treasury. The money paid for licenses is a very meager + compensation for the beggary, crime, and bloodshed which rum produces. All + who have any knowledge of the statistics of the State, or of our prison + and police records know, that intemperance has done more to fill the + prisons, work-houses, alms-houses, and asylums of the State than all other + influences combined; and yet men uphold the traffic. Their favors are for + those who love its use and sale, and their anathemas for him, who is + striving to save a nation of drunkards from swift destruction; yea, their + own sires, sons, and brothers from the grave of the inebriate. + </p> + <p> + When in Rochester a short time since, soliciting subscribers for this + work, I stepped into a distillery and asked a man to subscribe for it. He + hesitated in his decision until he took a tumbler and filling it with + brandy, invited me to drink. I thanked him, saying I never drink brandy. + "Never drink!" he growled, "then I tell you, sir, that you stand a much + better chance of being struck by lightning than of getting a subscriber + here." Oh, very well; most likely had he agreed to take a copy, he would + have been sorely displeased with my views of the liquor traffic, and + perhaps with the compliment I have here paid him. + </p> + <p> + But in the foregoing remarks I have said but a tithe of what my heart + feels, when I think of the sufferings occasioned by drunkenness. + </p> + <p> + Even the cup of the burthened slave, writhing in his chains and toiling + under the lash, is not full of bitterness until the demon rum throws in + its dregs and fills it to overflowing. + </p> + <p> + How often does it occur that a passionate master, heated with wine,—mad + with himself and all about him, pours out his vengeful ire on the head and + back of some helpless slave, and leaves him weltering in his blood! How + often may be heard the agonized wail of the slave mother, deploring the + departure of some innocent child that has been lost in gambling, while the + master was intoxicated! + </p> + <p> + How often do the shrieks of the poor but virtuous slave girl, ring through + the midnight air, as she, pleading for death rather than life, rushes + screaming away from a brutal master, infuriated and drunk! If it is a + fact, and certainly it is, that the master is thus affected by his costly + wine; what, think you, will be the temper and condition of the coarse and + heartless overseer who drinks his miserable whisky or bad brandy? It is + horrible, beyond description. I have often myself seen a drunken overseer, + after pouring down dram after dram, mount his horse and ride furiously + among the slaves, beating, bruising, mangling with his heavy cowhide every + one he chanced to meet, until the ground presented the appearance of a + battlefield. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIX. — PERSECUTION OF THE COLORED PEOPLE. + </h2> + <p> + While the colored population of New York were rejoicing in the measure of + freedom allowed them by the more wholesome laws of that State, our + brethren in Ohio were being oppressed and maltreated by the unjust and + odious "black laws" of that professedly free State, enacted with special + reference to the disposition of the colored race. + </p> + <p> + In Cincinnati, O., within sight of the slave land of Kentucky, a terrible + persecution had commenced, and an effort was made to drive all colored + persons from the place. + </p> + <p> + Our people had settled there in large numbers, but now a mob had assembled + in that city with the determination to drive them, not only from their + homes and city, but from the State. A bloody conflict ensued, in which the + white and black man's blood mingled freely. So great had been the loss of + property; and go horrid and fearful had been the scene, that our people + chose to leave, rather than remain under such untoward circumstances. They + lived in constant fear of the mob which had so abused and terrified them. + Families seated at the fireside started at every breath of wind, and + trembled at the sound of every approaching footstep. The father left his + family in fear, lest on his return from his daily labor, he should find + his wife and children butchered, and his house left desolate. + </p> + <p> + Meetings were held to devise plans and means for leaving the place where + they had been so cruelly treated. But where should they go? And why should + they be compelled to leave the State of Ohio? The fact is, that the + African race there, as in all parts of this nominally free Republic, was + looked down upon by the white population as being little above the brute + creation; or, as belonging to some separate class of degraded beings, too + deficient in intellect to provide for their own wants, and must therefore + depend on the superior ability of their oppressors, to take care of them. + Indeed, both the time and talents of eminent men have been wasted in + unsuccessful research for the line of demarcation, between the African and + the highest order of animals,—such for instance as the monkey or the + ourang-outang. Some even, have advanced the absurd idea, that wicked Cain + transmitted to them the "mark" which the Almighty set upon him for the + murder of his brother; and that he, (who then must have survived the + deluge), is the progenitor of that despised and inferior race—the + negro slave of the United States of America! + </p> + <p> + If it be true, that the natural inferiority of the black man, connects him + so closely with the animal creation, it looks passing strange to me that + he should be made responsible for the violation of laws which he has been + declared too imbecile to aid in framing or of comprehending. Nor is it + less strange to see him enslaved and compelled by his labor to maintain + both his master and himself, after having declared him incapable of doing + either. Why not let him go then? Why hold with an unyielding grasp, so + miserable and useless a piece of property? Is it benevolence that binds + him with his master's chain? Judge ye. Stranger still is the fact of + attaching such vast influence to his presence and so much concern + regarding his movements, when in a state of freedom, if indeed, he is of + so little worth and consequence, and so nearly related to the brutes that + perish. + </p> + <p> + Surely, the Legislature of Ohio, or of any other State, would never feel + called upon to sit in grave counsel, for the purpose of framing laws which + would impose fine and imprisonment on a monkey, should one chance to + locate within its jurisdiction; nor would they think it advisable for the + court to assemble, or a jury to be empanelled, to drive from their midst + an ourang-outang. And yet this and more must be done to get rid of the + hated negro, who has been born in that State, or has fled to it for + protection from the manstealer. + </p> + <p> + When strangers pass hastily through this country, and after a careless + glance at the colored population, report them to be "an indolent, + improvident, and vicious class of persons," they should consider some of + the many obstacles thrown in the way of the most favored of that race. + Knowing as they do, the rigor of the law, and feeling as they do, the + oppressive power of prejudice, it becomes almost impossible for them to + rise to that station they were designed to fill, and for which their + natural abilities as certainly qualify them, as though they had never been + robbed of their God-given rights. But let us return to our tried friends + in Cincinnati. + </p> + <p> + They finally resolved to collect what they could of their possessions and + establish a colony in Canada. In accordance with this resolution, they + agreed to first send an agent to obtain liberty to settle there, and if + successful to select and purchase a large tract of land, making such + arrangements as he thought best for their speedy removal to their new + home. Israel Lewis was their appointed agent, who departed immediately for + Upper Canada to perform his mission; and there for the present we will + leave him and return to Rochester. + </p> + <p> + Our more favored brethren in New York felt a deep sympathy for their + outraged countrymen in Cincinnati; a sympathy equaled only by their + indignation at the cause of such demand. + </p> + <p> + A meeting expressive of their views and feelings on that subject, was + convened in the city of Rochester during which, the following preamble and + resolutions were read and unanimously adopted: + </p> + <p> + <i>Whereas</i>, The city of Cincinnati has again become the scene of + another dreadful mob and bloodshed, where nothing but terror and confusion + reigned for a number of hours together. + </p> + <p> + <i>And Whereas</i>, Our brethren and fellow citizens were left exposed to + the fury of an ungovernable mob, made up of the base, the ignorant, and + vile, the very dregs of society; and probably led on by slaveholders, who + of all men are the most execrable; while boasting of liberty, he tramples + on the dearest rights of men and in the greatest robber of it on earth. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, That we deprecate an appeal to arms by any class of our + fellow citizens, except in extreme cases, and we think that such a case + has been presented in the late outrage at Cincinnati. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, That when a class of men so far forget the duty they owe + to God, their fellow men, and their country, as to trample under their + feet the very laws they have made, and are in duty bound to obey and + execute, we believe it to be the duty of our brethren and fellow citizens, + to protect their lives against such lawless mobs; and if in the conflict, + any of the mobocrats perish, every good citizen should say Amen. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, That we do truly sympathize with the friends of God's + poor; the friends of the oppressed, throughout this boasted land of + liberty, in the losses they have sustained in consequence of the mob. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, That we believe the time is not far distant, when the <i>Queen + City of the West</i>, shall be redeemed from the hateful influence of the + slaveholder; redeemed from that cruel prejudice of caste which, hangs like + a mill-stone around the neck of our people; redeemed from all those + unequal laws, which have a tendency to make the strong stronger and the + weak weaker; redeemed from their falsehearted friends, whose sarcastic + smile is more to be feared than the frowns of an open enemy. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, That the untiring exertions of our friends, and the + indefatigable industry of our brethren, are sure guarantees that the State + of Ohio will not long be what she now is,—a hissing and by-word on + account of her iniquitous laws; but that she will rise above every narrow + minded prejudice, and raise up her sable sons and daughters and place them + on an equality with the rest of her citizens. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, That we deeply deplore the loss our friends have + sustained in the destruction of their printing press in Cincinnati. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, That we as an oppressed people, feel it our duty to give + our undivided support to the press and the laborers in our cause. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + Mr. Israel Lewis made his way to Canada, and having obtained permission to + establish a colony, he bargained with the Canada Company for one township + of land, for which he agreed to pay the money demanded, in a few days, and + then returned to Cincinnati, by way of Rochester. The poor, persecuted + colored people, had in the mean time made ready for their flight from + their homes, their native land, and from this boasted free Republic, to + seek a residence in the cold and dreary wilds of Canada; to claim that + protection from the English government which had been denied them in the + land of their birth; and like the overtasked Israelites, "they went out + with their wives and their little ones," but with smaller possessions. + </p> + <p> + During the stay of Mr. Lewis in Rochester, he reported there and + elsewhere, that eleven hundred persons were then in the dense woods of + Canada in a state of actual starvation, and called upon the humane + everywhere, to assist them in such extreme suffering. + </p> + <p> + To me he also told the story of their destitution, which affected me + deeply. I had at that time just made a public profession of my faith in + the Christian religion and my determination to be governed by its holy + precepts, I felt for the distressed and suffering everywhere; but + particularly for those who had fled, poor and destitute, from cruel + task-masters, choosing rather the sufferings of cold and hunger, with + liberty, than the meager necessities of life and Slavery. I concluded to + go to Canada and try to do some good; to be of some little service in the + great cause of humanity. + </p> + <p> + As soon as practicable therefore, I left Rochester for Toronto, the + capital of Upper Canada, which I found quite a thriving town, and + containing some fine brick buildings, and some I saw were built of mud, + dried in the sun, wearing rather a poor than pretty appearance. At Toronto + we hired a team to take us on to Ancaster, fifty miles distant. We + traveled now through a new country; the roads were very bad, and the + inhabitants few. We, however, reached Ancaster, a small village, where we + remained one night and next morning pursued our journey to the settlement + of the poor fugitives from Cincinnati. After some hard traveling, we + finally arrived at the place where we found our brethren, it is true, but + in quite destitute circumstances. Our fare was poor indeed, but as good as + they could get. The township was one unbroken wilderness when purchased + for the colony, and of course their lands must be cleared of the heavy + timber before crops could be got in, hence, there was a great deal of + destitution and suffering before their harvest could ripen after the land + was prepared for the seed. + </p> + <p> + The day after I arrived at the settlement, which consisted of a few rude + log cabins, a meeting was called to give the township a name. Several were + suggested, but I at length motioned to name it in honor of the great + philanthropist, Wilberforce. This was carried, and the township from that + time has been known by that name. It is situated on what is known as the + Huron Tract, Kent County, London District, and is the next north of the + township of London. Our neighbors on the south, were a company of Irish + people, who owned the township, and on the west side were a township of + Welshmen, a hardy, industrious and enterprising people. + </p> + <p> + In Wilberforce there were no white inhabitants; the land appeared level + and handsome, with but one stream of any magnitude running through it; + this was the Oxsable, which was dry during a part of the year. All was one + vast forest of heavy timber, that would compare well with that of Western + New York. Beech, maple, ash, elm, oak, whitewood, bass, balm of gilead, + &c. The soil was good for corn, wheat, rye, oats, and most kinds of + the grain and vegetables raised in New York, and was a superior grazing + country, about fifteen miles from London. This was a village containing + perhaps thirty dwellings, and two hundred inhabitants; a court-house and + jail all under one roof, built of stone and plastered; small doors and + windows in the style of some of the old English castles. London was built + in the forks, or between the east and west branches of the river Thames; + hence, you would hear people speak of "going to the forks," instead of the + village; it is about two hundred miles from Buffalo, and the nearest port + between the two is Port Stanley, thirty miles from London. + </p> + <p> + I returned from Canada, where I had seen an oppressed people struggling + with the hardships and privations of a new settlement; I had seen + wretchedness in some places, but by no means sufficient to justify the + report made by Mr. Lewis, and I determined I would remove there with my + family, and do all in my power to assist the colored people in Canada. + </p> + <p> + I had witnessed a disposition on the part of some to prevent our brethren + from settling in Wilberforce, while the colonizationists made a grand + argument of it in favor of their wicked policy. All must see that it + became a necessity with those who fled to Canada to save themselves from + constant abuse or from Slavery, and in some instances their lives; and not + because they admitted the justice of one portion of American citizens + driving another from their native land; nor their right to colonize them + anywhere on the habitable globe. + </p> + <p> + All these things taken into consideration, determined me to join them in + the enterprize of building up an asylum for the oppressed, where our + colored friends could obtain a home, and where, by their industry they + could obtain a competency for themselves, besides providing a safe retreat + for the weary fugitive from Slavery; guiding by its beacon light of + liberty, the destitute and oppressed everywhere, to home and plenty. + </p> + <p> + I felt willing to make any sacrifice in my power to serve my Lord, by + administering to the necessities of my down-trodden countrymen. How far my + desire has been accomplished God only knows, but I do know that the purest + motives influenced me, and an honest purpose directed my steps in removing + to Wilberforce. Not so with all, however. Some there were, Judas-like, who + "cared not for the poor; but because he was a thief and had the bag, and + bore what was put therein," made great exertions for a time in favor of + the settlement. It too soon became apparent that to make money was the + prominent object with by far too great a number of the colonists; hence, + our future difficulties. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XX. — REMOVAL TO CANADA. + </h2> + <p> + In 1830, I closed my business in Rochester, preparatory to leaving for + Canada. Some of my friends thought I had better remain in the States and + direct emigrants to Wilberforce; while others were certain I could benefit + them more by going myself at once,—the latter I had determined to + do; but as the time drew near for me to start, an unaccountable gloominess + and forebodings of evil took possession of my mind. Doubts of the + practicability of the undertaking began to arise, though nothing + unfavorable had occurred. To the throne of grace, I often bore the subject + and besought my Heavenly Father to enlighten my mind, and direct my steps + in duty's path regarding it; but to confess the truth, I never received + any great encouragement from that source, though it occupied my mind + constantly. During the hours of slumber I was continually being startled + by frightful dreams,—sometimes I thought I saw a monstrous serpent + as large as a log stretched across the road between Rochester and the + Genesee River; at another I thought myself in the air so high that I could + have a full view of the shores of Lake Ontario, and they were alive with + snakes; and then I saw a large bird like an eagle, rise up out of the + water and fly toward the south. + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding these omens, I turned my steps toward Wilberforce. In May, + 1831, we bid adieu to our friends in Rochester, and taking passage to + Buffalo on a canal boat, we arrived in due time, and from whence we sailed + for Port Stanley, or as it is sometimes called, Kettle Creek. It took a + week to make this trip, which, with favorable wind might have been made in + two days. The mouth of the creek makes a safe harbor at that place, where + there is also a dock, one ware-house and several farm houses. The place + was then very wild and picturesque in its appearance; we did not stop + long, however, to admire its beauty, but engaged a farmer to take us on to + London. + </p> + <p> + Ten miles on our way, and we came to a newly laid out village, called St. + Thomas, from whence we pursued our journey through a new country to + London, where we arrived tired and hungry, and put up for the night with a + Mr. Faden. There I purchased a span of horses for one hundred and fifty + dollars, and putting them before a new lumber wagon brought on from + Rochester, we started for our wild and new home in good spirits, at which + we arrived in good time. + </p> + <p> + The colony was comprised of some fourteen or fifteen families, and + numbered some over fifty persons in all. The first business done after my + arrival, was to appoint a board of managers, to take the general oversight + of all the public business of the colony. The board consisted of seven + men, chosen by the settlers, and as I was now one of them, they gave me + the office of President. It was also resolved by the board, to send out + two agents for the purpose of soliciting aid for the erection of houses + for worship, and for the maintenance of schools in the colony. + </p> + <p> + The Rev. N. Paul was chosen one of their agents, and he received from me a + power of attorney, authorising him to collect funds for the above purposes + in England, Ireland, and Scotland; the other, I. Lewis was empowered to + solicit and collect funds for the same objects in the United States. + </p> + <p> + Preparations were immediately made to fit Mr. Paul out for his mission to + England, from whence he was to remit any funds he might receive to Arthur + Tappan, of New York City; first to pay for his outfit, and afterwards to + the treasurer of the board of managers, for the support of schools in + Wilberforce. Mr. Paul, however, still lacked money to proceed to England, + and therefore went to Rochester, where he found my old and tried friend + Everard Peck; who was ever known as the poor man's friend, and the support + of the weak everywhere. To this good man, whose memory is still dear to + thousands, Mr. Paul showed his power of attorney, at the same time + informing him of the condition and wants of the colony; and as was ever + his wont, when help was needed, his purse, (though not one of the + heaviest), was at his service. Through the kind influence of Mr. Peck, and + some of the colored friends in that city, a note for seven hundred dollars + was drawn up, signed by Mr. P. and cashed at the Bank, which enabled the + agent to make the voyage without further delay. He reached England, and + collected quite large sums of money, but entirely failed in the remittance + of any sums, either to Mr. Tappan or myself. When the note of seven + hundred dollars became due, Mr. Peck was obliged to pay, and lose it. It + was out of my power, nor had any of the friends the means to do any thing + towards paying it, inasmuch as they had assisted Paul all they could and + got nothing in return. There was one thing, however, that the reverend + gentleman did do,—he wrote me from time to time, to keep me advised + of the success of his mission, and once informed me that he had then + twelve hundred dollars on hand; but not a farthing could we get. We wrote + him again and again, reminding him of the bank debt, and the uneasiness of + his friends on account of it, but all to no purpose,—the Atlantic + was between us, and he was making money too easily, to like to be + interrupted. He never paid one dollar. + </p> + <p> + Let us now look after the other agent, who had likewise been fitted out, + to prosecute his mission in the States. That he collected money + professedly for the assistance of the colony, is too well known to require + proof, but how much, we could not determine; we had reason to believe, + however, that he retained quite a large sum. He would neither pay it over + to the board, nor give any account of his proceedings. Very little did he + ever pay over to the aid of the colony as designed. He was frequently + written to, and every means in our power used, to induce him to give some + account of his mission, but in vain; he would do nothing of the kind. + Things went on in this way for two years, when it became evident that he + had no intention of satisfying the minds of the settlers; and farther, + that he meant to collect what he could, and use it as he pleased. We + learned too, that when abroad, he lived extravagantly,—putting up at + the most expensive hotels, giving parties, and doing many things, not only + beyond his means, but that brought dishonor on the cause and colony. When + he returned to the settlement, he would, if he had funds, make presents to + his particular friends instead of paying it to the treasurer, as he was + pledged to do, until the majority of the colony became thoroughly + disgusted with his heartlessness and dishonesty. It was also perceivable + that Lewis and Paul both, were getting weary of the solicitations of the + board and complaints of the settlers, and were anxious to be rid of them, + and enjoy their ill gotten gains in their own way. + </p> + <p> + It was never intended by the managers, to send out agents to beg money to + be divided among the colonists; but to support schools, &c. Most of + the settlers were able to work and did so; and were now getting along + quite pleasantly. + </p> + <p> + Finally, after we had tried every means in vain, to get a settlement with + Lewis, and to obtain his papers, there was nothing more we could do, but + to warn the public against him, by publishing the facts in the case; this + we did in various newspapers of Canada and in the States. An article + inserted in the "Rochester Observer," to that effect, was like throwing a + lighted match into a keg of powder. The excitement was intense on the part + of Lewis and his friends, who were joined by the friends of N. Paul, to + destroy, if they could, the board of managers. I, however, being the only + member of that devoted board, who happened to be extensively known in the + States, their anathemas were all poured out on me, and all their energies + brought forward to insure my destruction. They were few in number, it is + true, but they had money, and I had little to spend in litigation; + besides, Lewis was in debt, and his creditors did not like to see his + means of paying them swept away. The Canadians seemed to think there was + no harm done if Lewis did get money out of the "Yankees," as long as it + came into their hands at last, and so, on the whole, they raised a + tremendous storm, designed, however, to sweep nobody away but myself; and + I have continued to this day, notwithstanding all their artful malignity. + Nothing, I am persuaded, could have saved me from imprisonment at that + time, had I not possessed a high reputation for truth and honesty during + my previous sojourn in the colony. + </p> + <p> + Lewis had dealt somewhat extensively with Mr. Jones, who was the principal + agent for the Canada Company; but failing to fulfil his agreement, + regarding the payment for a large tract of land, it so exasperated Mr. + Jones, that he declared he would have nothing to do with any of the + colored people; and so when I wanted to buy a lot of land, he would not + sell it to me because he so despised Lewis. + </p> + <p> + How much harm can one wicked man do! and yet it cannot be right to judge + the character of a whole class or community by that of one person. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXI. — ROUGHING IT IN THE WILDS OF CANADA. + </h2> + <p> + The "Canada Company," of which I have so frequently spoken, was an + association of wealthy gentlemen, residing in England; something like the + East India Company, especially regarding the title of lands. They had sent + on their agent and purchased a large tract of land known as the "Huron + Tract," extending from London to Lake Huron, where they laid out a + village, named Goderich, sixty miles distant from Wilberforce. With this + company, Mr. Lewis had contracted for a township of land, as agent for the + Cincinnati refugees; but failing to meet the demand, the company kindly + extended the time of payment; but when that time also passed without + receiving any thing from Lewis, the general agent, Mr. Jones became so + indignant, that he utterly refused to sell a foot of land to any colored + person whatever. This proved to be one of the greatest detriments to the + prosperity of the colony it ever met. + </p> + <p> + The Society of Friends at this time, however, with commendable sympathy + for the oppressed and abused colored residents of Cincinnati, and with + their proverbial liberality, raised a sum of money sufficient to purchase + eight hundred acres of land of the Canada Company for the benefit of the + colony. The funds were placed in the hands of one of their number, + Frederick Stover, who went to Canada as their agent, purchased the land, + and settled colored people upon it, which comprised nearly all of the + Wilberforce settlement. This occurred before I settled in Canada, and the + consequence was, when I desired to purchase land, none could be obtained. + At the time, however, of which I am speaking, the Canada Company were + constructing a road through their possessions, some seventy miles in + length, and the principal contractor, Mr. Ingersoll, had agreed to take + land in part payment for his services on the road. In accordance with this + agreement, he accepted one lot of land situated within the Wilberforce + settlement, which he agreed to sell to Mr. Lewis for twenty-five dollars. + Mr. Lewis, knowing that I was anxious to purchase, accepted the offer, and + then came and showed the contract, offering it to me on condition that I + paid him the twenty-five dollars which he had just paid Mr. Ingersoll. + This I was glad to do; I paid the demand; took an assignment on the back + of the receipt, and passed into immediate possession of the land. He at + the same time requested me to take up a note of twenty-five dollars for + him; which I did, on his promising to refund the money in a short time. + </p> + <p> + I commenced laboring on the wild land I had purchased; cleared some ten + acres, which in consequence of its being so heavily timbered, cost me at + least twenty-five dollars per acre; built a house and barn—supposing + myself its legal possessor,—until I chanced to meet Mr. Ingersoll, + who informed me that Mr. Jones had refused to sell him the land to be + disposed of to a colored person; that he had duly informed Lewis of the + fact, and had returned to him the twenty-five dollars received. Not a word + of this, had Lewis communicated to me, though he knew I was making + expensive improvements, in the faith that I was its only owner. Instead of + atoning for the wrong already done me, he made it the basis of a deeper + injury. + </p> + <p> + After one year's residence in Wilberforce, I found it necessary to return + to Rochester to settle some unfinished business; and when on my way + thither I stopped at London, where I found Lewis, who had not only + preceded me but had taken out a <i>capias</i>, for forty pounds currency. + I was therefore obliged to get bail for my appearance at court, after + which I pursued my journey. + </p> + <p> + On my arrival in Rochester, I found business at a stand; and the community + in a state of excitement and alarm, on account of that fell destroyer, the + cholera. This was its first visit to the United States, and the fearful + havoc it was making, spread terror and consternation throughout the land. + I returned to Canada; but found on my arrival at London, that "the + pestilence that walketh at noon-day," had preceded me, and taken from that + village my friend, Mr. Ingersoll, with several others. So great had been + the alarm, that instead of my appearing at court as I expected to do, I + found it adjourned, and the judge returned to his home. + </p> + <p> + I hastened on to Wilberforce, which had fortunately escaped the fearful + scourge, with terrible apprehensions. + </p> + <p> + Having a little spare time, I went out with my rifle, in search of deer; + but soon came upon a large wolf, which I wounded with the first shot; he, + however, sprang aside and was gone. On looking about for him I espied + another!—reloading my rifle, I fired, and he fell dead at my feet, + while my dog at the same time I heard barking furiously. Having dispatched + this second intruder, I saw that my dog had the first one, entangled in + the branches of a fallen tree. I searched for my balls, and was vexed to + find that I had left them at home. In this predicament I cut with my + knife, a knot from a beech limb, put it in my rifle, and took deadly aim + at the enraged wolf. The wooden ball struck him between the eyes and + killed him on the spot. + </p> + <p> + The two dead animals, with their skins, I sold for nine dollars and a + half,—making pretty good wages for a few hours labor. + </p> + <p> + Hunting was very generally pursued by the settlers, with great earnestness + and considerable skill. The forest abounded with deer, wolves, bears, and + other wild animals. Bears were plenty, and very troublesome because so + dangerously tame. One day, our children had built for themselves a + play-house, a few rods from the door, and were enjoying their play when + they were called in to dinner. A moment after, I observed one of the + settlers gazing intently at the play-house; I called to know what so + attracted his attention, and he informed me that an old bear, with three + cubs, had just then taken possession of the playhouse. And sure enough + there they were! knocking about among the dishes, and munching the crumbs + of bread which the children had left. The man was supplied with a loaded + rifle and urged to shoot them, but he begged to be excused from a pitched + battle with so many; and the bears leisurely took their departure for the + woods without molestation. The play-house, however, was soon deserted by + the children after these unbidden guests had made so free with it; and we + were ourselves somewhat alarmed for the safety of our children, who were + accustomed to roam in the edge of the forest, and make swings of the + luxuriant grape vines. + </p> + <p> + But such incidents are common in a new country, surrounded as we were by a + dense wilderness. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXII. — NARROW ESCAPE OF A SMUGGLER. + </h2> + <p> + From the time I first settled in Wilberforce, my house had ever been open + to travelers and strangers; but a conversation I happened to overhear, led + me to take a course different from what I had at first intended. I was at + a public house about twenty miles from home, when I heard the landlord + advising his guest to eat heartily, for, said he, "you will find nothing + more worthy of your attention, until you reach Wilberforce. When you + arrive at that settlement, inquire for A. Steward, from the States, and he + will give you a meal fit for a prince." I began to reflect on the subject + and concluded, inasmuch as people would send company to me, it would be + better to make some preparation for entertaining them. I had plenty of + furniture, and all I needed was a larger supply of food, to commence + keeping a tavern. This was easily obtained, and I opened a public house + which was well patronized. + </p> + <p> + One day while I was absent from home, a man drove to the door the finest + span of horses, I think I ever saw,—black as jet, with proudly + arched necks, and glossy tails that nearly swept the ground. The gentleman + sprang from his carriage, bounded through the open door, and in the most + excited manner, began to inquire "who owns this establishment? When will + he return? Can I be accommodated? Can I see your barn?" &c. The stable + boy took him to the barn, from whence he soon returned; his face flushed, + and breathing so heavily as to be heard all through the apartment; + trembling so violently that he could scarcely speak at all,—but made + out to inquire, "if there was not some place besides the barn where he + could put his horses?" He was told that there was a small shelter built + for cows, in bad weather, and the next moment he was examining it. In a + very short time he had his horses and carriage stowed away in the + cow-shed. He acted like a crazy man; but when he had secured his horses, + he re-entered the house and frankly apologized for his conduct. "I may as + well tell you the truth," said he; "I am suspected of smuggling goods; a + reward is offered for my arrest, and the constables are on my track, in + pursuit of me. My name is Cannouse, and I am from M——, in + Ontario County." + </p> + <p> + But perhaps they can not prove you guilty of smuggling, said I, in an + after conversation. + </p> + <p> + "Ah," said he, "there is for me no such hope or probability; I have been + engaged for the last few months in the sale of dress-goods and + broad-cloths, and my exposure and flight is the consequence of my own + folly. While in the village of St. Catharines, I took a young girl out to + ride, after she had engaged to accompany another young fellow, which of + course offended him; and he being too well posted up on my affairs, went + directly to the custom house officer and informed against me. I was + sitting in the parlor, perfectly at ease, when a young man, a relative of + the young lady in question, burst into the room, shouting, 'Fly! fly! for + your life! The officers are upon you!' And I did fly; with barely time to + reach the woods, for as I sprang through the back door, the officers + entered through the front door. My horses were my first consideration; + they had been raised by my father, and should I lose them, I should never + dare to meet him again. In my hasty flight, I engaged the young man to + conceal them till night, and then to drive them to a certain place where I + would meet him. This he did, and I kept on my flight until I came to the + house of a friend, where I halted to make inquiries. The gentleman had + just come from London, and had seen handbills at every conspicuous place, + describing me and my horses. I asked him what I should do? He said, 'you + are not safe a moment; there is no hope but in flight; avoid the main + road, and get to the colony if you can; if you succeed, go to A. Steward; + he is an upright man and will never betray you for money,' And here I am: + if I am arrested, six months imprisonment, three hundred dollars fine, and + the forfeiture of my father's valuable and favorite horses, will be my + portion. I have had no regular meal for the last three days, and my head + aches violently." + </p> + <p> + We gave him some refreshment, and conducted him to a room, assuring him + that he should have it to himself. All remained quiet until midnight, when + a man knocked cautiously at our door. I opened it myself, and a gentleman, + looking carefully about the place, inquired, + </p> + <p> + "Are you full?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said I. — "Have you any travelers here to night?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "How many?" + </p> + <p> + "Two." + </p> + <p> + "Where are they?" + </p> + <p> + "In this room; walk in, sir." + </p> + <p> + He took the light from my hand, and stepping lightly up to a bed, where + two travelers were quietly sleeping, he closely examined their faces. He + soon returned the light, and without further inquiry retired from the + house. When his companions came up, I distinctly heard him tell them that + the smuggler was not there. + </p> + <p> + "You may be mistaken," said the other, "and we must search the barn for + his horses." + </p> + <p> + This they did thoroughly, after procuring a lantern; but without finding + any thing to reward their diligent search; and they finally drove off. + </p> + <p> + When they had gone, Cannouse groaned most bitterly, and trembled from head + to foot at the thought of his narrow escape. The next day an officer rode + up to where the children were playing, with a handbill which he read, and + inquired if they had seen a person bearing that description, pass <i>that + day?</i> They answered negatively, and he rode on. The poor frightened + Cannouse stayed with us a week; and nearly every day during the time, the + house and barn were searched for him. The children kept watch, and when + they saw any one coming they would let him know, in time to take himself + and horses into a thicket near by. When he thought pursuit was over, he + started to leave; but when, in a half hour after, a <i>posse</i> of men + drove up to my door, flourishing their handbills, I thought it all over + with Cannouse. I told them that he was not there; but they chose to have + another search, and when they found nothing, the officer sprang into his + carriage, exclaiming, "come on, boys; we'll soon have him now; we have + tracked him here, and he can't be far off." + </p> + <p> + Cannouse had left us, feeling quite secure; but he had traveled but a + short distance, when he observed a horse shoe loose, and to get it + fastened he drove down to a blacksmith's shop, which happened to stand at + the foot of a hill; and between it and the highway there had been left + standing a clump of trees which nearly hid it from view. While there, + getting his horse shod, the officers passed him unobserved, and he finally + escaped. + </p> + <p> + Some time after, a gentleman called on us who had seen Cannouse in + Michigan, where he was doing well. He had succeeded in reaching Detroit, + from whence he passed safely to his home; but probably learned a lesson + not to be forgotten. He was a talented young man—one who would have + felt deeply the disgrace of imprisonment,—and it was indeed a + pleasure to me to do what I could, to effect his release from an + unenviable position. I would never have betrayed him; but happily I was + not asked directly for him, until he was gone from my house and + protection. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0023" id="link2HCH0023"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIII. — NARRATIVE OF TWO FUGITIVES FROM VIRGINIA. + </h2> + <p> + The settlers in Wilberforce, were in general, industrious and thrifty + farmers: they cleared their land, sowed grain, planted orchards, raised + cattle, and in short, showed to the world that they were in no way + inferior to the white population, when given an equal chance with them. In + proof of this let me say, that it was uniformly the practice of persons + traveling from London to Goderich, to remain in our settlement over night, + in preference to going on to find entertainment among their own class of + people. And we believe that the whites are bound to admit, that the + experiment of the Wilberforce colony proves that the colored man can not + only take care of himself, but is capable of improvement; as industrious + and intelligent as themselves, when the yoke is taken from off their + necks, and a chance given them to exercise their abilities. True, many of + them had just escaped from cruel task-masters; ignorant of almost every + thing but the lash,—but the air of freedom so invigorated and put + new life into their weary bodies, that they soon became intelligent and + thrifty. + </p> + <p> + Among the settlers might be gathered many a thrilling narrative, of + suffering and hair-breadth escapes from the slave-land,—one of which + I will tell as 'twas told to me. + </p> + <p> + In a small rude cabin, belonging to one of the large plantations in + Virginia, sat at a late hour of the night, an afflicted slave-man and his + devoted wife, sad and weeping. At length the husband repeated what he + before had been saying: + </p> + <p> + "I tell you, wife, we must flee from this place, without delay. Oh, I + cannot endure the idea of seeing you sold for the Southern market, to say + nothing of myself; and we shall most likely be separated, which I can't + bear! Oh, Rosa, the thought distracts me,—I can't bear it!" + </p> + <p> + "Are you sure," said Rosa, "that master thinks of such a frightful doom + for us?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh yes, I know it; I heard master to-day making a bargain with the slave + dealer that has been hanging about here so long; and when it was finished, + I heard him reading over the list, and our names, wife, are the first on + it." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, dear!" sobbed the wife, "we shall certainly be retaken and whipped to + death; or else we shall starve in the wilderness! Oh, it is very hard to + be compelled to leave all our friends and the old plantation where we were + born!" + </p> + <p> + "Yes; it is both hard and unjust," said Joe, and an indignant frown + contracted his brow,—"here is our birth-place, and here, for forty + years have I toiled early and late to enrich my master; and you, my poor + wife, a few years less; and now we are to be sold, separated, and all + without a choice of our own. We must go, Rosa. If we die, let us die + together!" + </p> + <p> + "It shall be as you say, Joe," she replied, "but it frightens me to think + of the hardships of the way, and the danger of being recaptured." + </p> + <p> + "Courage, wife: no fate can be worse than the one designed for us; and we + have no time to lose. Tomorrow night, then, we must make the first effort + to gain our liberty, and leave all that is dear to us except each other!" + And they retired to rest, but not to sleep. + </p> + <p> + The following night was very dark; and as soon as all was quiet on the + plantation, they stole out of their cabin and stealthily crept over the + ground until they reached the highway; and then, guided only by the north + star, they made their way to the nearest woods. So fearful had they been + of being suspected, that they took no provision of any kind with them. All + night they plunged forward through the tangled thicket and under-brush, + surrounded by thick darkness, glancing now and then upward to their only + light, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Star of the North! though night winds drift the fleecy + drapery of the sky, + + Between thy lamp and thee, I lift, yea, lift with hope + my sleepless eye." +</pre> + <p> + When day dawned they threw their weary bodies on the ground, famished and + thirsty, and waited for the darkness to again conceal them while they + pursued their journey. The second day of their flight, the pain of hunger + became almost beyond endurance. They found a few roots which relieved them + a little; but frequently they lost their way, and becoming bewildered, + knew not which way to go; they pushed on, however, determined to keep as + far from their pursuers as possible. Their shoes were soon worn out; but + bare-footed, bare-headed, and famishing with hunger, they pressed forward, + until the fourth day, when they found themselves too weak to proceed + farther. Hope, the anchor of the soul, had failed them! They were starving + in a dense forest! No track or path could they find, and even had they + seen a human being, they would have been more terrified than at the sight + of a wild beast! + </p> + <p> + Poor Rosa, could go no farther—her strength was all gone—and + as her emaciated husband laid her on the cold earth, he exclaimed, "Oh, + dear God! <i>must</i> we, after all our efforts, starve in this dark + wilderness! Beside his fainting wife, he finally stretched himself, + sheltered only by a few bushes, and tried to compose himself to die! but + resting a few moments revived him, and he aroused himself, to make one + more effort for life! Stay you here, wife, and I will try once more to + find the highway; it cannot be far from here; and if I am taken, I will + submit to my fate without a struggle; we can but die." So saying, he left + her, and began to reconnoitre the country around them. Much sooner than he + expected he emerged from the wood, and not far distant he saw a house in + the direction from whence he came; being, however, as most of the slaves + are, superstitious, he thought it would be a bad omen to turn backward, + and so continued to look about him. It seemed, he said, that some unseen + power held him, for though starving as he was, he could not take a step in + that direction; and at last as he turned around, to his great joy, he saw + another dwelling a little way off, and toward that he hastened his now + lightened footsteps. With a palpitating heart, he approached the door and + knocked cautiously. The man of the house opened it, and as soon as he saw + him, he said, "You are a fugitive slave, but be not alarmed, come in; no + harm shall befall you here; I shall not inquire from whence you came; it + is enough for me to know that you are a human being in distress; consider + me your friend, and let me know your wants." + </p> + <p> + "Bread! Oh, for a morsel of bread!" said the famished creature, while his + hitherto wild and sunken eyes, began to distil grateful tears. The "good + Samaritan" stepped to another apartment and brought him a piece of bread, + which he expected to see him devour at once, but instead, he looked at it + wistfully, literally devouring it with his eyes; turned it over and over, + and at last stammered out, "my good master, without a piece of bread for + my poor starving wife, I can never swallow this, tempting as it is." + </p> + <p> + "Poor man," said his benefactor, "can it be that you have a wife with you, + wretched as yourself?" He brought out a loaf of bread, some cheese and + meat, and while the fugitive was preparing to return, the kind gentleman + said, "I am glad you came to me; had you called at the house you first + saw, you would have been betrayed, and immediately arrested. You must + remember," he continued, "that you are young and valuable slaves, and that + your master will make every effort in his power to find you, especially + since he has made a sale of you. To-day and to-night, remain in the woods, + and the next morning you may come to me, if all is quiet; should I see + danger approaching you, I will warn you of it by the crack my rifle. Go + now, to your poor wife, and listen for the signal of danger; if you hear + none, come to me at the appointed time." He returned, and after feeding + his helpless Rosa, she revived, and soon felt quite comfortable and + grateful. + </p> + <p> + When the morning came for them to leave their retreat, they listened + intently, but hearing nothing, Joe started for the residence of his + friend. He had been gone but a short time, when his wife, who lay in the + bushes, thought she heard the tramp of horses,—she crept nearer the + highway, and peeping through the bush—Oh, horror! what was her + consternation and sickening fear, to find herself gazing upon the + well-known features of her old master, and two of his neighbors, all armed + to the teeth! Her heart seemed to stand still, and the blood to chill in + her veins. Had she been discovered she would have been an easy prey, for + she declared that she could not move a step. In the meantime her husband + had got about half way to the residence of his preserver, when his quick + ear detected the sound made by the feet of horses, and as he stopped to + listen more intently, the sharp crack of a rifle sent him bounding back to + his concealment in the forest. + </p> + <p> + The party of horsemen rode on to the dwelling of the kind hearted + gentleman, and inquired whether he had seen any fugitive slaves pass that + way. + </p> + <p> + "I saw," said he, "a man and woman passing rapidly along the road, but do + not know whether they were fugitives, as I did not see their faces." The + human blood-hound, thanked the gentleman for the information, and + immediately set out in pursuit; but, just as the informant had intended, + in a direction <i>opposite</i> to that the slaves had taken. That night, + Joe and Rosa visited the house of their benefactor, where they were + supplied with clothing and as much food as they could carry; and next day + they went on their way rejoicing. They settled in Cincinnati, where they + lived happily, until the mob drove them with others, to the Wilberforce + settlement, where they are in no danger of the auction block, or of a + Southern market; and are as much devoted to each other as ever. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0024" id="link2HCH0024"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIV. — PLEASANT RE-UNION OF OLD AND TRIED FRIENDS. + </h2> + <p> + It is well known to those who have assisted in clearing land in a new + country, that bears, who are not Jews, are very troublesome, and levy a + heavy tax on the settlers, to supply themselves with pork-their favorite + food. One old bear in particular, had for a long time annoyed the + colonists, by robbing their hog-stys almost every night. We failed in all + our plans to destroy his life, until a woman saw him one day, walking at + ease through the settlement. A half dozen of us gave chase immediately, + and came up with him after traveling two miles. So anxious was I to kill + him, that I fired at first sight and missed him, which gave us another two + miles chase. When, however, we came up, he was seated on a branch of a + tree, leisurely surveying us and the dogs, with great complacency. The + contents of my rifle brought him to the ground, and stirred his blood for + battle. One blow from his powerful paw, sent my fine greyhound some yards + distant, sprawling upon the ground, and when he renewed the attack, Bruin + met him with extended jaws, taking and munching his head in his mouth. My + rifle was now reloaded, and the second shot killed him on the spot. We + tied his legs together, and lifting him on a pole, marched in triumph into + the settlement, where guns were discharged and cheers given, in + approbation of our success. + </p> + <p> + One winter's evening we had drawn closely around the blazing fire, for the + air was piercing cold without, and the snow four feet deep on a level. Now + and then, a traveler might be seen on snow-shoes; but though our cabin was + situated on the king's highway, we seldom saw company on such a night as + this. While the wind whistled, and the snow drifted about our dwelling, we + piled the wood higher in our ample fire-place, and seated ourselves again, + to resume the conversation, when I was startled by a loud and furious + knocking at the door. I opened it to what I supposed to be three Indians. + Their costume was that of the red man; but the voice of him who addressed + me was not that of an Indian. "Can you keep three poor devils here + to-night?" said he, and when I made farther inquiry, he repeated the same + question; "we can sleep," he continued, "on the soft side of a board; only + give us poor devils a shelter." + </p> + <p> + I told him we were not accustomed to turn away any one on such a night; + that they were welcome to come in; and they were soon seated around our + large and cheerful fire. + </p> + <p> + They had laid aside their snow-shoes and knapsacks, and the heat of the + fire soon made their blankets uncomfortable; but as one of them made a + move to throw it off, another was heard to whisper, "wait a little; we are + among strangers, you know; so do not make a display of yourself." The + fellow drew his blanket about him; but we had heard and seen enough to + awaken curiosity, if not suspicion. In passing out of the room soon after, + I heard one of these pretended Indians say to his companion, "I know these + folks are from the States, for I smell coffee." When they finally sat down + to table, and saw silver upon it, they cast surprised and knowing glances + at each other, all of which we closely observed, and were convinced, that + they were not red men of the forest, but belonged to that race who had so + long looked haughtily down upon the colored people; that the least + exhibition of comfort, or show of refinement astonished them beyond + measure. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime, my wife had whispered to me that she was sure that the + principal speaker was no other than the aristocratic Mr. G——, + of Canandaigua. I could not believe it; I could not recognize in that + savage costume, one who had been bred in affluence, and "the star" of + genteel society. But my wife soon developed the affair to our mutual + satisfaction: G——, on taking from her a cup of coffee, + remarked, "this looks good; and I have had no good coffee since I left my + mother's house." + </p> + <p> + "Does your mother still reside in C——?" asked Mrs. Steward. + </p> + <p> + "My mother! my mother! what do you know of my mother!" said he, looking + sharply at her; but observing that they were recognized, they began to + laugh, and we had a hearty congratulation all round; while G——, + starting-up from table, exclaimed, + </p> + <p> + "Come, boys, off with this disguise; we are among friends now." + </p> + <p> + Our Indian guests, now appeared in costume more like "Broadway dandies," + than savages. Dressed in the finest cloth, with gold chains and repeaters; + and all that constituted the toilet of a gentleman. After tea they + requested to dry some costly furs, which they took from their knapsacks + and hung around the fire. The following day they took their leave, with + many apologies and explanations, regarding their appearance and conduct. + They were in the wilderness, they said, trading for very valuable furs; + they had money, jewelry and rich goods, which they had taken that method + to conceal. + </p> + <p> + During all this time, there had been another visitor in the house, who was + sitting in a corner, absorbed in writing. Our mock Indians had noticed + him, and not knowing who he was, expressed a determination "to quiz that + deaf old devil," after supper. We all seated ourselves around the fire, + and our Canandaigua friends, though no longer savages, had not forgotten + the silent man in the corner; they began to question him, and he aroused + himself for conversation; nor was it long before they forgot their design + to quiz him, and found themselves charmed listeners to the brilliant + conversation, of that world-renowned champion of humanity, Benjamin Lundy, + for he it was. + </p> + <p> + On this particular evening, he gave us a sketch of his journey to Hayti; + to accompany there and settle some emancipated slaves; which I thought + very interesting, and as I have never seen it in print I will here relate + it, as near as I can, in his own words: + </p> + <p> + In the State of Maryland, there lived a slaveholder the proprietor of some + sixty slaves, and being somewhat advanced in years, he determined to free + them, in accordance with the laws of that State, which required that they + be sent out of it. + </p> + <p> + He had thought the matter over, but being undecided where to send them, he + sent for Mr. Lundy to assist him in his proposed plan; who was only too + glad to comply with a request calculated to carry out his own plans of + philanthropy and equal rights. + </p> + <p> + When he had listened to the suggestions and expressed desires of the + planter, he offered his arguments in favor of the West India Islands; and + it was decided to send them to Hayti, as their future place of residence. + </p> + <p> + Six weeks were allowed for preparations; then Mr. Lundy was to return and + take charge of them on the voyage, and see them settled in their new + homes. + </p> + <p> + When the appointed time arrived, Mr. Lundy was there to accompany them on + board a vessel bound for Hayti; on which was furnished as comfortable + quarters, as the kindness of their conscientious master and his own + benevolent heart could suggest. When all was ready, the Christian master + came on board, to take leave of those faithful servants,—many of + whom had served him from their childhood, and all of whom he had bound to + his heart by kindness and Christian benevolence. It was a sad parting; not + because the slaves did not love liberty, but because they appreciated + their master's kind forbearance, and solicitude for their future welfare. + He had ever been a humane and indulgent master; one who lightened the + burthen of the poor slave, all in his power. A moment's reflection will + show, that it is invariably this conscientious kind of slaveholders, who + are induced to emancipate their slaves; and not the avaricious, cruel + tyrant, who neither fears God nor regards his fellow man. + </p> + <p> + The master of the slaves had kindly informed them of his intentions,—of + the probable length of the voyage, and the unavoidable sickness they would + experience, &c.; but now, they were gazing up into his kind face for + the last time, as he knelt in prayer, commending that numerous flock—raised + on his own plantation—to the care and protection of Almighty God, + beseeching Him to protect them in the storm and dangers of the ocean; to + guide them through this life, and save them in the world to come; until + the sobs and cries of the poor slaves drowned his utterance. He at length + took his final leave of them, and of Mr. Lundy; and the ship sailed + immediately. They, however, met storms and adverse winds, which detained + them; and then the poor, ignorant slaves began to believe what they had + before suspected: that this was only some wicked plan of Mr. Lundy's, laid + to entice them away from a kind master, and to plunge them into some + dreadful degradation and suffering. "Master" had not told them of the + adverse winds, and they were certain that some mischief was intended; they + grew sullen and disobedient; and notwithstanding the kindness of Mr. + Lundy, they murmured and complained, until his kind heart sank within him; + still he pursued the even tenor of his way, trusting in God for + deliverance. He watched over them in sickness, and administered to all + their wants; but his tender solicitude for their health and comfort, only + excited suspicion, and increased their ungrateful ill humor. + </p> + <p> + One pleasant evening, Mr. Lundy paced the deck in deep thought. He was + sad, and well nigh hopeless. He had seen enough in the fierce look and + sullen scowl; and had heard enough of the bitterness, and threatening + anger of the negroes, to know that a storm was gathering, which must soon + burst in all its wild fury over his devoted head. He was a small, feeble + man, compared with those who watched his every movement, and gnashed their + teeth upon him so fiercely. None but the Almighty could save him now; and + to Him who "rides upon the wings of the wind, and maketh the clouds His + chariot," he drew near in fervent prayer; after which he retired in peace + and confidence to his berth. During the night, a fine breeze sprang up; + and when he went on deck the next morning, they were in sight of the + luxuriant shore of Hayti! The officers of the island boarded the ship; but + their language was unintelligible to the negroes, who still looked daggers + at every one who spoke. They landed; but the fearful, and ungrateful + slaves continued sullen and forbidding. Mr. Lundy left them, however, and + went into the country, where he selected their future residence; and made + every preparation for their comfort and convenience in his power; saw them + conveyed to their neat, pleasant homes, and all happily settled. This work + was accomplished; and he merely called to bid adieu to his ungrateful + charge, when he found that one of the slaves had been appointed to speak + to him, in behalf of the whole number, and confess how deeply they had + wronged him. While they were conversing, the others gathered around, with + tears and prayers for forgiveness; and finally fell at his feet, imploring + pardon for themselves, and blessings on the kind, patient and humane + Benjamin Lundy. He hurried from the affecting scene, and soon after + returned to America. + </p> + <p> + Thus that cold evening passed more pleasantly away in our rude cabin; and + our Canandaigua gentlemen, after an agreeable acquaintance, and pleasant + chat with Mr. Lundy, retired for the night—not like savages, but + like gentlemen as they were; and I doubt not, with a more exalted opinion + of "the deaf old devil in the corner" + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0025" id="link2HCH0025"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXV. — PRIVATE LOSSES AND PRIVATE DIFFICULTIES. + </h2> + <p> + Soon after settling in Wilberforce, I found that the rumor I had heard in + the States, concerning the refusal to sell land to colored persons, was + literally correct, and my farm being too small to yield a support for my + family, and knowing it would be useless to apply for more land, I engaged + to carry packages for different merchants in the adjoining villages, as + well as to and from the settlement. Possessing a pair of excellent horses + and a good wagon, I found it a profitable business, and the only one I + could well do, to eke out the proceeds of my farm, and meet my expenses. + </p> + <p> + One day as I was returning from the village, one of my horses was taken + suddenly ill. I took him to a tavern near by, and as I could discover no + cause for his illness, I concluded to leave him a few days, supposing rest + would soon restore him. I accordingly hired another horse, and returned to + the colony. In a day or two after, I collected my packages as usual, and + started on my route, designing to leave the hired horse and take my own; + but when I arrived at the tavern, I found some Indians engaged in taking + off the hide and shoes of my poor, dead horse. This was indeed, a great + loss to me; but I consoled myself with the thought that I had one good + horse left, yet he would hardly be sufficient to accomplish alone, the + labor I had engaged to perform; nor had I the means to spare, to purchase + another. I therefore hired one, and commenced business again, with the + determination to make up my loss by renewed diligence and perseverance. + </p> + <p> + I started in good spirits; but had proceeded but a few miles, when my + remaining horse, which I had supposed perfectly sound, reeled and fell in + the harness! And before I could relieve him of it, my noble animal and + faithful servant, had breathed his last! Without a struggle or a movement + he lay lifeless on the cold earth. I was sad. I deplored the loss of my + good, and valuable team; but more the mystery and suspicion that hung over + the event. I returned home and sat down to devise some plan of procedure. + What could I do? Half the means of our support had been suddenly and + mysteriously snatched from us. What could I do next? While thus + ruminating, I arose to answer a summons at the door, and who should enter + but Mr. B. Paul, a brother to our foreign agent, who had so long absented + himself from our house, that I was indeed surprised to see him at this + time. He, however, seated himself, with great apparent concern for my + recent loss, which he soon made the subject of conversation and the object + of his visit. + </p> + <p> + "There has been," said he, "a great deal of unpleasant feeling, and + injudicious speaking on both sides, for which I am heartily sorry. The + colony is too weak to sustain a division of feelings; and now, that your + recent losses have left you in a far less favorable condition to sustain + yourself and family, I have called to make a settlement of our former + difficulties, and to offer you two hundred and fifty dollars out of the + collections for the colony." + </p> + <p> + I saw through the plan at once, and considered it only a bribe, to prevent + my exposing the iniquity of others. Should I consent to take a part of the + ill-gotten spoils, with what confidence could I attempt to stay the hand + of the spoiler. I wanted money very much, it is true; but after a moment's + reflection, not enough to sanction the manner in which it had been + obtained; and though I confess, the offer presented to me a strong + temptation, I am thankful that I was enabled to resist it. I refused to + accept the money; and after sending away the tempter and his offered gain, + I felt my heart lighter, and my conscience more peaceful than is often the + lot of sinful, erring man in this world of trial and conflict; and yet I + could but feel that the mystery in which the death of my horses was + involved, was partially at least, explained. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0026" id="link2HCH0026"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVI. — INCIDENTS AND PECULIARITIES OF THE INDIANS. + </h2> + <p> + During our residence in Canada, we were often visited by the Indians, + which gave us an opportunity to learn their character, habits and + disposition; and some incidents illustrative of the peculiarities of that + abused people, I will here mention. + </p> + <p> + I recollect one bitter cold night, about eleven o'clock, I happened to + awake, and looking out toward the fire, I was surprised to see standing + there, erect and quiet, a tall, brawny Indian, wrapped in his blanket; his + long hunting knife and tomahawk dangling from his belt; and his rifle in + his hand. Had he been in his own wigwam, he could not have looked about + him with more satisfaction and independence. I instantly sprang to my + feet, and demanded his errand. + </p> + <p> + "Me lost in the woods, and me come to stay all night," was his grave + reply. + </p> + <p> + "Then," said I, "give me your weapons, and I will make no objection." + </p> + <p> + He disarmed himself, and gave his weapons to me, with an air of haughty + disdain for my fears. I put them in a place of safety and then prepared + his bed, which was nothing more than the floor, where they choose to + sleep, with their head to the fire. My offer of anything different from + this he proudly resented as an insult to his powers of endurance, and + would say, "beds for pale faces and women; hard board for Indians." He + threw himself down, drew his blanket about him, and was soon sleeping + soundly. As soon as the day began to dawn, he was up, called for his arms, + and after thanking me in the brief Indian style of politeness, departed + for the forest. He had found our doors all fastened, save a low back door, + through which he entered, passing through a back room so full of + miscellaneous articles, that it was difficult to go through it in the day + time without upsetting something; but the Indian understood all this, he + made no noise, nor would he have spoken at all, had I not awakened; and + yet, he would have scorned to injure any one beneath the roof that gave + him shelter, unless he had been intoxicated. + </p> + <p> + One sabbath afternoon, one of my children was sitting in the door, when a + tall, emaciated Indian came up and said, "Will my little lady please to + give me a drink of water?" While she went for it, I invited him to a seat + within. There was something dignified and commanding in his appearance, + and something in his voice and countenance, that won my confidence and + respect at once. He remained in the place some time, and I learned his + history. + </p> + <p> + In his younger days he had been a great warrior; and even now, when + recounting, as he often did, the scenes of the battle field, his eye would + burn with savage fire, lighting up his whole countenance with the fiercest + kind of bravery, and often with a hideous yell that would startle our very + souls, he would burst from the room and bound over the fields and forest, + with the fleetness of a deer—making the woods ring with his + frightful war-cry, until the blood seemed ready to curdle in our veins. He + had also been one of the famous Tecumseh's braves; and had stood by him + when he fell on the fifth of October, 1813. This old brave, whenever he + called the name of Tecumseh, bowed his head reverently; and would often + try to tell us how very deeply they mourned when it could no longer be + doubted that the brave heart of Tecumseh, brother of the celebrated Wabash + prophet, had ceased to beat. + </p> + <p> + "Had an arrow pierced the sun and brought it to my feet," said the old + warrior, "I could not have been more astounded than at the fall of + Tecumseh." Then he told us that once, after a great and victorious battle, + Tecumseh, in his war paint and feathers, stood in the midst of his braves, + when a little pale faced girl made her way weeping to him and said, "My + mother is very ill, and your men are abusing her, and refuse to go away." + "Never," said the Indian, "did I see a frown so terrible on the face of + Tecumseh, as at that moment; when he with one hand clutched his tomahawk, + and with the other led the little girl to the scene of riot. He approached + the unruly savages with uplifted tomahawk, its edge glittering like + silver, and with one shout of 'begone!' they scattered as though a + thunderbolt had fallen in their midst." + </p> + <p> + But the old warrior at Wilberforce fought no more battles, except in + imagination those of the past. After peace was declared he bought a + valuable piece of land, with the intention of spending the remainder of + his life more quietly; but unfortunately there lived not far from him a + man who had once been the possessor of that farm, and had lost it in some + way, and was now in reduced circumstances. + </p> + <p> + He was both envious and vicious; and because he could not himself buy the + land, he was determined that the old Indian should not have it. After + having tried many ways to get it from him, he finally complained of him, + for fighting for the British and against the country where he now resided. + This was successful; he was arrested and thrown into prison, and without a + trial, removed from one prison to another, until he, with several others, + was sent South to be tried as traitors. While on the way, the keeper of + this Indian wished to call on his mother, who lived in a little cottage by + the roadside, to bid her farewell. She was an aged woman, and when her son + left her to join his companions, she followed him to the door weeping, + wringing her hands in great distress, and imploring the widow's God to + protect her only son. She had had four; all of whom went forth, with an + American mother's blessing, to fight in defence of their country; and this + one alone, returned alive from the field of battle. Now as he took his + final departure for the South, she clasped her hands, raised her tearful + eyes to heaven, and while large drops rolled over her wrinkled cheeks, she + cried, "Oh, God, protect my only one, and return him to me in safety, ere + I die." This scene, the imprisoned, and as some supposed, heartless + Indian, watched with interest; no part of it escaped his attention; but + they passed on, and safely reached Detroit. The prisoners were conducted + to a hotel and secured for the night; our Indian hero being consigned to + an attic, which they supposed a safe place for him. There happened to be + on that night, a company of showmen stopping at that hotel, and exhibiting + wax-work; among the rest, was a figure of General Brock, who fell at + Queenston Heights, and a costly cloak of fur, worn by the General previous + to his death. Nothing of this escaped the eagle-eye and quick ear of the + Indian. When all was quiet in the hotel, he commenced operations, for he + had made up his mind to leave, which with the red man is paramount to an + accomplishment of his design. He found no great difficulty in removing the + window of his lofty apartment, out of which he clambered, and with the + agility of a squirrel and the caution of a cat, he sprang for the + conductor and on it he slid to the ground. He was now free to go where he + pleased; but he had heard something about the cloak of Gen. Brock; he knew + too, that the friends of the General had offered fifty guineas for it, and + now he would just convey it to them. + </p> + <p> + With the sagacity of his race, he surveyed the hotel, and determined the + exact location of the show-room. Stealthily and noiselessly, he entered + it; found the cloak—took it and departed, chuckling at his good + fortune. As he was creeping out of the apartment with his booty, a thought + struck him, which not only arrested his footsteps, but nearly paralized + his whole being. Would not his keeper be made to answer, and perhaps to + suffer for his escape and theft? Of course he would. "Then in the darkness + I saw again," said the old brave, "that old pale-faced mother, weeping for + the loss of her only son," when he immediately returned the cloak to its + place, and with far more difficulty than in his descent, he succeeded in + reaching his attic prison, where he laid himself down, muttering to + himself, "not yet,—poor old pale-face got but one." + </p> + <p> + They took him to Virginia, where, instead of a trial, they gave him about + the same liberty they do their slaves. He staid one winter; but when the + spring opened, the fire of the red man took possession of him, and when + sent to the forest to chop wood, he took a bee-line for his former + residence. But what was he to do for food? With a rifle, he could live + happily in the woods, but he had none; so after considering the matter, he + said to himself, "Me <i>must</i> get a rifle," and instantly started for + the highway. The first cabin he saw, he entered in great apparent + excitement, and told the woman of the house, that he had seen a "big deer + in the woods, and wanted a rifle to shoot it. When you hear my gun," he + said, "then you come and get big deer." She gave him her husband's + excellent rifle and a few bullets; he looked at them, and said he must + have more, for "it was a big deer;" so she gave him the bullet-mould and a + piece of lead, with which he departed, after repeating his former + injunction, to come when she heard the rifle; but, said he, "she no hear + it yet." + </p> + <p> + He at length arrived at his own farm, from which he had been so cruelly + driven, and concealed himself behind a log in sight of his own house, to + watch the inmates. He soon learned that it was occupied by the man who had + persecuted him in order to obtain it, his wife and one child. All day + until midnight, he watched them from his hiding place, then assuming all + the savage ferocity of his nature, and giving himself the most frightful + appearance possible, he entered the house, and noiselessly passed to their + sleeping room, where he placed himself before them with a long knife in + his hand. Having assumed this frightful attitude, he commanded them in a + voice of thunder, to get up and give him some supper. They were awake now. + Oh, horror! what a sight for a guilty man, and a timid woman! "Me come to + kill you!" said the Indian, as he watched their blanched cheeks and + quivering lips. They tottered about on their trembling limbs to get + everything he asked for, imploring him for God's sake to take all, but + spare their lives. "Me will have scalps," he answered fiercely; but when + he had eaten all he desired, he adjusted his blanket, and putting on a + savage look, he remarked as if to himself, "Me go now get my men and kill + him, kill he wife, and kill he baby!" and left the house for his post of + observation. + </p> + <p> + The frightened inmates lost no time, but hastily collecting some + provisions, fled to the frontier, and were never heard of afterwards. + </p> + <p> + The Indian immediately took possession of his own and quite an addition + left by the former tenants. + </p> + <p> + While the kind-hearted old Indian repeated to me the story of his wrongs, + it reminded me of the injustice practised on myself, and the colored race + generally. Does a colored man by hard labor and patient industry, acquire + a good location, a fine farm, and comfortable dwelling, he is almost sure + to be looked upon by the white man, as an usurper of <i>his</i> rights and + territory; a robber of what he himself should possess, and too often does + wrong the colored man out of,—yet, I am happy to acknowledge many + honorable exceptions. + </p> + <p> + I have often wondered, when looking at the remnant of that once powerful + race, whether the black man would become extinct and his race die out, as + have the red men of the forest; whether they would wither in the presence + of the enterprising Anglo-Saxon as have the natives of this country. But + now I have no such wondering inquiries to make; being persuaded that the + colored man has yet a prominent part to act in this highly-favored + Republic,—of what description the future must determine. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0027" id="link2HCH0027"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVII. — OUR DIFFICULTIES WITH ISRAEL LEWIS. + </h2> + <p> + Being under the necessity of referring again to the difficulties existing + in the Wilberforce colony, I shall here introduce a circular, published in + New York city, which will give the reader an understanding of the real + cause of our embarrassments, and the character of our agent, Israel Lewis. + </p> + <h3> + CIRCULAR + </h3> + <p> + <i>New York, May 9th</i>, 1836. + </p> + <p> + The committee of colored citizens of the city of New York, as servants of + the public, sincerely regret the necessity of bringing the within subject + before the public. Their duty to God, to society, and to themselves, only + actuates them in this matter. + </p> + <p> + The fact that many individuals in different sections of the country, have + long suspected the integrity of Israel Lewis, but possessing no authentic + documentary evidence, they have been prevented from making an effort, to + counteract his too successful attempts and those of his agents, in the + collection of funds from the public, has induced us to transmit this + circular. + </p> + <p> + THEODORE S. WRIGHT, PETER OGDEN, THOMAS DOWNING, GEORGE POTTS, CHARLES B. + RAY, DAVID RUGGLES, JOHN STANS, WILLIAM P. JOHNSON, WILLIAM HAMILTON, + SAMUEL E. CORNISH. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + ISRAEL LEWIS. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Wilberforce, U.C., March 28th, 1836.</i> + </p> + <p> + The board of managers of the Wilberforce settlement, met and passed + unanimously the following resolutions—Present, Austin Steward, + Philip Harris, Peter Butler, William Bell, John Whitehead, Samuel Peters. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, 1st. That we deeply regret the manner in which our + friends in the States have been imposed upon by Israel Lewis; and that we + hereby inform them, as a board of managers or otherwise, that we have + received less than one hundred dollars of all the money borrowed and + collected in the States. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, 2d. That although we have not received one hundred + dollars from said Lewis, yet, when we shall have received the funds + collected by our agent, the Rev. Nathan Paul, in England, we will refund + as far as our abilities will allow and our friends may require, the money + contributed for our supposed benefit, by them in the States. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, 3d. That we tender our sincere thanks to our beloved + friends, Arthur Tappan and others, who have taken such deep interest in + the welfare of our little colony. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, 4th. That the foregoing resolutions be signed by the + whole board, and sent to the States to be published in the <i>New York + Observer</i> and other papers. + </p> + <p> + AUSTIN STEWARD, <i>President</i>, PETER BUTLER, <i>Treasurer</i>, JOHN + HALMES, <i>Secretary</i>. + </p> + <p> + PHILIP HARRIS, } WILLIAM BELL, } JOHN WHITEHEAD, } <i>Managers.</i> SAMUEL + PETERS, } + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <i>New York, April 25th, 1836.</i> + </p> + <p> + At a public meeting of the colored citizens of New York city, held in + Phoenix Hall, Thomas L. Jennings in the Chair, and Charles B. Ray, + Secretary, the following resolutions were passed unanimously: + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, That the thanks of this meeting be tendered to the Rev. + Samuel E. Cornish, for the able and satisfactory report of his mission to + Upper Canada, especially to the Wilberforce settlement. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, That this meeting deem it their imperative duty, to + announce to the public, that in view of facts before them, Israel + Lewis [1] + has abused their confidence, wasted their benevolence, and forfeited all + claim to their countenance and respect. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, That a committee of ten, be appointed to give publicity + to the foregoing resolutions; also, to the communication from the managers + of the Wilberforce settlement, as they may deem necessary in the case. + </p> + <p> + THOMAS L. JENNINGS, <i>Chairman</i>, CHARLES B. RAY, <i>Secretary</i>. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <pre> + [1] It necessarily follows that + the public should withhold their money from his subordinate agents.] + </pre> + <p> + It will now appear that I was not the only unfortunate individual who had + difficulty with Mr. Lewis. Mr. Arthur Tappan made known through the press, + about this time, that Israel Lewis was not a man to be fully relied upon + in his statements regarding the Wilberforce colony; and also, if money was + placed in his hands for the benefit of the sick and destitute among the + settlers, it would be doubtful whether it was faithfully applied according + to the wishes of the donors. + </p> + <p> + For this plain statement of facts, Mr. Lewis commenced a suit against Mr. + Tappan, for defamation of character; laying the damages at the round sum + of ten thousand dollars. It appeared that Lewis valued his reputation + highly now that he had elevated himself sufficiently to commence a suit + against one of the best and most respectable gentlemen in New York city; a + whole souled abolitionist withal; one who had suffered his name to be cast + out as evil, on account of his devotion to the colored man's cause— + both of the enslaved and free; one who has, moreover, seen his own + dwelling entered by an infuriated and pro-slavery mob; his expensive + furniture thrown into the street as fuel for the torch of the black man's + foe; and, amid the crackling flame which consumed it, to hear the vile + vociferations of his base persecutors, whose only accusation was his + defence of the colored man. This noble hearted, Christian philanthropist, + who took "joyfully the spoiling of his goods" for the cause of the + oppressed, was the chosen victim of Lewis' wrath and violent vituperation; + and that too, where he was well known as a most honorable, humane + gentleman; and all for naming facts which were quite generally known + already. + </p> + <p> + Lewis returned to Wilberforce, flushed and swaggering with the idea of + making his fortune in this speculation of a law-suit against Mr. Tappan; + and to remove all obstacles, he sent a man to me, to say that if I would + publish nothing, and would abandon the interests of the colonists, he + would give me a handsome sum of money. I soon gave him to understand that + he had applied to the wrong person for anything of that kind; and he then + laid a plan to accomplish by fraud and perjury, what he had failed to do + by bribery. + </p> + <p> + I have before mentioned the fact of my having taken up a note of + twenty-five dollars for Mr. Lewis, on condition that he would soon refund + the money. I did it as a favor, and kept the note in my possession, until + about a year afterward, when I sued him to recover my just due on the + note. We had then began to differ in our public business, which led to + other differences in our transaction of both public and private matters + relating to the colony. He of course gave bail for his appearance at + court, and it ran along for some time until he found he could not bribe me + to enter into his interests, and then for the first time, he declared that + I had stolen the note! And finally succeeded in getting me indicted before + the grand jury! + </p> + <p> + In this I suppose Lewis and his confederates had two objects: first, to + get rid of me; secondly, that they might have a chance to account for my + continued hostility, by saying that it arose in consequence of a private + quarrel, and not for any true interest I had in their collecting money + deceptively. + </p> + <p> + Lewis appeared so bent on my destruction, that he forgot it was in my + power to show how I came by the note. The Court of King's Bench met, but + in consequence of the cholera, was adjourned, and of course, the case must + lie over until another year. + </p> + <p> + When the time for the trial drew near, I was, in the midst of my + preparations to attend it, counseled and advised by different persons to + flee from the country, which I had labored so hard and so conscientiously + to benefit, and received in return nothing but detraction and slander. But + conscious of my innocence, I declared I would not leave; I knew I had + committed no crime; I had violated no law of the land,—and I would + do nothing to imply guilt. He who hath formed the heart, knoweth its + intent and purpose, and to Him I felt willing to commit my cause. True, + the court might convict, imprison, and transport me away from my helpless + family of five small children; if so, I was determined they should punish + an innocent man. Nevertheless, it was a dark time; I was not only saddened + and perplexed, but my spirit was grieved, and I felt like one "wounded in + the house of his friends,"—ready to cry out, "had it been an enemy I + could have borne it," but to be arraigned, for the <i>first</i> time in my + life, as a <i>criminal</i>, by one of the very people I had spent my + substance to benefit, was extremely trying. Guiltless as I knew myself to + be, still, I was aware that many incidents had transpired, which my + enemies could and would construe to my disadvantage; moreover, Lewis had + money, which he would freely distribute to gain his point right or wrong, + and to get me out of his way. + </p> + <p> + In due time the trial came on, and I was to be tried for <i>theft</i>! + Lewis had reported all through the settlement that on a certain time I had + called at his house, and from a bundle of papers which his wife showed me, + I had purloined the note, which had caused me so much trouble. To prove + this it was necessary to get his wife to corroborate the statement. This + was not an easy matter. Mrs. Lewis, indignant and distressed by her + husband's unkindness, had left him and taken up her abode in the family of + a hospitable Englishman. After Lewis had been sent out as an agent for the + colony, finding himself possessed of sufficient funds to cut a swell, he + associated and was made a great deal of, by both ladies and gentlemen in + high stations of life; the consequence of which was, he looked now with + disdain upon his faithful, but illiterate wife, who like himself had been + born a slave, and bred on a Southern plantation; and who had with him + escaped from the cruel task-master, enduring with him the hardships and + dangers of the flying fugitive. + </p> + <p> + Now her assistance was necessary to carry forward his plans, and he + endeavored in various ways to induce her to return, but in vain. When he + sent messengers to inform her how sorry he felt for his past abuse, she + said she feared it was only some wicked plot to entice her away from the + peaceable home she had found. Lewis saw that he must devise some other + method to obtain her evidence. He therefore called on the brother of the + Englishman in whose family Mrs. Lewis was, and in a threatening manner + told him that he understood his brother was harboring his wife, and that + he intended to make him pay dear for it. The brother, to save trouble, + said he would assist him to get his wife, and that night conducted Lewis + to her residence. No better proof can be given that Mrs. Lewis possessed + the true heart of a woman, than that the moment her husband made humble + concessions, and promised to love and protect her henceforth, she forgave + him all his past infidelity and neglect, and looked with hope to a + brighter future. In return Lewis presented her with a note, telling her to + take it to a certain person and present it, and he would give her twenty + dollars on it. This would, he doubtless thought, leave her in his power. + </p> + <p> + As Mrs. Lewis could not read, the unsuspecting wife presented the paper + all in good faith. The gentleman looked at her sharply, suspiciously,—and + then asked her, if she was not aware that she was presenting him a paper + completely worthless! The poor woman was mortified and astonished; and + instead of returning to her husband, fled to Wilberforce, and called at + our house. Knowing how disastrous to me would be her false statement, and + ignorant of her state of mind, I asked her if she had come to assist Mr. + Lewis by swearing against me. I saw at once, that she had not yet been + informed of her husband's design. + </p> + <p> + "Swear against you, Mr. Steward!" said she. "I know nothing to swear that + would injure you; I have always known you as an honest, upright man, and + you need not fear my turning against an innocent person, for the benefit + of one I know to be guilty. Nor would I have left my place, had I known + what I now do." So all help and fear was ended in that quarter. + </p> + <p> + When at length the appointed morning arrived, I arose early, but with a + saddened heart. I looked upon my wife and helpless family, reflecting that + possibly this might be the last time we should all assemble around the + breakfast table in our hitherto quiet home, and I could scarcely refrain + from weeping. I, however, took my leave, and a lad with me, to bring back + a message of the result, if the court found sufficient cause to detain me + for trial. But when I found that I must be tried, I felt too unhappy to + make others so, and kept out of the lad's way. He returned without a + message; and I took my seat in the prisoner's box. I had just taken a + letter out of the post office, from Rochester, containing recommendations + and attestations from the first men in the city, of my good character, + which relieved my feelings somewhat: nevertheless, my heart was heavy, and + especially when, soon after I took my seat, a trap-door was opened and a + murderer was brought up and seated by my side! + </p> + <p> + Chief Justice Robinson, made his appearance in great pomp—dressed in + the English court style-then the crier, in a shrill voice, announced the + opening of the court, and finished by exclaiming, "God save the King!" His + lordship then called the attention of the jury to the law of the land; + particularly to that portion relating to their present duty; and the grand + jury presented me to the court, for feloniously taking a certain + promissory note from the house of Israel Lewis. The King's Attorney had + but one witness, and that was Lewis. He was called to the stand, permitted + to relate his story, and retire without any cross-examination on the part + of my Attorney; but that gentleman called up three respectable white men, + all of whom swore that they would not believe Israel Lewis under oath! + Then submitted the case to the jury without remark or comment, and the + jury, without leaving their seats, brought in a verdict of "NOT GUILTY." + Thus ended my first and last trial for theft! Oh, how my very soul + revolted at the thought of being thus accused; but now that I stood + justified before God and my fellow-men, I felt relieved and grateful; nor + could I feel anything but pity for Lewis, who, like Hainan, had been so + industriously engaged in erecting "a gallows fifty cubits high" for me, + but found himself dangling upon it He raved like a madman, clutched the + arm of the Judge and demanded a new trial, but he shook him off with + contempt and indignation, as though he had been a viper. In his wild fury + and reckless determination to destroy my character, he had cast a foul + stain upon his own, never to be effaced. I had felt bound to preserve my + reputation when unjustly assailed, but it had been to me a painful + necessity to throw a fellow-being into the unenviable and disgraceful + attitude in which Lewis now stood; and yet, he would not, and did not + yield the point, notwithstanding his ignominious defeat. + </p> + <p> + He very soon began to gather his forces for another attack upon me, and + followed the same direction for his accusation,—the land purchase. + </p> + <p> + The reader will recollect without further repetition, that as I could + purchase no land of the Canada Company, because of their indignation + against Lewis, I was glad to accept of the contract he had made with Mr. + Ingersoll, for lot number four in the colony; that I paid the sum + demanded, and took his assignment on the back of the contract, and as we + then were on good terms, it never occurred to me that a witness was + necessary to attest to the transaction. But after his failure to prove me + a thief; his next effort was to convict me of forgery! It will be + remembered that Lewis after selling out to me, returned the contract to + Mr. Ingersoll, and that I had lost by the means, the land, and at least + five hundred dollars' worth of improvements. Then I brought a suit against + Lewis, to recover the money I had paid him for the contract; and then it + was that he asserted and attempted to prove, that I had forged the + assignment, and therefore, had no just claim on him for the amount paid. + But in this, as in the other case, he met a defeat and made an entire + failure. I recovered all that I claimed, which, was only my just due. One + would suppose that after so many unsuccessful attempts to ruin me, he + would have left me alone,—but not so with Lewis: he had the ambition + of a Bonaparte; and doubtless had he possessed the advantages of an + education, instead of having been born and bred a slave, he might, like an + Alexander or Napoleon, have astonished the world with his deeds of daring. + I am, however, no admirer of what the world call "great men,"—one + humble, self-sacrificing Christian, like Benjamin Lundy, has far greater + claim on my respect and reverence. + </p> + <p> + Lewis, failing in his second attack, backed up as he had been in all his + wicked course, by a friend wearing the sacred garb of a minister of the + gospel, cooled off, and it became evident to all, that he was meditating + some different mode of warfare. To this concealed confederate, I must + attach great blame, on account of the influence his station and superior + learning gave him, not only over Mr. Lewis, but the colonists generally, + and which should have been exerted for the good of all, in truth and + honesty. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0028" id="link2HCH0028"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVIII. — DESPERATION OF A FUGITIVE SLAVE. + </h2> + <p> + We had as yet received no funds from our foreign agent, N. Paul, and the + board of managers had resolved to send a man after him. An Englishman and + a white man named Nell, would gladly undertake the mission, leaving his + wife and five children among the settlers. Again was I under the necessity + of returning to New York, to obtain the funds required to send out Mr. + Nell after our agent in England. + </p> + <p> + The night before I left home, I had a singular dream which I will briefly + relate. I dreamed of journeying on a boat to Albany, and of stopping at a + house to take tea. Several persons, I thought, were at the table, and as a + cup of tea was handed me, I saw a woman slyly drop something into it. I, + however, drank the tea, and dreamed that it made me very sick. + </p> + <p> + I found it difficult to drive from my mind the unpleasant impression this + dream had made upon it, but finally succeeded in doing so, attributing it + to the many and malicious threatenings which had been made by Lewis and + his associates. They had boldly asserted, that "if I went to the States, I + would never return alive," and several other threats equally malignant. I, + however, started with Mr. Nell for Rochester, where we made an effort to + raise money to aid in defraying the expenses of the voyage, and succeeded + in collecting about a hundred dollars. From thence we passed on to Albany, + where we fell in company with a number of Mr. Paul's friends, who appeared + to be terribly indignant, and accused me of coming there to expose their + friends,—Paul and Lewis. We had some warm words and unpleasant + conversation, after which they left me very unceremoniously, and appeared + to be very angry. A short time after, one of them returned, and in the + most friendly manner invited me to his house to tea. I was glad of an + opportunity to show that I harbored no unpleasant feelings toward them, + and immediately accompanied him home. The moment that we were all seated + at the table, an unpleasant suspicion flashed through, my mind. The table, + the company—all seemed familiar to me, and connected with some + unpleasant occurrence which I could not then recall. But when the lady of + the house poured out a cup of tea, and another was about to pass it, I + heard her whisper, "I intended that for Mr. Steward," my dream for the + first time, flashed through my mind, with all the vivid distinctness of a + real incident. I endeavored to drive it from my thoughts, and did so. + Pshaw! I said to myself; I will not be suspicious nor whimsical, and I + swallowed the tea; then took my leave for the steamboat, on our way to New + York city. + </p> + <p> + When we had passed a few miles out of Albany, the boat hove to, and there + came on board four men—one of the number a colored man. The white + men repaired to their state-rooms, leaving the colored man on deck, after + the boat had returned to the channel. He attracted my attention, by his + dejected appearance and apparent hopeless despair. He was, I judged, about + forty years of age; his clothing coarse and very ragged; and the most + friendless, sorrowful looking being I ever saw. He spake to no one, but + silently paced the deck; his breast heaving with inaudible sighs; his brow + contracted with a most terrible frown; his eyes dreamily fastened on the + floor, and he appeared to be considering on some hopeless undertaking, I + watched him attentively, as I walked to and fro on the same deck, and + could clearly discover that some fearful conflict was taking place in his + mind; but as I afterwards repassed him he looked up with a happy, patient + smile, that lighted up his whole countenance, which seemed to say plainly, + I see a way of escape, and have decided on my course of action. His whole + appearance was changed; his heart that before had beat so wildly was quiet + now as the broad bosom of the Hudson, and he gazed alter me with a look of + calm deliberation, indicative of a settled, but desperate purpose. I + walked hastily forward and turned around, when, Oh, my God! what a sight + was there! Holding still the dripping knife, with which he had cut his + throat! and while his life-blood oozed from the gaping wound and flowed + over his tattered garments to the deck, the same exultant smile beamed on + his ghastly features! + </p> + <p> + The history of the poor, dejected creature was now revealed: he had + escaped from his cruel task-master in Maryland; but in the midst of his + security and delightful enjoyment, he had been overtaken by the human + blood-hound, and returned to his avaricious and tyrannical master, now + conducting him back to a life of Slavery, to which he rightly thought + death was far preferable. + </p> + <p> + The horrors of slave life, which he had so long endured, arose in all + their hideous deformity in his mind, hence the conflict of feeling which I + had observed,—and hence the change in his whole appearance, when he + had resolved to endure a momentary pain, and escape a life-long scene of + unrequited toil and degradation. + </p> + <p> + There happened to be on the boat at the time, several companies of citizen + soldiers, who, shocked by the awful spectacle, expressed their decided + abhorrence of the institution of Slavery, declaring that it was not for + such peculiar villainy, that their fathers fought and bled on the battle + field. So determined were they in their indignation; so loudly demanded + they a cessation of such occurrences on board our boats, and the soil of a + free State, that the slaveholders became greatly alarmed, and with all + possible dispatch they hurriedly dragged the poor bleeding slave into a + closet, and securely locked the door; nor have I ever been able to learn + his final doom. Whether the kindly messenger of death released him from + the clutches of the man-stealer, or whether he recovered to serve his + brutal master, I have never been informed. + </p> + <p> + After this exciting scene had passed, I began to realize that I was + feeling quite ill; an unusual load seemed to oppress my stomach, and by + the time we had reached New York city, I was exceedingly distressed. I + hastened to a boarding house, kept by a colored woman, who did everything + in her power to relieve me; but I grew worse until I thought in reality, I + must die. The lady supposed I was dying of cholera, sent to Brooklyn after + Mr. Nell; but having previously administered an emetic, I began to feel + better; and when I had finally emptied my stomach of its contents, <i>tea + and all</i>, by vomiting, I felt into a profound sleep, from which I awoke + greatly relieved. The kindness of that lady I shall not soon forget. She + had a house full of boarders, who would have fled instantly, had they + known that, as she supposed, I was suffering from cholera; and instead of + sending me to the hospital, as she might have done, she kept all quiet + until it was over, doing all she could for my relief and comfort; yet, it + was a scene of distress which I hope may never be repeated. + </p> + <p> + On the following morning, I saw in the city papers, "A Card," inserted by + the owner of the poor slave on board the steamboat, informing the public + that he was returning South with a fugitive slave, who, when arrested, + evinced great willingness to return; who had confessed also, that he had + done very wrong in leaving his master, for which he was sorry,—but + he supposed that the abolitionists had been tampering with him. That was + all! Not a word about his attempt to take his life! Oh no, he merely + wished to allay the excitement, that the horrid deed had produced on the + minds of those present. + </p> + <p> + I was indignant at the publication of such a deliberate falsehood, and + immediately wrote and published that I too was on board the same boat with + the fugitive; that I had witnessed an exhibition of his willingness to + return to Slavery, by seeing him cut his throat, and lay on the deck + wallowing in his blood; that the scene had so excited the sympathies of + the soldiers present, that his owner had been obliged to hurry him out of + their sight, &c. + </p> + <p> + When this statement appeared in the newspapers, it so exasperated the + friends of the slaveholder, that I was advised to flee from the city, lest + I might be visited with personal violence; but I assured my advisers that + it was only the wicked who "flee when no man pursueth, but the righteous + are bold as a lion." I therefore commenced the business that brought me to + that city. Messrs. Bloss, Nell, and myself, made an effort, and raised + between three and four hundred dollars for the purpose of sending Mr. Nell + after Rev. N. Paul. + </p> + <p> + Most of the funds collected, we gave to Mr. Nell, who sailed from New + York, and arrived safely in England, just as N. Paul was boarding a vessel + to return to New York. + </p> + <p> + Had Mr. Nell acted honorably, or in accordance with his instructions, he + would have returned with the agent; but he remained in England, and for + aught I know is there yet. He was sent expressly after Mr. Paul, and when + he left that kingdom, Nell's mission was ended. He proved himself less + worthy of confidence than the agent, for he <i>did</i> return when sent + for, and he did account for the money he had collected, though he retained + it all; but Mr. Nell accounted for nothing of the kind; and if he has ever + returned, I have not seen him. Mr. N. Paul arrived in New York in the fall + of 1834, and remained there through the winter, to the great + disappointment and vexation of the colonists. I wrote him concerning our + condition and wants, hoping it would induce him to visit us immediately; + but he had married while in England, an English lady, who had accompanied + aim to New York, where they were now living; nor did he appear to be in + any haste about giving an account of himself to the board of managers who + had employed him. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0029" id="link2HCH0029"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIX. — A NARROW ESCAPE FROM MY ENEMIES. + </h2> + <p> + During my absence in New York city, Lewis and his confederates were + prophesying that I would never trouble them more, and shaking their heads + quite ominously at the happy riddance. One day, our hired man entered the + house and inquired of my wife, when I was expected home. She told him she + did not know, having received no intelligence from me. He assured her that + a letter had been received by some one in the colony; that he had seen it, + and had heard Mr. Lewis speak of conveying it to her,—but as it did + not come, she gave it up, supposing some mistake had been made. I had, + however, written, naming the time when she might expect me; but no letter + of mine reached her, during my long absence, for which she could not + account. A short time before that specified for my return, a woman, whose + husband was an associate of Mr. Lewis, came to my house, and urged my wife + "to leave word at the village of London, to have Mr. Steward detained + there, should he arrive toward evening, and by no means allow him to start + for the colony after dark." My family had so often been alarmed by such + warnings, and had so frequently been annoyed by the violent threatenings + of Lewis, that they ceased to regard them, and paid little attention, to + this one. + </p> + <p> + I arrived at London on the day I had appointed for my return, but was + detained there until a late hour; feeling anxious, however, to get home + that night, supposing that I was expected,—I therefore hired a horse + to ride the remaining fifteen miles to the settlement. + </p> + <p> + The road from London to Wilberforce led through a swamp, known as + "McConnell's Dismal Swamp," and it was indeed, one of the most dreary + places in all that section of country. I am certain that a hundred men + might conceal themselves within a rod of the highway, without being + discovered. + </p> + <p> + The horse I had engaged, was a high spirited animal, and to that fact, I + doubtless owe my life. The moon shone brightly, and nothing broke the + stillness of the night, as I rode onward, but the clatter of my horse's + hoofs, and an occasional "bow-wow" of some faithful watch-dog. + </p> + <p> + When I reached the swamp and entered its darkened recesses, the gloom and + stillness was indeed fearful; my horse started at every rustling leaf or + crackling brush, until I attempted to pass a dense thicket, when I was + started by the sharp crack of a rifle, and a bullet whizzed past me, close + to my ear! The frightened horse reared and plunged, and then springing as + if for life, he shot off like an arrow, amid the explosion of fire arms + discharged at me as I rode away. I lost my balance at first, and came near + falling, but recovering it I grasped the rein tightly, while my fiery + steed flew over the ground with lightning speed; nor did I succeed in + controlling him until he had run two miles, which brought me to my own + door. + </p> + <p> + I found my family well, and very grateful that I had arrived safely after + so fearful an encounter. + </p> + <p> + When morning came I sent a person out to inquire whether any of the + settlers were out the night previous, and the report was, "Israel Lewis + and two other men were out all night; that they had been seen near the + Dismal Swamp;" moreover, Lewis was seen to come in that morning with his + boots covered with swamp mud,—these the Rev. Mr. Paul's boys cleaned + for him, all of which was evidence that he it was, who had way-laid me + with criminal intent. + </p> + <p> + I afterwards learned, that those three men left the settlement at dusk, + for the swamp; that they stationed themselves one rod apart, all on one + side of the road, each man with a loaded rifle,—the poorest marksman + was to fire first, and if he did not bring me down, probably the second + would; but Lewis being the best shot of the three, was to reserve his fire + until the last, which they supposed I could not escape. It was quite dark + in the thicket, and my spirited horse plunged in every direction so + furiously, that they could take no aim at me, until he had started to run, + when we were soon beyond their reach. + </p> + <p> + We had already had so much difficulty in our little colony that we were + getting heartily sick of it. I was well aware that Lewis was thirsting for + revenge; that he wished to do me a great wrong; and yet I was thankful on + his account, as well as on my own, that he had been prevented from + imbruing his hands in the blood of a fellow being. + </p> + <p> + Had he succeeded in taking my life, as he undoubtedly intended to do, he + would have been arrested immediately, and most likely punished as a + murderer. He had boldly threatened my life, and the colonists were + expecting something of the kind to take place. Had I not arrived at the + colony, it was known at London that I had started for the settlement that + night, and an immediate search would have been instituted; nor could the + wicked deed have brought the least peace to the mind of Lewis or his + companions, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "No peace of mind does that man know, + Who bears a guilty breast; + His conscience drives him to and fro, + And never lets him rest." +</pre> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0030" id="link2HCH0030"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXX. — DEATH OF B. PAUL, AND RETURN OF HIS BROTHER. + </h2> + <p> + The bold and wicked attempt to take my life, recorded in the preceding + chapter, aroused a feeling of indignation in the community against Lewis, + and completely destroyed the little influence he had left; moreover, he + had now been so extensively published as an impostor, that he could + collect no more money on the false pretense of raising it for the benefit + of the colony. As soon as his money was gone and his influence destroyed, + —many who had been his firmest friends, turned against him, and + among this class was the Rev. Benjamin Paul. He had ever professed the + greatest friendship for, and interest in the success of Mr. Lewis. + Heretofore, whenever he went to the States he was commissioned by that + gentleman's family, to purchase a long list of expensive articles, which + the poor colonists were seldom able to buy; and he generally returned to + them richly laden with goods, purchased with, money given to the poor, + sick, and destitute in the colony. + </p> + <p> + Mr. B. Paul had ever been a very proud man, but not a very healthy one. He + was inclined to pulmonary diseases; but had kept up pretty well, until + Lewis was effectually put down, and his own character involved in many of + his notorious proceedings, together with the disappointment occasioned by + his brother remaining so long in England, when his health failed, and he + sank rapidly under accumulating disasters, to the grave. + </p> + <p> + The Welshmen had partially engaged him to preach for them the ensuing + year, but something they had heard of him changed their minds, and they + were about appointing a meeting to investigate his conduct, when they were + informed of his illness, and concluded to let it pass. His son, with whom + he lived, became deranged, and his oldest daughter on whom he was greatly + dependent, had been dismissed from school, where she had been for some + time engaged in teaching. All these unpleasant circumstances in his sickly + state weighed heavily upon his proud heart; and he not only declined in + health, but sank into a state of melancholy and remorse for his past + course of living. As he lay pining and murmuring on his death bed, I could + but reflect how different the scene from that of an apostle of the Lord + Jesus Christ, who could exclaim, when about to be offered, "I have fought + a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith; henceforth + there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness." + </p> + <p> + I called to see him as he lay writhing in agony, his sunken eyes gleaming + wildly, rolling and tossing from side to side, while great drops of + perspiration stood upon his forehead, continually lamenting his misspent + time, and the life he had led! He took my hand in his cold, bony fingers, + thanking me that I did not so despise him, that I could not come to see + him in his sorrow and affliction. Generally, however, when he raved and + talked of his wicked life, his family excluded all persons from his room + except his attendants. + </p> + <p> + Pride, which had ever been his besetting sin, displayed itself in his + conduct to the last, for he had a lengthy will made, dispensing some + sixteen hundred dollars to different individuals, when he must have known + that his whole possessions would not amount to half that sum. As I looked + upon him I could but reflect on the mysterious ways of Providence. Before + me lay a man, who had for years arrayed himself against me, using all his + influence as a man and a minister to injure me, by setting Lewis forward + in his wickedness; his family living in extravagance and a style far + beyond their means, while mine had labored hard and were sometimes + destitute, often harassed and perplexed on every side by himself and + party. And for what? Because I would not join hands with iniquity, and + deeds of darkness. Notwithstanding the contrast, when I heard his bitter + lamentations and self-reproaches, I could lift my heart to God, in + gratitude for His protecting goodness, which had preserved me an <i>honest + man</i>. I had often erred no doubt, but it had never been designedly; and + never did I value a good conscience more than when standing by the + death-bed of Benjamin Paul, who now had passed the Jordan of death; and it + is enough to know that his future, whether of joy or woe, will be meted + out to him, by a merciful and just God,—nevertheless, his last + moments on earth were such as ought to arouse every professed Christian, + to redoubled diligence in watchfulness and prayer, lest they fall into + temptation,— lest they determine to become rich, and thereby fall + into diverse and hurtful lusts, and pierce themselves through with many + sorrows. + </p> + <p> + Soon after the event above narrated, a law was passed in the Province, + allowing each township to elect three commissioners, whose duty it should + be, to transact the public business pertaining to the township. Each + township should also elect one township clerk, whose business it should + be, to hold and keep all moneys, books, and papers belonging to said town; + with power to administer oaths, and in fact, he, with the commissioners, + were to constitute a board, possessing all the power of a court, in + relation to township business. + </p> + <p> + In our colony, located in the township of Bidulph, the colored people were + a large majority of the inhabitants, which gave us the power to elect + commissioners from our own settlement, and therefore, three black men + where duly chosen, who entered on the duties of their office, while your + humble servant, A. Steward, was elected township clerk, with all the + responsibility of the office resting upon him and the same power given him + as though he had been born in Her Britannic Majesty's dominion, with a + face as white as the driven snow. I felt the responsibility of my office, + but not more deeply than I did this assurance of entire confidence, and + respect shown me by my townsmen, after all the cruel persecutions I had + met; after all the accusations of theft, forgery, &c., that vicious + person could bring against me. + </p> + <p> + The Rev. Nathaniel Paul, with his lady, arrived at Wilberforce in the + spring of 1835, to the great joy of the colonists, to find that his + brother had gone the way of all the earth, and his remains quietly resting + on his own premises, where his afflicted family still resided. + </p> + <p> + In the colony there was a great deal of excitement regarding the course + our agent would pursue, and all waited with anxious expectancy to see him + enrich the treasury with his long-promised collections. + </p> + <p> + We had agreed, on sending him forth as an agent for the colony, to give + him fifty dollars per month for his services, besides bearing his + expenses. + </p> + <p> + The reverend gentleman, charged, on his return to the colony, the sum + specified, for four years, three months and twenty days. We spent several + days in auditing his account, with increased fearful forebodings. We found + his receipts to be, in the United Kingdoms of Great Britain, one thousand + six hundred and eighty-three pounds, nineteen shillings; or, eight + thousand and fifteen dollars, eighty cents. His expenditures amounted to + one thousand four hundred and three pounds, nineteen shillings; or, seven + thousand and nineteen dollars, eighty cents. Then his wages for over four + years, at fifty dollars per month, left a balance against the board of + several hundred dollars, which we had no funds to cancel, inasmuch as the + reverend gentleman had paid us nothing of all he had collected in Europe, + nor even paid a farthing toward liquidating the debts incurred for his + outfit and expenses. + </p> + <p> + There was also in Mr. Paul's charge against the board of managers, an item + of two hundred dollars, which he had paid to Wm. Loyd Garrison, while that + gentleman was also in England; but by whose authority he had paid or given + it, it was hard to determine. We gave him no orders to make donations of + any kind. To take the liberty to do so, and then to charge it to our poor + and suffering colony, seemed hard to bear; still we allowed the charge. + Had we, in our straitened and almost destitute circumstances, made a + donation of that, to us, large sum of money to Mr. Garrison or any body + else, certainly <i>we</i> should, at least, have had the credit of it; and + as Mr. Garrison had made no acknowledgment of the receipt, I wrote him on + the subject, and his answer will be found, heading our correspondence, in + this volume. + </p> + <p> + Not a dollar did the treasurer ever receive of the Rev. N. Paul, unless we + call the donations he had made without our permission, a payment. He did, + it is true, award to the board, the sum of two hundred dollars, paid by + him to Mr. Garrison, and fifty dollars more given by himself to Mr. Nell, + on his departure from England. Not a farthing could we get of him; and in + short, as far as the monied interest of the colony was concerned, his + mission proved an entire failure. How much good the reverend gentleman may + have done in spreading anti-slavery truth, during his stay in Europe, is + not for me to say. The English, at that time held slaves; and report + speaks well of his labors and endeavors to open the eyes of that nation to + the sin of slavery and the injustice of the colonization scheme. It is + said that he continually addressed crowded and deeply interested + audiences, and that many after hearing him, firmly resolved to exert + themselves, until every chain was broken and every bondman freed beneath + the waving banner of the British Lion. Perhaps his arduous labors assisted + in freeing the West India islands of the hateful curse of Slavery; if so, + we shall not so much, regret the losses and severe trials, it was ours to + bear at that time. + </p> + <p> + The indignant and disappointed colonists, however, took no such view of + his mission; and knowing as they did, that he had paid not a cent of cash + into the treasury, nor liquidated one debt incurred on his account, they + became excited well nigh to fury,—so much so, that at one time we + found it nearly impossible to restrain them from having recourse to Lynch + law. They thought that the reverend gentleman must have large sums of + money at his command somewhere—judging from his appearance and mode + of living, and that a little wholesome punishment administered to his + reverence, by grave Judge Lynch, enthroned upon a "cotton bale," might + possibly bring him to terms, and induce him to disgorge some of his + ill-gotten wealth, which he so freely lavished upon himself, and was + withholding from those to whose wants it had been kindly contributed. + </p> + <p> + Just, as was their dissatisfaction, I was satisfied by the examination of + his accounts, that he had spent nearly all of the money collected for us; + his expenses had been considerable; beside, he had fallen in love, during + his stay in England, with a white woman, and I suppose it must have + required both time and money to woo and win so fine and fair an English + lady, said also to possess quite a little sum of money, that is, several + thousand dollars, all of which our poor, little suffering colony must pay + for,—the reverend gentleman's statement to the contrary + notwithstanding. + </p> + <p> + We succeeded at last, after a tedious effort, in satisfying the minds of + the settlers to the extent, that a violent outbreak was no longer to be + feared or dreaded. When all was quiet in the colony, I ventured to make my + first call on the wife of N. Paul, who was then stopping with the widow of + the late Rev. B. Paul, residing some three miles from us. + </p> + <p> + The houses of the colonists were generally built of logs, hewn on both + sides, the spaces chinked with mortar, and the roof constructed of boards. + The lower part was generally left in one large room, and when another + apartment was desired, it was made by drawing a curtain across it. When we + arrived at the residence of Mrs. Paul, we were immediately ushered into + the presence of Mrs. Nathaniel Paul, whom we found in an inner apartment, + made by drawn curtains, carpeted in an expensive style, where she was + seated like a queen in state,—with a veil floating from her head to + the floor; a gold chain encircling her neck, and attached to a gold watch + in her girdle; her fingers and person sparkling with costly jewelry. Her + manners were stiff and formal nor was she handsome, but a tolerably fair + looking woman, of about thirty years of age: and this was the wife of our + agent for the poor Wilberforce colony! + </p> + <p> + N. Paul had now settled his business with the colonists, and being about + to leave for the States, we appealed to his honor as a man and a + Christian, to call at Rochester and pay the seven hundred dollar bank + debt, for which he was justly and legally holden, and relieve honorably, + those kind gentlemen who had raised the money for him. He well knew the + condition of our friend E. Peck, and that the names of some of our colored + friends were also attached to the note; all of whom were relying + implicitly on his or our honor to pay the obligation. That we had no funds + in the treasury he was well aware; also, that all were deeply concerned + about that debt. All this he knew; and in answer to our earnest and + repeated injunction, he promised most faithfully and solemnly that he + would call at Rochester, and take up the note. On those conditions he was + allowed to leave the colony, and when parting with me, no more to meet in + this life, his last assurance was, that he would cancel that obligation. + What then could we think of his word, when we learned soon after that he + passed Rochester, without calling, direct to Albany; nor did he ever + return, or make any explanation of his conduct; nor give any reason why + his promise was not redeemed and the money paid. + </p> + <p> + He preached in Albany until his health failed, then he was obliged to live + the best way he could, and at last to depend on charity. + </p> + <p> + His disease was dropsy, from which he suffered deeply, being unable to lie + down for some time previous to his death. I have been told that his + domestic life was far from a peaceable or happy one, and that in poverty, + sorrow and affliction, he lingered on a long time, till death at last + closed the scene. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0031" id="link2HCH0031"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXI. — MY FAMILY RETURN TO ROCHESTER. + </h2> + <p> + I was now seriously meditating a return to Rochester. My purpose in going + to Canada, has already been made known to the reader, as well as some of + the disappointments I met, and some of the trials and difficulties I had + to encounter. + </p> + <p> + Now, after laboring, and suffering persecution for about five years, my + way was comparatively clear; still I wished to leave the Province and + return to the States, in which prospect my family greatly rejoiced. + Doubtless most persons in the position I then occupied, would have chosen + to remain; but for several reasons, I did not. + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding I had been during my youth, a poor, friendless, and + illiterate slave, I had, through the mercy of God and the kindness of + friends, not only obtained my freedom, but I had by the industry and + perseverance of a few years, acquired a tolerable English education, + established a profitable business, built for myself a good and extensive + business reputation, and had laid the foundation for increasing wealth and + entire independence. + </p> + <p> + Indeed, so far as a competency is concerned, I possessed that when I left + Rochester. My house and land was paid for; my store also, and the goods it + contained were free from debt; beside, I had several hundred dollars in + the bank for future use,—nor do I boast, when I say that the comfort + and happiness of myself and family, required no further exertion on my + part to better our worldly condition. We were living in one of the best + countries on the earth, surrounded by friends,—good and intelligent + society, and some of the noblest specimens of Christian philanthropy in + the world. My wife and children, had not only been accustomed to the + comforts, if not the luxuries of life, but also to associate with persons + of refinement and cultivation; and although they had willingly accompanied + me to Canada, where they had experienced little less than care, labor and + sorrow, it cannot be thought very strange that they should desire to + return. We were colored people to be sure, and were too often made to feel + the weight of that cruel prejudice, which small minds with a perverted + education, know so well how to heap upon the best endeavors of our + oppressed race. Yet truth and justice to my friends, compel me to say, + that after a short acquaintance, I have usually been treated with all that + kindness and confidence, which should exist between man and man. + </p> + <p> + At my house of entertainment in Canada, it was not uncommon for gentlemen + of my former acquaintances, to stop for a friendly chat; merchants, + journeying through our settlement, after goods, would frequently call, + with their money, watches, and other valuables, carefully concealed about + their persons; but when they learned our name, and had become acquainted a + little, they would not only freely expose their wealth, but often place + all their money and valuables in my hands, for safe keeping; nor was their + confidence ever misplaced to my knowledge. + </p> + <p> + Another thing: when I went to Wilberforce, I supposed that the colonists + would purchase the whole township of Bidulph, and pay for it, which might + have been done, had they been fortunate enough to put forward better men. + Then when we had a sufficient number of inhabitants, we could have sent a + member to Parliament, one of our own race, to represent the interests of + our colony. In all this we were disappointed. The Canada Company, in their + unjust judgment of a whole people, by one dishonest man, had stopped the + sale of lands to colored persons, which of course, put an end to the + emigration of respectable and intelligent colored men to that place; nor + was there any prospect of a favorable change. Moreover, the persecutions + which gave rise to the colony, had in a great measure ceased; anti-slavery + truth was taking effect on the minds of the people, and God was raising up + many a friend for the poor slave, to plead with eloquent speech and tears, + the cause of the dumb and down-trodden. + </p> + <p> + These, with other considerations, influenced me in my decision to leave + Canada. As soon, however, as my intentions were made known, I was + importuned on all sides, by persons both in and out of the settlement, to + remain awhile longer, at least. This will be seen by a reference to the + appendix. + </p> + <p> + After due deliberation, I concluded to send my family to the States, and + remain myself, until my year should terminate, for which I had been + elected township clerk. In accordance with this determination, I made + preparation to take my family to Port Stanley, forty miles distant. But + what a contrast was there between our leaving Rochester, five years + before, and our removing from the colony! Then, we had five two-horse + wagon loads of goods and furniture, and seven in family; now, our + possessions were only a few articles, in <i>a one-horse wagon</i>, with an + addition of two members to our household! The settlers collected about us, + to take an affectionate leave of my wife and children; but tears and sobs, + prevented an utterance of more than a "God bless you," and a few like + expressions. The scene was indeed an affecting one: all the weary days of + our labor; all the trials and difficulties we had passed; all the sweet + communion we had enjoyed in our religious and social meetings; all the + acts of neighborly kindness, seemed now to be indelibly impressed on every + memory, and we felt that a mutual regard and friendship had bound us + closer to each other, in the endearing bonds of Christian brotherhood— + bonds not to be broken by the adverse scenes incident to frail human life. + </p> + <p> + Arrived at Port Stanley, we were kindly entertained by a Mr. White, a + fugitive slave from Virginia, who owned a snug little farm on the bank of + Kettle Creek, and who appeared to be in a good and prosperous condition. + Being detained there, waiting for a boat, on which I was anxious to see my + family comfortably situated before I left them, I was aroused at an early + hour on the second morning of our stay, by a loud rapping at the door; and + hearing myself inquired for, I dressed myself immediately, and followed + Mr. White into the sitting room, where I saw two strange men, armed with + bludgeons! I soon learned, however, that one of them was the + under-sheriff, who had come to arrest me for a debt of about forty + dollars, and the other armed man had come to assist him, I assured them I + was ready to accompany them back to London, which I was obliged to do, a + prisoner, leaving my family among comparative strangers. The debt had + become due to a man who had worked for us in the building of a saw-mill. I + arranged the matter without going to jail, but before I could return to + Port Stanley, my family, kindly assisted by Mr. White, had departed for + Buffalo. The weather was cold and the lake very rough, but they safely + arrived in Rochester, after a journey of three days. During their passage + up the lake my oldest daughter took a severe cold, from which she never + recovered. + </p> + <p> + I returned to the colony to attend to the duties of my office, and to + close my business with the colony, preparatory to joining my family, who + were now settled in Rochester, but in very different circumstances from + those in which they had left it. I had deposited quite a sum of money in + the Rochester Bank; but our continual expenditures at Wilberforce, in my + journeyings for the benefit of the colony, and in the transacting of + business pertaining to its interests, had left not one dollar for the + support of my family, or to give me another start in business. + Nevertheless, I felt willing to submit the case to Him who had known the + purity of my intentions, and who had hitherto "led me through scenes dark + and drear," believing he would not forsake me now, in this time of need. + </p> + <p> + Consoling myself with these reflections, I renewed my endeavors to do my + best, leaving the event with my God. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0032" id="link2HCH0032"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXII. — THE LAND AGENT AND THE SQUATTER. + </h2> + <p> + I have named, I believe, that all the colored people, who purchased lands + of Lewis, could get no deed nor any remuneration for their improvements. + This they thought hard and unfair. Some had built a house and barn, + cleared land, &c.; but when they wished to pay for their farms, they + could get no deed, and were obliged to lose all their labor. + </p> + <p> + This raised such a general complaint against the land agents, that they + finally agreed to pay the squatters for their improvements, if they would + leave their farms. An opportunity was soon offered to test their sincerity + in this agreement. A shrewd fellow, who had been many years a sailor, + named William Smith, had made valuable improvements on land, for which he + could get no deed, and then he wished to leave it. His wife, also, died + about this time, leaving him with eight children, which determined him to + leave the colony, and after providing homes for his children, to return to + his former occupation on the high seas; but he also determined not to + leave without receiving the pay which the agents had agreed to give for + his improvements. + </p> + <p> + "Oh yes," said they, in answer to his repeated solicitations, "you shall + be paid, certainly, certainly; you shall be paid every farthing." But when + the appointed day came for the pompous land agents to ride through the + settlement, you might see Smith station himself at first one and then + another conspicuous place on the road, hoping they would have the + magnanimity to stop and pay him, especially, as he had informed them of + his destitute and almost desperate condition, with eight young children to + maintain, and no means to do so, after giving up to them the farm. Before + them as usual rode their body servant, of whom Smith would inquire at what + hour the agents might be expected. And most blandly would he be informed + of some particular hour, when perhaps, within the next ten minutes, the + lordly agent would fly past him, on their foaming steeds, with the speed + of a "lightning train." This course they repeated again and again. One + day, when all of the land agents rode through the settlement in this + manner, Smith followed them on foot over fifty miles. He at last + intercepted them, and they promised with the coolest indifference, that on + a certain day, not far distant, they would certainly pay him all he + claimed, if he would meet them at a certain hotel in London. To this he + agreed; and the poor fellow returned to the colony almost exhausted. + </p> + <p> + His funds were nearly all spent, and he wished to take his children to New + York; yet his only hope was in the integrity and honor of the land agents. + </p> + <p> + On the day appointed, he was at London long before the hour to meet, had + arrived. He entered the village with a determined air, and saw the agents + just riding up to a hotel,—but not the one they had told him to call + at. He, however, waited for no invitation, but entered the hotel and + inquired of the servant for his master. He said his master was not there! + </p> + <p> + "I know he is," said Smith, "and I want to see him." + </p> + <p> + The servant withdrew, but soon returned to say that his master was engaged + and could not see him that day. Smith followed the servant into the hall, + calling out to him in the most boisterous manner, demanding to be told the + reason <i>why</i> he could not see his master. The noise which Smith + purposely made, soon brought into the hall one of the agents, a Mr. + Longworth, a short, fat man,—weighing in the neighborhood of three + hundred pounds! When he saw Smith, he strutted about, assuring him that + this disgraceful uproar was quite uncalled for, and finally putting on a + severe look, told him that he could not have anything for his + improvements; of course not,— he really could not expect; certainly + not, &c. Smith plainly assured the agent that his "blarney" would + avail him nothing; he had come by their own appointment to get his pay, + and that he certainly should <i>have</i>—if not in the way they + themselves agreed upon, he would choose his own method of getting it! Thus + saying, he stepped back, threw down his woolly head, and goat fashion, let + drive into the fat Englishman's "bread basket!" He sprawled about and soon + recovered his standing, but continued to scream and halloo with rage and + mortification, more than with pain, until he had brought to the spot + landlord, boarders, and servants, to witness the affray; but Smith, + nothing daunted, administered two or three more effectual butts with his + hard head into the lordly agent, when the subdued and now silent English + gentleman, drew from his pocket book, and carefully counted out, every + dollar Smith had at first demanded. Smith accepted it pleasantly, thanked + him and withdrew, amid the shouts and jeers of the spectators, which the + agent was more willing to avoid than he. That was the way the land agent + paid the squatter. + </p> + <p> + It seemed, however, a little too bad, to make a fine English gentleman, + feel as "flat" as Longworth appeared to feel; yet it was undoubtedly the + only method by which Smith could recover a farthing. The agents, it was + supposed, did not design to pay for any improvements; indeed, some very + hard and unjust incidents occurred in connection with, that matter, and + probably Smith was about the only one, who ever received the full value of + his claim. + </p> + <p> + There was committed about this time, a most shocking murder, in the London + district. A farmer who had a respectable family, consisting of a wife and + several children, became so addicted to the use of spirituous liquors, + that he neglected both his family and farm so much, that his friends felt + called upon to request the distiller, who was his near neighbor, to + furnish him with no more intoxicating drink. This, so exasperated the + poor, ruined and besotted wretch, that he raved like a madman—such + as he undoubtedly was—crazed and infuriated, by the contents of the + poisoned cup of liquid damnation, held to his lips by a neighboring + distiller; a fellow-being, who for the consideration of a few shillings, + could see his neighbor made a brute and his family left in destitution and + sorrow. Perhaps, however, he did not anticipate a termination so fearful; + yet that is but a poor excuse for one who lives by the sale of rum. When a + rumseller gives that to a man, which he knows will "steal away his + brains," and make him a maniac, how can he anticipate his future conduct? + And who is responsible? Ah, who? + </p> + <p> + When Severin found he could get no more intoxicating beverage, he in his + demoniacal rage, conceived the idea of despatching his whole family, and + set about his purpose by first snatching the young babe and casting it + into the fire! When the poor wife and mother came shrieking to the rescue + of her darling infant, he with one furious blow, laid her a bleeding + corpse at his feet! Two other young children he next murdered, and left + them mingling their blood with that of their mother's, while he ran + furiously after the two older ones, who were endeavoring to escape to a + neighbor's for assistance; and overtaking, killed them both! When the + miserable wretch had completed his hellish design, he started for his + nearest neighbor, named Smith, and told him that there was a black and a + white man at his house, murdering his family, requesting him to go to + their assistance. Mrs. Smith, believing that Severin designed to murder + her husband, insisted on his calling his young men to assist him, which he + did; and on arriving at the scene of slaughter, a most horrid spectacle + was before them: five dead bodies weltering in blood, aside from that of + the innocent babe, whose little form lay roasted and charred, on the fatal + and bloody hearthstone of the drunkard! Victims all, of an intoxicated + husband and father! When the guilty man saw the mangled remains of his + household, he only increased his depravity by trying to make others + responsible for the wicked deed,—exclaiming in feigned anguish, "my + dear wife! my poor children! I was afraid they would murder you! Oh, my + lost family!" &c. Community was soon alarmed; Severin, arrested, + tried, convicted, and sentenced to suffer the extreme penalty of the law. + </p> + <p> + It is sufficient for us to say, that the evidence was clear and + conclusive, that he was the only murderer of his family; nor was it + doubted that Mrs. Smith's suspicion was correct; yet, with all the array + of positive testimony brought against him, he denied the commission of the + crime to the last moment of his life! When brought out for execution, he + was placed under the gallows, and the rope with its fatal noose adjusted + around his neck, when one of the attorneys arose, and with great + solemnity, addressed him, in the most impressive manner: "We have done," + said he, "all in our power to save your life; but you are justly + condemned, and in a few minutes more, will enter the presence of the + All-seeing eye of Jehovah; now let me beseech you, in the name of God, to + tell the truth, before you die." Severin declared himself innocent of the + crime, for which he was about to suffer; but was consoled, he said, with + the belief that he should, in a few short moments, meet in blissful + re-union his dear, murdered wife and children in heaven, to part no more! + </p> + <p> + Prayers were read; and during the reading of the Lord's prayer, at the + words "Thy will be done," the hardened wretch was launched into eternity. + </p> + <p> + No room was left to doubt the fact, that Severin with his own hand + destroyed the life of his unhappy and abused wife, and also that of his + helpless family. Yet in one sense, may we say with the murderer, it was + not he who committed the awful and inhuman deed, but boldly and truthfully + charge it to man's bitterest foe—Rum! What but the maddening effects + of spirituous liquors, could so demoralize, so demonize a man, as to + convert the once loving husband and proud father, into a reckless fiend, a + heartless savage? Oh, Rum! earth contains not another so fell a foe! + </p> + <p> + Should any who may read these humble pages, find an effectual warning in + the unhappy end of Severin, one which shall induce them to pause in their + course, or at once and forever abandon the use of alcoholic drinks, I + shall gratefully feel that I have not written this incident in vain. + </p> + <p> + Before I left Wilberforce, the Rev. S.E. Cornish, made a visit, and + preached the Word of Life to the colony, greatly to the satisfaction and + comfort of the settlers. After distributing liberally of his abundance, to + his poor brethren, he departed for the States, attended by the prayers and + blessings of the Wilberforce colonists. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0033" id="link2HCH0033"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIII. — CHARACTER AND DEATH OF I. LEWIS. + </h2> + <p> + I have spoken in the preceding chapter, of a visit from the Rev. S.E. + Cornish, to the colony. He had previously written me, concerning the + object of his proposed visit, which was to obtain the depositions of the + board of managers, relative to all the money received through their agents + for the colony. He was sent to Canada then, and once afterwards, for and + at the expense of A. Tappan, on business pertaining to the law-suit + instituted by I. Lewis against that gentleman, for defamation of + character. The depositions taken in the colony, with the expense of twice + sending an agent to Canada, must have made a round sum for that kind + gentleman to pay, merely for telling a truth already known! + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cornish had also been informed of my intention to leave the colony, + and that my family were already gone. He, knowing something concerning the + state of things, urged me to remain at least, until his arrival, as will + be seen by a reference to his letter in the appendix. + </p> + <p> + As I look back on those scenes of labor and trial, I find cause for deep + humiliation and gratitude to God, for His goodness and gracious + protection, over my frail life, through unseen dangers of various kinds, + and for his continued favors and unmerited blessings. Many of my fellow + men have fallen in death's cold embrace since that time, while my health + and life has been mercifully preserved. + </p> + <p> + Three of the leading characters of the Wilberforce colony are now dead. + Rev. Benjamin Paul, lies in the silent grave-yard in Wilberforce, C.W. His + brother, Rev. Nathaniel Paul, also sleeps the dreamless sleep of death, + and his dust rests in the beautiful cemetery in Albany, N.Y. + </p> + <p> + Israel Lewis has also finished his earthly career after robbing the poor + of their just dues, and persecuting those who endeavored to defend them; + after living in extravagance—"faring sumptuously every day,"—he + became reduced in circumstances; despised and dishonored, his proud spirit + was at last broken. His health gave way; when at length, unattended and + alone, he found his way to a hospital in Montreal, where he soon after + died, leaving not enough of all his gains to afford him a decent burial! + </p> + <p> + Oh, what a reward "for all his labor under the sun!" His fame, his wealth, + and his law-suits, all have perished with his memory. Poor man! + </p> + <p> + Israel Lewis was born a slave, raised on a Southern plantation, and + subjected to all the cruelties and deprivations of a bondman. His natural + abilities were above mediocrity, but having never had the advantages of an + education, or the privileges of a society calculated to cultivate and + refine his natural aspiring intellect, and to direct his indomitable will + in the acquirement of the more imperishable graces of the human heart, he + had come to manhood with a determined, selfish disposition, to accomplish + whatever gratified his vanity or administered to the wants of his animal + nature. + </p> + <p> + And may we not, with propriety here inquire, whether our common Father, + who has declared himself to be "no respecter of persons," has endowed men + with enlarged capacities for the attainment of that knowledge and wisdom, + so requisite to the elevation of character,—for the express purpose + of seeing them made beasts of burden, and their superior faculties + prostituted by the sensuality imposed by Slavery, and to be sold as + chattels, with impunity? I tell you, nay. The day when Almighty God will + avenge the work of his own hands, hasteth greatly! Were it not so, we + might rejoice in the ignorance of the poor slaves, and pray that none of + them may ever be endowed with a superior intellect to that of the brutes + they are made to resemble. Then would the proud spirit no longer chafe, + and manhood writhe in the unbroken chain; but, like the ox to the yoke or + the horse to the harness, they might submit, without a conscious violation + of their dearest and God given rights. But we were speaking of Israel + Lewis. + </p> + <p> + A natural energy and strength of character, he had inherited; a malicious, + selfish, and consequently a deceptive disposition, his life as a slave had + undoubtedly bestowed upon him. Intellect must have scope, and when nothing + is left within its grasp but vice, can we wonder that the slave possessing + the most talent, should generally prove the greatest villain. + </p> + <p> + Uneducated as was Lewis, his quick perception, his ungoverned passions, + and his native independence, not only made him a dangerous slave, but an + unfaithful and overbearing companion. He, however, took a wife—a + slave like himself,—whose devotedness and good sense, cannot be made + manifest, more than in her willingness to leave all that was dear to her + on earth, and flee from their birth-place, she knew not whither; but + confiding in the professed love and protection of her husband, she + cheerfully followed him to the dense forest, in search of that freedom, + denied them in their native country,—submitting herself gladly to + all the hardships and fearful anxieties of a fugitive slave. What to her + were horsemen, armed with dirk and rifle! What though the trained and + inhuman blood-hound bayed upon their track! Was not he who had sworn a + life-long allegiance to her by her side! Should he be killed or retaken, + what could she desire, but to be his companion still! Slavery even, bitter + as was the cup, might contain for her <i>one sweet drop</i>, while + connubial love lighted up their rude cabin, and sweetened their daily + toil; but the additional anticipation of LIBERTY, to their domestic + happiness—oh blessed hope! How it quickened their weary footsteps, + and, with fixed eyes upon the star of the North, they pressed forward + through every difficulty, until they finally reached Cincinnati, O. There + they lived quietly, and with others, suffered the terrors of the mob, + where also he was chosen agent, to seek a more safe and quiet home for his + afflicted and outcast countrymen. The office was accepted, and Lewis + became the founder of the Wilberforce colony. + </p> + <p> + The personal appearance of Israel Lewis was prepossessing; his manner and + address easy and commanding. To those unacquainted with his private life, + his ungoverned passions, and his unprincipled, revengeful disposition, he + could appear the gentleman, the philanthropist, and the Christian. + </p> + <p> + His education was limited; yet he had managed to gather a sufficient + knowledge of the sciences to enable him to read and write, together with + quite a fund of general information; and then his shrewdness and tact + accomplished all the rest. To strangers he could appear a ripe scholar, if + left unquestioned. He was a good speaker, and once spake with eloquence + and marked effect before the Legislature, assembled in the Senate Chamber, + at Albany, N.Y. + </p> + <p> + Had the childhood of Mr. Lewis been passed under more favorable auspices; + had his intellectual faculties been so cultivated as to predominate over + his animal propensities, and his towering aspirations directed toward the + accomplishment of acts, lofty in their benevolence, noble in their + sacrifice, high in their honorable purpose, and great in their purity; I + can but believe that his powerful intellect would have achieved the fame + of a Lundy, or would have bequeathed to his brethren a memory like that of + a Clarkson. Instead, we have found him devoting his energies to the + gratification of his avarice, pride, and ambition—characteristics + directly opposed to the deportment of the humble Christian, and such as + our Heavenly Father has never promised to prosper. How truly has "the wise + man" said, "He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that + hateth gifts shall live." How strikingly has this passage been verified in + the course of Lewis! For a few paltry sums of gain, could he consent, not + alone to rob the poor, for whom it was kindly given as unto the Lord, but + to turn scornfully away from that poor, illiterate, and humble slave wife, + whom he had, in their mutual adversity, vowed to cherish in <i>prosperity</i> + as well as in all other circumstances through life. That wife, who had + borne with him the sorrows of Slavery—the humble choice of a + bondman! She, who fled with him anticipating additional happiness in a + life of freedom! Poor woman! Disappointment is of an earthly growth, yet + God is merciful; notwithstanding we have the same authority as above, for + saying that "Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the + Lord: though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished." + </p> + <p> + In the hands of a righteous Judge we leave him, who, for the wealth that + perisheth,—who, for worldly honor and selfish gratification, could + barter his honesty and integrity, as "Esau, who sold his birth-right for a + mess of pottage." + </p> + <p> + To me the lesson is an impressive one, and I am thinking it would be well + for us all to examine the foundation on which we stand. If based upon the + solid and broad foundation of christianity, doing to others in all things + as we would they should do to us, sacrificing on all occasions our own + ease, and worldly honor, for the benefit of our fellow-men, and the good + of our country, then indeed, we need fear no evil; if the winds of + adversity howl about our dwelling, we shall find it will stand, being + founded on a ROCK. But if we build upon "the sands" of fame or + self-aggrandizement, and, like the towering oak, lift our insignificant + heads in proud defiance of the coming storm, we may expect that our + superstruction will fall! "And great will be the fall of it!" + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0034" id="link2HCH0034"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIV. — MY RETURN TO ROCHESTER. + </h2> + <p> + Having closed my business in Wilberforce, I prepared to leave on the + expiration of my term of office as township clerk, which was now near at + hand. Notwithstanding, I ever felt a sensation of relief and pleasure, + when I thought of returning to my old home and friends in the States, yet + as often as I look abroad over the settlement and remember all my glowing + hopes,—all my delightful anticipations of a prosperous future for + those poor, struggling colonists; when I recollected with what zeal and + honest purpose, with what sincerity and sacrifice I had prosecuted my + labor among them,—a dark shadow of disappointment would flit across + my mind, however welcome it might be. That I had firm and tried friends in + the colony, I had never the least reason to doubt, not to suppose their + number less after a five years residence with them; but our expectations + had not been realized. Our hope of settling a township, to be represented + in Parliament by one of our own people, was now forever blasted. I + remembered too, that many of the colonists had been unjustly incited + against my course; but in the retrospect my heart did not condemn me. + Errors many, no doubt I had committed; but I was grateful, when reviewing + the whole ground, for a conscience void of offence toward God and man; and + I finally took my leave of all, craving the choicest blessings of Heaven + to rest upon that infant colony and its interests. + </p> + <p> + On the nineteenth day of January, 1837, I left Wilberforce, passing + through Brantford, Hamilton, Queenston, Lewiston, and from thence to + Rochester. During my journey, I could not avoid feeling sad and + despondent, as my mind incessantly returned to the review of my mission, + upon which I could look with no other decision than that of an entire + failure. I had spent my time, wasted my substance for naught, and was now + returning to my dependant family,—that, with myself, had been + stripped of nearly every means of comfort and support. + </p> + <p> + What would my Rochester friends think of my conduct? Notwithstanding all + my despondency and evil foreboding at that time, I am now well satisfied + that my labor was not all in vain, but that some good did result from it. + </p> + <p> + As I drew near the city, a gloom like thick darkness overshadowed me: I + thought of the unfavorable transactions which had occurred between the + directors of the colony and my friends in Rochester, and fell to wondering + how they would receive me. + </p> + <p> + On the twenty-third of January, 1837, I finally re-entered the city + penniless; but as I soon found, not so friendless as my fears would have + it. Among, the first to welcome me back to my old home, was that friend of + "blessed memory," Everard Peck, who had been apprised of some of the + losses I had met and the trials I had passed through. This gentleman was + also one of the first to propose to be one of five men, who should loan me + one hundred dollars each, for five years. Through the disinterested + kindness of this worthy gentleman, I was in a few days after my arrival, + well established in a store of provisions and groceries. The five kind + gentlemen, to whom I was so deeply indebted for the loan, were: Everard + Peck, George A. Avery, Samuel D. Porter, Levi W. Sibley, and Griffith, + Brother & Co. + </p> + <p> + This noble act of generosity and kindness, on the part of my friends, to + furnish me with the means to commence business, especially when their + prospect was anything but flattering, regarding my ever being able to + refund their well-timed and gracious liberality,—affected me more + deeply than all the censure and persecution I had elsewhere received. + Their frown and displeasure, I was better prepared to meet than this + considerate act of Christian sympathy, which I am not ashamed to say + melted me to tears, and I resolved to show my appreciation of their + kindness by an industry and diligence in business hitherto unsurpassed. + </p> + <p> + E. Bardwell, then a merchant on Exchange Street, next laid me under a + lasting obligation by offering to sell me goods on credit; others + proffered assistance by promising their continual patronage, which was to + me the same as cash,—and soon the store I had opened on Main Street, + was doing an extensive business. My profits were small to be sure, and I + had a heavy rent to pay for my store and dwelling, yet I was making a + comfortable living for my family, and laying by something to reimburse the + kind friends who had helped me in the time of need, when I found that the + health of my family required more of my time and assistance than ever + before. My oldest daughter, who, I have before mentioned, having taken a + violent cold on Lake Erie, was now confined to her bed. All that could be + done to save the life of a darling child—our first born—was + done; and if we sometimes went beyond our means, it was a satisfaction to + us to see her enjoy some of the comforts of life of which my mission to + Canada had deprived her. One physician after another was employed to stay + the approach of the destroyer: some said they could cure her, if paid in + advance; to all of which I cheerfully acceded, but only to see our beloved + sink lower, and patiently pine away. + </p> + <p> + No one but a parent who has watched the rapid decline of a darling child, + and marked with a bursting heart the approaching footsteps of the spoiler, + can imagine how powerless we felt at that time. The wealth of the Indias, + had we possessed it, would have been freely given, although it would have + been unavailing, to shield that loved and gentle form from pain, and we + were obliged to look hopelessly on, while our little patient, suffering + daughter sank lower and lower every day. In vain were our parental arms + outstretched for her protection; from death we could not save her. She had + long since ceased to glide about the house, and soothe with her silvery + tones all the childish fears of the little ones. Helpless she now lay, + burning with fever, and wasting from our sight, "till soft as the dew on + the twilight descending," the cold damps of death gathered on her youthful + brow. One pleasant morning after passing a restless night, I observed her + to gaze earnestly upward, and a moment after I called her name but + received no answer. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Her languishing head was at rest; + Its thinkings and achings were o'er; + Her quiet, immoveable breast, + Was heaved by affliction no more." +</pre> + <p> + On the fifteenth day of April, 1837, she sweetly fell asleep, aged eleven + years. Sorrowfully we followed her remains to Mount Hope, where we laid + her down to rest until the resurrection morning. Death had now made its + first inroad in our family circle, and since then we have laid two other + loved ones by her side. We sorrowed, but not without hope. + </p> + <p> + My business continued to prosper, and I concluded to buy a small variety + store, containing some three or four hundred dollars worth of goods on the + corner of Main and North Streets, formerly owned by Mr. Snow, but, having + two stores on my hands, I did not make much by the trade. + </p> + <p> + The first summer after I returned to Rochester, the friends of temperance + made a fine celebration, and gave me the privilege of providing the + dinner. + </p> + <p> + I considered it not only a privilege, but an honor, and felt very grateful + to the committee who conferred the favor upon me. + </p> + <p> + The celebration came off on the Fourth of July, and was indeed a splendid + affair. The multitude were addressed on the public square, by some of the + best speakers in the country. I laid in a large quantity of provisions of + every available kind, built a bower, hired waiters, and prepared seats for + five hundred to dine; but when the oration was over, and the multitude + came to the table, I found that as many more seats were wanted. We, + however, accommodated as many as we could, at one dollar each, and all + passed off well, to the great satisfaction of all concerned. + </p> + <p> + When all was over, and the friends learned that I had on hand a large + amount of cooked provision, they continued their kindness by purchasing + it, thus preventing any loss on my part. + </p> + <p> + My store on the corner of Main and North Streets, was at the head of the + market, and I was enabled to supply both of my stores with country produce + on the best possible terms. I kept two clerks at each store, and all + seemed prosperous for a time, when from some cause, which I could never + understand, my business began to fail. My family had ever lived prudently, + and I knew that was not the cause. I thought to better my circumstances by + taking a store in the Rochester House, but that proved to be a bad stand + for my business, and after one year, I removed to Buffalo Street, opposite + the Court House. I ought to say, that as soon as I found that my income + was getting less than my expenses, I went to the gentlemen who had loaned + me the five hundred dollars, and showed them the true state of my affairs, + and they kindly agreed to take fifty per cent., which I paid them. + </p> + <p> + After locating on Buffalo Street, I took in a partner, named John Lee, a + young man, active and industrious, who paid into the firm three hundred + dollars, with which we bought goods. With what I had on hand, this raised + the joint stock to about a thousand dollars, on which we were making + frequent additions, and on which we had an insurance of six hundred + dollars. Our business was now more prosperous than at any previous time, + and we began to look up with hope and confidence in our final success. One + night I returned to my home as usual, leaving Lee in the store. About + twelve o'clock, Mr. Morris awoke me with a few loud raps, and the + announcement that my store was on fire and a part of my goods in the + street! I hastened to the place, where I found, as he had said, what was + saved from the fire piled up in the street and the fire extinguished. The + building was greatly damaged and the goods they rescued were nearly + ruined. Now we were thrown out of business, and the firm was dissolved. + With the assistance of W.S. Bishop, a lawyer, we made out the amount of + damage, which was readily paid by the agent for the insurance company. + </p> + <p> + When the Fourth of July came round again, the temperance men resolved on + having another demonstration, and as before, I was requested to supply the + dinner, which I did, after the same manner as the year previous. + </p> + <p> + Having been thrown out of business by the fire, I began to examine my + pecuniary matters, and found that I was some three or four hundred dollars + in debt, which I had no means of paying. True, I had met with a great + misfortune, but I felt that to be an honest man I must meet all + obligations, whether legally bound to do so or not; yet it was beyond my + power at that time, and I finally concluded to leave the city, and try to + better my condition by some other business, or at least to clear myself + from debt. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0035" id="link2HCH0035"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXV. — BISHOP BROWN—DEATH OF MY DAUGHTER. + </h2> + <p> + I removed with my family to the village of Canandaigua, where I commenced + teaching a school for colored children, assisted by my daughter. The + school was sustained partly by the liberality of the citizens of the + village, and partly by donations from abroad. It was continued two years, + and the children made rapid progress while they were under our tuition. + </p> + <p> + Soon after I left Rochester, I visited New York city, and while there, I + joined "The African Methodist Episcopal Conference." Bishop Brown, of + Philadelphia, presided over the deliberations of that body, and appeared + to be a man of deep piety, as well as apt in business, and was a native of + one of the Carolinas. I found a pleasing acquaintance also, with Bishop + Walters of Baltimore, Md. He was small in stature; but a powerful speaker, + and discharged every duty with "an eye single to the glory of God." He has + now gone to give an account of his stewardship, and I pray that "his + mantle may fall" upon one as capable of leading our people as he. The + conference consisted of some sixty or seventy ministers of the gospel, + with these two Bishops at their head. The conference continued its session + ten days. When it was closed, Bishop Brown, with several others, started + on a visit to the West. They called at Rochester, and then passed over to + Canada, where a conference was to be holden. We arrived, after a pleasant + journey, at Hamilton, where the English government have a regiment of + black soldiers stationed. It was common, in passing through the streets of + Hamilton, to meet every few rods, a colored man in uniform, with a sword + at his side, marching about in all the military pomp allowed only to white + men in this <i>free republic</i>. + </p> + <p> + All being in readiness, Bishop Brown opened the conference under the + authority of Her Britannic Majesty, with great solemnity, which seemed to + be felt by the whole assembly. This meeting appeared to me far more + interesting than the one we had attended in New York city. The colored + people were much more numerous in Hamilton, and in far better + circumstances than in New York. It is a hard case to be poor in any large + city, but to be both poor and black, as was the condition of the majority + of our friends in New York, was indeed a terrible calamity. Every class, + no matter how worthless they might be, would be allowed to rent a house in + preference to a colored man. The consequence was, our people were crowded + back into the most unhealthy alleys, in old dilapidated tenements unfit + for human beings to dwell in, and such as could not be disposed of to any + other class of people. I am happy to say, however, that a favorable change + has taken place in New York, since the time of which I am speaking. + Capitalists have noted the good reputation of the colored people as + tenants, and have of late erected good dwellings for their accommodation. + In Hamilton there was none of that wretchedness and squalid poverty, nor + any of that drunken rowdyism so common in Eastern cities, perceivable + among the colored people. + </p> + <p> + Our conference was largely attended by all classes, both black and white, + —many of the latter invited the Bishop with his associates to their + dwellings to dine, indeed we seldom took a meal at our lodgings, so + constantly were we solicited by friends to accompany them home. + </p> + <p> + We also found many fugitive slaves in that city, many of whom were + intelligent mechanics. Some of them took us about the place, showing us + the different buildings they were engaged in erecting; quite a number were + employed in building a church which appeared to be done in a workman-like + manner. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime our meeting was progressing in a very interesting manner, + and when the closing services were commenced, the house was filled to + overflowing; still many could not be accommodated. The preaching was + solemn and impressive, and it really seemed to me that the glory of God + filled the house in which we worshipped; saints rejoiced and shouted + "glory to God, in the highest," while sinners trembled and cried out, + "what must we do to be saved from the wrath to come." There were several + hopeful conversions during the session of conference; and after its close + we spent one day in making social calls, and viewing the city and its + surroundings. + </p> + <p> + Burlington Bay makes an excellent harbor for shipping, while Burlington + Heights loom up on the north in all their wild and terrific grandeur. Near + the bay resides Mr. McNab, so notorious in the history of the Canadian + revolution. We went in a large company to look at his beautiful grounds + and residence, over which we were politely conducted by his amiable lady. + </p> + <p> + It was indeed a lordly mansion, with its surroundings laid out in the + English style of princely magnificence. + </p> + <p> + On our return to the city at evening, we were invited to attend a grand + soiree, got up in honor of the Bishop's first visit to that place. Several + families of colored people combined to provide the splendid entertainment, + while one lady presided at the board. She was very beautiful and very + dark; but a complete model of grace and elegance, conversing with perfect + ease and intelligence with all, both black and white ministers, who + surrounded the festive board, as well as our Irish friends, not a few of + whom were present. One honest son of the Emerald Isle entered, and not + understanding the matter, inquired of his brother "Pat," in rather a loud + whisper, "What's all them nagurs setting to that table for?" He, however, + soon satisfied himself, and all passed off quietly and in excellent order. + At a late hour the company, after a benediction, withdrew and dispersed. + </p> + <p> + We left Hamilton the following morning, feeling grateful and pleased with + our meeting and visit. + </p> + <p> + It was a beautiful morning; the lake was still, no sound was heard but the + rushing waves, as our boat moved on through its placid waters, toward our + destination, then called Fort George, now Niagara, where we took stage for + the Falls. + </p> + <p> + At that place of resort, we stopped to view the stupendous work of + Almighty God, and listen to the ceaseless thundering of the cataract. How + tame appear the works of art, and how insignificant the bearing of proud, + puny man, compared with the awful grandeur of that natural curiosity. Yet + there, the rich from all parts of the world, do congregate! There you will + find the idle, swaggering slaveholder, blustering about in lordly style; + boasting of his wealth; betting and gambling; ready to fight, if his + slightest wish is not granted, and lavishing his cash on all who have the + least claim upon him. Ah, well can he afford to be liberal,—well can + he afford to spend thousands yearly at our Northern watering places; he + has plenty of human chattels at home, toiling year after year for his + benefit. The little hoe-cake he gives them, takes but a mill of the wealth + with which they fill his purse; and should his extravagance lighten it + somewhat, he has only to order his brutal overseer to sell—soul and + body —some poor creature; perchance a husband, or a wife, or a + child, and forward to him the proceeds of the sale. While the wretched + slave marches South with a gang, under the lash, he lavishes his funds in + extravagant living,—funds gathered from the tears and blood of a + helpless human being. Have you, dear reader, ever watched the slaveholder + at such places as I have, gliding through the shady groves, or riding in + his splendid carriage, dressed in the richest attire, and with no wish + ungratified that gold can purchase; and have you ever been guilty of + envying him, or of wishing yourself in his condition? If so, think of the + curse which rests on him who grinds the face of the poor. Think of his + doom in the day of final retribution, when he shall receive at the bar of + a righteous Judge, "according to the deeds done in the body," and not + according to his wealth and power. Think you, that the prayers, cries, and + pleadings of the down-trodden slave that for years have been ascending to + the throne of a just God, will never be avenged? Yea, verily, the day of + reckoning hastens on apace, and though, "He bear long with them; He will + surely avenge them of their adversaries; and that speedily!" + </p> + <p> + As we pursued our journey to Buffalo, we passed Grand Island, from whence + Mordecai Emanuel Noah, some years ago issued a proclamation, calling on + the Jews to come and build on that island the "City of Refuge," but which + I believe was not responded to, as I saw it remained in its native + wildness. He had also a monument erected there at the time, which might be + seen from the highway and canal, consisting of a white marble slab, six + feet in height, with a suitable inscription upon it, to direct the poor + Jew to the City of Refuge. + </p> + <p> + It was quite conspicuous, but not so magnificent as Gen. Brock's at + Queenston Heights. + </p> + <p> + Arrived at Buffalo, we held several meetings which were very interesting. + The colored people were then numerous in that city, and owned one of the + largest churches in Western New York. We found a large and prosperous + society under the superintendence of Elder Weir, who was a good and + talented man, setting a godly example for his flock to imitate. At Buffalo + I parted with my pleasant and instructive traveling companion, Bishop + Brown, never to meet again on the shores of time. Soon after that pleasant + journey he died, and passed from his labor to reward. + </p> + <p> + Buffalo was then, as now a great place for business. Vessels from all + parts of the country crowded the docks, and I then thought that it must in + time become one of the largest cities in the Union. After a pleasant visit + with our people there, I returned to my home in Canandaigua, where I now + began to feel quite settled. + </p> + <p> + I had been requested to act as agent for the "Anti-Slavery Standard," with + which I complied, and leaving my daughter to teach the school, I spent the + most of my time in traveling through the country to advance the interests + of that paper. + </p> + <p> + When I returned from Buffalo, she was complaining of poor health, nor was + it long before we saw that she was rapidly declining. + </p> + <p> + This beloved daughter, I had spared no pains nor money to educate and + qualify for teaching. I had encountered all the trials and difficulties + that every colored man meets, in his exertions to educate his family. I + had experienced enough to make me fear that I should not always be able to + get my children, into good schools, and therefore determined at whatever + cost, to educate this child thoroughly, that she might be able, not only + to provide for her own wants, but to teach her younger brothers and + sisters, should they be deprived of the advantages of a good school. Well + had she rewarded my labor; well had she realized all my fondest hopes and + expectations,—but alas! for human foresight and worldly wisdom! The + accomplishments and qualifications of a teacher were attained; and proudly + we looked for the achievement of our long-contemplated design. How hard to + believe that the fell destroyer was upon her track! Her education had + qualified her for teaching the sciences; but now I saw, that her faith in + the religion of the blessed Christ, was assisting her to teach her own + heart a lesson of patience, and quiet submission to the will of Him who + holds the issues of life,—and Oh, how difficult for us to learn the + solemn lesson, that her wasting form, her gradual sinking away, was hourly + setting before us. + </p> + <p> + Slowly her strength failed; she, however, saw our sorrowful anxiety, and + would try to relieve it with a cheerful appearance. One day perhaps she + would be able to walk about, which would revive our wavering hope; the + next she was prostrate and suffering; then hope died and we were sad! All + the spring time she languished; the summer came, the roses bloomed, and + the grain began to ripen, but she was wasting away. The orchard yielded + its golden harvest; the birds sang merrily on the trees, but a dark shadow + had fallen on our hearthstone, and a gloom, like the pall of death, rested + on our household. Her place at table was already vacant; no longer she + called the little ones about her to hear them repeat their tasks,—all + of which admonished us, that soon the bed where we could now see her, + would be vacated; and we should no longer witness her patient smile, and + know that she was still with us. The pastor of the Baptist church often + called to pray with, and for, the quiet sufferer, which she appreciated + very highly, for she was a Christian in every sense of the word. + </p> + <p> + On the thirtieth day of August, at about eleven o'clock, A.M., without a + struggle or a groan, her spirit returned to God who gave it. "Sweetly as + babes sleep," she sank into the embrace of death. Happily, triumphantly, + had she seen the grim messenger approach; but she knew whom she had + believed, and that He was able to keep that which she had committed to + Him, unto the resurrection of the just. + </p> + <p> + She had previously made a confession of her faith in Christ, and had been + buried with Him in baptism. A few days after her demise, a long, sad train + wound its way to the village church yard, where we deposited the remains + of our beloved,—Patience Jane Steward, in the eighteenth year of her + age; and then returned to our desolate house, to realize that she had left + a world of pain and sorrow, where the fairest rose conceals a thorn, the + sweetest cup a bitter drop, for a home where the flowers would never fade, + and where pain, sorrow and death will never come. We all felt the solemn + and impressive warning, "Be ye also ready, for in such an hour as ye think + not, the Son of Man cometh." + </p> + <p> + As often as I recalled her triumphant, peaceful death, her firm reliance + on God, and sweet submission to His will, I could not forbear contrasting + her departure with that of Mrs. Helm, whose death I have elsewhere + described; and could fervently pray, that I might live the life of the + righteous, that my last end might be like hers. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Behold the Western evening light, + It melts in deep'ning gloom; + So calmly Christians sink away, + Descending to the tomb. + + The winds breathe low, the withering leaf + Scarce whispers from the tree,— + So gently flows the parting breath, + When good folks cease to be. + + How beautiful on all the hills, + The crimson light is shed; + 'Tis like the peace the Christian gives, + To mourners round his bed. + + How mildly on the wandering cloud, + The sunset beam is cast,— + 'Tis like the mem'ry left behind, + When loved ones breathe their last. + + And now above the dews of night, + The yellow star appears; + So faith springs in the breast of those, + Whose eyes are bathed in tears. + + But soon the morning's happier light, + Its glory shall restore; + And eyelids that are sealed in death, + Shall wake to close no more." +</pre> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0036" id="link2HCH0036"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXVI. — CELEBRATION OF THE FIRST OF AUGUST. + </h2> + <p> + The anti-slavery friends in Canandaigua, had resolved to celebrate the + anniversary of the West India emancipation, in suitable manner in that + village, for which funds had been unsparingly collected, to defray the + expenses of the coming demonstration. The first of August, 1847, fell on + Sunday, and our people concluded to devote that day to religious meetings, + and the second to their proposed celebration. + </p> + <p> + Frederick Douglass and Mr. Van Loon, from Poughkeepsie, addressed the + people on the Sabbath; and also, on the same evening, a large concourse at + the Court House. The day following, there were not less than ten thousand + people assembled on the beautiful grounds, belonging to the village + Academy-attentive listeners all to the eloquent speeches delivered, and + interested spectators of the imposing exercises. + </p> + <p> + When the vast multitude had convened, the exercises were commenced by the + Rev. S.R. Ward, who addressed the throne of grace, after which, Mr. + Frederick Douglass delivered an oration, in a style of eloquence which + only Mr. Douglass himself can equal, followed by a song from the Geneva + choir, and music by Barring's band. Rev. H.H. Garnet, editor of "The + National Watchman," next spake, and with marked effect, followed by + Messrs. Ward and Douglass; after which, the assemblage formed a + procession, and marching to the Canandaigua Hotel, partook of a sumptuous + dinner, provided by the proprietor of that house. At six P.M., they again + assembled on the square, and were most eloquently addressed by both Ward + and Garnet; at the close, they repaired to the ladies' fair, where they + found everything in a condition which spake well for the enterprise and + industry of our colored sisters. Their articles for sale, were of a choice + and considerate selection, and such as sold rapidly and at fair prices. + When all was pleasantly over, the ladies contributed twenty dollars toward + paying the speakers present. + </p> + <p> + A most beautiful ode was composed by a warm and generous friend of the + cause, which was sung in the grove, in a spirit which produced a thrilling + interest. Gladly would I give the reader the whole composition, but its + length makes it objectionable for this place, but should they happen to + hear a soul-stirring and sublime ode, commencing with, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Hail! to this day returning; + Let all to Heaven aspire," &c., +</pre> + <p> + they may know it is the one to which I refer. + </p> + <p> + It was indeed, a glorious day for the colored population generally; and + many were the indications of a diminution of that prejudice so prevalent + everywhere. Some, who had supposed the colored man so inferior to + themselves as to be incapable of making an interesting speech, were + convinced of their error, after hearing Messrs. Douglass, Ward and Garnet. + Mr. Van Loon was a white clergyman, but a brother indeed; his soul + illumined by the pure light of the gospel of peace; his heart full of + sympathy for the oppressed; his tongue pleading eloquently for equal + rights; and his hands busily engaged in breaking every yoke, resting on + the necks of poor humanity. So vigorously, so zealously did he unfold the + horrors of the slave system; so truthfully and faithfully did he expose + the treachery of northern politicians, and so pathetically did he appeal + to the humanity of every professed Christian to speak out boldly for the + dumb; to shield, by the holy principles of their religion, the poor, + bound, illiterate slave, from Southern cruelty and bondage,—that + some of our aristocratic citizens, some of our white savans, repaid his + truthful eloquence, by visiting upon him the bitterest maledictions. From + the negro, said they, we will accept these statements as true,—from + him, they are pertinent and forcible; but when such unpalatable truths are + uttered by a white clergyman, we cannot abide, nor will we listen to them! + </p> + <p> + Let consistency blush, and justice hang down its head! Is not truth the + same, whether proclaimed by black or white,—bond or free? Is a + falsehood to be pardoned because uttered by a negro? If indeed, as was + admitted, the sentiments expressed by our eloquent colored speakers, were + <i>true</i>, could they be false, when enforced by our intellectual + friend, Van Loon? Certainly not; nor would the case have been so decided + by these Solons, in any other case: or where the prejudice against color + had not warped and blinded their otherwise good judgments. Our speaker, + however, performed his duty faithfully, and with great satisfaction to the + colored people and their true friends present. + </p> + <p> + The remains of this fearless champion of liberty; this humble disciple of + the despised Nazarene, now sleeps in death, beside the placid waters of + the Hudson, while his cherished memory lives in the affections of + thousands, who "are ready to perish," and is honored by the pure in heart, + wherever his name has been known throughout the land. In the day of final + reckoning, think you, he will regret having plead the cause of the + bondman? Ah, no; nor can we doubt that to him will be rendered the welcome + plaudits: "Well done, good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy + of thy Lord. Thou hast been faithful over a few things; I will make thee a + ruler over many things." What then are the few light afflictions endured + in this life, when compared with "an eternal weight of glory," awarded to + the faithful in that which is to come? + </p> + <p> + Pleasant, happy, and beneficial, as had been the reunion of old and tried + friends, to celebrate a glorious event, yet, like all earthly enjoyments, + it was brought to a termination, reluctant as were the friends to + separate. Since that day, many have been the demonstrations of grateful + joy and gladness on the glorious anniversary of the emancipation of slaves + on the West India Islands; and yet, in this boasted "land of the free, and + home of the brave;" this famous and declared <i>free</i> Republic,—the + American slave still clanks his heavy chain, and wears the galling yoke of + the bondman! + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0037" id="link2HCH0037"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXVII. — CONCLUSION. + </h2> + <p> + For several years past, anti-slavery truth has been spreading, and in + proportion as light has shone upon the "peculiar institution," exposing to + the world its crimes and blood,—enstamping upon its frontlet, "THE + SUM OF ALL VILLAINIES,"—has the wrath of the impious slaveholder + been kindled, and his arm outstretched to strengthen the chain, and press + closer the yoke upon the helpless slave, proving conclusively that he + loves darkness because his deeds are evil. Nor is this all; he and his + apologists will insolently tell you, that <i>you</i> are the guilty ones + who have tightened the bonds of the slave, increased his hardships, and + blighted his prospect of freedom, by your mistaken kindness, in showing + the slaveholder the enormity of his sin! Can this be so? Have we any + direct influence over his human chattels? None. Then who is it that rivets + the chain and increases the already heavy burden of the crushed slave, but + he who has the power to do with him as he wills? He it is, who has been + thrust, unwillingly perhaps, into sufficient light to show him his moral + corruption, and the character of the sin he is daily committing; he it is, + whose avarice and idleness induces to hold fast that which is to him a + source of wealth,— and by no means to allow the same light to fall + in upon the darkened intellect of his slave property, lest his riches + "take to themselves wings;" or, as may be more properly said, <i>take to + themselves legs and run away</i>. + </p> + <p> + What stronger proof can we ask in favor of our position, than the + intolerant spirit of the South? If the system and practice of Slavery is a + righteous one, instituted by an All-wise God, certainly no human power— + especially one so impotent and futile as the abolition power is said to be + —can ever overthrow it. Why then are the mails so closely examined, + and fines imposed on prohibited anti-slavery documents? Is it beyond their + power to confute the arguments adduced, or are they fearful that a ray of + Northern light may fall on the mind of some listening slave, and direct + him to the depot of an under-ground railroad? Judge ye! + </p> + <p> + What but this same fearful and intolerant spirit,—this over-bearing, + boasting spirit, was it, that cowardly attacked a Christian Senator, while + seated unsuspectingly at his desk, and felled him to the floor, bleeding + and senseless? Was not the villainous blow which fell upon the honored + head of CHARLES SUMNER, dealt by the infamous Brooks of South Carolina, + aimed at the free speech of the entire North? Was it, think you, a + personal enmity that the cowardly scoundrel had toward our worthy Northern + Senator, which induced the attack? No, no. Brooks spake for the South, and + boldly has it responded—Amen! + </p> + <p> + It has said through its representatives, that you Northerners are becoming + too bold in speaking of our sin, and we will use brute force to repel it— + an argument with which we are familiar. You have told us that we ought not + to hold slaves, nor extend slave territory, which will in a measure + destroy our slave market, and prove injurious to our slave-breeding + population. You have told us we have no right to usurp Kansas,—no + right to murder "Free State men," and no right to sustain there, a set of + "ruffians" to make Kansas a slave State. You have told us, that we have no + right to live on the unrequited toil of our slaves; nor to sell them to + the highest bidder; nor spend the proceeds of the sale in idle + extravagance. Now know, all ye Northerners, by this cowardly blow on the + devoted head of your honored and respected Senator, that we shall no + longer permit you to tell us such unpalatable truths, nor allow you the + privilege of free speech! We have too long held the balance of power in + the government to yield it now; and we give you to know, that whatever we + ask of this government, we expect to obtain; nor will we hear any of your + objections. When we desire you to turn blood-hound, and hunt for us our + fugitive slaves, we expect you to do it, and to see them returned to their + masters, without a murmur on your part. Should you object or dare refuse, + we shall certainly <i>cane somebody</i>, or else do what we have + threatened for the last quarter of a century,—"DISSOLVE THE UNION!" + Bah! + </p> + <p> + My house has ever been open to the fugitive slaves; but more particularly + when I resided in Rochester, did I have occasion to see and feel the + distresses of that class of persons; and it appears to me, that the heart + must be of adamant, that can turn coldly away from the pleadings of the + poor, frightened, flying fugitive from Southern bondage. + </p> + <p> + For many years past, I have been a close and interested observer of my + race, both free and enslaved. I have observed with great pleasure, the + gradual improvement in intelligence and condition of the free colored + people of the North. In proportion as prejudice has diminished, they have + gradually advanced; nor can I believe that there is any other great + impediment in the way to a higher state of improvement. That prejudice + against color is not destroyed, we very well know. Its effects may be seen + in our down-cast, discouraged, and groveling countrymen, if no where else. + Notwithstanding the late diminution, it exists in many of our hotels: some + of them would as soon admit the dog from his kennel, at table, as the + colored man; nevertheless, he is sought as a waiter; allowed to prepare + their choicest dishes, and permitted to serve the white man, who would + sneer and scorn to eat beside him. Prejudice is found also, in many of our + schools,—even in those to which colored children are admitted; there + is so much distinction made by prejudice, that the poor, timid colored + children might about as well stay at home, as go to a school where they + feel that they are looked upon as inferior, however much they may try to + excel. + </p> + <p> + Nor is that hateful prejudice—so injurious to the soul, and all the + best interests of the negro—excluded from the professed church of + Christ. Oh, no; we often find it in the house of worship, in all its cruel + rigor. Where people assemble to worship a pure and holy God, who can look + upon no sin with allowance—the creator of all, both white and black,—and + where people professing to walk in the footsteps of the meek and quiet + Jesus, who has taught us to esteem others better than ourselves; we often + see the lip of some professed saint, curled in scorn at a dusky face, or a + scowl of disapprobation if a colored person sits elsewhere than by the + door or on the stairs. How long, O Lord, must these things be! + </p> + <p> + Of my enslaved brethren, nothing so gratifies me, as to hear of their + escape from bondage; and since the passage of that iniquitous "Fugitive + Slave Bill," I have watched with renewed interest the movements of the + fugitives, not only from Slavery direct, but those who have been compelled + to flee from the nominally free States, and ask the protection of a + monarchial government, to save them from their owners in a land of boasted + liberty! + </p> + <p> + The knowledge I have of the colored men in Canada, their strength and + condition, would cause me to tremble for these United States, should a war + ever ensue between the English and American governments, which I pray may + never occur. These fugitives may be thought to be a class of poor, + thriftless, illiterate creatures, like the Southern slaves, but it is not + so. They are no longer slaves; many of whom have been many years free men, + and a large number were never slaves. They are a hardy, robust class of + men; very many of them, men of superior intellect; and men who feel deeply + the wrongs they have endured. Driven as they have been from their native + land; unprotected by the government under which they were born, and would + gladly have died,—they would in all probability, in case of a + rupture, take up arms in defense of the government which has protected + them and the country of their adoption. England could this day, very + readily collect a regiment of stalwart colored men, who, having felt the + oppression of our laws, would fight with a will not inferior to that which + actuated our revolutionary forefathers. + </p> + <p> + And what inducement, I ask, have colored men to defend with their lives + the United States in any case; and what is there to incite them to deeds + of bravery? + </p> + <p> + Wherever men are called upon to take up arms in defense of a country, + there is always a consciousness of approaching wrong and oppression, which + arouses their patriotism and incites to deeds of daring. They look abroad + over fields of their own cultivation; they behold too, churches, schools, + and various institutions, provided by their labor, for generations yet to + come; they see their homes, their cherished hearthstone, about to be + desecrated, and their wives and little ones, with their aged sires, + exposed to the oppression of a ruthless foe. Then, with what cheerful and + thrilling enthusiasm, steps forward the husband, the father, the brother, + and bares his bosom to the sword,—his head to the storm of the + battle-field, in defence of his country's freedom, and the God-given + rights of himself and family! But what sees the oppressed negro? He sees a + proud and haughty nation, whose Congressmen yearly meet to plot his ruin + and perpetuate his bondage! He beholds, it is true, a few Christ-like + champions, who rise up with bleeding hearts to defend his cause; but while + his eye kindles with grateful emotion, he sees the bludgeon of the South— + already reeking in the blood of freemen—raised and ready to fall + with murderous intent upon the head of any one, who, like the illustrious + Sumner, dare open his mouth in defence of Freedom, or speak of the wrongs + of the poor negro, and the sins of the Southern autocrat! + </p> + <p> + What inducement then, has the slave to shoulder his musket, when the + American drum beats the call, "To Arms! To Arms!" Does he not remember + that the wife of his bosom; the children,—"bone of his bone, and + flesh of his flesh,"—and the rude hearth-stone they for a time are + allowed to surround, belong not to himself, but to the tyrannical master, + who claims dominion over all he possesses. As his property then, let the + slave owner go forth in defence of his own, and lay down his life if he + please; but the poor slave has no home, no family to protect; no country + to defend; nor does he care to assist in sustaining a government that + instead of offering him protection, drives him from the soil which has + been cultivated by his own labor,—to beg at the hand of England's + Queen, "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." + </p> + <p> + Humiliating as it is for an American citizen to name these things, they + are nevertheless true; and I would to God that America would arise in her + native majesty, and divest herself of the foul stain, which Slavery has + cast upon her otherwise pure drapery! Then would she be no longer a + hissing and by-word among the nations; but indeed what she professes to + be, "the land of the free, and the home of the brave;" an asylum for the + oppressed of every clime. + </p> + <p> + But should the monarchial government of England call for the services of + the colored man, freely would his heart's blood be poured out in her + defence,—not because he has a particular preference for that form of + government; not because he has ceased to love his native country,—but + because she has acknowledged his manhood, and given him a home to defend. + Beneath the floating banner of the British Lion, he finds inducements to + lay down his life, if need be, in defence of his own broad acres, his + family and fireside,—all of which were denied him under the Stars + and Stripes of his fatherland. But a short time ago, the colored men of + Cincinnati, O., were promptly denied the privilege they had solicited, to + join with other citizens, in celebrating the anniversary of WASHINGTON'S + Birth Day! Oh, no; there must be no colored man in the company, met to + honor him who still lives in the heart of every American citizen,—"the + father of his country,"—and yet, who scorned not to sleep beside his + faithful negro! Nor did the nephew of the illustrious General, despise the + command of the black regiment, which Gen. Jackson so proudly commended for + their bravery, and bestowed upon it his personal thanks, for their + services on the field of battle. + </p> + <p> + Do the Northern or Free States of the Union think to clear their skirts of + the abomination of Slavery, by saying that they own no slaves? Very true. + But is the poor, flying fugitive from the house of bondage, safe one + moment within your borders? Will he be welcomed to your homes, your + tables, your firesides? Will your clergymen bid you clothe and feed him, + or give him a cup of cold water, in the name of a disciple of that holy + Christ, who has said,—"inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the + least of these little ones, ye have done it unto me?"—Or will your + own miserable Fugitive Slave Law, close the mouth of your clergy; crush + down the rising benevolence of your heart; and convert you into a human + blood-hound, to hunt down the panting fugitive, and return him to the hell + of Slavery? Oh, my God!—the fact is too horrible to acknowledge, and + yet it is a stubborn one. Not on one foot of land under the broad folds of + Columbia's banner, can the slave say, "I am free!" Hungry, naked, and + forlorn, he must flee onward; nor stop short of the outstretched arms of + an English Queen. Yet, thanks be to our Heavenly Father, that all have not + bowed the knee to the Southern autocrat or slave power. A few noble souls, + thank God, remain, who, in defiance of iniquitous laws, throw open wide + their doors to the trembling, fleeing bondman, whose purses are freely + emptied to supply his wants, and help him on in his flight to the British + dominion. But can these out-gushings of a benevolent heart—the + purest impulses of a noble nature—be permitted to flow out + spontaneously, in open daylight? Alas, no! You must be quiet; make no + noise, lest an United States' Marshal wrest from you the object of your + Christian sympathy, and impose on you a heavy fine, for your daring to do + to another as you would he should do to you. + </p> + <p> + Is not the necessity of an "<i>under ground railroad</i>," a disgrace to + the laws of any country? Certainly it is; yet I thank God, that it does + afford a means of escape to many, and I pray that the blessings of Heaven + may ever rest upon those who willingly superintend its interests. Oh, my + country! When will thy laws, just and equal, supersede this humiliating + necessity! + </p> + <p> + Is my reader about to throw the blame of our nation's wrong on England, + and accuse her of first tolerating Slavery? We admit it; but did she not + repent of the evil she had done, and speedily break every yoke, and let + the oppressed go free? Certainly; no slave now breathes in England's + atmosphere. But, say you, her white poor are slaves to the aristocracy, + from which sentiment I beg leave to differ. Oppressed they may be, and + doubtless are, as the poor are apt to be in any and every country; but + they are not sold in the market, to the highest bidder, like beasts of + burden, as are the American slaves. No Englishman, however poor, + destitute, or degraded he may be, but owns himself, his wife and children; + nor does he fear that they be sold and torn from his embrace, while he is + laboring for their support. Poverty, my friend, does not comprise the + bitterness of Slavery, no more than "one swallow makes a summer,"—nor + does it consist solely in ignorance and degradation. Its bitterness arises + from a consciousness of wrong; a sense of the violation of every right God + has given to man, and the uncertainty of his future, over which he has no + control. + </p> + <p> + If the American people flatter themselves with the idea of getting rid of + the hated negro race, by colonizing them on the sickly soil of Liberia, or + any other country, they will surely find themselves mistaken. They are + Americans; allied to this country by birth and by misfortune; and here + will they remain,—not always as now, oppressed and degraded,—for + all who have any interest in the matter, well know that the free colored + people, are rapidly advancing in intelligence, and improving their + condition in every respect. Men of learning and genius, are now found + among those with fleecy locks, and good mechanics with dusky complexion. + </p> + <p> + This marked improvement in the condition and rapid advancement in + intelligence among our people, seems to have alarmed the colonizationists, + and made them fearful that those very down-trodden slaves, who have for + years labored for nought; whose blood and tears have fertilized the + Southern soil, may, perchance, become their equals in intelligence, and + take vengeance on their oppressors for the wrongs done them; and lest they + should do so, they would gladly remove them to some far-off country. + </p> + <p> + Yet here, in North America, will the colored race remain, and ere long in + my opinion, become a great people, equal with the proud Anglo-Saxon in all + things. The African has once been a powerful nation, before Christian + Englishmen invaded her coasts with rum, and incited her chiefs to war, by + purchasing with gaudy, but worthless trinkets, her conquered captives; and + we have every reason to believe, that though her glory as a nation has + departed, that her sons will yet be acknowledged free men by the white + population of this country. + </p> + <p> + There have been black generals in the world before Napoleon was born, and + there may be again; and to-day, notwithstanding all the prejudice against + color, that everywhere exists in this guilty nation, there are men of + talent among us, inferior to none on the earth; nor are their numbers few, + though rapidly increasing. + </p> + <p> + Well may the South arouse herself, form societies, replenish its treasury + with a tax imposed on the free colored people, to defray the expense of + sending manumitted slaves to Liberia! + </p> + <p> + Listen a moment to the cant of the colonizationist. Hear him talk of the + duty he owes to Africa, and how happy, how intelligent, how prosperous + everything is in Liberia. But when that delightful country asks to be + taken into fellowship with the United States, and to have her independence + recognized—ah, then he lifts his hands in horror and begs to be + excused from so close a relation. + </p> + <p> + This is all cant, in my humble opinion; and when I see men so anxious to + send the negro out of their sight, I feel quite certain that they are + conscious of having deeply wronged him, and think to remove him, to atone + for their guilty consciences. Would they refuse to acknowledge the + independence of Liberia, if their interest in the colored people was + genuine, especially when several other nations had done so? Oh, no. But + that is not "<i>the rub</i>." How could one of our lordly nabobs of the + South, sit in Congress with perhaps one of his own manumitted slaves as a + representative from Liberia or Hayti! He would die of mortification. Very + well then; but let him talk no more of sending colored men to that country + to make them free men. + </p> + <p> + The colored people generally, I am happy to say, have a right conception + of the colonization plan, and will never be induced to go to Africa, + unless they go as missionaries to the heathen tribes, who certainly should + have the gospel preached to them. Some, from a sense of duty, may go as + teachers,—which is all well enough,—but certain it is, that no + amount of prejudice or abuse, will ever induce the colored race to leave + this country. Long have they been oppressed; but they are rising-coming up + to an elevated standard, and are fast gathering strength and courage, for + the great and coming conflict with their haughty oppressors. + </p> + <p> + That there must be ere long, a sharp contest between the friends of + Freedom and the Southern oligarchy, I can no longer doubt. + </p> + <p> + When our worthy ministers of the gospel, are sent back to us from the + South, clothed with a coat of tar and feathers; when our best and most + sacrificing philanthropists are thrown into Southern dungeons; when our + laboring men are shot down by haughty and idle Southern aristocrats, in + the hotels of their employers, and under the very eye of Congress; when + the press is muzzled, and every editor, who has the manliness to speak in + defence of Freedom, and the wickedness of the slaveholder, is caned or + otherwise insulted by some insignificant Southern bully; and when at last, + our Mr. SUMNER is attacked from behind, by a Southern, cowardly scoundrel, + and felled senseless on the floor of the Senate chamber, for his defence + of Liberty,—then, indeed, may Northern men look about them! Well may + they be aroused by the insolence and tyranny of the South! + </p> + <p> + And for what <i>is</i> all this? Do not our Southern men know, that if + light and truth are permitted to reach the minds of the people, that + Kansas will be lost to them as slave territory, wherein the Southern + slave-breeder can dispose of his own flesh to the highest bidder! Hear + them talk as they do, in their pious moments, with upturned faces, in + solemn mockery, of returning the negro to his <i>native</i> Africa! How + many pure Africans, think you, can be found in the whole slave population + of the South, to say nothing of their nativity? Native Africa, indeed! Who + does not know, that in three-fourths of the colored race, there runs the + blood of the white master,—the breeder of his own chattels! Think + you, that a righteous God will fail to judge a nation for such flagrant + sins? Nay, verily. If the All-wise God, who has created of one blood all + nations of the earth, has designed their blood to commingle until that of + the African is absorbed in that of the European,—then is it right, + and amalgamation of all the different races should be universally + practiced and approved. If it be right for the Southern slaveholder, to + cruelly enforce the mixture of the races, to gratify his lust, and swell + the enormity of his gains, certainly it cannot be wrong to amalgamate from + choice and affection. Let us ask then, why did our Omnipotent Creator make + the marked distinction? Certainly not for the purpose that one race might + enslave and triumph over another; but evidently, that each in his own + proper sphere might glorify God, to whom their respective bodies and + spirits belong. Why, indeed, was the black man created, if not to fulfil + his destiny <i>as a negro</i>, to the glory of God? + </p> + <p> + Suffer me then to exhort you, my countrymen, to cease looking to the white + man for example and imitation. Stand boldly up in your own national + characteristics, and show by your perseverance and industry, your honor + and purity, that you are men, colored men, but of no inferior quality. The + greatest lack I see among you, is unity of action, pardonable, to be sure, + in the eyes of those who have seen your oppression and limited advantages; + but now that many of you have resolved to gain your rights or die in the + struggle, let me entreat you to band yourselves together in one + indissoluble bond of brotherhood, to stand shoulder to shoulder in the + coming conflict, and let every blow of yours tell for Freedom and the + elevation of your race throughout the land. Speak boldly out, for the dumb + and enslaved of your unfortunate countrymen, regardless of the frowns and + sneers of the haughty tyrants, who may dare lift their puny arm, to + frustrate the design of the Almighty, in preserving you an unmixed and + powerful race on the earth. + </p> + <p> + While I would not that you depend on any human agency, save your own + unyielding exertion, in the elevation of our race; still, I would not have + you unmindful of, nor ungrateful for, the noble exertions of those kind + white friends, who have plead the cause of the bondman, and have done all + in their power to aid you, for which, may the God of the oppressed + abundantly bless them. + </p> + <p> + Let your attention be given to the careful training and education of the + rising generation, that they may be useful, and justly command the respect + of their fellow-men. Labor for a competency, but give not your whole + attention to amassing the wealth that perishes; but seek to lay up for + yourselves "treasures where moth doth not corrupt, nor thieves break + through and steal." + </p> + <p> + Suppose not, my brethren, that your task is a light one, or one that can + be performed without years of patient toil and unyielding perseverance. + Our oppressors are not very ready to credit our exertion,—too often + forgetting the effects of our long degradation, and vainly expecting to + see us arise at once, to the highest standard of elevation, able to cope + successfully with those who have known no such discouragements or + disadvantages, as has been our lot to bear. + </p> + <p> + These and many other obstacles must be bravely met, and assiduously + removed,—remembering that Slavery has robbed some of us, and + prejudice many others, of that perseverance so necessary to the + accomplishment of any enterprize; but in the elevation of ourselves and + race, let us never falter and grow weary, until we have reached the + elevated station God designed us to occupy, and have fitted the rising + generation to fill and improve it after our earthly course is finished and + we leave to them the stage of action. + </p> + <p> + Allow me, however, to entreat, that no success which may attend your + determined efforts; no position which you may attain,—may ever so + occupy your mind, as to cause you to forget for one moment, the + afflictions of your countrymen, or to cease to remember the groaning + millions in bonds, until every slave shall triumphantly chant the song of + deliverance from Slavery's dark prison house. + </p> + <p> + Bear with me, my dear brethren, while I claim a friend's license, to say, + that I would not that you place implicit confidence in any of the + political organizations of the present time; but remember that the + majority of those parties are diligently laboring for their own interest. + Look you then to yours; are you less capable of securing your rights than + they? Never was there a time when indolence and supineness among us, would + be so unpardonable as now, nor when so much depended on our active and + judicious exertions. + </p> + <p> + Let us not forget, that in the past, we could and did truthfully complain, + that we had no helper,—bound and crushed beneath an overwhelming + weight of prejudice and ignorance, we lay helpless at the feet of our + political spoilers. A favorable change has since been effected in the + public sentiment; and now that we see thousands who are willing to aid us, + and as many more who will not hinder our labor,—shall we fold our + hands in idleness?—or shall we renew our energies, in the cause of + freedom and of our own advancement? Although we may not implicitly rely + upon the political exertion of others, let us not fear to co-operate with + the friends of liberty everywhere, as far as a good conscience will + permit, and our limited privileges will allow, by our determined zeal for + the right, make our influence felt in the nation. See what wrong and + oppression our white brethren have met in Kansas, from the slave power; + and let their noble deeds of patriotism; their liberal sacrifices for + freedom, be not only our example, but an incentive to do our duty. Have + they more at stake in that mighty struggle than we, that they should leave + their homes of refinement and comfort, take their lives in their hands and + bravely contend for their rights, surrounded by scenes of blood and + carnage? Certainly not. No people on the earth can have greater incentives + to arouse them to action, than the colored people of this country now + have; I trust therefore, that our future independence and prosperity, will + suffer nothing from the inactivity of our race. + </p> + <p> + Some may entertain the belief that the African slave trade is entirely + abandoned. I think not. Often are seen strange, suspicious looking + vessels, lying along the African coast, for no other purpose than that of + kidnapping the poor, ignorant natives. Stealthily the slave-trader lands + his wicked crew, in the vicinity of some negro village or cluster of huts, + and when a favorable opportunity occurs, he and his men rush upon the + frightened African, burn their huts, and amid the shrieks of the captives, + and the groans of the helpless and aged, who have been trampled down in + their rude haste to secure the young and able-bodied natives, bear them to + the vessel, where they are stowed away in the hold of the ship, which + bears them to Christian (?) America, where they are sold as slaves. + </p> + <p> + Some years ago, a woman engaged in washing clothes, near the sea coast, + had a lad with her to take care of her two younger children—one a + young babe—while she was at work. They wandered away a short + distance, and while amusing themselves under some bushes, four men, to + them strange looking creatures, with white faces, surrounded them; and + when the lad attempted to run away, they threw the infant he held in his + arms, on the ground, and seizing the other two children, bore them + screaming with fear, to the ship. Frantic and inconsolable, they were + borne to the American slave market, where they were sold to a Virginia + planter, for whom they labored sorrowfully and in tears, until old age + deprived them of farther exertion, when they were turned out, like an old + horse, to die; and did die destitute and uncared for, in their aged + infirmity, after a long life of unrequited toil. That lad, stolen from + Africa's coast, was my grand-father. + </p> + <p> + It is not, however, necessary for us to look beyond our own country, to + find all the horrors of the slave traffic! A tour through the Southern + States will prove sufficient to satisfy any one of that fact; nor will + they travel over one of them, before—if they have a heart of flesh—they + will feel oppressed by the cruel outrage, daily inflicted on their + fellow-beings. The tourist need not turn aside to seek evidences: he will + very readily observe the red flag of the auctioneer floating over the + slave pen, on which he may read in large letters, waving in the pure air + of heaven, "SLAVES, HORSES, AND OTHER CATTLE, <i>in lots to suit + purchasers!</i>" He may halt a moment, and look at the multitude, + collecting under the folds of that infamous banner, where will be found a + few gentlemanly appearing slave holding planters, superbly mounted, and + perhaps with their servants in waiting; but the larger number he will find + to be drunken, coarse, brutal looking men, swaggering about in the + capacity of slave-traders. + </p> + <p> + Let him enter the low, dingy, filthy building, occupied by human + merchandize, and he will there behold husbands and wives, parents and + children, about to be sold, and perhaps separated forever! See the trader, + as he examines with inhuman indifference the bones and sinews, the teeth + and joints of the <i>articles</i> on hand, even of females, and hear him + make inquiries concerning her capabilities, that would make a savage + blush! And see the miserable woman lift her red and swollen eyes to the + face of the heartless trader, and the next moment cast a despairing glance + over the motley crowd, in search of a compassionate look—a pitying + eye. Should she see one countenance wearing a kind, humane expression, it + will most likely bring her frantically to his feet, where, kneeling, with + uplifted hands, she pleads: "Oh, Massa, do buy me! Do buy me and little + Sam! He be all of the chil'ens I got left! O, Lord! O, Lord! Do, Massa, + buy me, and this one baby! Oh, do Massa!" But the weight of the cow-hide + drives her to the auction block, where in mock solemnity she is + represented as "an article of excellent breed, a good cook, a good + seamstress, and withal a good Christian, a ra'al genewine lamb of the + flock!"—and then she is struck off to the highest bidder, who + declares that he "won't have the young'un any how, 'cause he's gwine to + drive her down to Lousianny." + </p> + <p> + He may see, too, the wild, despairing look of some frightened young slave + girl, passing under the lustful gaze of some lordly libertine, who + declares himself "in search of a fancy article for his own use!" + </p> + <p> + One after another is taken from the block, until all are disposed of, amid + the agonized wail of heartbroken wives and mothers, husbands and fathers, + and the piercing screams of helpless children, torn from a parent's + embrace, to be consigned to the care of strangers. + </p> + <p> + Nor need I inform our traveler of the inhuman method generally approved, + in hunting with trained blood-hounds, kept and advertised for the purpose + of recapturing any poor slave who may attempt to escape from this cruel + bondage. He may perchance, come across the mangled and lifeless body of + some fugitive, which has just been run down and torn in pieces by the dogs + of the hunter! Should he stop a few moments, he will soon see a hole dug + in the ground, and the remains of the slave pitched into it, covered + sufficiently to hide the unsightly mass from view, and there will be an + end of the whole matter! "Shall I not visit for these things? saith the + Lord; and shall not my soul be avenged on such a nation as this?" + </p> + <p> + In giving to the public this unvarnished, but truthful narrative, of some + of the occurrences of my humble and uneventful life, I have not been + influenced by a vain desire for notoriety, but by a willingness to gratify + a just and honorable request, repeatedly made by numerous and respected + friends, to learn the truth concerning my connection with the Wilberforce + colony; the events which there transpired during my stay, and the cause of + my losing a hard-earned property. Regarding the affairs of the colony, I + have, therefore, endeavored to be particular,—believing that duty to + myself and brethren, required me to give them the within information; but + nothing have I set down in malice. Much more might have been said relative + to some of the leading characters in that settlement, had I not been + fearful of its assuming the character of a personal enmity or retaliation. + He who knows and will judge the actions of men, will bear me witness, that + I have cherished no such feelings toward any of those who then lived, but + now sleep in death. + </p> + <p> + In justification, however, of my statements regarding the character of Mr. + Lewis, I will call the attention of the reader to some of the many letters + received from good and eminent men, to show that I was not alone in the + low estimate of his virtues. Gladly I leave that unpleasant subject, + hoping that nothing in our past history will serve to becloud the bright + future beginning to dawn on the prospects of our disfranchised and + oppressed countrymen. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0039" id="link2H_4_0039"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CORRESPONDENCE. + </h2> + <h3> + LETTER FROM A. STEWARD TO WM. L. GARRISON. + </h3> + <h3> + MR. GARRISON, + </h3> + <p> + Dear Sir:—In a recent examination of the business transactions + between the Board of Managers of the Wilberforce Colony, and their agent + Rev. N. Paul, I find a charge made by him, and allowed by the board, of + the sum of two hundred dollars, which he paid to yourself. Finding no + receipt or acknowledgment from you, I write to ask you to favor me with + one, or an explanation of the facts in the case, either of which will + greatly oblige me, as I design to make it public. Truly Yours, &c., + </p> + <h3> + A. STEWARD. + </h3> + <p> + Canandaigua, N.Y., May, 1856. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + MR. GARRISON'S REPLY TO A. STEWARD. + </h3> + <h3> + DEAR SIR: + </h3> + <p> + You state that Rev. N. Paul, as agent for the Wilberforce Settlement, + U.C., in rendering his accounts on his return from England, charged the + Board of Managers with the sum of two hundred dollars, paid by him to me + while in England; that said sum was allowed by the board; adding that you + do not recollect of my acknowledging or giving credit to the Settlement + for it. + </p> + <p> + In reply, I can only assure you that there must be a mistake in regard to + this item. I borrowed no money, nor had I any occasion to ask a loan of my + friend Paul, my expenses being defrayed by funds contributed by friends in + this country; nor could I with propriety receive, nor he give me any part + of the money contributed for the benefit of the Wilberforce Settlement; + hence, a loan or gift from him, could have been nothing more than a + personal matter between ourselves. Moreover, had he at that time or any + other, given me in good faith the sum named as belonging to the + Settlement, (believing that as we were laboring together, for the interest + of one common cause, the board would not hesitate to allow it,) he would + certainly have demanded a receipt, which it would have pleased me to give, + of course, that he might satisfy the board that their liberality had been + disbursed according to their wishes, or his judgment. But receiving no + money from your agent, will be a sufficient reason for not acknowledging + it, or giving due credit to the Settlement. + </p> + <p> + I can account for this charge on his part, in no way, except that as he + was with me a part of the time I was in London, and we traveled together a + part of the time, during which, he ably and effectively assisted me in + exposing that most iniquitous combination, "The American Colonization + Society,"—he charged to me, (that is, to my mission) sundry items of + expense which he undoubtedly believed justly incurred by his helping me to + open the eyes of British philanthropists to the real design of that + society; and I shall ever remember with gratitude, his heartiness and zeal + in the cause and in my behalf. I owe much to the success that so signally + crowned my mission, to his presence, testimony, and eloquent denunciation + of the colonization scheme. I, however, received no money from him, and + can but think that the above explanation was the occasion of his making + the charge, and which I trust will leave on his memory, no intentional + [final word missing from text]. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + FROM MR. BAKER TO A. STEWARD. + </h3> + <h3> + MR. A. STEWARD, + </h3> + <p> + Dear Sir:—Israel Lewis, the former agent of your Settlement, last + spring represented to me the suffering condition of your poor, and + requested that I should forward some goods, for which I should be paid; I + did so, and sent goods to the amount of one hundred thirty-six dollars and + ninety-eight cents. The goods were sold at cost. + </p> + <p> + I am also endorsed on a note for two hundred thirteen dollars and ten + cents, which falls due 24th of this month, and which I shall have to pay. + This note was given by Lewis for the purpose of raising money to fit out + Mr. Paul, on his mission to England. I was promised that the money should + be here to meet it. + </p> + <p> + I have heard nothing from Lewis or this business since, and as I + understand you are the agent, I must look to you to make provision to meet + the note, and pay for the goods. Good faith requires that all contracts by + your agency be fulfilled. + </p> + <p> + Yours, Respectfully, + </p> + <h3> + CORNAL BAKER. + </h3> + <p> + New York City, Dec., 1833. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + FROM MR. L.A. SPALDING TO A. STEWARD + </h3> + <h3> + DEAR FRIEND: + </h3> + <p> + In August last, Israel Lewis, accompanied by Rev. Nathaniel Paul called + upon me and exhibited a power of attorney, signed by you as president of + the trustees of the colony, authorizing Lewis to take loans, &c., for + the benefit of the colony. + </p> + <p> + Feeling a deep interest in the progress of the colony, I agreed to become + security with E. Peck, at the Bank of Rochester, for the payment of seven + hundred dollars, which soon was raised by Lewis on the note, for the + benefit of the colony. I was in hopes to have seen you. E. Peck and + myself, both are willing to aid you in your noble enterprise,—and + may others feel the same disposition. But as we have families and friends, + who look to us for support and protection, it is proper that we should + have your personal pledge to save us from embarrassment. + </p> + <p> + We know your character <i>well</i>, and we have also great confidence in + Israel Lewis, and the others engaged with you,—but none of them are + so thoroughly known to us as yourself. + </p> + <p> + Our asking for your personal pledge, does not arise from any fears that + the note will not be paid; but as it was signed to aid you, we think it + proper that you should respond by guaranteeing that we shall not be + injured. + </p> + <p> + I accordingly copy the note in question, and write a guarantee which I + wish you to sign and hand to my brother. + </p> + <p> + I feel much anxiety in regard to your progress; in your forming schools; + religious and temperance societies; and in your taking every measure to + elevate the unfortunate colored man who may go to your colony for + protection and improvement. + </p> + <p> + Very Respectfully Yours, + </p> + <h3> + LYMAN A. SPALDING. + </h3> + <h3> + AUSTIN STEWARD. + </h3> + <p> + Lockport, N.Y. 1831. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + FROM THE CONVENTIONAL BOARD, PHILADELPHIA, PA., TO A. STEWARD. + </h3> + <p> + MR. AUSTIN STEWARD, Wilberforce, U.C., + </p> + <p> + Esteemed Friend:—I am charged by the conventional board, to inform + you that at the last session of the general convention, you was duly + elected their <i>General Corresponding Agent</i>, for the Wilberforce + Settlement and parts adjacent. Respectfully and in an official capacity, + would I ask you to accept the appointment. + </p> + <p> + And in pursuance of the said appointment, the board would be happy to have + at least a monthly correspondence from you, on all such matters as may, in + your opinion, be thought conducive to the prosperity of the settlement, + the elevation and future happiness of the free people of color. + </p> + <p> + In particular, we would wish you to give as accurate an account as + possible, of the number of settlers; the number of acres as purchased; at + what price; what number are improved and under culture; what number of + houses or tenements are in the Settlement, &c., &c. + </p> + <p> + What are your present prospects in regard to crops; your political + advantages or disadvantages. + </p> + <p> + We would also respectfully ask you to inform us, what number of settlers + might emigrate there each year, without injuring the Settlement. Also, + what kind of machines you most need; also, what are the terms for which + laborers are contracted for and how paid. + </p> + <p> + The board have been thus particular, because they rely with full + confidence on your <i>patriotism</i> and capability, which have been + unanimously assigned to you. + </p> + <p> + You will perceive our object is, to contribute, as far as lays in our + power, pecuniary aid, and assist in securing you such agricultural and + mechanical emigrants as, in your opinion, the Settlement may need; and in + all our recommendations to you, we shall endeavor to have an eye to + character, knowing full well that by that alone you must stand or fall. + </p> + <p> + We have been informed here by a letter (purporting to be written by a Mr. + Stover), that the Canada Company actually refuses to sell land to colored + persons; and that they are anxious to buy out the colored settlers at + Wilberforce. + </p> + <p> + Be pleased to inform me if that be a fact, with its particulars; and if + there be any disadvantages in purchasing land by colored emigrants. + </p> + <p> + The board would be happy to know if you have had any news from your agent + in England. If any, what are his prospects? + </p> + <p> + You will please be particular and candid in stating your wants (as well as + disadvantages) to us, as we will do our utmost to satisfy them, as well as + promote the happiness of the settlers, and the prosperity of the + Settlement. + </p> + <p> + Be pleased to answer as soon as possible, for we as brothers in common, + feel deeply interested. + </p> + <p> + With sentiments of sincere friendship, + </p> + <p> + I remain, yours, + </p> + <h3> + JUNIUS C. MORRELL. + </h3> + <p> + A true copy from the record. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + RESOLUTIONS PASSED BY THE BOARD OF MANAGERS OF THE WILBERFORCE COLONY. + </h3> + <p> + At a meeting of the Board of Managers, held September 30th, 1831, to call + the Agents to an account: + </p> + <p> + Resolved, That the Report of N. Paul be accepted, and unanimously agreed + to. + </p> + <p> + At a meeting of the Board of Directors, all the members present, March + 18th, 1832: + </p> + <p> + Resolved, That we disapprove of the conduct of Israel Lewis, in his being + absent so long, and also his not communicating with the Board of + Directors, and not informing them from time to time, how he is prosecuting + his agency. + </p> + <p> + Resolved, That the chairman of this board be instructed to write to said + Lewis, to return home, and lay before this board his doings. + </p> + <p> + At a meeting of the Board, held April 1st, 1832, all the members and + Israel Lewis present with them, he made the following Report, and resigned + his office as agent, which was accepted: + </p> + <p> + Lewis said that seven hundred dollars was all that he had collected. That + he paid one hundred and fifty dollars for board in New York, thirty-five + dollars for clothes, and two hundred dollars to N. Paul, as an out-fit for + England. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + CIRCULAR. + </h3> + <h3> + THE BOARD OF MANAGERS FOR THE COLONY, + </h3> + <p> + To the Christians and Philanthropists in the United States: + </p> + <p> + We, the undersigned inhabitants and Board of Managers for the Colony of + Wilberforce, beg leave to state that the frost cut off the crops in this + part of the country last year, and some of the colonists are in great need + of assistance. And we flatter ourselves that when the peculiar + circumstances of this infant Settlement are duly considered, this appeal, + to a generous and discriminating public, will not be made in vain. + </p> + <p> + The board are sensible from the cause above stated, that the inhabitants + of Wilberforce will be compelled to ask aid from the friends of humanity + in the States, or they must suffer. + </p> + <p> + Under these circumstances they commissioned the Rev. James Sharp, as their + agent, and sent him to the States; but owing to the opposition of Israel + Lewis,—who had been formerly employed as agent, but was removed from + the agency—his labors were almost wholly lost to the board. + </p> + <p> + We would simply say, that Lewis was acting for a certain company here; but + we have made inquiries, and find but one man in Wilberforce that belongs + to said company, and he is an old man, in his dotage. That man is Simon + Wyatt. We might say more, but we think there has been enough written to + satisfy the public. + </p> + <p> + In consequence of the unfaithfulness of Israel Lewis, and the numerous + agents that may be looking around the country after him, the board have + come to the conclusion to dispense with a traveling agent for the present. + </p> + <p> + And we would humbly request Lyman A. Spalding, Esq., of Lockport; E. Peck, + Esq., of Rochester; Rev. Dr. Budd, of Auburn; Charles Davis, Esq., of + Ludlowville, Tompkins County, N.Y.; Arthur Tappan, Esq., city of New York; + to act as receivers for the Colony. The above named gentlemen, will see + that the funds which they may receive, be faithfully applied according to + the wishes of the donors. + </p> + <p> + All money placed in each of the banks at Rochester and a duplicate sent on + to the Colony, may be cashed here without any discount. + </p> + <p> + To Christians we appeal: by the brotherhood of Christ, and by their own + hopes of being united in him, to extend to us the means of obtaining + bread; give us, in the name of Jesus, of your abundance; give us, as God + has blessed you, for the poor among us want bread and clothing. + </p> + <p> + It is to be hoped that every clergyman in the States, will lay this + circular before their respective congregations, and give every person an + opportunity to throw in their mite into the treasury of the Lord! + </p> + <p> + AUSTIN STEWARD, Pres't JOSEPH TAYLOR, Sec'y. PHILIP HARRIS, + </p> + <p> + JOHN WHITEHEAD, PETER BUTLER, SAMUEL PETERSON, WILLIAM BROWN. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + FROM REV. J. BUDD TO A. STEWARD AND OTHERS. + </h3> + <h3> + MESSRS. PAUL AND STEWARD: + </h3> + <p> + I have ever taken a great degree of interest in the welfare of your + colony, and have in various ways, brought it before the public. + </p> + <p> + It has pained me deeply to learn that there are divisions among you. The + whole deportment and manner of Lewis, who has been here, has evidently + impressed the public in his favor. Although I do not wish to take ground + as his advocate, to the extinction of others, I am not inclined to think + him dishonest from the testimony now before me. + </p> + <p> + But, apart from him, my present impression is that the most effectual way + for you to promote the cause of the Colony, is not, at this stage of the + business, to appear before the public in a hostile attitude to Lewis. + </p> + <p> + I know some excellent and prominent gentlemen in this quarter, who think + he is unkindly treated; at any rate, while the investigation, lately + commenced at Albany, is going on, it appears to me not wise in you to put + forth any further publication reflecting upon Lewis. He may have acted + imprudently; but he has excited himself very much, and should the idea + prevail that you and he are in a state of collision, it would be very bad + for you. + </p> + <p> + I consider your Colony as a very important matter, and will do all in my + power to promote your welfare, but it is very material not to prejudice + the public against you. + </p> + <p> + Before I move in the matter, I wish to know the real state of the matter + between Lewis and the Colony. As soon as I can know that he has defrauded + you and deceived the public, I will not hesitate to give my views on the + subject, and put forth any efforts in my power for your advancement. + </p> + <p> + There should no sectarian or party feeling be allowed to creep into your + institution. + </p> + <p> + I thank you for naming me as a receiver for your Colony, and should + anything come to me, I shall hand it over to James S. Seymour, Esq., + Cashier of the Bank of Auburn, who should have been named instead of me. I + hope you will put his name in my place, or at any rate, name him with me, + for he has been from the first, much interested in your behalf. + </p> + <p> + If you will allow me, I will briefly say, that my opinion is, your best + way to relieve your immediate wants, would be to issue a brief circular, + stating the failure of your crops, your newness of settlement, &c., + &c.; and call upon the public for help, without naming Lewis or + alluding to your difficulty with him; let your papers be properly + authorized, and say that the agent you employ is not engaged in getting + funds to pay for land, found schools, &c., but to get immediate + provisions for the Colony. + </p> + <p> + If you will send an agent here and prepare your circular in this way—let + it be short—and I will print it and give copies of it to him for + circulation, free of charge. + </p> + <p> + With many prayers for the prosperity of your Colony, + </p> + <p> + I am your Friend, + </p> + <h3> + JOHN BUDD. + </h3> + <p> + Auburn, N.Y., May, 1833. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + REPLY TO J. BUDD BY A. STEWARD. + </h3> + <p> + To THE REV. J. BUDD, + </p> + <p> + Sir:—We feel under renewed obligation to you, for you friendly + advice; but we have already sent out several copies of our circular to + different places, and probably some of them have been printed before this + time. + </p> + <p> + We have no object in view, but truth, justice,—the greatest good of + the Settlement, and of our brethren in general. Israel Lewis has, however, + collected large sums of money, for our relief, of which we have not had + the benefit. Nearly two years ago, he was appointed agent for the Colony, + to collect funds to build a meeting-house, to endow schools, &c. In + less than one year he received more than two thousand dollars, which he + squandered; and we have neither meeting-house nor schools, nor never will + have, so long as the money goes into the hands of Lewis. All that we would + have forgiven him gladly, if he would consent to be still and not usurp + the agency against the wishes of the people. + </p> + <p> + Sir, is it not expected that he would appear well; as you say, that "the + whole deportment and manner of Lewis, who has been in this place, + evidently have impressed the people in his favor,"—while collecting + money with the eye of the public upon him. But follow him home into + another kingdom, and there see the man in his true character; stripped of + his borrowed plumage,—and we will guarantee that you would agree + with us, in believing that he is an arch hypocrite. + </p> + <p> + We should be sorry to prejudice the public against our Settlement, more + especially when we are actuated by the purest motives,—that of + preventing the Christian public from being imposed upon, by drawing large + sums from them for us, as they suppose, when in truth such sums never + reach us at all. + </p> + <p> + Sir, we know that you are actuated by the purest motives, but you are + deceived in the character of the man, (Lewis). When I was living in the + States and only saw him there, collecting money for the poor, I thought + him honest as you now do; but two or three years' residence in Wilberforce + Colony, has abundantly satisfied me that his object is to get money, that + he may live in a princely style, and not for the benefit of the poor as he + pretends. + </p> + <p> + Such are the true facts in the case. We should be glad to have the name of + James S. Seymour, Esq., added to the list, and any other prominent citizen + you may think would help the cause. + </p> + <p> + In regard to the investigation at Albany, we do not see how the public are + to arrive at the facts in the case from any statement Lewis may make; for + all his statements that I have seen in print, are positively void of + truth, in the most essential part, so that they are of little or no + importance at all unless substantiated by other testimony. + </p> + <p> + The circular contains no testimony that has not been heretofore laid + before the public. Mr. Benjamin Paul recently wrote a letter to the + editors of "The Baptist Register," in which he stated that Lewis had fed + and clothed the colonists like a father, which is not true; and so + sensible was Paul of the fact, that when the letter reached here, together + with the surprise it created wherever Lewis was known, that Paul + cheerfully contradicted it, confessed that he was mistaken, and thus made + it known to the public. + </p> + <p> + We certainly have no sectional feelings in the matter, though Lewis has + labored hard to impress the public with a contrary belief; and he has even + brought false charges of the basest kind against our more respectable + citizens, all to draw the attention of the public from the true facts in + the case. + </p> + <p> + It is a general time of health here in the Colony. The season is very + favorable; our crops look well, and with the blessings of God we shall + raise enough to supply our wants this year. + </p> + <p> + Yours, with due respect, + </p> + <p> + In behalf of the Colonists, + </p> + <h3> + A. STEWARD. + </h3> + <p> + Wilberforce, June, 1833. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + FROM A. STEWARD TO G. BANKS AND OTHERS. + </h3> + <h3> + MESSRS. BANKS, WILBER, BROCKENBERG & HARRIS: + </h3> + <p> + I have received a communication through your corresponding secretary, Mr. + James C. Brown, and I hasten to answer it. The last communication I have + received from Mr. N. Paul, was in December, 1833, at which time he was + vigorously prosecuting his mission, as will more fully appear by the + annexed copy of said letter, which I cheerfully send you. His return is + expected daily. + </p> + <p> + [Copy OF N. PAUL'S LETTER.] + </p> + <h3> + MY DEAR BROTHER STEWARD: + </h3> + <p> + When I last addressed you, I informed you that I expected to leave this + country before a return letter from you could be expected. I therefore + stated, if I remember correctly, that you need not write. + </p> + <p> + I now find that I shall be detained much longer than I then calculated; + and this detention is owing to the Slavery question. The friends of the + cause, advised me to forego my object, until that question was settled; + and then they would turn their attention to my cause, and render me what + assistance they could. + </p> + <p> + All their united strength was needed now, while that question was pending. + But thanks be to God, that is now settled. On the first day of August + next, will be the proudest day that ever Britain knew; for from that time + henceforth, there will not remain a single slave throughout His Majesty's + dominions. + </p> + <p> + The friends of the cause are now turning their attention to Slavery in the + United States, and are about to form a society for the abolition of + Slavery throughout the world. They all think highly of our Settlement, and + will give it their cordial support. + </p> + <p> + The leading abolitionists have given me letters of recommendation + throughout the Kingdom, and have appointed one of their most effective men + to travel with me,—his name is John Scoble, a very ready, + intelligent, earnest, and an eloquent speaker. I think I can do more now + in one month, than I could in three before the question was settled in + regard to their own slaves. + </p> + <p> + You will at once see that although the people concluded my object to be an + important one, yet, they generally thought that they ought to lend all + their aid in removing the stain from their own land first This stain is + now effectually effaced, and my meetings are exceedingly crowded. I + addressed an audience at Norwich of from three to four thousand persons, + week before last, when about five hundred dollars was collected. So you + see I am getting on. I start, the Lord willing, next week for Scotland, + and shall spend the winter there and in the North of England. In the + spring I shall return and take passage for Canada. I doubt not, that you + are anxiously looking for my return; yet, you cannot want to see me more + than I want to return; but I tell you now as I have told you before, that + I shall not return until I have done all that can be done by my labor. + </p> + <p> + Yours, + </p> + <h3> + N. PAUL. + </h3> + <h3> + SIRS: + </h3> + <p> + The above copy will give you all the recent information we have received + concerning the mission of our foreign agent. + </p> + <p> + Please accept my kindest regards, with my acknowledgments of your + distinguished consideration, while I remain, + </p> + <p> + Yours truly, + </p> + <h3> + AUSTIN STEWARD. + </h3> + <p> + Wilberforce, U.C. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + FROM A. STEWARD TO MR. NELL. + </h3> + <h3> + DEAR SIR: + </h3> + <p> + We are glad to acknowledge your favor of October last, and to hear of your + safe arrival in England, your health and fair prospects. + </p> + <p> + Since my removal to Wilberforce, I have opened a school, which Mrs. + Steward has engaged to teach for one year; while I shall probably devote + my time to traveling through the States, for the benefit of the Colony, + which is indeed poor, and in want of some assistance; and yet, not a + dollar have we in the treasury to help them with. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Paul has not returned, though we are daily expecting him. Our friends + in New York, still have confidence in his pledge to do right; and we are + anxiously expecting its fulfilment. + </p> + <p> + Your wife, Mrs. Nell, and the children are well, and we are still doing + all in our power for their comfort; but my means, in consequence of having + been so much abroad the past season, are limited; by which you will see, + my dear Sir, the necessity of remitting funds to me, that I may make your + family more comfortable in all things, without distressing my own. + </p> + <p> + The settlers are well, and are looking with hopeful expectancy for you to + do something handsome for them, in which I do hope they may not be + disappointed. Lewis is still in New York. We have appointed another agent, + named Scott, but who is doing nothing for the Colony now. + </p> + <p> + May the blessings of God rest upon you, and your endeavors; your good + deportment put to silence your enemies; may they who foresee that you will + cheat the poor colored children, be sadly mistaken, and your good deeds + finally enrol your name on the proud list of philanthropists, headed by a + Wilberforce and a Clarkson. + </p> + <p> + Yours, in great haste, + </p> + <h3> + AUSTIN STEWARD. + </h3> + <p> + Wilberforce, Dec., 1835. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + FROM L.A. SPALDING TO A. STEWARD AND OTHERS. + </h3> + <h3> + DEAR FRIENDS: + </h3> + <p> + I have received a letter from Israel Lewis, New York, requesting me to + forward fifty dollars to the treasurer of the Wilberforce Colony, which I + will do at the first convenience. I sent fifty dollars some time since, + which I presume was received. + </p> + <p> + I have also received a letter from B. Lundy, who speaks very flatteringly + of the Settlement; but gives me some information relating to Lewis, which + will injure you, unless you act wisely. + </p> + <p> + Now I suggest for your consideration, whether it would not be best to keep + perfectly quiet relative to him, until after he returns and settles with + the directors. If he cannot then satisfy you, he will no doubt surrender + up his documents and agency like a man, and leave you to appoint another. + </p> + <p> + By all means you must agree among yourselves, not suffering any difference + of opinion to become public. Your enemies will seize upon this, and injure + your prospects; besides, you gain nothing by it. Your friends too, could + then say that you acted imprudently. I hope to have a good account of the + settlement of your difficulties if any should exist. + </p> + <p> + Respectfully your Friend, + </p> + <h3> + LYMAN A. SPALDING. + </h3> + <h3> + AUSTIN STEWARD & BENJ. PAUL. + </h3> + <p> + Lockport, N.Y., 2d Mo., 4th, 1832. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + FROM REV. S.E. CORNISH TO A. STEWARD. + </h3> + <h3> + DEAR STEWARD: + </h3> + <p> + I have this day received your letter, and God willing, I will be with you + in the course of ten or twelve days. Please to keep your people together, + until I come. I will see that they be not oppressed by that notorious + Israel Lewis. I believe him to be one of the worst men living, whose deeds + will yet come to light. Do stay in the Colony and keep all things as they + are until I come. + </p> + <p> + Yours, with high esteem, + </p> + <h3> + SAMUEL E. CORNISH. + </h3> + <p> + P.S.—I am glad that Mrs. Steward is in Rochester; your Colony is by + no means suited to her talents and refined mind. She never could be happy + there. My love to all the Colonists; I will do every thing for them in my + power. S.E.C. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + FROM B. LUNDY TO A. STEWARD AND OTHERS. + </h3> + <h3> + ESTEEMED FRIENDS: + </h3> + <p> + Again I take this method of communicating some private information to my + personal friends, relative to my proceedings in Mexico. My last visit to + that country, (like the one preceding), having been prolonged far beyond + the time which I had anticipated, I feel it incumbent on me to explain the + causes thereof especially to such as take an interest in the enterprize in + which I have engaged, and those who have kindly assisted me with, means to + defray the expenses of my journey, &c. + </p> + <p> + Soon after the date of my last printed letter, which was issued from this + place, I went to New Orleans, with the intention of taking a passage by + sea, to some port in Mexico; but after waiting in that city about two + weeks, and finding no opportunity to obtain one, I proceeded up the Red + River, and journeyed through Texas again by land. My health continued very + good for some length of time; but when I reached the middle part of the + Texas country, it was my misfortune to come again in contact with the + direful "cholera," and again I was the subject of its virulent attacks. My + detention was great, and affliction severe; though I finally expelled the + disorder as I had done before. My sufferings were somewhat aggravated in + several instances, by the fearful prejudices of the people among whom I + traveled. I was very anxious to get through my journey, and often assayed + to travel before I was in fact well enough. The consequence was, that I + frequently took relapses, and sometimes had to lie out under trees, even + in time of rain, within sight of houses, the people being unwilling to + give me shelter therein, fearing that my disorder was contagious. + </p> + <p> + At length I reached the Mexican town of San Antonio de Bexar, and there I + tarried, until I had got pretty well rid of the cholera. I then pursued my + journey to Monclova, the seat of government for the State of Coahuila and + Texas, in company with several Mexican gentlemen and foreigners. Previous + to this time, I had traveled several hundred miles entirely alone, and + generally encamped in the woods or plains at night. On my arrival at + Monclova, I was doomed to encounter "misfortune" of a very different + character. Here I found that the Englishman, (mentioned in my other + letter), with whom I had contracted to petition for two grants of land, + had totally failed in his application. The petition had been laid before + the Governor, and he was about issuing the grants, when he received a + decree from the Legislature—which was then in session—forbidding + him to grant any more land, under any pretext. This measure was taken to + prevent the great land speculators from carrying on their swindling + operations in Texas. An act was soon after passed by that body, repealing + all their Colonization laws; and thus every hope that I had so fondly + entertained, and each fair prospect, seemingly so near its realization, + was instantly blasted and utterly destroyed! If ever the fortitude of man + was tried, mine was then. If ever stoic philosophy might be successfully + called to the aid of human courage, I felt the necessity of invoking it + upon that occasion. Nearly two years of toil, privation and peril, have + been wasted. My sufferings had been great, though my spirit soared on the + bouyancy of hope. Now the fair superstructure of an important enterprise, + whose ideal magnitude had employed my mind, to the exclusion of many + hardships endured, suddenly vanished from my sight, and left before me a + hideous and gloomy void with no other encouragement than total + disappointment, conscious poverty and remediless despair! What should I + then have done? My health was restored, but my detention and consequent + expenses had been so great that my funds were nearly exhausted. I came to + the country for an important purpose; and I reasoned with myself thus; + although my way is closed in this State, cannot something be done + elsewhere? I will not boast of the stoutest heart among men, but mine must + not quail. Something further must be done if possible, and I will try. + </p> + <p> + In the course of my travels, I had seen a part of the adjoining State of + Tamaulipas, and had been informed that the colonization laws thereof were + liberal. I was even aware that some parts of it are more suitable for the + culture of the sugar cane, than any tract I could have obtained in + Coahuila and Texas. And upon a little reflection, I determined to make + further investigations in Tamaulipas, and had been informed of the State. + As soon as my horse was a little rested, I set out, alone, on a journey of + between four and five hundred miles, part of the way through an awfully + mountainous region, and much of it an uninhabited wilderness. I encamped + out almost every night, during the whole journey; very seldom near any + human habitation. I had no fire-arms nor anything to defend myself against + the ferocious beasts of the forest, which I had evidence to convince me + were frequently numerous, and not far distant. In two weeks I reached the + city of Matamoras, in the State of Tamaulipas, quite destitute of funds, + after parting with almost every disposable article belonging to my + wardrobe, &c. The people of this place being all perfect strangers to + me, I did not for a while unfold to them the real object of my visit; but + instead thereof, I opened a shop, and commenced working at my old trade— + the saddling business. I soon got as much work as I could do—supported + myself, replenished my pocket, made some acquaintance with a number of + people, and obtained more information respecting the Colonization laws of + the State. A few weeks elapsed, while I was employed in this way. I then + mounted my horse again, and proceeded to the capital of the State; and + after negotiating for some time with the Governor and Council of the + State, I succeeded in obtaining a grant of land, upon advantageous terms. + I then performed another journey of almost two hundred and fifty miles, + "alone," to Matamoras again; and soon thereafter embarked for the United + States. + </p> + <p> + My friends will thus perceive that I have not been idle; though much time + has been occupied in my last expedition. I shall not attempt to excite + their sympathy by exhibiting the twentieth part of what I have suffered. I + do not even like to look back upon some of the scenes through which I have + passed. But thanks to a kind and all-sustaining Providence, complete + success has at last crowned my exertions. I strove hard to command it; and + I leave it to others to say whether I have deserved it or not. + </p> + <p> + The terms upon which I have obtained my grant of land will be noticed in a + public address, which I shall forward with this letter. + </p> + <p> + Since my arrival in this place, I have been confined by sickness; but am + now convalescent, and shall visit my friends to the eastward, as soon as + circumstances will permit. I cannot close this communication without an + expression of my sincere thanks to those kind friends who rendered me + assistance in defraying the expenses of my last Mexican tour. Their favors + will be most gratefully remembered, and I shall feel myself under + additional obligations to labor for the melioration of the condition of + the poor and suffering slave. + </p> + <p> + In the next number of the "Genius of Universal Emancipation," I shall + insert the names of those who contributed to aid me in the prosecution of + my enterprise; and correct information relative to all proceedings + therein, will be given in the pages of that work, as the business + connected with it progresses. + </p> + <p> + I am, most respectfully, your Friend, + </p> + <h3> + B. LUNDY. + </h3> + <p> + N. & B. PAUL, AUSTIN STEWARD, REV. J. SHARP. + </p> + <p> + Nashville, 5th Mo., 1835. + </p> + <h3> + THE END. + </h3> + <div style="height: 6em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <div>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 11137 ***</div> +</body> +</html> diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. 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You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Twenty-Two Years a Slave, and Forty Years a Freeman + Embracing a Correspondence of Several Years, + While President of Wilberforce Colony, London, Canada West + +Author: Austin Steward + +Release Date: February 18, 2004 [EBook #11137] +Last Updated: February 24, 2019 + + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK TWENTY-TWO YEARS A SLAVE *** + + + + +Etext produced by William A. Pifer-Foote and PG Distributed Proofreaders + +HTML file produced by David Widger + + +</pre> + <div style="height: 8em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h1> + TWENTY-TWO YEARS A SLAVE, + </h1> + <h2> + AND FORTY YEARS A FREEMAN; + </h2> + <h3> + EMBRACING A CORRESPONDENCE OF SEVERAL YEARS, WHILE PRESIDENT OF + WILBERFORCE COLONY, LONDON, CANADA WEST, + </h3> + <h2> + BY AUSTIN STEWARD + </h2> + <h3> + 1856 + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h3> + FROM GOVERNOR CLARK. + </h3> + <p> + STATE OF NEW YORK, EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, + </p> + <p> + Albany, May 10, 1856. + </p> + <p> + MR. A. STEWARD, Canandaigua, + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir:—I notice a paragraph in the "Ontario Times" of this date, + making the announcement that you are preparing "a sketch of events + occurring under your own observation during an eventful life," to be + entitled, "Twenty Years a Slave, and Forty Years a Freeman;" and that you + design soon to make an effort to obtain subscribers for the book. + </p> + <p> + Being desirous of rendering you what encouragement I may in the work, you + are permitted to place my name on your list of subscribers. + </p> + <p> + Respectfully Yours, + </p> + <h3> + MYRON H. CLARK. + </h3> + <hr /> + <h3> + ROCHESTER, SEPTEMBER, 1856 + </h3> + <h3> + MR. WM. ALLING, + </h3> + <p> + Dear Sir:—The undersigned have heard with pleasure, that you are + about issuing a Book made up from incidents in the life of Austin STEWARD. + We have been the early acquaintances and associates of Mr. Steward, while + a business man in Rochester in an early day, and take pleasure in bearing + testimony to his high personal, moral and Christian character. In a world + of vicissitude, Mr. Steward has received no ordinary share, and we hope, + while his book may do the world good, it may prove a substantial benefit + to him in his declining years. + </p> + <p> + ASHLEY SAMPSON, THOMAS KEMPSHALL, FREDERICK STARR, CHAS. J. HILL, L.A. + WARD, EDWIN SCRANTOM, JACOB GOULD. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + RECOMMENDATORY. + </h3> + <h3> + ROCHESTER, JULY 1, 1856. + </h3> + <h3> + A. STEWARD, ESQ., + </h3> + <p> + Dear Sir:—In reply to your letter upon the propriety of publishing + your life, I answer, that there is not only no objection to it, but it + will be timely, and is demanded by every consideration of humanity and + justice. Every tongue which speaks for Freedom, which has once been held + by the awful gag of Slavery, is trumpet-tongued—and he who pleads + against this monstrous oppression, if he can say, "here are the scars," + can do much. + </p> + <p> + It is a great pleasure to me to run back to my boyhood, and stop at that + spot where I first met you. I recollect the story of your wrongs, and your + joy in the supposition that all were now ended in your freedom; of your + thirst for knowledge, as you gathered up from the rudimental books—not + then very plenty—a few snatches of the elements of the language; of + playing the school-master to you, in "setting copies" for your writing— + book; of guiding your mind and pen. I remember your commencement in + business, and the outrage and indignity offered you in Rochester, by white + competitors on no other ground than that of color.[1] I saw your + bitter tears, and recollect assuring you—what afterwards proved true—that + justice would overtake the offenders, and that you would live to see these + enemies bite the dust! I remember your unsullied character, and your + prosperity, and when your word or endorsement was equal to that of any + other citizen. I remember too, when yourself, and others of your kind, + sunk all the gatherings of years of toil, in an unsuccessful attempt to + establish an asylum for your enslaved and oppressed brethren—and, + not to enumerate, which I might do much farther, I remember when your "old + master," finding you had been successful, while he himself had lost in the + changes on fortune's wheel—came here and set up a claim to yourself + and your property—a claim which might have held both, had not a + higher power suddenly summoned him to a tribunal, where both master and + slave shall one day answer each for himself! + </p> + <p> + But to the book. Let its plain, unvarnished tale be sent out, and the + story of Slavery and its abominations, again be told by one who has felt + in his own person its scorpion lash, and the weight of its grinding heel. + I think it will do good service, and could not have been sent forth at a + more auspicious period. The downfall of the hateful system of Slavery is + certain. Though long delayed, justice is sure to come at length; and he + must be a slow thinker and a poor seer, who cannot discern in the elements + already at work, the mighty forces which must eventually crush this + oppression. I know that you and I have felt discouraged at the long delay, + years ago,—when we might have kept up our hopes by the fact that + every thing that is slow is <i>sure</i>. Your book may be humble and your + descriptions tame, yet truth is always mighty; and you may furnish the + sword for some modern Sampson, who shall shout over more slain than his + ancient prototype. I close with the wish, that much success may attend + your labors, in more ways than one, and that your last days may be your + best—and am, + </p> + <p> + Your old Friend, + </p> + <p> + And obed't serv't, + </p> + <h3> + EDWIN SCRANTOM. + </h3> + <p> + [Note 1: The indignity spoken of was this: Mr. Steward had established a + grocery and provision store on Buffalo Street, in a part of Abner + Wakelee's building, opposite the Eagle Hotel. He put up his sign, a very + plain and proper one, and at night, some competitors, whom he knew, as + well as he could know anything which he could not prove, smeared his sign + with black paint, utterly destroying it! But the misguided men who stooped + to such an act—the victims of sensuality and excess—have years + ago ended their journey, and passed to the bar of a higher adjudication.] + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + <b>CONTENTS</b> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_PREF"> PREFACE. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I. — SLAVE LIFE ON THE PLANTATION. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II. — AT THE GREAT HOUSE. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III. — HORSE-RACING AND ITS + CONSEQUENCES. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV. — JOURNEY TO OUR NEW HOME IN + NEW YORK. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V. — INCIDENTS AT SODUS BAY. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI. — REMOVAL FROM SODUS TO BATH. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII. — DUELING. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII. — HORSE-RACING AND GENERAL + TRAINING. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER IX. — DEATH BED AND BRIDAL SCENES. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER X. — HIRED OUT TO A NEW MASTER. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XI. — THOUGHTS ON FREEDOM. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XII. — CAPT. HELM—DIVORCE—KIDNAPPING. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XIII. — LOCATE IN THE VILLAGE OF + ROCHESTER. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XIV. — INCIDENTS IN ROCHESTER AND + VICINITY. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XV. — SAD REVERSES OF CAPT. HELM. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XVI. — BRITISH EMANCIPATION OF + SLAVERY. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER XVII. — ORATION—TERMINATION + OF SLAVERY. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XVIII. — CONDITION OF FREE COLORED + PEOPLE. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XIX. — PERSECUTION OF THE COLORED + PEOPLE. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XX. — REMOVAL TO CANADA. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXI. — ROUGHING IT IN THE WILDS OF + CANADA. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER XXII. — NARROW ESCAPE OF A + SMUGGLER. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0023"> CHAPTER XXIII. — NARRATIVE OF TWO FUGITIVES + FROM VIRGINIA. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0024"> CHAPTER XXIV. — PLEASANT RE-UNION OF OLD + AND TRIED FRIENDS. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0025"> CHAPTER XXV. — PRIVATE LOSSES AND PRIVATE + DIFFICULTIES. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0026"> CHAPTER XXVI. — INCIDENTS AND PECULIARITIES + OF THE INDIANS. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0027"> CHAPTER XXVII. — OUR DIFFICULTIES WITH + ISRAEL LEWIS. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0028"> CHAPTER XXVIII. — DESPERATION OF A FUGITIVE + SLAVE. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0029"> CHAPTER XXIX. — A NARROW ESCAPE FROM MY + ENEMIES. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0030"> CHAPTER XXX. — DEATH OF B. PAUL, AND RETURN + OF HIS BROTHER. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0031"> CHAPTER XXXI. — MY FAMILY RETURN TO + ROCHESTER. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0032"> CHAPTER XXXII. — THE LAND AGENT AND THE + SQUATTER. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0033"> CHAPTER XXXIII. — CHARACTER AND DEATH OF I. + LEWIS. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0034"> CHAPTER XXXIV. — MY RETURN TO ROCHESTER. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0035"> CHAPTER XXXV. — BISHOP BROWN—DEATH OF + MY DAUGHTER. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0036"> CHAPTER XXXVI. — CELEBRATION OF THE FIRST + OF AUGUST. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0037"> CHAPTER XXXVII. — CONCLUSION. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0039"> CORRESPONDENCE. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_PREF" id="link2H_PREF"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + PREFACE. + </h2> + <p> + The author does not think that any apology is necessary for this issue of + his Life and History. He believes that American Slavery is now the great + question before the American People: that it is not merely a political + question, coming up before the country as the grand element in the making + of a President, and then to be laid aside for four years; but that its + moral bearings are of such a nature that the Patriot, the Philanthropist, + and all good men agree that it is an evil of so much magnitude, that + longer to permit it, is to wink at <i>sin</i>, and to incur the righteous + judgments of God. The late outrages and aggressions of the slave power to + possess itself of new soil, and extend the influence of the hateful and + God-provoking "Institution," is a practical commentary upon its benefits + and the moral qualities of those who seek to sustain and extend it. The + author is therefore the more willing—nay, anxious, to lay alongside + of such arguments the history of his own life and experiences <i>as a + slave</i>, that those who read may know what are some of the + characteristics of that highly favored institution, which is sought to be + preserved and perpetuated. "Facts are stubborn things,"—and this is + the reason why all systems, religious, moral, or social, which are founded + in injustice, and supported by fraud and robbery, suffer so much by + faithful exposition. + </p> + <p> + The author has endeavored to present a true statement of the practical + workings of the system of Slavery, as he has seen and <i>felt it himself.</i> + He has intended "nothing to extenuate, nor aught set down in malice;" + indeed, so far from believing that he has misrepresented Slavery as an + institution, he does not feel that he has the power to give anything like + a true picture of it in all its deformity and wickedness; especially <i>that</i> + Slavery which is an institution among an enlightened and Christian people, + who profess to believe that all men are born <i>free</i> and <i>equal</i>, + and who have certain inalienable <i>rights</i>, among which are <i>life, + liberty</i>, and the pursuit of happiness. + </p> + <p> + The author claims that he has endeavored since he had his freedom, as much + as in him lay, to benefit his suffering fellows in bondage; and that he + has spent most of his free life in efforts to elevate them in manners and + morals, though against all the opposing forces of prejudice and pride, + which of course, has made much of his labor vain. In his old age he sends + out this history—presenting as it were his <i>own body</i>, with the + marks and scars of the tender mercies of slave drivers upon it, and asking + that these may plead in the name of Justice, Humanity, and Mercy, that + those who have the power, may have the magnanimity to strike off the + chains from the enslaved, and bid him stand up, a Freeman and a Brother! + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. — SLAVE LIFE ON THE PLANTATION. + </h2> + <p> + I was born in Prince William County, Virginia. At seven years of age, I + found myself a slave on the plantation of Capt. William Helm. Our family + consisted of my father and mother—whose names were Robert and Susan + Steward—a sister, Mary, and myself. As was the usual custom, we + lived in a small cabin, built of rough boards, with a floor of earth, and + small openings in the sides of the cabin were substituted for windows. The + chimney was built of sticks and mud; the door, of rough boards; and the + whole was put together in the rudest possible manner. As to the furniture + of this rude dwelling, it was procured by the slaves themselves, who were + occasionally permitted to earn a little money after their day's toil was + done. I never knew Capt. H. to furnish his slaves with household utensils + of any description. + </p> + <p> + The amount of provision given out on the plantation per week, was + invariably one peck of corn or meal for each slave. This allowance was + given in meal when it could be obtained; when it could not, they received + corn, which they pounded in mortars after they returned from their labor + in the field. The slaves on our plantation were provided with very little + meat In addition to the peck of corn or meal, they were allowed a little + salt and a few herrings. If they wished for more, they were obliged to + earn it by over-work. They were permitted to cultivate small gardens, and + were thereby enabled to provide themselves with many trifling + conveniences. But these gardens were only allowed to some of the more + industrious. Capt. Helm allowed his slaves a small quantity of meat during + harvest time, but when the harvest was over they were obliged to fall back + on the old allowance. + </p> + <p> + It was usual for men and women to work side by side on our plantation; and + in many kinds of work, the women were compelled to do as much as the men. + Capt. H. employed an overseer, whose business it was to look after each + slave in the field, and see that he performed his task. The overseer + always went around with a whip, about nine feet long, made of the toughest + kind of cowhide, the but-end of which was loaded with lead, and was about + four or five inches in circumference, running to a point at the opposite + extremity. This made a dreadful instrument of torture, and, when in the + hands of a cruel overseer, it was truly fearful. With it, the skin of an + ox or a horse could be cut through. Hence, it was no uncommon thing to see + the poor slaves with their backs mangled in a most horrible manner. Our + overseer, thus armed with his cowhide, and with a large bull-dog behind + him, followed the slaves all day; and, if one of them fell in the rear + from any cause, this cruel weapon was plied with terrible force. He would + strike the dog one blow and the slave another, in order to keep the former + from tearing the delinquent slave in pieces,—such was the ferocity + of his canine attendant. + </p> + <p> + It was the rule for the slaves to rise and be ready for their task by + sun-rise, on the blowing of a horn or conch-shell; and woe be to the + unfortunate, who was not in the field at the time appointed, which was in + thirty minutes from the first sounding of the horn. I have heard the poor + creatures beg as for their lives, of the inhuman overseer, to desist from + his cruel punishment. Hence, they were usually found in the field "betimes + in the morning," (to use an old Virginia phrase), where they worked until + nine o'clock. They were then allowed thirty minutes to eat their morning + meal, which consisted of a little bread. At a given signal, all hands were + compelled to return to their work. They toiled until noon, when they were + permitted to take their breakfast, which corresponds to our dinner. + </p> + <p> + On our plantation, it was the usual practice to have one of the old slaves + set apart to do the cooking. All the field hands were required to give + into the hands of the cook a certain portion of their weekly allowance, + either in dough or meal, which was prepared in the following manner. The + cook made a hot fire and rolled up each person's portion in some cabbage + leaves, when they could be obtained, and placed it in a hole in the ashes, + carefully covered with the same, where it remained until done. Bread baked + in this way is very sweet and good. But cabbage leaves could not always be + obtained. When this was the case, the bread was little better than a + mixture of dough and ashes, which was not very palatable. The time allowed + for breakfast, was one hour. At the signal, all hands were obliged to + resume their toil. The overseer was always on hand to attend to all + delinquents, who never failed to feel the blows of his heavy whip. + </p> + <p> + The usual mode of punishing the poor slaves was, to make them take off + their clothes to the bare back, and then tie their hands before them with + a rope, pass the end of the rope over a beam, and draw them up till they + stood on the tips of their toes. Sometimes they tied their legs together + and placed a rail between. Thus prepared, the overseer proceeded to punish + the poor, helpless victim. Thirty-nine was the number of lashes ordinarily + inflicted for the most trifling offence. + </p> + <p> + Who can imagine a position more painful? Oh, who, with feelings of common + humanity, could look quietly on such torture? Who could remain unmoved, to + see a fellow-creature thus tied, unable to move or to raise a hand in his + own defence; scourged on his bare back, with a cowhide, until the blood + flows in streams from his quivering flesh? And for what? Often for the + most trifling fault; and, as sometimes occurs, because a mere whim or + caprice of his brutal overseer demands it. Pale with passion, his eyes + flashing and his stalwart frame trembling with rage, like some volcano, + just ready to belch forth its fiery contents, and, in all its might and + fury, spread death and destruction all around, he continues to wield the + bloody lash on the broken flesh of the poor, pleading slave, until his arm + grows weary, or he sinks down, utterly exhausted, on the very spot where + already stand the pools of blood which his cruelty has drawn from thee + mangled body of his helpless victim, and within the hearing of those + agonized groans and feeble cries of "Oh do, Massa! Oh do, Massa! Do, Lord, + have mercy! Oh, Lord, have mercy!" &c. + </p> + <p> + Nor is this cruel punishment inflicted on the bare backs of the male + portion of slaves only. Oh no! The slave husband must submit without a + murmur, to see the form of his cherished, but wretched wife, not only + exposed to the rude gaze of a beastly tyrant, but he must unresistingly + see the heavy cowhide descend upon her shrinking flesh, and her manacled + limbs writhe in inexpressible torture, while her piteous cries for help + ring through his ears unanswered. The wild throbbing of his heart must be + suppressed, and his righteous indignation find no voice, in the presence + of the human monster who holds dominion over him. + </p> + <p> + After the infuriated and heartless overseer had satiated his thirst for + vengeance, on the disobedient or delinquent slave, he was untied, and left + to crawl away as best he could; sometimes on his hands and knees, to his + lonely and dilapidated cabin, where, stretched upon the cold earth, he lay + weak and bleeding and often faint from the loss of blood, without a friend + who dare administer to his necessities, and groaning in the agony of his + crushed spirit. In his cabin, which was not as good as many of our stables + at the North, he might lie for weeks before recovering sufficient strength + to resume the labor imposed upon him, and all this time without a bed or + bed clothing, or any of the necessaries considered so essential to the + sick. + </p> + <p> + Perhaps some of his fellow-slaves might come and bathe his wounds in warm + water, to prevent his clothing from tearing open his flesh anew, and thus + make the second suffering well nigh equal to the first; or they might from + their scanty store bring him such food as they could spare, to keep him + from suffering hunger, and offer their sympathy, and then drag their own + weary bodies to their place of rest, after their daily task was finished. + </p> + <p> + Oh, you who have hearts to feel; you who have kind friends around you, in + sickness and in sorrow, think of the sufferings of the helpless, + destitute, and down-trodden slave. Has sickness laid its withering hand + upon you, or disappointment blasted your fairest earthly prospects, still, + the outgushings of an affectionate heart are not denied you, and you may + look forward with hope to a bright future. Such a hope seldom animates the + heart of the poor slave. He toils on, in his unrequited labor, looking + only to the grave to find a quiet resting place, where he will be free + from the oppressor. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. — AT THE GREAT HOUSE. + </h2> + <p> + When eight years of age, I was taken to the "great house," or the family + mansion of my master, to serve as an errand boy, where I had to stand in + the presence of my master's family all the day, and a part of the night, + ready to do any thing which they commanded me to perform. + </p> + <p> + My master's family consisted of himself and wife, and seven children. His + overseer, whose name was Barsly Taylor, had also a wife and five children. + These constituted the white population on the plantation. Capt. Helm was + the owner of about one hundred slaves, which made the residents on the + plantation number about one hundred and sixteen persons in all. One + hundred and seven of them, were required to labor for the benefit of the + remaining nine, who possessed that vast domain; and one hundred of the + number doomed to unrequited toil, under the lash of a cruel task-master + during life, with no hope of release this side of the grave, and as far as + the cruel oppressor is concerned, shut out from hope beyond it. + </p> + <p> + And here let me ask, why is this practice of working slaves half clad, + poorly fed, with nothing or nearly so, to stimulate them to exertion, but + fear of the lash? Do the best interests of our common country require it? + I think not. Did the true interest of Capt. Helm demand it? Whatever may + have been his opinion, I cannot think it did. Can it be for the best + interest or good of the enslaved? Certainly not; for there is no real + inducement for the slaveholder to make beasts of burden of his fellow men, + but that which was frankly acknowledged by Gibbs and other pirates: "we + have the power,"—the power to rob and murder on the high seas!—which + they will undoubtedly continue to hold, until overtaken by justice; which + will certainly come some time, just as sure as that a righteous God reigns + over the earth or rules in heaven. + </p> + <p> + Some have attempted to apologize for the enslaving of the Negro, by saying + that they are inferior to the Anglo-Saxon race in every respect. This + charge I deny; it is utterly false. Does not the Bible inform us that "God + hath created of one blood all the nations of the earth?" And certainly in + stature and physical force the colored man is quite equal to his white + brother, and in many instances his superior; but were it otherwise, I can + not see why the more favored class should enslave the other. True, God has + given to the African a darker complexion than to his white brother; still, + each have the same desires and aspirations. The food required for the + sustenance of one is equally necessary for the other. Naturally or + physically, they alike require to be warmed by the cheerful fire, when + chilled by our northern winter's breath; and alike they welcome the cool + spring and the delightful shade of summer. Hence, I have come to the + conclusion that God created all men free and equal, and placed them upon + this earth to do good and benefit each other, and that war and slavery + should be banished from the face of the earth. + </p> + <p> + My dear reader will not understand me to say, that all nations are alike + intelligent, enterprising and industrious, for we all know that it is far + otherwise; but to man, and not to our Creator, should the fault be + charged. But, to resume our narrative, + </p> + <p> + Capt. Helm was not a very hard master; but generally was kind and + pleasant. Indulgent when in good humor, but like many of the southerners, + terrible when in a passion. He was a great sportsman, and very fond of + company. He generally kept one or two race horses, and a pack of hounds + for fox-hunting, which at that time, was a very common and fashionable + diversion in that section of country. He was not only a sportsman, but a + gamester, and was in the habit of playing cards, and sometimes betting + very high and losing accordingly. + </p> + <p> + I well remember an instance of the kind: it was when he played cards with + a Mr. W. Graham, who won from him in one sweep, two thousand and seven + hundred dollars in all, in the form of a valuable horse, prized at sixteen + hundred dollars, another saddle-horse of less value, one slave, and his + wife's gold watch. The company decided that all this was fairly won, but + Capt. Holm demurred, and refused to give up the property until an + application was made to Gen. George Washington, ("the father of his + country,") who decided that Capt. Helm had lost the game, and that Mr. + Graham had fairly won the property, of which Mr. G. took immediate + possession, and conveyed to his own plantation. + </p> + <p> + Capt. Helm was not a good business man, unless we call horse-racing, + fox-hunting, and card-playing, business. His overseer was entrusted with + every thing on the plantation, and allowed to manage about as he pleased, + while the Captain enjoyed himself in receiving calls from his wealthy + neighbors, and in drinking what he called "grog," which was no more nor + less than whisky, of which he was extremely fond, notwithstanding his + cellar contained the choicest wines and liquors. To show his partiality + for his favorite beverage, I will relate an incident which occurred + between Capt. Helm and Col. Charles Williamson. The Colonel, believing + wine to be a healthier beverage than whisky, accepted a bet made by Capt. + Helm, of one thousand dollars, that he would live longer and drink whisky, + than the Colonel, who drank wine. Shortly after, Col. Williamson was + called home by the British government, and while on his way to England, + died, and his body, preserved in a cask of brandy, was taken home. The bet + Capt. Helm made considerable effort to get, but was unsuccessful. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Helm was a very industrious woman, and generally busy in her + household affairs—sewing, knitting, and looking after the servants; + but she was a great scold,—continually finding fault with some of + the servants, and frequently punishing the young slaves herself, by + striking them over the head with a heavy iron key, until the blood ran; or + else whipping them with a cowhide, which she always kept by her side when + sitting in her room. The older servants she would cause to be punished by + having them severely whipped by a man, which she never failed to do for + every trifling fault. I have felt the weight of some of her heaviest keys + on my own head, and for the slightest offences. No slave could possibly + escape being punished—I care not how attentive they might be, nor + how industrious—punished they must be, and punished they certainly + were. Mrs. Helm appeared to be uneasy unless some of the servants were + under the lash. She came into the kitchen one morning and my mother, who + was cook, had just put on the dinner. Mrs. Helm took out her white cambric + handkerchief, and rubbed it on the inside of the pot, and it crocked it! + That was enough to invoke the wrath of my master, who came forth + immediately with his horse-whip, with which he whipped my poor mother most + unmercifully—far more severely than I ever knew him to whip a horse. + </p> + <p> + I once had the misfortune to break the lock of master's shot gun, and when + it came to his knowledge, he came to me in a towering passion, and charged + me with what he considered the <i>crime</i> of carelessness. I denied it, + and told him I knew nothing about it; but I was so terribly frightened + that he saw I was guilty, and told me so, foaming with rage; and then I + confessed the truth. But oh, there was no escaping the lash. Its + recollection is still bitter, and ever will be. I was commanded to take + off my clothes, which I did, and then master put me on the back of another + slave, my arms hanging down before him and my hands clasped in his, where + he was obliged to hold me with a vise-like grasp. Then master gave me the + most severe flogging that I ever received, and I pray God that I may never + again experience such torture. And yet Capt. Helm was not the worst of + masters. + </p> + <p> + These cruelties are daily occurrences, and so degrading is the whole + practice of Slavery, that it not only crushes and brutalizes the wretched + slave, but it hardens the heart, benumbs all the fine feelings of + humanity, and deteriorates from the character of the slaveholders + themselves,—whether man or woman. Otherwise, how could a gentle, and + in other respects, amiable woman, look on such scenes of cruelty, without + a shudder of utter abhorrence? But slaveholding ladies, can not only look + on quietly, but with approbation; and what is worse, though very common, + they can and do use the lash and cowhide themselves, on the backs of their + slaves, and that too on those of their own sex! Far rather would I spend + my life in a State's Prison, than be the slave of the best slaveholder on + the earth! + </p> + <p> + When I was not employed as an errand-boy, it was my duty to stand behind + my master's chair, which was sometimes the whole day, never being allowed + to sit in his presence. Indeed, no slave is ever allowed to sit down in + the presence of their master or mistress. If a slave is addressed when + sitting, he is required to spring to his feet, and instantly remove his + hat, if he has one, and answer in the most humble manner, or lay the + foundation for a flogging, which will not be long delayed. + </p> + <p> + I slept in the same room with my master and mistress. This room was + elegantly furnished with damask curtains, mahogany bedstead of the most + expensive kind, and every thing else about it was of the most costly kind. + And while Mr. and Mrs. Helm reposed on their bed of down, with a cloud of + lace floating over them, like some Eastern Prince, with their slaves to + fan them while they slept, and to tremble when they awoke, I always slept + upon the floor, without a pillow or even a blanket, but, like a dog, lay + down anywhere I could find a place. + </p> + <p> + Slaves are never allowed to leave the plantation to which they belong, + without a written pass. Should any one venture to disobey this law, he + will most likely be caught by the <i>patrol</i> and given thirty-nine + lashes. This patrol is always on duty every Sunday, going to each + plantation under their supervision, entering every slave cabin, and + examining closely the conduct of the slaves; and if they find one slave + from another plantation without a pass, he is immediately punished with a + severe flogging. + </p> + <p> + I recollect going one Sunday with my mother, to visit my grand-mother; and + while there, two or three of the patrol came and looked into the cabin, + and seeing my mother, demanded her pass. She told them that she had one, + but had left it in another cabin, from whence she soon brought it, which + saved her a whipping but we were terribly frightened. + </p> + <p> + The reader will obtain a better knowledge of the character of a Virginia + patrol, by the relation of an affair, which came off on the neighboring + plantation of Col. Alexander, in which some forty of Capt. Helm's slaves + were engaged, and which proved rather destructive of human life in the + end. + </p> + <p> + But I must first say that it is not true, that slave owners are respected + for kindness to their slaves. The more tyrannical a master is, the more + will he be favorably regarded by his neighboring planters; and from the + day that he acquires the reputation of a kind and indulgent master, he is + looked upon with suspicion, and sometimes hatred, and his slaves are + watched more closely than before. + </p> + <p> + Col. Alexander was a very wealthy planter and owned a great number of + slaves, but he was very justly suspected of being a kind, humane, and + indulgent master. His slaves were always better fed, better clad, and had + greater privileges than any I knew in the Old Dominion; and of course, the + patrol had long had an eye on them, anxious to flog some of "those + pampered niggers, who were spoiled by the indulgence of a weak, + inefficient, but well-meaning owner." + </p> + <p> + Col. A. gave his slaves the liberty to get up a grand dance. Invitations + were sent and accepted, to a large number of slaves on other plantations, + and so, for miles around, all or many of the slaves were in high + anticipation of joining in the great dance, which was to come off on + Easter night. In the mean time, the patrol was closely watching their + movements, and evinced rather a joyful expectancy of the many they should + find there without a pass, and the flogging they would give them for that, + if not guilty of any other offence, and perhaps they might catch some of + the Colonel's slaves doing something for which they could be taught "to + know their place," by the application of the cowhide. + </p> + <p> + The slaves on Col. A.'s plantation had to provide and prepare the supper + for the expected vast "turn out," which was no light matter; and as slaves + like on such occasions to pattern as much as possible after their master's + family, the result was, to meet the emergency of the case, they <i>took</i> + without saying, "by your leave, Sir," some property belonging to their + master, reasoning among themselves, as slaves often do, that it can not be + <i>stealing</i>, because "it belongs to massa, and so do <i>we</i>, and we + only use one part of his property to benefit another. Sure, 'tis all + massa's." And if they do not get detected in this removal of "massa's + property" from one location to another, they think no more of it. + </p> + <p> + Col. Alexander's slaves were hurrying on with their great preparations for + the dance and feast; and as the time drew near, the old and knowing ones + might be seen in groups, discussing the matter, with many a wink and nod; + but it was in the valleys and by-places where the younger portion were to + be found, rather secretly preparing food for the great time coming. This + consisted of hogs, sheep, calves; and as to master's <i>poultry</i>, that + suffered daily. Sometimes it was missed, but the disappearance was always + easily accounted for, by informing "massa" that a great number of hawks + had been around of late; and their preparation went on, night after night, + undetected. They who repaired to a swamp or other by-place to cook by + night, carefully destroyed everything likely to detect them, before they + returned to their cabins in the morning. + </p> + <p> + The night for the dance <i>came</i> at last, and long before the time, the + road leading to Col. Alexander's plantation presented a gay spectacle. The + females were seen flocking to the place of resort, with heads adorned with + gaudy bandanna turbans and new calico dresses, of the gayest colors, + —their whole attire decked over with bits of gauze ribbon and other + fantastic finery. The shades of night soon closed over the plantation, and + then could be heard the rude music and loud laugh of the unpolished slave. + It was about ten o'clock when the <i>aristocratic slaves</i> began to + assemble, dressed in the cast-off finery of their master and mistress, + swelling out and putting on airs in imitation of those they were forced to + obey from day to day. + </p> + <p> + When they were all assembled, the dance commenced; the old fiddler struck + up some favorite tune, and over the floor they went; the flying feet of + the dancers were heard, pat, pat, over the apartment till the clock warned + them it was twelve at midnight, or what some call "low twelve," to + distinguish it from twelve o'clock at noon; then the violin ceased its + discordant sounds, and the merry dancers paused to take breath. + </p> + <p> + Supper was then announced, and all began to prepare for the sumptuous + feast. It being the pride of slaves to imitate the manners of their master + and mistress, especially in the ceremonies of the table, all was conducted + with great propriety and good order. The food was well cooked, and in a + very plentiful supply. They had also managed in some way, to get a good + quantity of excellent wine, which was sipped in the most approved and + modern style. Every dusky face was lighted up, and every eye sparkled with + joy. However ill fed they might have been, here, for once, there was + plenty. Suffering and toil was forgotten, and they all seemed with one + accord to give themselves up to the intoxication of pleasurable amusement. + </p> + <p> + House servants were of course, "the stars" of the party; all eyes were + turned to them to see how they conducted, for they, among slaves, are what + a military man would call "fugle-men." The field hands, and such of them + as have generally been excluded from the dwelling of their owners, look to + the house servant as a pattern of politeness and gentility. And indeed, it + is often the only method of obtaining any knowledge of the manners of what + is called "genteel society;" hence, they are ever regarded as a privileged + class; and are sometimes greatly envied, while others are bitterly hated. + And too often justly, for many of them are the most despicable + tale-bearers and mischief-makers, who will, for the sake of the favor of + his master or mistress, frequently betray his fellow-slave, and by + tattling, get him severely whipped; and for these acts of perfidy, and + sometimes downright falsehood, he is often rewarded by his master, who + knows it is for his interest to keep such ones about him; though he is + sometimes obliged, in addition to a reward, to send him away, for fear of + the vengeance of the betrayed slaves. In the family of his master, the + example of bribery and treachery is ever set before him, hence it is, that + insurrections and stampedes are so generally detected. Such slaves are + always treated with more affability than others, for the slaveholder is + well aware that he stands over a volcano, that may at any moment rock his + foundation to the center, and with one mighty burst of its long suppressed + fire, sweep him and his family to destruction. When he lies down at night, + he knows not but that ere another morning shall dawn, he may be left + mangled and bleeding, and at the mercy of those maddened slaves whom he + has so long ruled with a rod of iron. + </p> + <p> + But the supper, like other events, came to an end at last. The expensive + table service, with other things, which had been secretly brought from the + "great house," was hurriedly cleansed by the slaves, and carefully + returned. The floor was again cleared, the violin sounded, and soon they + were performing another "break down," with all the wild abandon of the + African character,—in the very midst of which, the music suddenly + ceased, and the old musician assumed a listening attitude. Every foot was + motionless; every face terrified, and every ear listening for the cause of + the alarm. + </p> + <p> + Soon the slave who was kept on the "look-out," shouted to the listeners + the single word "<i>patrol!</i>" and then the tumult that followed that + announcement, is beyond the power of language to describe! Many a poor + slave who had stolen from his cabin, to join in the dance, now remembered + that they had no pass! Many screamed in affright, as if they already felt + the lash and heard the crack of the overseer's whip; others clenched their + hands, and assumed an attitude of bold defiance, while a savage frown + contracted the brow of all. Their unrestrained merriment and delicious + fare, seemed to arouse in them the natural feelings of self-defence and + defiance of their oppressors. But what could be done? The patrol was + nearing the building, when an athletic, powerful slave, who had been but a + short time from his "fatherland," whose spirit the cowardly overseer had + labored in vain to quell, said in a calm, clear voice, that we had better + stand our ground, and advised the females to lose no time in useless + wailing, but get their things and repair immediately to a cabin at a short + distance, and there remain quiet, without a light, which they did with all + possible haste. The men were terrified at this bold act of their leader; + and many with dismay at the thought of resistance, began to skulk behind + fences and old buildings, when he opened the door and requested every + slave to leave who felt unwilling to fight. None were urged to remain, and + those who stood by him did so voluntarily. + </p> + <p> + Their number was now reduced to twenty-five men, but the leader, a + gigantic African, with a massive, compact frame, and an arm of great + strength, looked competent to put ten common men to flight. He clenched + his powerful fist, and declared that he would resist unto death, before he + would be arrested by those savage men, even if they promised not to flog + him. They closed the door, and agreed not to open it; and then the leader + cried, "Extinguish the lights and let them come! we will meet them hand to + hand!" Five of the number he stationed near the door, with orders to rush + out, if the patrol entered, and seize their horses, cut the bridles, or + otherwise unfit them for use. This would prevent them from giving an alarm + and getting a reinforcement from surrounding plantations. In silence they + awaited the approach of the enemy, and soon the tramping of horses' feet + announced their approach, but when within a few yards of the house they + halted, and were overheard by one of the skulking slaves, maturing their + plans and mode of attack. There was great hesitancy expressed by a part of + the company to engage in the affair at all. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Coming events cast their shadow before." +</pre> + <p> + The majority, however, seemed to think it safe enough, and uttered + expressions of triumph that they had got the rascals at last. + </p> + <p> + "Are you not afraid that they will resist?" said the weaker party. + </p> + <p> + "Resist?" was the astonished answer. "This old fellow, the Colonel, has + pampered and indulged his slaves, it is true, and they have slipped + through our fingers whenever we have attempted to chastise them; but they + are not such fools as to dare resistance! Those niggers know as well as + we, that it is <i>death</i>, by the law of the State, for a slave to + strike a white man." + </p> + <p> + "Very true," said the other, "but it is dark and long past midnight, and + beside they have been indulging their appetites, and we cannot tell what + they may attempt to do." + </p> + <p> + "Pshaw!" he answered, contemptuously, "they are unarmed, and I should not + fear in the least, to go in among them <i>alone</i>, armed only with my + cowhide!" + </p> + <p> + "As you please, then," he said, rather dubiously, "but look well to your + weapons; are they in order?" + </p> + <p> + "In prime order, Sir." And putting spurs to their horses, were soon at the + house, where they dismounted and requested one of the party to remain with + the horses. + </p> + <p> + "What," said he, "are you so chicken-hearted as to suppose those d——d + cowardly niggers are going to get up an insurrection?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh no," he replied, carelessly, but would not consent to have the horses + left alone. "Besides," said he, "they may forget themselves at this late + hour; but if they do, a few lashes of the cowhide will quicken their + memory, I reckon." + </p> + <p> + The slaves were aware of their movements, and prepared to receive them. + </p> + <p> + They stepped up to the door boldly, and demanded admittance, but all was + silent; they tried to open it, but it was fastened. Those inside, ranged + on each side of the door, and stood perfectly still. + </p> + <p> + The patrol finding the slaves not disposed to obey, burst off the slight + fastening that secured the door, and the chief of the patrol bounded into + their midst, followed by several of his companions, all in total darkness! + </p> + <p> + Vain is the attempt to describe the tumultuous scene which followed. Hand + to hand they fought and struggled with each other, amid the terrific + explosion of firearms,—oaths and curses, mingled with the prayers of + the wounded, and the groans of the dying! Two of the patrol were killed on + the spot, and lay drenched in the warm blood that so lately flowed through + their veins. Another with his arm broken and otherwise wounded, lay + groaning and helpless, beside the fallen slaves, who had sold their lives + so dearly. Another of his fellows was found at a short distance, mortally + wounded and about to bid adieu to life. In the yard lay the keeper of the + horses, a stiffened corpse. Six of the slaves were killed and two wounded. + </p> + <p> + It would be impossible to convey to the minds of northern people, the + alarm and perfect consternation that the above circumstance occasioned in + that community. The knowledge of its occurrence was carried from one + plantation to another, as on the wings of the wind; exaggerated accounts + were given, and prophecies of the probable result made, until the + excitement became truly fearful. Every cheek was blanched and every frame + trembled when listening to the tale, that "insurrection among the slaves + had commenced on the plantation of Col. Alexander; that three or four of + the patrol had been killed, &c." The day after, people flocked from + every quarter, armed to the teeth, swearing vengeance on the defenceless + slaves. Nothing can teach plainer than this, the constant and tormenting + fear in which the slaveholder lives, and yet he repents not of his deeds. + </p> + <p> + The kind old Colonel was placed in the most difficult and unenviable + position. His warm heart was filled with sorrow for the loss of his + slaves, but not alone, as is generally the case in such instances, because + he had lost so much property. He truly regretted the death of his faithful + servants, and boldly rebuked the occasion of their sudden decease. When + beset and harassed by his neighbors to give up his slaves to be tried for + insurrection and murder, he boldly resisted, contending for the natural + right of the slaves, to act in their own defence, and especially when on + his own plantation and in their own quarters. They contended, however, + that as his slaves had got up a dance, and had invited those of the + adjoining plantations, the patrol was only discharging their duty in + looking after them; but the gallant old Colonel defended his slaves, and + told them plainly that he should continue to do so to the extent of his + ability and means. + </p> + <p> + The poor slaves were sad enough, on the morning after their merry meeting, + and they might be seen standing in groups, conversing with a very + different air from the one they had worn the day before. + </p> + <p> + Their business was now to prepare the bodies of their late associates for + the grave. Robert, the brave African, who had so boldly led them on the + night before, and who had so judiciously provided for their escape, was + calmly sleeping in death's cold embrace. He left a wife and five slave + children. Two of the other slaves left families, whose pitiful cries it + was painful to hear. + </p> + <p> + The Colonel's family, deeply afflicted by what was passing around them, + attended the funeral. One of the slaves, who sometimes officiated as a + minister, read a portion of Scripture, and gave out two hymns;—one + of which commences with + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Hark! from the tomb a doleful sound." +</pre> + <p> + Both were sung with great solemnity by the congregation, and then the good + old man offered a prayer; after which he addressed the slaves on the + shortness of human life and the certainty of death, and more than once + hinted at the hardness of their lot, assuring, however, his fellow-slaves, + that if they were good and faithful, all would be right hereafter. His + master, Col. Alexander, was deeply affected by this simple faith and + sincere regard for the best interests of all, both master and slave. + </p> + <p> + When the last look at their fellow-servants had been taken, the procession + was formed in the following manner: First, the old slave minister, then + the remains of the dead, followed by their weeping relatives; then came + the master and his family; next the slaves belonging to the plantation; + and last, friends and strangers, black and white; all moved on solemnly to + the final resting-place of those brave men, whose descendants may yet be + heard from, in defence of right and freedom. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III. — HORSE-RACING AND ITS CONSEQUENCES. + </h2> + <p> + Capt. Helm had a race-course on his plantation, on which he trained young + horses for the fall races. One very fine horse he owned, called <i>Mark + Anthony</i>, which he trained in the most careful manner for several + months previous to the races. He would put him on the course every + morning, sometimes covering him with a blanket, and then put him to his + utmost speed, which he called "sweating him." Mark Anthony was to be put + on the race-course in October following, as a competitor for the purse of + ten thousand dollars, which was the amount to be lost or gained on the + first day of the fall races. Capt. H. had also another young horse, called + <i>Buffer</i>, under a course of training, which he designed to enter the + lists for the second day. His course of training had been about the same + as Mark Anthony's, but being a year or two younger, it was thought that he + had not sufficient "bottom" to risk so much money on, as was at stake on + the first day. + </p> + <p> + When the time for the races to commence came, all was bustle and + excitement in the house and on the plantation. It was a fine October + morning, and the sun shed a mellow radiance on all around, when people + began to throng the race-course. Some came with magnificent equipages, + attended by their numerous train of black servants, dressed in livery, + —some in less splendid array,—and others on foot, all hurrying + on to the exciting scene. There the noblest blood of Old Virginia, of + which many are wont to boast, was fully represented, as was also the + wealth and fashion of the country for many miles around. + </p> + <p> + All were in high spirits, and none seemed to fear that they would be the + losers in the amount of money about to change hands. And for what, pray, + is all this grand outlay—this vast expenditure? Merely the pleasure + and gratification of witnessing the speed of a fine horse, and the vanity + of prejudging concerning it. + </p> + <p> + The arrangements were at length completed,—the horses regularly + entered, Mark Anthony among the rest,—and then the word "go!" was + given, when each horse sprang as if for his life, each striving to take + the lead. Away they go, sweeping round the course with lightning speed, + while every spectator's eye is strained, and every countenance flushed + with intense anxiety. + </p> + <p> + Some of the noble animals were distanced the first heat, and others were + taken away by their owners. + </p> + <p> + The judges allowed twenty minutes to prepare the horses for the second + trial of their speed—a trial which must enrich or empoverish many of + the thousands present. Already there were sad countenances to be seen in + the crowd. + </p> + <p> + The horses were again in readiness, and the word given,—away they + flew with the fleetness of the wind, to come in the second time. + </p> + <p> + But who can describe the anxiety written on every face, as they prepared + for the third and last trial? I cannot. Many had already lost all they had + staked, and others who had bet high began to fear for the result. Soon, + however, all was again prepared and those foaming steeds, after having + exerted their animal power to the utmost, have accomplished their task and + come in for the last time. The purse was won, <i>but not by Mark Anthony</i>. + Capt. Helm was more fortunate the second day. Buffer won the smaller + purse, but the Captain came from the races, a much poorer man than when + they commenced. These repeated failures and heavy losses had the effect to + arouse him to a sense of his pecuniary position, and he soon after began + to think and talk about going to some new country. + </p> + <p> + He resolved at last to visit the far-off "Genesee Country," which he + shortly after put in practice, and after an absence of about three weeks + he returned in good health, and delighted with the country; the more so, + doubtless, because he said, "the more slaves a man possessed in that + country the more he would be respected, and the higher would be his + position in society." + </p> + <p> + Capt. Helm finally concluded to sell his plantation and stock, except the + slaves, and remove to the Genesee Country, where he designed to locate his + future residence. + </p> + <p> + The plantation and stock (retaining the slaves) were advertised for sale, + and on a certain day named, all would be disposed of at a public sale, or + to the highest bidder. + </p> + <p> + When the day of sale arrived, there flocked from all parts of the + surrounding country the largest assemblage of people I ever saw in that + place. A large number of wealthy and respectable planters were present, + whose gentlemanly behavior should have been an example to others. + </p> + <p> + The majority of that vast crowd, however, were a rough, quarrelsome, + fighting set, just such as might be expected from slave-holding districts. + There were several regularly fought battles during the first day of the + sale. + </p> + <p> + One Thomas Ford, a large, muscular, ferocious-looking fellow, a good + specimen of a southern bully and woman-whipper, had been victorious + through the day in numerous fights and brawls; but he had to pay dear for + it when night came. Some one or more of the vanquished party, took + advantage of the dark night to stab him in both sides. The knife of the + assassin had been thrust into his thigh, tearing the flesh upward, leaving + a frightful and dangerous wound; but what is most singular, both sides + were wounded in nearly the same manner, and at the same time, for so + quickly was the deed committed that the offenders made their escape, + before an alarm could be raised for their detection; nor have I ever heard + of any one being arrested for the crime. + </p> + <p> + Ford's groans and cries were painful to hear, but his brother acted like a + madman; rushing hither and thither, with a heavy bludgeon in his hand, + with which he indiscriminately beat the fences and whatever came in his + way, crying "Oh my brother, my poor brother! Who has murdered my poor + brother?" + </p> + <p> + Physicians came to the aid of the wounded man who at first thought he + might recover, but in a climate like that of Virginia it was impossible. + His friends did all they could to save him, but the poor wretch lingered a + few days and died. Thus ended the life of a bad man and a hard master. + </p> + <p> + And who will wonder, if his slaves rejoiced to hear of his death? If they + must be sold to pay his debts, they could not fall into the hands of a + more heartless tyrant. Who then can blame those feeble women and helpless + children, long held as chattels in his iron grasp, if they are grateful + that the man-stealer is no more? + </p> + <p> + This Ford was a fair specimen of that class, known in more modern parlance + as a "Border Ruffian." Such as are at this time endeavoring, by their + swaggering and bullying, to cast on the fair fields of Kansas the deep + curse of Slavery—a curse which, like the poison of the deadly Upas, + blights all within its influence: the colored and the white man, the slave + and the master. We were thankful, however, that no more lives were lost + during the vendue, which was commenced with the stock; this occupied two + days. + </p> + <p> + The reader will see that we had cause to be grateful, when he takes into + consideration that drinking and fighting was the order of the day, and + drunkenness and carousing the order of the night. + </p> + <p> + Then too, the practice of dueling was carried on in all its hideous + barbarity. If a gentleman thought himself insulted, he would immediately + challenge the offender to mortal combat, and if he refused to do so, then + the insulted gentleman felt bound by that barbarous code of honor, to take + his life, whenever or wherever he might meet him, though it might be in a + crowded assembly, where the lives of innocent persons were endangered. + </p> + <p> + A case of this kind happened in Kentucky, where the belligerent parties + met in a large concourse of people, the majority of them women and + children; but the combat ensued, regardless of consequences. One woman was + shot through the face, but that was not worthy of notice, for she was only + a <i>colored woman</i>; and in that, as in other slave States, the laws + give to the white population the liberty to trample under foot the claims + of all such persons to justice. Justly indignant ladies present + remonstrated, but all to no purpose. The Governor of the State was there + and was in danger of being wounded by their flying bullets, and it is + possible that if he had been in the place of the poor African, some action + would have been taken, and laws made to protect the people against such + inhuman practices. But I must return to Capt. Helm and the vendue. + </p> + <p> + The sale continued for several days, during which there was no such thing + as rest or sleep or one quiet moment on the premises. As was customary in + that State, Capt. Helm provided the food and drink for all who came, and + of course a great many came to drink and revel and not to buy; and that + class generally took the night time for their hideous outbreaks, when the + more respectable class had retired to their beds or to their homes. And + many foul deeds and cruel outrages were committed; nor could the + perpetrators be detected or brought to justice. Nothing could be done but + to submit quietly to their depredations. + </p> + <p> + One peaceable old slave was killed by having his head split open with an + ax. He was found in the morning lying in the yard, with the bloody + instrument of death by his side. This occasioned some excitement among the + slaves, but as the white people paid but little attention to it, it soon + passed off, and the sorrowful slaves put the old man's remains in a rough + box, and conveyed them to their last resting-place. + </p> + <p> + After the sale was over, the slaves were allowed a holiday, with + permission to go and visit their friends and relatives previous to their + departure for their new home in a strange land. + </p> + <p> + The slaves generally on Capt. Helm's plantation looked upon this removal + as the greatest hardship they had ever met; the severest trial they had + ever endured; and the separation from our old home and fellow-slaves, from + our relatives and the old State of Virginia, was to us a contemplation of + sorrowful interest. Those who remained, thought us the most unfortunate of + human beings to be taken away off into the State of New York, and, as they + believed, beyond the bounds of civilization, where we should in all + probability be destroyed by wild beasts, devoured by cannibals, or scalped + by the Indians. We never expected to meet again in this life, hence our + parting interviews were as solemn as though we were committing our friends + to the grave. But He whose tender mercies are over all his creatures, knew + best what was for our good. + </p> + <p> + Little did Capt. Helm think when bringing his slaves to New York that in a + few short years, they would be singing the song of deliverance from + Slavery's thralldom; and as little thought he of the great and painful + change, to be brought about in his own circumstances. Could any one have + looked into futurity and traced the difficult path, my master was to + tread,—could any one have foreseen the end to which he must soon + come, and related it to him in the days of his greatness and prosperity, + he would, I am certain, have turned from such a narrator of misfortune in + a greater rage than did Namaan when the man of God told him "to go and dip + seven times in the Jordan." + </p> + <p> + He could not have believed, nor could I, that in a few years the powerful, + wealthy slaveholder, living in luxury and extravagance, would be so + reduced that the <i>necessaries</i> of life even, were beyond his means, + and that he must be supported by the town! + </p> + <p> + But I anticipate. Let us return to the old plantation which seems dearer + than ever, now that we are about to leave it forever. + </p> + <p> + We thought Capt. Helm's prospects pretty fair, and yet we shuddered when + we realized our condition as slaves. This change in our circumstances was + calculated to awaken all our fears that had been slumbering, and bring all + the perilous changes to which we might be subjected most vividly to mind. + </p> + <p> + We were about to leave the land of our birth, the home of our childhood, + and we felt that untried scenes were before us. We were slaves, it is + true, but we had heart-felt emotions to suppress, when we thought of + leaving all that was so familiar to us, and chose rather to "bear the ills + we had, than to fly to those we knew not of." And oh, the terrible + uncertainty of the future, that ever rests on the slave, even the most + favored, was now felt with a crushing weight. To-day, they are in the old + familiar cabin surrounded by their family, relatives and friends; + to-morrow, they may be scattered, parted forever. The master's + circumstances, not their own, may have assigned one to the dreadful + slave-pen, and another to the distant rice-swamp; and it is this continual + dread of some perilous future that holds in check every joyous emotion, + every lofty aspiration, of the most favored slave at the South. They know + that their owners indulge in high living, and they are well aware also + that their continual indulgences engender disease, which make them very + liable to sudden death; or their master may be killed in a duel, or at a + horse-race, or in a drunken brawl; then his creditors are active in + looking after the estate; and next, the blow of the auctioneer's hammer + separates them perhaps for life. + </p> + <p> + Now, after the lapse of so many years, when my thoughts wander back, as + they often do, to my native State, I confess that painful recollections + drive from my mind those joyful emotions that should ever arise in the + heart of man, when contemplating the familiar scenes of his youth, and + especially when recurring to the venerable shades and the sheltering roof + under which he was born. True, around the well-remembered spot where our + childhood's years were spent, recollection still loves to linger; yet + memory, ever ready with its garnered store, paints in glowing colors, + Virginia's crouching slaves in the foreground. Her loathsome slave-pens + and slave markets—chains, whips and instruments of torture; and back + of all this is as truthfully recorded the certain doom, the retributive + justice, that will sooner or later overtake her; and with a despairing + sigh I turn away from the imaginary view of my native State. + </p> + <p> + What though she may have been justly styled, "The Mother of Presidents?" + What avails the honor of being the birth-place of the brave and excellent + Washington, while the prayers and groans of the down-trodden African daily + ascend to heaven for redress? What though her soil be fertile, yielding a + yearly product of wealth to its possessors? And what matter is it, that + their lordly mansions are embowered in the shade of trees of a century's + growth, if, through their lofty and tangled branches, we espy the rough + cabin of the mangled bondman, and know that the soil on which he labors + has drunk his heart's blood? + </p> + <p> + Ah! to me, life's sweetest memories are all embittered. Slavery had cast + its dark and fearful shadow over my childhood, youth, and early manhood, + and I went out from the land of my birth, a fettered slave. A land which I + can regard only as "the house of bondage and the grave of freedom." But + God forgive me for having envied my master his fair prospects at this + time. + </p> + <p> + After the sale of the plantation, Capt. Helm was in possession of quite a + large sum of money, and having never paid much attention to his pecuniary + interests, he acted as if there could be no end of it. He realized about + forty thousand dollars from the sale of his estate in Virginia, which + would have been a pretty sum in the hands of a man who had been accustomed + to look after his own interests; but under the management of one who had + all his life lived and prospered on the unrequited toil of slaves, it was + of little account. He bought largely of every thing he thought necessary + for himself or the comfort of his family, for which he always paid the + most extravagant prices. The Captain was not as well qualified to take + care of himself and family as some of his slaves were; but he thought + differently, and so the preparations for leaving the old plantation for a + home in the wilds of New York, went on under his direction, and at last we + bade a final adieu to our friends and all we held dear in the State of + Virginia. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV. — JOURNEY TO OUR NEW HOME IN NEW YORK. + </h2> + <p> + All things having been prepared for our departure, our last "Good-bye" + spoken, and our last look taken of the old plantation, we started, amid + the sobs and prolonged cries of separating families, in company with our + master, the overseer and another white man named Davis, who went with us + to take back the five-horse "Pennsylvania team," which was provided for + the conveyance of the food for the slaves, and what little baggage they + might have, and also that of the overseer. + </p> + <p> + Capt. Helm had determined to leave his family until he could get his + slaves settled in their future quarters, and a home provided for himself, + when they were expected to join him. + </p> + <p> + We traveled northward, through Maryland, Pennsylvania, and a portion of + New York, to Sodus Bay, where we halted for some time. We made about + twenty miles per day, camping out every night, and reached that place + after a march of twenty days. Every morning the overseer called the roll, + when every slave must answer to his or her name, felling to the ground + with his cowhide, any delinquent who failed to speak out in quick time. + </p> + <p> + After the roll had been called, and our scanty breakfast eaten, we marched + on again, our company presenting the appearance of some numerous caravan + crossing the desert of Sahara. When we pitched our tents for the night, + the slaves must immediately set about cooking not their supper only, but + their breakfast, so as to be ready to start early the next morning, when + the tents were struck; and we proceeded on our journey in this way to the + end. + </p> + <p> + At Sodus Bay there was then one small tavern, kept by a man named Sill. + </p> + <p> + The bay is ten miles in length and from a half to two miles in breadth, + and makes an excellent harbor. The surrounding country then was almost an + unbroken wilderness. + </p> + <p> + After Capt. Helm had rested a few days at Sodus, he went six miles up the + bay and purchased a large tract of land lying on both sides of that + beautiful sheet of water, and put his slaves on to clear and cultivate it. + Then came the "tug of war." Neither the overseer nor the slaves had the + least knowledge of <i>clearing</i> land, and that was the first thing to + be done. It was useless to consult the Captain, for he knew still less + about matters of that kind. To obviate this difficulty, our master bought + out a Mr. Cummings, who had some cleared land on the west side of the bay. + On this he put the overseer and a part of the slaves, and then hired a Mr. + Herrington to take charge of the remainder. Herrington and his gang of + slaves was sent to the east side to chop down the heavy timber and clear + the land for cultivation, all of which had first to be learned, for we + knew nothing of felling trees, and the poor slaves had rather a hard time + of it. + </p> + <p> + Provisions were scarce and could not be procured for cash in that section. + There was no corn to be had, and we had but little left. We had no + neighbors to assist us in this trying time, and we came near starvation. + True, the wild, romantic region in which we were located abounded in game,—elk, + deer, bear, panther, and wolves, roamed abroad through the dense forest, + in great abundance, but the business of the slaves was not hunting or + fishing, but clearing the land, preparatory to raising crops of grain the + coming season. + </p> + <p> + At last Capt. Helm chartered a boat, and manned it to go to the mouth of + the Genesee River to buy corn. They embarked under favorable auspices, but + soon there came on such a tremendous storm, that the boat could no longer + be managed, and the crew in despair threw themselves on the bottom of the + boat to await their inevitable destruction, when one of their number, a + colored man named Dunbar, sprang to the helm, and with great difficulty + succeeded in running her safely into a Canadian port, where they were + obliged to part with every thing in their possession to obtain the means + to return to their families in Sodus, who had given them up as lost. But, + to the great joy of all, they came back at last with their lives, but with + nothing for the famishing slaves. Before another boat could be sent for + our relief, we were reduced to the last extremity. We became so weak we + could not work, and it was difficult to drag ourselves about, as we were + now obliged to do, to gather up all the old bones we could find, break + them up fine and then boil them; which made a sort of broth sufficient + barely to sustain life. This we drank, and merely existed, until at last, + the long looked for boat returned, loaded with provision, which saved us + from starvation and gave us strength to pursue our labor. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V. — INCIDENTS AT SODUS BAY. + </h2> + <p> + About this time two slaves who were laboring in the forest, instead of + returning to their cabin as was expected, got lost, and wandered eight + days in the dense forest without provision, except what they could procure + from roots and the bark of trees. Great exertion was made to find them; + guns were fired, horns blown, and shouts raised, but all to no purpose. + Finally, we gave them up, supposing they had starved to death or had been + killed by wild beasts. One of them was an elderly man, named Benjamin + Bristol, and the other, Edmund Watkins, a lad of about eighteen years of + age. They wandered in an easterly direction, a distance of some sixty or + seventy miles, through an unbroken wilderness, vainly trying to find their + way home. On the eighth day, to their inexpressible joy, they came out on + the shore of Lake Ontario, near Oswego; but young Watkins was so + completely exhausted that he declared himself incapable of further + exertion, and begged to be left to his fate. Bristol, however, who chewed + tobacco, which it was supposed kept him from sinking so low as his + companion, took him on his back, and carried him home, which they reached + in a famished state and reduced to skeletons. All were thankful for the + preservation of their lives, and, with the best we could do for them, they + soon recruited and became strong as ever. + </p> + <p> + One day, two others and myself thought we saw some animal swimming across + the bay. We got a boat and went out to see what it was. After rowing for + some time we came near enough to perceive it was a large bear. Those who + watched us from the shore expected to see our boat upset, and all on board + drowned, but it was not so to be; the, bear was struck on the nose with a + blow that killed him instantly, and he was hauled ashore in great triumph. + </p> + <p> + While these things were transpiring on the east side of the bay, the + overseer on the west side determined to punish one of the slaves who + worked on the east side. The name of the slave was Williams; a strong, + athletic man, and generally a good workman, but he had unfortunately + offended the overseer, for which nothing could appease his wrath but the + privilege of flogging him. The slave, however, thought as he was no longer + in Virginia, he would not submit to such chastisement, and the overseer + was obliged to content himself with threatening what he would do if he + caught him on the west side of the bay. + </p> + <p> + A short time after, the overseer called at the cabin of one of the slaves, + and was not a little surprised to find there the refractory slave, + Williams, in company with three other men. He immediately walked up to him + and asked him some question, to which Williams made no reply. Attended, as + he always was, by his ferocious bull-dog, he flourished his cowhide in + great wrath and demanded an instant reply, but he received none, whereupon + he struck the slave a blow with the cowhide. Instantly Williams sprang and + caught him by the throat and held him writhing in his vise-like grasp, + until he succeeded in getting possession of the cowhide, with which he + gave the overseer such a flogging as slaves seldom get. Williams was + seized at once by the dog who endeavored to defend his brutal master, but + the other slaves came to the rescue, and threw the dog into a huge fire + which was near by, from which, after a singeing, he ran off, howling worse + than his master when in the hands of Williams. He foamed and swore and + still the blows descended; then he commanded the slaves to assist him, but + as none obeyed, he commenced begging in the most humble manner, and at + last entreated them as "gentlemen" to spare him; but all to no purpose. + When Williams thought he had thrashed him sufficiently, he let him go and + hurried to his boat and rowed down the bay, instead of crossing it. The + overseer no sooner found himself at liberty than he ran out, calling to a + servant girl to bring his rifle, which was loaded. The rifle was brought, + but before he could get to the bay, Williams had gone beyond his reach; + but unfortunately another boat was at this moment crossing the bay, which + he, mad with rage, fired into. The men in the boat immediately cried out + to him not to repeat the shot, but he was so angry that he swore he would + shoot somebody, and sent another bullet after them. No one was hurt, + however, but the brave overseer was vanquished. Crest-fallen and + unrevenged, he shortly after called on Capt. Helm for a settlement, which + was granted, and bidding a final adieu to the "Genesee Country," he + departed for Virginia, where he could beat slaves without himself + receiving a cow-hiding. No one regretted his absence, nor do I think any + but the most heartless would cordially welcome his return to the land of + Slavery. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI. — REMOVAL FROM SODUS TO BATH. + </h2> + <p> + Capt. Helm went to Virginia for his family, and returning with them, + concluded to locate his future residence in the village of Bath, Steuben + County. He purchased a large tract of land near the village, a large grist + mill, and two saw mills; also, two farms; one called the "Maringo," east + of the village; and the other, called "Epsam," north of it; and a fine + house and lot in the village. He also kept a distillery, which in those + days was well patronized, for nearly every body drank whisky; and with + Capt. Helm it was a favorite beverage. + </p> + <p> + The slaves were removed to Bath, where our master was well suited, and was + everywhere noted for his hospitality. He had a great deal of land to + cultivate, and carried on a multiplicity of business. + </p> + <p> + Soon after we were settled at Bath, Capt. Helm's eldest daughter, Jenny, + was married to Mr. John Fitzhugh, her cousin, who had come from Virginia + to claim his bride. + </p> + <p> + The wedding was a splendid affair. No pains were spared to make it more + imposing than any thing that had ever happened in that country. Never + before had the quiet village of Bath seen such splendor. All that wealth, + power and ambition could do, was done to make the event one of great + brilliancy. Europe contributed her full proportion; Turkey, the Indias, + East and West, were heavily taxed to produce their finest fabrics to adorn + the bride and bridal guests; and contribute delicacies to add elegance to + the festal scene. Two days previous to the wedding, the invited guests + began to arrive with their retinue of servants, and on the evening of the + marriage the large mansion was thrown open, and there was the most + magnificent assemblage I ever beheld. In the drawing-room, where the + ceremony took place, every thing was surpassingly elegant. Costly + chandeliers shed their light on the rich tapestry, and beautiful dresses + glittering with diamonds, and the large mirrors everywhere reflecting the + gay concourse. While the servants were preparing supper it was announced + that the hour had arrived for the ceremony to commence. The bridal pair + took their place in the center of the apartment. Pearls, diamonds, and + jewelry glittered on the bride with such luster, that it was almost + painful to the eye to look upon her. + </p> + <p> + The minister, after asking God to bless the assembled guests, and those he + was about to unite in the holy bonds of wedlock, proceeded in a very + solemn and impressive manner with the marriage service. The ceremony + concluded, and good wishes having been expressed over the sparkling wine, + the man of God took his leave, two hundred dollars richer than when he + came. The company were all very happy, or appeared so; mirth reigned + supreme, and every countenance wore a smile. They were seated at tables + loaded with luxuries of every description, and while partaking, a band of + music enlivened the scene. + </p> + <p> + All business was suspended for several days, the wedding party making a + tour of ten days to Niagara Falls. After a while, however, affairs assumed + their usual aspect, and business took its regular routine. + </p> + <p> + The grist mill belonging to the Captain was the only one for many miles + around, and was a source of great profit to him; the saw mills also, were + turning out a large quantity of lumber, which was in good demand; and the + distillery kept up a <i>steaming</i> business. It yielded, however, a + handsome income to Capt. Helm, who was now, for the first time since I + knew him, overseeing his affairs himself, dispensing altogether with the + service of a regularly installed overseer. + </p> + <p> + The oldest son of our master had been absent from home for sometime, nor + did he return to attend his sister's grand wedding. He had sought and + obtained a commission in the United States service as a Lieutenant. This + had been his own choice; he had preferred the service and hardships of a + soldier, to a plantation well stocked with slaves, and the quietude of + domestic life. He had cheerfully given up his friends and prospects as a + planter, and entered the service of his country. Frank Helm, the second + son, soon followed the example of his older brother, Lina. He obtained a + like commission, but he did not, like his brother, get along quietly. His + prospects as an officer were soon blighted, and all hope of being + serviceable to his country vanished forever. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII. — DUELING. + </h2> + <p> + Lina Helm was an easy, good-natured, clever fellow; but his brother Frank + was his opposite in nearly every thing; proud, fractious and unyielding. + As might be expected, Frank, soon after entering the army, got into an + "affair of honor," according to the duelist's code of laws. He was not, + however, the principal in the difficulty. One of his friends and a brother + officer, had a quarrel with a gentleman whom he challenged to mortal + combat. Frank was the bearer of his friend's challenge, and on presenting + it, the gentleman refused to accept it, saying that the challenger "was no + gentleman." Then, according to the rules of dueling, no alternative was + left for Frank, but to take his brother officer's place, and fight. This + he did and came from the bloody field disabled for life. In consequence of + his lameness, he was under the necessity of resigning his commission in + the army, which he did, and came home a cripple, and nearly unfitted for + any kind of business whatever. + </p> + <p> + While on the subject of dueling, permit me to record some of the incidents + of another "affair of honor," which occurred in the District of Columbia, + between Gen. Mason and Mr. M'Carter, two antagonistic politicians. + </p> + <p> + M'Carter offered his vote to the inspectors, and Mason challenged it. + M'Carter offered to swear it in, when Mason said if he did so he would + perjure himself. This blew what appeared to be but a spark into an angry + blaze, and a duel was momentarily expected; but their warlike propensities + subsided into a newspaper combat, which was kept up for several weeks, + each party supposing they had the advantage of their adversary. In this + stage of the quarrel, Gen. Jackson, with one of his aid-de-camps, Dr. + Bruno, visited Washington. Dr. Bruno was a friend of Gen. Mason's, and to + him the General submitted the correspondence, desiring his opinion + relative to the advantage one had obtained over the other. Dr. Bruno + decided against his friend, which probably exasperated him still more, and + the General expressed his determination to fight his antagonist. Dr. Bruno + wrote to M'Carter to come to Washington, and he came immediately, and was + as readily waited upon by the Doctor, who inquired if he would receive a + communication from his friend, Gen. Mason. M'Carter replied, that he + "would receive no communication from Gen. Mason, except a challenge to + fight." The challenge was therefore sent, and accepted, and the Doctor + appointed to make the necessary arrangements for the duel. He proposed the + weapons to be pistols, and the distance, ten paces; to which M'Carter + objected, because he said, "the General was a dead shot with the pistol, + while he hardly knew how to use one." Then it was left to M'Carter to + choose the mode of warfare. He proposed muskets and ten paces distance. + This was agreed upon, and finally the morning arrived for the conflict, + and people began to assemble in great numbers to witness this murderous + scene. + </p> + <p> + The belligerent parties unflinchingly took their place, each with his + loaded musket at his shoulder, and gazing in each other's face, with + feelings of the most bitter hatred, while their eyes flashed vengeance. + </p> + <p> + Oh! what a state of mind was this in which to meet inevitable death? How + could intelligent men, or gentlemen, if you please so to term them, look + placidly on such a horrid scene? Was there no heart of humanity to + interfere and arrest the murderous designs of these madmen? Alas, no! The + slaveholder's "code of honor" must be acknowledged, though it outrage the + laws of God and his country. + </p> + <p> + Dr. Bruno asks, "Gentlemen, are you ready?" and the duelists take their + deadly aim at each other. The signal to fire is given, and both weapons + are discharged, and when the smoke had cleared away, what a spectacle was + there presented to the duelist and spectator? Gen. Mason, a husband, a + father, a statesman, and a kind friend, lies bleeding, and gasping for + breath. He is no more! Who will bear to his loving and unsuspecting wife, + the sad intelligence of her sudden bereavement? Who will convey his + lifeless body to his late residence, and throw grief and consternation + into the bosom of his family, and drape in sadness his whole household? + And yet this painful task must be performed. The family of General Mason + remained entirely ignorant of what was transpiring regarding the duel, + until his mangled corpse was brought into his dwelling, from which he had + so recently gone forth in all the vigor of life and manhood. And here let + us drop the curtain, nor intrude on that scene of domestic affliction + around the deserted hearth-stone of the bereaved family of General Mason. + </p> + <p> + But where is Mr. M'Carter, the more fortunate party in the duel? Hurrying + away from the frightful scene, his hands dripping with the blood of his + fellow-man, he skulks about, until an opportunity is given him to step on + board a vessel bound to a foreign port; he leaves home, friends and + country, in the vain hope of finding peace of mind, and ridding himself of + that guilt and censure which must attach itself to a crime so heinous as + that of taking the life of another. I can but regard the inhuman practice + of dueling as the legitimate fruit of Slavery. + </p> + <p> + Men who have been raised in the Slave States, where, if the laws do not + give them the power, they do not restrain them from cruelly punishing + every offender with personal violence, even unto death, if their insulted + dignity seems to demand it. It is, however, encouraging to know that for a + few years past the practice of dueling has somewhat fallen into disrepute + among the more humane and candid class of community. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII. — HORSE-RACING AND GENERAL TRAINING. + </h2> + <p> + After the return of the wedding party, Mr. Fitzhugh purchased a tract of + land near that of Capt. Helm, on which the newly-married couple commenced + keeping house. They, however, became dissatisfied with their location, and + soon after sold their possessions and returned to the South. + </p> + <p> + Capt. Helm still continued to take the oversight of his slaves, and was + out every day, superintending his business, just as his overseer used to + do. + </p> + <p> + About this time a man named Henry Tower came to Bath to hire "slave boys," + as we were called. The Captain hired to him Simon and myself, and a Mr. + Baker also hired to him one slave named Vol. McKenzie. We three started + for Dresden, Ontario County, where we arrived in due time. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Tower had just bought a tract of land, three miles this side of the + village of Lyons, on the Canandaigua outlet. Here Mr. Tower contemplated + making great improvements, building mills, opening stores &c. This + tract of land was comparatively wild, there being but a small frame house + for a dwelling, one for a store, and another for a blacksmith shop. Mr. + Tower had two brothers; James, the eldest, who took charge of the store, + and John, the younger, who took charge of the hands who worked on the + farm; Henry himself superintending the building of the mills. This firm + had a great number of men in their employ that year. I was kept busy + helping the women about the cooking and house-work. And here, for the + first time in my life, I had a comfortable bed to sleep on, and plenty of + wholesome food to eat; which was something both new and strange to me. + </p> + <p> + The Towers were thorough-going business-men; they built a large grist + mill, with four run of stone, and also a distillery. In those days it was + customary for nearly all classes to drink spirituous liquors; hence, the + distilleries were sources of great pecuniary interest to those who owned + them. But having lived to see the dreadful evils which the drinking of + alcoholic beverages have produced on community, I can hardly speak of + distilleries in the favorable light in which they were then regarded. + </p> + <p> + The Towers, with commendable enterprise, cleared a great number of acres + of land during the first year I lived with them, besides doing a heavy + business in the mill, store and distillery. + </p> + <p> + It was customary then for men to assemble at some public place for the + purpose of drinking whisky and racing horses. + </p> + <p> + One Saturday afternoon there was to be a race, and all was excitement. + Being young, I wished to go with the rest. I hurried through my work as + fast as possible, and then, with a trembling heart, set off in search of + my master, fearing lest he would refuse me the simple request. But he + happened to be in uncommon good humor, and readily gave his consent; and + away I went, "as happy as a lark." When I reached the race-ground, they + were just preparing to run the horses. Seeing me, they knew me to be a + poor friendless little slave boy, helpless and unprotected, and they could + therefore do with me as they pleased, and have some fine sport at my + expense. + </p> + <p> + When I was asked to ride one of the fast horses, I felt proud of the honor + conferred, and was assisted to mount, feeling highly elated with the lofty + position I had gained. + </p> + <p> + The word "go," was shouted, and the horse whirled off, and it seemed to me + as if he flew with the speed of lightning. My hat fell off the first + thing; and there I was, clinging with might and main to the neck of the + fiery animal, my head bare, my feet bootless, and my old stripped shirt + blown from my back, and streaming out behind, and fluttering like a banner + in the breeze; my ragged pants off at the knees, and my long legs dangling + down some length below; and at the same time crying "Whoa! whoa!" as loud + as I could. Nor was this all; frightened as I was, nearly to death, I cast + a despairing look behind me, and the loud, derisive laugh of the + bystanders rung in my ears. + </p> + <p> + Ludicrous as I must have appeared, this was too much,—I felt a + giddiness coming over me, my brain reeled, my hold relaxed, and the next + instant I had fallen to the ground, where all consciousness left me. When + I came to my senses I was lying in bed, surrounded by all the + appurtenances of a dying person. + </p> + <p> + The first thing I heard was Mr. Tower scolding the men who put me on the + horse, and threatening them with a law-suit for presuming to do such a + thing without his permission. Mr. Tower considered himself holden to Capt. + Helm for my safe return, and was therefore justly indignant at their + placing my life in such peril. It was indeed a narrow escape, for the + horse was running with all his speed when I fell. My bones were unbroken, + however, and I suppose it must have been the tremendous jar I got when I + fell that rendered me unconscious; nor do I think it impossible that the + fright may not have contributed somewhat to the catastrophe. + </p> + <p> + It was while I was living with that gentleman that the greatest "general + training" ever known in Western New York, came off at "Oak's Corners," in + the town of Phelps. It really seemed to me that the whole world were going + to the training, and I, of course, felt a great curiosity to go where "all + creation" appeared to be going. Mr. Tower permitted me to go, and I + started off in high spirits. When I arrived within two or three miles of + the place the road was almost blocked up with people, and when I got to + Oak's Corners the crowd beggared all description; carriages of all sorts + were there, containing eatables of all kinds, and tents of all dimensions + were on the road-side, for the houses could not begin to accommodate the + people. The entire brigade was to meet at that place, and Gov. Lewis was + expected to review the different companies, and all were anxious to see + the Governor, for, in those days, it was a rare thing to see so high a + dignitary in Western New York; the eastern portion of the State having had + every thing of that kind their own way. + </p> + <p> + Nor was the means and mode of traveling brought to such perfection as now. + The roads were new and rough, and our best public conveyances only the + slow lumbering stage-coach; yet, notwithstanding these inconveniences, + there was an innumerable crowd gathered at that place. I spent the day in + walking about the encampment, and seeing what was to be seen, for it was + all new to me. + </p> + <p> + Officers were riding over the ground, dressed in uniform, and mounted on + their splendid steeds: their plumes waving over their cocked-hats in true + military array. A band of music, as is usual, accompanied the soldiers. + There was also a "sham-fight," before the breaking up of the encampment, + and it was really terrifying to me, who had never seen a battle fought, to + witness two columns of troops drawn up, and, at the roll of the drum, + behold them engage in deadly conflict, to all appearance, and the smoke + curling up in a blackened mass toward heaven; and, above all, the neighing + of horses, with the feigned groans of the wounded and dying. I inwardly + prayed to God that those men might ever draw their weapons in a feigned + encounter. + </p> + <p> + The first night I spent at the encampment was one long to be remembered; + it was like the confusion of Babel. Of all the hideous noises I ever heard + none could exceed those made there that night. They fired guns, quarreled, + drank, and swore, till day light. There was such a crowd at the tavern + that I did not suppose I could get a bed, so I threw myself down upon a + door-step, and began to compose myself to sleep, when a man came and + wakened me, inquiring at the same time whose boy I was. I replied that I + lived with Mr. Tower. "Follow me," said he; I arose and followed him into + the house, where he procured for me a bed, to be shared with another + "boy," who had already occupied it. + </p> + <p> + I had just began to doze, when the explosion of firearms startled all in + the house. The keeper of the tavern ran up stairs in great alarm, and when + an examination was made, we found that a drunken fellow had discharged his + musket in the room below the one where we were sleeping, and that the ball + had passed up through the second floor and completely through the bed on + which I slept, to the roof, where, having passed through that also, rolled + from thence to the ground! And yet, strange as it may appear, no one was + injured, though the house was filled to overflowing with guests. + </p> + <p> + There were groups of disorderly and drunken men continually roaming over + the camp-ground at night, who seemed to have no other object than to annoy + others, and torment any one they might find sleeping, by shaking them, or, + if soundly asleep, dragging them out of their beds by their feet. Among + these thus annoyed by them was a physician from Canandaigua. Being a + passionate man, they seemed to think it fine sport to arouse him from + sleep and hear him scold. The first time they dragged him from his tent he + merely remonstrated in a very gentlemanly manner, and quietly crept back + again. The rowdies were disappointed; they had expected a "scene." As soon + as he was asleep they attacked him again, dragging him out by the heels; + then he was angry, and told them if they repeated the offence it would be + at the peril of their lives, and a third time retired to his tent; but a + third party soon came, and one, more bold than the rest, entered the tent + and laid hold of the Doctor. He sprang to his feet and drew his sword, + which he ran through the body of a man supposed to be that of his + tormentor; but oh! what sorrow and consternation possessed him when he + found he had taken the life of a quiet, unoffending person who happened to + be standing by, attracted to the spot probably by the noise of the + revelers. The unhappy Doctor was obliged to flee from his country for a + time, but after a while the shadows which had so suddenly fallen on his + fair prospects were cleared away, and he returned to his home and country. + </p> + <p> + The second day of the encampment was one of surpassing beauty. The sun + shone in all its softened radiance on that vast concourse of human beings. + The field presented a spectacle which must have been imposing to those of + more experienced vision than mine; but to me, in my ignorant simplicity, + it was superbly grand; fascinating beyond my power of resistance, and made + an impression on my mind never to be effaced. + </p> + <p> + The brigade was drawn up in a line, each colonel stationed just so many + paces in front of the line, and all the other officers, such as majors, + quarter-masters, &c., were stationed at an equal distance in the rear. + When all were paraded, the Governor of the State made his appearance, + dressed in full uniform, his hat being one of the Bonaparte style, + attended by his aid-de-camp, who was dressed much in the same manner as + his Excellency Governor Lewis, who, after the salute, took his place at + the head of the brigade, and the military exercises commenced. When the + Governor issued his orders, they were first given to his aid, who passed + them to the officers, and they gave the word of command to the soldiers; + for instance if the Governor wished the brigade to "shoulder arms,"—the + order went to the officer who commanded the first regiment, and he + repeated the order, and was obeyed; then the same order passed to the + next, and so on, until the whole brigade had complied with the order of + his Excellency. + </p> + <p> + But this, I believe, was the first and last time that the military were + ever called out on so large a scale, in the State of New York. It was + supposed that the effect would be decidedly injurious to a community and + the idea was abandoned. Young men were so liable to be fascinated by the + magnificent spectacle, that not the rabble only were attracted by the + "trappings of war," but they have a tendency to induce young, and <i>old + men even</i>, of fair prospects, to neglect <i>their agricultural + interests</i> for military pursuits, which, in a new country, were + certainly of paramount importance, if not the greater of the two. + </p> + <p> + I know that it became very hard for me to content myself to labor as I had + done, after witnessing this grand display. I was completely intoxicated + with a military spirit, and sighed for the liberty to go out "on the + lines" and fight the British. + </p> + <p> + The martial music, the waving plumes, and magnificent uniform, had driven + from my mind entirely the bloodshed and carnage of the battle field; + beside, I was sick and tired of being a slave, and felt ready to do almost + any thing to get where I could act and feel like a free man. + </p> + <p> + I became acquainted with a Mr. McClure, a merchant in Bath, who, while on + a journey to Philadelphia, to purchase goods, was taken suddenly ill and + died; when his brother, George McClure, came on to attend to his diseased + brother's business. He was a fine, persevering kind of man, and very soon + got to be General McClure, and commanded the brigade in Steuben County, + and, as such, was liable to be called at any time when his services were + required, to go to the frontier and guard our lines from the invasion of + the English army. + </p> + <p> + To him I applied for a situation as waiter, which he readily agreed to + give me if I could get the consent of Captain Helm. I thought there would + be no trouble about that; and oh! how I dreamed of and anticipated the + happiness of being <i>something</i> beside a slave, for a <i>little while + at least</i>. Almost every day I went to the store to talk to Gen. McClure + of this greatest happiness imaginable, "going to the lines!" and was + impatient for the chance to arrive that would send me there. + </p> + <p> + At last Gen. McClure wrote to Gen. Armstrong, to say that he was ready to + obey any order that he might send him, and march to "the lines," if his + services were needed; and, to <i>my</i> inexpressible joy, marching orders + were returned. I nearly flew in search of Capt. Helm, never once + suspecting that he would object; because I knew that he did not then + require my services himself, and the pay would be quite as good as he had + been receiving for my time; besides I had so completely set my heart on + going, that it was impossible for me to dream of a disappointment so + bitter as that of being denied going "to the lines." + </p> + <p> + Oh! how then were my high hopes fallen, and how much more hateful appeared + that slavery which had blighted all my military prospects? Nor was Capt. + Helm's heartless and mercenary reply to my humble pleading any antidote to + my disappointed feelings and desire for freedom. He said, "you shall not + go; I will permit nothing of the kind, so let there be an end to it. The + <i>pay</i> is all well enough, I know, but if you get killed your wages + will stop; and then who, do you suppose, will indemnify me for the loss? + Go about your business, and let me hear no more of such nonsense!" + </p> + <p> + There was an emergency I had not provided for; and, as I then believed, + the master could make no demand on or for the slaves beyond the grave, I + was silent; but both master and myself were mistaken on that point; for I + have since learned numerous instances where slaves have fought and died in + the service of their master's country, and the slave-owner received his + wages up to the hour of his death, and then recovered of the United States + the full value of his person as property! + </p> + <p> + Gen. McClure left soon after for the frontier; my saddened heart followed + him, and that was all; my body was in slavery still, and painful though it + was, I must quietly submit. + </p> + <p> + The General, however, reaped but few if any laurels in that campaign; he + burned the small village of Newark, in Canada, for which he got very + little credit on either side of the lake; so I comforted myself as well as + I could with the reflection, that all who "went to the wars" did not + return covered with glory and laurels of victory. + </p> + <p> + I continued to live with the Towers; and in the fall of that year, I had + the misfortune to cut my foot badly. While chopping fire wood at the door, + I accidentally struck my ax against a post, which glanced the blow in such + a manner that it came down with sufficient force to nearly sever my great + toe from my left foot, gashing upward completely through the large joint, + which made a terrible wound. Dr. Taylor was immediately called, and sewed + the flesh together, taking two stitches on the upper, and one on the + under, side of the foot, before it began to swell; but when the swelling + came on, the stitches on the upper side gave way, which occasioned the toe + to fall over so much, that I have been slightly lame from that day to + this. For several weeks I was unable to be moved, and was regularly + attended by Dr. Taylor, but as soon as it could be done without danger, I + was taken back to Capt. Helm's, where I found things in much the same + condition as when I left them over a year before. + </p> + <p> + On leaving the family of Mr. Tower, I endeavored to express to them as + well in my power the gratitude I felt for their kindness, and the + attention I had received during my lameness. + </p> + <p> + We returned to Bath in a sleigh, and arrived without accident or any great + suffering. But the kind treatment I had always received from the Messrs. + Tower and family, made it very hard for me to reconcile myself to my + former mode of living; especially now that I was lame and weak, from + sickness and long confinement; besides, it was cold weather. Oh! how hard + it did seem to me, after having a good bed and plenty of bed clothes every + night for so long time, to now throw myself down, like a dog, on the "<i>softest + side</i>" of a rough board, without a pillow, and without a particle of + bedding to cover me during the long cold nights of winter. To be reduced + from a plentiful supply of good, wholesome food, to the mere pittance + which the Captain allowed his slaves, seemed to me beyond endurance. + </p> + <p> + And yet I had always lived and fared thus, but I never felt so bitterly + these hardships and the cruelties of Slavery as I did at that time; making + a virtue of necessity, however, I turned my thoughts in another direction. + </p> + <p> + I managed to purchase a spelling book, and set about teaching myself to + read, as best I could. Every spare moment I could find was devoted to that + employment, and when about my work I could catch now and then a stolen + glance at my book, just to refresh my memory with the simple lesson I was + trying to learn. But here Slavery showed its cloven foot in all its + hideous deformity. It finally reached the ears of my master that I was + learning to read; and then, if he saw me with a book or a paper in my + hand, oh, how he would swear at me, sending me off in a hurry, about some + employment. Still I persevered, but was more careful about being seen + making any attempt to learn to read. At last, however, I was discovered, + and had to pay the penalty of my determination. + </p> + <p> + I had been set to work in the sugar bush, and I took my spelling book with + me. When a spare moment occurred I sat down to study, and so absorbed was + I in the attempt to blunder through my lesson, that I did not hear the + Captain's son-in-law coming until he was fairly upon me. He sprang + forward, caught my poor old spelling book, and threw it into the fire, + where it was burned to ashes; and then came my turn. He gave me first a + severe flogging, and then swore if he ever caught me with another book, he + would "whip every inch of skin off my back," &c. + </p> + <p> + This treatment, however, instead of giving me the least idea of giving it + up, only made me look upon it as a more valuable attainment. Else, why + should my oppressors feel so unwilling that their slaves should possess + that which they thought so essential to themselves? Even then, with my + back bleeding and smarting from the punishment I had received, I + determined to learn to read and write, at all hazards, if my life was only + spared. About this time Capt. Helm began to sell off his slaves to + different persons, as he could find opportunity, and sometimes at a great + sacrifice. It became apparent that the Captain, instead of prospering in + business, was getting poorer every day. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX. — DEATH BED AND BRIDAL SCENES. + </h2> + <p> + Neither Capt. Helm nor his wife made any religious pretensions. I hardly + know whether or not they were avowed infidels; but they alike ridiculed + all religious professions and possessed some very singular notions + regarding life and death. + </p> + <p> + I have often heard the Captain say, that no person need die unless they + choose to do so; and his wife was of the same belief. I have frequently + heard her remark that if mankind would firmly resist death it would flee + from them. + </p> + <p> + An opportunity, however, was soon after given to test the truth of this + strange dogma. Mrs. Helm's health began to decline, but she would pay no + attention to it, following her usual course and regular routine of + household duties; but all in vain; she was taken down, alarmingly ill, and + it became apparent to all, that the "king of terrors" had chosen his + victim. She tried with all her natural energy of character, to baffle his + pursuit and escape his steady approach, but all to no purpose. "The valley + and the shadow of death" were before her, and she had no assurance that + the "rod and staff" of the Almighty would sustain and comfort her through + the dark passage. She shrank with perfect horror from the untried scenes + of the future. + </p> + <p> + If any one had ever envied Mrs. Helm in her drawing-room, richly attired + and sparkling with jewels, or as she moved with the stately step of a + queen among her trembling slaves, they should have beheld her on her death + bed! They should have listened to her groans and cries for help, while one + piercing shriek after another rang through the princely mansion of which + she had been the absolute mistress! + </p> + <p> + Surrounded as she was with every elegance and luxury that wealth could + procure, she lay shrieking out her prayers for a short respite, a short + lengthening out of the life she had spent so unprofitably; her eyes + wandering restlessly about the apartment, and her hands continually + clinching the air, as if to grasp something that would prevent her from + sinking into the embrace of death! There was not a slave present, who + would have exchanged places with her. Not one of those over whom she had + ruled so arbitrarily would have exchanged their rough, lowly cabin and + quiet conscience, for all the wealth and power she had ever possessed. + </p> + <p> + Nothing of all she had enjoyed in life, nor all that she yet called her + own, could give her one hour of life or one peaceful moment in death! + </p> + <p> + Oh! what a scene was that! The wind blew, and great drops of rain fell on + the casements. The room lighted only with a single taper; the wretched + wife mingles her dying groans with the howling of the storm, until, as the + clock struck the hour of midnight she fell back upon her pillow and + expired, amid the tears and cries of her family and friends, who not only + deplored the loss of a wife and mother, but were grieved by the manner in + which she died. + </p> + <p> + The slaves were all deeply affected by the scene; some doubtless truly + lamented the death of their mistress; others rejoiced that she was no + more, and all were more or less frightened. One of them I remember went to + the pump and wet his face, so as to appear to weep with the rest. + </p> + <p> + What a field was opened for reflection, by the agonizing death of Mrs. + Helm? Born and reared in affluence; well educated and highly accomplished, + possessed of every means to become a useful woman and an ornament to her + sex; which she most likely would have been, had she been instructed in the + Christian religion, and had lived under a different influence. As + infidelity ever deteriorates from the female character, so Slavery + transforms more than one, otherwise excellent woman, into a feminine + monster. Of Mrs. Helm, with her active intellect and great force of + character, it made a tyrannical demon. Her race, however, is ended; her + sun gone down in darkness, and her soul we must leave in the keeping of a + righteous God, to whom we must all give an account for the deeds done in + the body. But in view of the transitory pleasures of this life; the + unsatisfactory realization of wealth, and the certainty of death, we may + well inquire, "What shall it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose + his own soul?" + </p> + <p> + Some little time after the scene just recorded, there came to Bath a young + physician named Henry, who commenced practice under very flattering + prospects. He was an accomplished young man, well educated and very + skillful in his profession. He was affable and gay in his manners, and + very fond of company. An intimate acquaintance was soon formed with Capt. + Helm and family, and he called almost daily to chat and drink wine with + the Captain,—both being quite fond of a social glass. + </p> + <p> + One night in the depth of winter, the Doctor was called to see a patient + who lived six miles down the Conhocton river. Previous, however, to the + call, he had accepted an invitation to attend a party at Capt. Helm's, and + there he was found. They had music and dancing, while the wine passed + around very freely. None seemed to join in the dance and other amusements + of the evening with more enjoyment than did Dr. Henry; but after he was + sent for, it being a most bitter cold night, he asked the Captain for a + horse to ride to see his patient, to which he readily assented, and had + his fine <i>race-horse</i> (for the Captain had not left off all his old + habits), brought out from the stable, and the Doctor sprang lightly into + the saddle. Unfortunately his way led by the race-course, and when the + trained animal came to it he started with such speed as to throw the + Doctor to the ground, where he lay all that terrible cold night. In the + morning, some person going after wood, came in sight of the Doctor as he + was trying to creep away on his frozen hands and feet. He was put into the + sleigh and taken to the village with all possible speed. All was done for + him that could be, but his feet and legs were frozen solid. His uncle, Dr. + Henry, was brought as soon as possible, who decided that nothing could + save his life but the amputation of both legs, just below the knee. This + was done; but what a change in the prospects of this promising young man! + Instead of stepping lightly about as he used to do, with a smiling + countenance, he at last came forth after a tedious confinement, a cripple + for life, hobbling about on his knees, sad and dejected. And what, think + you, was the cause of this terrible calamity? What prevented the Doctor + from an exertion to save his life? Wine, intoxicating wine, was + undoubtedly the occasion of the heedless and reckless conduct of both + himself and Capt. Helm. And should not this circumstance be a warning to + parents and guardians, to young men and children, "to look not upon the + wine when it is red," and remember that at last "it will bite like a + serpent and sting like an adder?" Should it not also remind those who have + guests to entertain, of the sinfulness of putting the cup to their + neighbor's lips? Certainly it should. But I must resume my story. + </p> + <p> + About this time Major Thornton of Bath, died. He had long been an intimate + friend and acquaintance of Capt. Helm, and as the reader is already + informed of the death of Mrs. Helm, they will not be surprised to know + that he began to look earnestly after the widow of his late friend. It + become apparent that his solicitude for the loneliness of Madam Thornton + was not so much as a disconsolate widow, as that of making her the future + Mrs. Helm; nor was it less observable that the new-made widow accepted the + Captain's attentions with great favor, and more as a lover than a + comforter. + </p> + <p> + The result was, after the Major had been dead six weeks, Capt. Helm was + married to his widow, and brought her and her servants in great triumph to + his house, giving her the charge of it. His own servants were discharged, + and hers took their places. + </p> + <p> + All went on pleasantly for a while; then the slaves began to grow sullen + and discontented; and two of them ran away. Capt. Helm started a man named + Morrison, a Scotchman, in pursuit, who hunted them ten days, and then + returned without any tidings of the absconding slaves. They made good + their escape and were never heard from afterwards, by those whose interest + suffered by the loss. + </p> + <p> + I was one afternoon at a neighbor's house in the village, when I was + suddenly taken so violently ill with pain in my head and side, that I had + to be carried home. When we arrived there, I was allowed a pallet of straw + to lie on, which was better than nothing. Day after day, my disease + increased in violence, and my master employed a physician to attend me + through my illness, which brought me very low indeed. I was constantly + burning with fever, and so thirsty that I knew not what I would have given + for a draught of cold water, which was denied me by the physician's + direction. I daily grew weaker until I was reduced to helplessness, and + was little else than "skin and bones." I really thought my time had come + to die; and when I had strength to talk, I tried to arrange the few little + business affairs I had, and give my father direction concerning them. And + then I began to examine my own condition before God, and to determine how + the case stood between Him and my poor soul. And "there was the rub." I + had often excused myself, for frequent derelictions in duty, and often + wild and passionate outbreaks, on account of the hardness of my lot, and + the injustice with which I was treated, even in my best endeavors to do as + well as I knew how. But now, with death staring me in the face, I could + see that though I was a friendless "slave-boy," I had <i>not</i> always + done as well as I knew how; that I had <i>not</i> served God as I knew I + ought, nor had I always set a good example before my fellow-slaves, nor + warned them as well as I might, "to flee the wrath to come." Then I prayed + my Heavenly Father to spare me a little longer, that I might serve Him + better; and in His mercy and gracious goodness, He did so; though when the + fever was turning they gave me up; and I could hear them say, when they + came to feel my pulse, "he is almost gone," "it will soon be over," &c., + and then inquire if I knew them. I did, but was too weak to say so. I + recollect with gratitude, the kindness of Mrs. H.A. Townsend, who sent me + many delicacies and cooling drinks to soften the rigor of my disease; and + though I suppose she has long since "passed away" and gone to her reward, + may the blessing of those who are ready to perish, rest upon the + descendants of that excellent woman. + </p> + <p> + Capt. Helm was driving on in his milling, distillery and farming business. + He now began to see the necessity of treating his slaves better by far + than he had ever done before, and granted them greater privileges than he + would have dared to do at the South. Many of the slaves he had sold, were + getting their liberty and doing well. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X. — HIRED OUT TO A NEW MASTER. + </h2> + <p> + While I was staying with my master at Bath, he having little necessity for + my services, hired me out to a man by the name of Joseph Robinson, for the + purpose of learning me to drive a team. Robinson lived about three miles + from the village of Bath, on a small farm, and was not only a poor man but + a very mean one. He was cross and heartless in his family, as well as + tyrannical and cruel to those in his employ; and having hired me as a + "slave boy," he appeared to feel at full liberty to wreak his brutal + passion on me at any time, whether I deserved rebuke or not; nor did his + terrible outbreaks of anger vent themselves in oaths, curses and + threatenings only, but he would frequently draw from the cart-tongue a + heavy iron pin, and beat me over the head with it, so unmercifully that he + frequently sent the blood flowing over my scanty apparel, and from that to + the ground, before he could feel satisfied. + </p> + <p> + These kind of beatings were not only excessively painful, but they always + reminded me of the blows I had so often received from the key, in the hand + of Mrs. Helm, when I was but a little waiter lad; and in truth I must say + that the effect of these heavy blows on the head, have followed me thus + far through life; subjecting me to frequent and violent head-aches, from + which I never expect to be entirely free. Even to this day I shudder at + the thought, when I think how Robinson used to fly at me, swearing, + foaming, and seeming to think there was no weapon too large or too heavy + to strike me with. + </p> + <p> + He and I were at one time logging with a yoke of oxen, which it was my + business to drive. At that time rattle-snakes were numerous, and a great + terror to the inhabitants. To be bitten by one of these poisonous reptiles + was certain and almost instant death; hence, the greatest caution and + constant vigilance was necessary to avoid them while at work. I had been + sent with the oxen to draw a log to the pile, and when I came up to it, I + observed that it appeared to be hollow; but stepping forward, with the + chain in my hand, ready to attach it to the log, when, oh, horror! the + warning rattle of a snake sounded like a death knell in my ears, + proceeding from the log I was about to lay hold of. I was so much + frightened by the sound, that I dropped the chain as though it were red + hot, left my team, and ran with all the speed in my power, screaming + "murder, murder!" as loud as I could. + </p> + <p> + This proceeding, which was the fearful impulse of the moment, offended + Robinson, and gave him another opportunity to beat me most cruelly. He was + himself as much afraid of rattle-snakes as I; but he was the master and I + the "slave boy," which made a vast difference. He caught hold of me, and, + with horrid oaths, beat me with his fist again and again; threatening me + with awful punishment if I did not instantly return and bring the log to + the desired spot. I never can forget the mortal agony I was in, while + compelled by his kicks and blows to return and fasten the chain around the + log containing the deadly serpent. I, however, succeeded with trembling + hands, and drove the oxen, but keeping myself at the fartherest possible + distance from them and the log. When I finally arrived at the pile, Mr. + Robinson and some other men, cut a hole with an ax in the log, and killed + the large, venomous rattle-snake that had occasioned me so much alarm and + such a cruel beating. Nor was the uncontrollable and brutal passion of + Robinson his only deficiency; he was mean as he was brutal. + </p> + <p> + He had, at one time, borrowed a wagon of a neighbor living two miles + distant, through a dense forest. On the day of the total eclipse of the + sun, it entered his head that it would be fine sport, knowing my my + ignorance and superstition, to send me, just as the darkness was coming + on, to return the borrowed wagon. I accordingly hitched the ox-team to it + and started. As I proceeded through the wood, I saw, with astonishment and + some alarm, that it was growing very dark, and thought it singular at that + hour of the day. When I reached the place of my destination it was almost + total darkness, and some persons, ignorant as myself, were running about, + wringing their hands, and declaring that they believed the Day of Judgment + had come, and such like expressions. + </p> + <p> + The effect of all this was, however, very different from what my master + had expected. I thought, of course, if the judgment day had come, I should + be no longer a slave in the power of a heartless tyrant. I recollect well + of thinking, that if indeed all things earthly were coming to an end, I + should be free from Robinson's brutal force, and as to meeting my Creator, + I felt far less dread of that than of meeting my cross, unmerciful master. + I felt that, sinful as I had been, and unworthy as I was, I should be far + better off than I then was; driven to labor all day, without compensation; + half starved and poorly clad, and above all, subjected to the whims and + caprices of any heartless tyrant to whom my master might give the power to + rule over me. But I had not much time for reflection, I hurried home; my + mind filled with the calm anticipation that the end of all things was at + hand; which greatly disappointed my expectant master, who was looking for + me to return in a great fright, making some very ludicrous demonstration + of fear and alarm. But after a few months more of hardship I was permitted + to return to Capt. Helm's, where I was treated much better than at + Robinson's, and much, better than the Captain used to treat his slaves. + </p> + <p> + Capt. Helm, not having demand for slave labor as much as formerly, was in + the practice of hiring out his slaves to different persons, both in and + out of the village; and among others, my only sister was hired out to a <i>professed</i> + gentleman living in Bath. She had become the mother of two or three + children, and was considered a good servant. + </p> + <p> + One pleasant Sabbath morning, as I was passing the house where she lived, + on my way to the Presbyterian church, where I was sent to ring the bell as + usual, I heard the most piteous cries and earnest pleadings issuing from + the dwelling. To my horror and the astonishment of those with me, my poor + sister made her appearance, weeping bitterly, and followed by her inhuman + master, who was polluting the air of that clear Sabbath morning, with the + most horrid imprecations and threatenings, and at the same time + flourishing a large raw-hide. Very soon his bottled wrath burst forth, and + the blows, aimed with all his strength, descended upon the unprotected + head, shoulders and back of the helpless woman, until she was literally + cut to pieces. She writhed in his powerful grasp, while shriek after + shriek died away in heart-rending moanings; and yet the inhuman demon + continued to beat her, though her pleading cries had ceased, until obliged + to desist from the exhaustion of his own strength. + </p> + <p> + What a spectacle was that, for the sight of a brother? The God of heaven + only knows the conflict of feeling I then endured; He alone witnessed the + tumult of my heart, at this outrage of manhood and kindred affection. God + knows that my will was good enough to have wrung his neck; or to have + drained from his heartless system its last drop of blood! And yet I was + obliged to turn a deaf ear to her cries for assistance, which to this day + ring in my ears. Strong and athletic as I was, no hand of mine could be + raised in her defence, but at the peril of both our lives;—nor could + her husband, had he been a witness of the scene, be allowed any thing more + than unresisting submission to any cruelty, any indignity which the master + saw fit to inflict on <i>his wife</i>, but the other's <i>slave</i>. + </p> + <p> + Does any indignant reader feel that I was wanting in courage or brotherly + affection, and say that he would have interfered, and, at all hazards, + rescued his sister from the power of her master; let him remember that he + is a <i>freeman</i>; that he has not from his infancy been taught to cower + beneath the white man's frown, and bow at his bidding, or suffer all the + rigor of the slave laws. Had the gentlemanly woman-whipper been seen + beating his horse, or his ox, in the manner he beat my poor sister, and + that too for no fault which the law could recognize as an offence, he + would have been complained of most likely; but as it was, she was but a + "slave girl,"—with whom the slave law allowed her master to do what + he pleased. + </p> + <p> + Well, I finally passed on, with a clinched fist and contracted brow, to + the church, and rung the bell, I think rather furiously, to notify the + inhabitants of Bath, that it was time to assemble for the worship of that + God who has declared himself to be "no respecter of persons." With my own + heart beating wildly with indignation and sorrow, the kind reader may + imagine my feelings when I saw the smooth-faced hypocrite, the inhuman + slave-whipper, enter the church, pass quietly on to his accustomed seat, + and then meekly bow his hypocritical face on the damask cushion, in the + reverent acknowledgment of that religion which teaches its adherents "to + do unto others as they would be done by," just as if nothing unusual had + happened on that Sabbath morning. Can any one wonder that I, and other + slaves, often doubted the sincerity of every white man's religion? Can it + be a matter of astonishment, that slaves often feel that there is no just + God for the poor African? Nay, verily; and were it not for the comforting + and sustaining influence that these poor, illiterate and suffering + creatures feel as coming from an unearthly source, they would in their + ignorance all become infidels. To me, that beautiful Sabbath morning was + clouded in midnight darkness, and I retired to ponder on what could be + done. + </p> + <p> + For some reason or other, Capt. Helm had supplied every lawyer in that + section of country with slaves, either by purchase or hire; so when I + thought of seeking legal redress for my poor, mangled sister, I saw at + once it would be all in vain. The laws were in favor of the slave owner, + and besides, every legal gentleman in the village had one or more of the + Captain's slaves, who were treated with more or less rigor; and of course + they would do nothing toward censuring one of their own number, so nothing + could be done to give the slave even the few privileges which the laws of + the State allowed them. + </p> + <p> + The Captain sold my aunt Betsy Bristol to a distinguished lawyer in the + village, retaining her husband, Aaron Bristol, in his own employ; and two + of her children he sold to another legal gentleman named Cruger. One day + Captain Helm came out where the slaves were at work, and finding Aaron was + not there, he fell into a great rage and swore terribly. He finally + started off to a beach tree, from which he cut a stout limb, and trimmed + it so as to leave a knot on the but end of the stick, or bludgeon rather, + which was about two and a half feet in length. With this formidable weapon + he started for Aaron's lonely cabin. When the solitary husband saw him + coming he suspected that he was angry, and went forth to meet him in the + street. They had no sooner met than my master seized Aaron by the collar, + and taking the limb he had prepared by the smaller end, commenced beating + him with it, over the head and face, and struck him some thirty or more + terrible blows in quick succession; after which Aaron begged to know for + what he was so unmercifully flogged. + </p> + <p> + "Because you deserve it," was the angry reply. Aaron said that he had ever + endeavored to discharge his duty, and had done so to the best of his + ability; and that he thought it very hard to be treated in that manner for + no offence at all. Capt. Helm was astonished at his audacity; but the + reader will perceive that the slaves were not blind to the political + condition of the country, and were beginning to feel that they had some + rights, and meant to claim them. + </p> + <p> + Poor Aaron's face and head, however, was left in a pitiable condition + after such a pummeling with a knotty stick. His face, covered with blood, + was so swollen that he could hardly see for some time; but what of that? + Did he not belong to Capt. Helm, soul and body; and if his brutal owner + chose to destroy his own property, certainly had he not a right to do so, + without let or hindrance? Of course; such is the power that Slavery gives + one human being over another. + </p> + <p> + And yet it must be confessed that among the poor, degraded and ignorant + slaves there exists a foolish pride, which loves to boast of their + master's wealth and influence. A white person, too poor to own slaves, is + as often looked upon with as much disdain by the miserable slave as by his + wealthy owner. This disposition seems to be instilled into the mind of + every slave at the South, and indeed, I have heard slaves object to being + sent in very small companies to labor in the field, lest that some + passer-by should think that they belonged to a poor man, who was unable to + keep a large gang. Nor is this ridiculous sentiment maintained by the + slaves only; the rich planter feels such a contempt for all white persons + without slaves, that he does not want them for his neighbors. I know of + many instances where such persons have been under the necessity of buying + or hiring slaves, just to preserve their reputation and keep up + appearances; and even among a class of people who profess to be opposed to + Slavery, have I known instances of the same kind, and have heard them + apologize for their conduct by saying that "when in Rome, we must do as + the Romans do." + </p> + <p> + Uncle Aaron Bristol was one of Capt. Helm's slaves who had a large amount + of this miserable pride; and for him to be associated with a white man in + the same humble occupation, seemed to give him ideas of great superiority, + and full liberty to treat him with all the scorn and sarcasm he was + capable of, in which my uncle was by no means deficient. + </p> + <p> + At this time the Captain owned a fine and valuable horse, by the name of + <i>Speculator</i>. This horse, groomed by uncle Aaron, stood sometimes at + Bath and sometimes at Geneva; and at the latter village another horse was + kept, groomed by a white man. The white groom was not very well pleased + with Aaron's continual disparagement of the clumsy animal which my uncle + called "a great, awkward plow-horse;" and then he would fling out some of + his proud nonsense about "<i>poor white people</i> who were obliged to + groom their own old dumpy horses," &c. + </p> + <p> + Well, things went on in this unpleasant manner for several weeks, when at + last the white groom and Aaron met at Geneva, and the horse belonging to + the former, designedly or accidentally, escaped from his keeper, and came + with full speed, with his mouth wide open, after Speculator. When the + fiery fellow had overtaken uncle Aaron he attempted to grasp the wethers + of Speculator with his teeth, instead of which he caught Aaron on the + inside of his thigh, near the groin, from whence he bit a large piece of + flesh, laying the bone entirely bare; at the same moment flinging Aaron to + the ground, some rods off; and the next instant he kicked Speculator down + a steep embankment Aaron was taken up for dead, and Dr. Henry sent for, + who dressed his wounds; and after several months' confinement he finally + recovered. It is probable that the biting and overthrow of Aaron saved his + life, as he must have otherwise been killed in the encounter of the two + horses. + </p> + <p> + A while after his recovery, uncle Aaron succeeded in procuring a team and + some kind of vehicle, in which he put his wife and children, and between + two days, took "French leave" of his master as well as of the lawyer to + whom his wife belonged. + </p> + <p> + The lawyer, however, was far from being pleased when he missed his + property, and immediately set his wits to work to reclaim her. All was + kept secret as possible, but it was whispered about that it was to be done + by a State's warrant, for removing the clothing and furniture they had + taken, and so, being thus arrested, "Madam Bristol" would be glad to + return to her work in the lawyer's kitchen. But Aaron was a smart, shrewd + man, and kept out of their reach, where he soon found friends and + employment, and could go where he pleased, without having an infuriated + master to beat and disfigure him with a knotted stick, until his clothes + were bespattered with blood. They appreciated their liberty, and lived and + died in peace and freedom. + </p> + <p> + Capt. Helm continued his old manner of treating slaves, dealing out their + weekly allowance of corn or meal; but living as we now did, so much more + intimately with white inhabitants, our condition was materially improved. + The slaves became more refined in manners and in possession of far greater + opportunities to provide for themselves, than they had ever before + enjoyed, and yet it was <i>Slavery</i>. Any reverse in the fortunes of our + master would be disadvantageous to us. Oh, how this fearful uncertainty + weighed upon us as we saw that our master was not prospering and + increasing in wealth; but we had not the dismal fears of the loathsome + slave-pen, rice swamps, and many other things we should have to fear in + Virginia. We were still <i>slaves</i>, and yet we had so much greater + chance to learn from the kind, intelligent people about us, so many things + which we never knew before, that I think a slave-trader would have found + it a difficult task to take any one of us to a Southern slave market, if + our master had so ordered it. + </p> + <p> + The village of Bath is rather an out-of-the-way place, hemmed in on all + sides by mountains of considerable height, leaving an opening on the + north, through a pleasant valley, to the head of Crooked Lake. Produce of + every kind, when once there, met a ready sale for the New York market. + </p> + <p> + In the first settlement of the country this was the only outlet for the + country produce, which was transported in rude boats or vessels called <i>arks</i>, + built during the winter season to await the spring freshet; then they + loaded them with wheat or other produce, and sent them to Baltimore or + elsewhere. They used also to obtain great quantities of fine lumber, and + floated it through the same rivers every spring; but it was attended with + great loss of life and property. + </p> + <p> + Bath assumed a warlike appearance during the last war with Great Britain; + the public square was dotted all over with officers, marquees, and + soldiers' tents. Some of these soldiers were unprincipled and reckless + men, who seemed to care very little what they did. + </p> + <p> + One evening I was walking around the encampment in company with a Mr. + James Morrison, a clerk in the land office, looking at the soldiers, until + we came near a sentinel on duty. He kept his gun to his shoulder until we + came near enough, and then he attempted to run me through with his + bayonet. Young Morrison sprang forward, and seizing the musket, told me to + run; I did so, which probably saved my life. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI. — THOUGHTS ON FREEDOM. + </h2> + <p> + After living sometime in Bath, and having the privilege of more + enlightened society, I began to think that it was possible for me to + become a free man in some way besides going into the army or running away, + as I had often thought of doing. I had listened to the conversation of + others, and determined to ask legal counsel on the subject the first + opportunity I could find. Very soon after, as I was drawing wood, I met on + the river bridge, Mr. D. Cruger, the eminent lawyer before mentioned, and + I asked him to tell me if I was not free, by the laws of New York. He + started, and looked around him as if afraid to answer my question, but + after a while told me I was <i>not</i> free. I passed on, but the answer + to my question by no means satisfied me, especially when I remembered the + hesitancy with which it was given. + </p> + <p> + I sought another opportunity to speak with Mr. Cruger, and at last found + him in his office alone; then he conversed freely on the subject of + Slavery, telling me that Capt. Helm could not hold me as a slave in that + State, if I chose to leave him, and then directed me to D. Comstock and J. + Moore; the first being at the head of a manumission society, and the last + named gentleman one of its directors. + </p> + <p> + Our condition, as I have said before, was greatly improved; and yet the + more we knew of freedom the more we desired it, and the less willing were + we to remain in bondage. The slaves that Capt. Helm had sold or hired out, + were continually leaving him and the country, for a place of freedom; and + I determined to become my own possessor. + </p> + <p> + There is no one, I care not how favorable his condition, who desires to be + a slave, to labor for nothing all his life for the benefit of others. I + have often heard fugitive slaves say, that it was not so much the cruel + beatings and floggings that they received which induced them to leave the + South, as the idea of dragging out a whole life of unrequited toil to + enrich their masters. + </p> + <p> + Everywhere that Slavery exists, it is nothing but <i>slavery</i>. I found + it just as hard to be beaten over the head with a piece of iron in New + York as it was in Virginia. Whips and chains are everywhere necessary to + degrade and brutalize the slave, in order to reduce him to that abject and + humble state which Slavery requires. Nor is the effect much less + disastrous on the man who holds supreme control over the soul and body of + his fellow beings. Such unlimited power, in almost every instance + transforms the man into a tyrant; the brother into a demon. + </p> + <p> + When the first of our persecuted race were brought to this country it was + to teach them to reverence the only true and living God; or such was the + answer of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth of England, when her subjects + desired the liberty to bring from their native land the poor, ignorant + African. "Let them," said the Queen, "be brought away only by their own + consent, otherwise the act will be detestable, and bring down the + vengeance of heaven upon us." A very different position truly, from the + one assumed at the present day by apologists for the traffic in human + flesh. But, to return to myself. + </p> + <p> + I had determined to make an effort to own myself, and as a preliminary + step, I obtained permission of Capt. Helm to visit some friends living in + Canandaigua and Geneva. This was in the winter of 1814. I went first to + Geneva; from there to Canandaigua. Between the two villages I met a + company of United States' troops, returning from Buffalo, where they had + been to repel an invasion of the British. + </p> + <p> + The two villages above named, were small but very pretty, having been laid + out with taste and great care. Some wealthy and enterprising gentlemen had + come from the East into this great Western country, who were making every + improvement in their power. The dense forest had long since fallen under + the stroke of the woodman's ax, and in that section, flourishing villages + were springing up as if by magic, where so lately roamed wild beasts and + rude savages, both having fallen back before the march of civilization. + </p> + <p> + I called on James Moore, as directed by Mr. Cruger, and found he was one + of the directors of the "Manumission Society," as it was then called. This + was an association of humane and intelligent gentlemen whose object it was + to aid any one who was illegally held in bondage. The funds of the society + were ample; and able counsel was employed to assist those who needed it. + The late lamented John C. Spencer, one of the most eminent lawyers in + Western New York, was then counsel for that society. + </p> + <p> + I soon got an interview with Mr. Moore, to whom I related the history of + my life,—the story of my wrongs and hardships. I told him about my + having been hired out by Capt. Helm, which he said was sufficient to + insure my freedom! Oh! how my heart leaped at the thought! The tears + started, my breast heaved with a mighty throb of gratitude, and I could + hardly refrain from grasping his hand or falling down at his feet; and + perhaps should have made some ludicrous demonstration of my feelings, had + not the kind gentleman continued his conversation in another direction. + </p> + <p> + He said that indispensable business called him to Albany, where he must go + immediately, but assured me that he would return in March following; then + I must come to him and he would see that I had what justly belonged to me—my + freedom from Slavery. He advised me to return to Bath and go on with my + work as usual until March, but to say nothing of my intentions and + prospects. I returned according to his directions, with a heart so light, + that I could not realize that my bonds were not yet broken, nor the yoke + removed from off my neck. I was already free in spirit, and I silently + exulted in the bright prospect of liberty. + </p> + <p> + Could my master have felt what it was to be relieved of such a crushing + weight, as the one which was but partially lifted from my mind, he would + have been a happier man than he had been for a long time. + </p> + <p> + I went cheerfully back to my labor, and worked with alacrity, impatient + only for March to come; and as the time drew near I began to consider what + kind of an excuse I could make to get away. I could think of none, but I + determined to go without one, rather than to remain. + </p> + <p> + Just before the time appointed for me to meet Mr. Moore, a slave girl + named Milly, came secretly to Bath. She had been one of Capt. Helm's + slaves, and he had a while before sold her to a man who lived some + distance west of the village. Milly had now taken the matter into her own + hands. She had left her master to take care of himself, and was in short, + "running away," determined as myself, that she would be a slave no longer; + resolved on death, or freedom from the power of the slaveholder. + </p> + <p> + The time I had set for my departure was so near at hand, that I concluded + to accompany her in her flight. When the dark night came on, we started + together, and traveled all night, and just as the day dawned we arrived at + Manchester, where we stopped a short time with one Thomas Watkins. + </p> + <p> + But I was not to be let go so easily. I had been missed at Capt. Helm's, + and several men started in immediate pursuit. I was weary, and so intent + on getting a little rest that I did not see my pursuers until they had + well nigh reached the house where I was; but I <i>did</i> see them in time + to spring from the house with the agility of a deer, and to run for the + woods as for life. And indeed, I so considered it. I was unarmed to be + sure, and not prepared to defend myself against two or three men, armed to + the teeth; but it would have gone hard with me before I surrendered myself + to them, after having dreamed as I had, and anticipated the blessings of a + free man. I escaped them, thank God, and reached the woods, where I + concealed myself for some time, and where I had ample opportunity to + reflect on the injustice and cruelty of my oppressors, and to ask myself + why it was that I was obliged to fly from my home. Why was I there panting + and weary, hungry and destitute—skulking in the woods like a thief, + and concealing myself like a murderer? What had I done? For what fault, or + for what crime was I pursued by armed men, and hunted like a beast of + prey? God only knows how these inquiries harrowed up my very soul, and + made me well nigh doubt the justice and mercy of the Almighty, until I + remembered my narrow escape, when my doubts dissolved in grateful tears. + </p> + <p> + But why, oh why, had I been forced to flee thus from my fellow men? I was + guilty of no crime; I had committed no violence; I had broken no law of + the land; I was not charged even with a fault, except of <i>the love of + liberty</i> and a desire to be <i>free</i>! I had claimed the right to + possess my own person, and remove it from oppression. Oh my God, thought + I, can the American People, who at this very hour are pouring out their + blood in defence of their country's liberty; offering up as a sacrifice on + the battle field their promising young men, to preserve their land and + hearthstones from English oppression; can they, will they, continue to + hunt the poor African slave from their soil because he desires that same + liberty, so dear to the heart of every American citizen? Will they not + blot out from their fair escutcheon the foul stain which Slavery has cast + upon it? Will they not remember the Southern bondman, in whom the love of + freedom is as inherent as in themselves; and will they not, when + contending for equal rights, use their mighty forces "to break <i>every + yoke</i>, and let the oppressed go free?" God grant that it may be so! + </p> + <p> + As soon as I thought it prudent, I pursued my journey, and finally came + out into the open country, near the dwelling of Mr. Dennis Comstock, who, + as I have said, was president of the Manumission Society. To him I freely + described my situation, and found him a friend indeed. He expressed his + readiness to assist me, and wrote a line for me to take to his brother, + Otis Comstock, who took me into his family at once. I hired to Mr. + Comstock for the season, and from that time onward lived with him nearly + four years. + </p> + <p> + When I arrived there I was about twenty-two years of age, and felt for the + first time in my life, that I was my own master. I cannot describe to a + free man, what a proud manly feeling came over me when I hired to Mr. C. + and made my first bargain, nor when I assumed the dignity of collecting my + own earnings. Notwithstanding I was very happy in my freedom from Slavery, + and had a good home, where for the first time in my life I was allowed to + sit at table with others, yet I found myself very deficient in almost + every thing which I should have learned when a boy. + </p> + <p> + These and other recollections of the past often saddened my spirit; but <i>hope + </i>,—cheering and bright, was now mine, and it lighted up the + future and gave me patience to persevere. + </p> + <p> + In the autumn when the farm work was done, I called on Mr. Comstock for + some money, and the first thing I did after receiving it I went to + Canandaigua where I found a book-store kept by a man named J.D. Bemis, and + of him I purchased some school books. + </p> + <p> + No king on his throne could feel prouder or grander than I did that day. + With my books under my arm, and money of my own earning in my pocket, I + stepped loftily along toward Farmington, where I determined to attend the + Academy. The thought, however, that though I was twenty-three years old, I + had yet to learn what most boys of eight years knew, was rather a damper + on my spirits. The school was conducted by Mr. J. Comstock, who was a + pleasant young man and an excellent teacher. He showed me every kindness + and consideration my position and ignorance demanded; and I attended his + school three winters, with pleasure and profit to myself at least. + </p> + <p> + When I had been with Mr. Comstock about a year, we received a visit from + my old master, Capt. Helm, who had spared no pains to find me, and when he + learned where I was he came to claim me as "his boy," who, he said he + "wanted and must have." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Comstock told him I was <i>not</i> "his boy," and as such he would not + give me up; and further, that I was free by the laws of the State. He + assured the Captain that his hiring me out in the first instance, to Mr. + Tower, forfeited his claim to me, and gave me a right to freedom,—but + if he chose to join issue, they would have the case tried in the Supreme + Court; but this proposition the Captain declined: he knew well enough that + it would result in my favor; and after some flattery and coaxing, he left + me with my friend, Mr. Comstock, in liberty and peace! + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII. — CAPT. HELM—DIVORCE—KIDNAPPING. + </h2> + <p> + The business affairs of Capt. Helm had for some time been far from + prosperous; and now he was quite poor. His slave property proved a bad + investment, and Madam Thornton a far worse one. She had already applied + for a divorce, and a good share of the estate as alimony; both of which + she succeeded in getting, the Captain allowing her to take pretty much her + own course. These troubles, with costs of lawsuits, bad management, &c., + had now emptied the coffers of my old master almost to the last farthing; + and he began to cast about him for some way to replenish his purse, and + retrieve his fallen fortunes. + </p> + <p> + Had Capt. Helm been brought up to honorable industry, and accustomed to + look after his own pecuniary interests, he doubtless would have sustained + his position; or if reverses were unavoidable, he would have by + persevering industry, regained what he had lost. But he had been raised in + a slave State, and Southern principles were as deeply instilled into his + mind, as Southern manners were impressed on his life and conduct. + </p> + <p> + He had no partiality for labor of any kind; horse-racing and card-playing + were far more congenial to his tastes; reduced as he now was, he would + deny himself no luxury that his means or credit would procure. His few + remaining slaves were given into the hands of an idle, brutal overseer + —while they, half fed, half clothed, grew more and more + discontented, and ran away on every opportunity that offered. + </p> + <p> + The Captain at last hit upon a method of making money, which, if it had + been carried into operation on the high seas, would in all probability + have been called by its right name, and incurred the penalty of the + gallows—as piracy. Ought it then to be deemed less criminal because + transpiring on the free soil of the American Republic? I think not. Nor + was it less censurable on account of its failure. + </p> + <p> + The Captain's plan was to collect all the slaves he had once owned, many + of whom had escaped to the surrounding villages, and when once in his + grasp, to run them speedily into a slave State, and there sell them for + the Southern market. To carry forward this hellish design, it was + necessary to have recourse to stratagem. Some person must be found to lure + the unsuspecting slaves into the net he was spreading for them. At last he + found a scoundrel named Simon Watkins, who for the consideration of fifty + dollars, was to collect as many of the slaves as he could at one place; + and when he had done so, he was to receive the money, leaving Capt. Helm + to do the rest. + </p> + <p> + Simon set immediately about the business, which was first to go to + Palmyra, and in great kindness and generosity, give a large party to the + colored people,—desiring that all Capt. Helm's former slaves, <i>in + particular</i>, should be present to have a joyous re-union, and celebrate + their freedom in having a fine time generally. + </p> + <p> + Invitations were sent to all, and extensive preparation made for a large + "social party," at Palmyra, at the house of Mrs. Bristol. My parents were + invited; and Simon took the pains to come to Farmington to give me a + special invitation. When the time arrived for the party, I went to Palmyra + with the intention of attending. I had not the least suspicion of any + thing wrong; yet, by some mysterious providence, or something for which I + can not account, a presentiment took possession of my mind that all was + not right. I knew not what I feared, and could in no way define my + apprehensions; but I grew so uneasy, that I finally gave up the party and + returned home, before the guests were assembled. + </p> + <p> + Capt. Helm and his assistants came on to Palmyra in disguise, before + evening, and secreted themselves in one of the hotels to await the arrival + of their victims. + </p> + <p> + At the appointed hour the slaves began to assemble in large numbers and + great glee, without the least suspicion of danger. They soon began their + amusements, and in the midst of their mirth, Capt. Helm and party + stealthily crept from their hiding place and surrounded the house; then + bursting in suddenly upon the revelers, began to make arrests. Such a + tumult, such an affray as ensued would be hard to describe. + </p> + <p> + The slaves fought for their lives and their liberty, and the Captain's + party for their property and power. Fists, clubs, chairs, and any thing + they could get hold of, was freely used with a strength and will of men + who had tasted the joys of freedom. Cries and curses were mingled, while + blows fell like hail on both sides. Commands from our old master were met + with shouts of bold defiance on the part of the negroes, until the + miserable kidnappers were glad to desist, and were driven of—not + stealthily as they came, but in quick time and in the best way they could, + to escape the threatened vengeance of the slaves, who drove them like + "feathers before the wind." But it was a terrible battle and many were + severely wounded; among them was my father. He was taken to his home, + mangled and bleeding, and from the effects of that night's affray he never + recovered. He lingered on in feeble health until death finally released + him from suffering, and placed him beyond the reach of kidnappers and + tyrants. + </p> + <p> + The Captain and his party, enraged and disappointed in their plans at + Palmyra, returned to Bath to see what could be done there toward success, + in getting up a gang of slaves for the Southern market. When they came + among the colored people of Bath, it was like a hawk alighting among a + flock of chickens at noon-day. They scattered and ran in every direction, + some to the woods, some hid themselves in cellars, and others in their + terror plunged into the Conhocton River. In this manner the majority of + the negroes escaped, but not all; and those were so unfortunate as to get + caught were instantly thrown into a large covered "Pennsylvania wagon," + and hurried off, closely guarded, to Olean Point. Among those taken were + Harry Lucas, his wife, Lucinda, and seven children; Mrs. Jane Cooper and + four children, with some others, were also taken. + </p> + <p> + When Capt. Helm arrived at Olean Point with his stolen freight of human + beings, he was unexpectedly detained until he could build a boat,—which, + to his great dismay took him several days. + </p> + <p> + The sorrow and fearful apprehension of those wretched recaptured slaves + can not be described nor imagined by any one except those who have + experienced a like affliction. They had basked for a short season in the + sunshine of liberty, and thought themselves secure from the iron grasp of + Slavery, and the heel of the oppressor, when in the height of their + exultation, they had been thrust down to the lowest depths of misery and + despair, with the oppressor's heel again upon their necks. To be snatched + without a moment's warning from their homes and friends,—hurried and + crowded into the close slave wagon, regardless of age or sex, like sheep + for the slaughter, to be carried they knew not whither; but, doubtless to + the dismal rice swamp of the South,—was to them an agony too great + for endurance. The adult portion of the miserable company determined at + last to go no farther with their heartless master, but to resist unto + death if need be, before they surrendered themselves to the galling chains + they had so recently broken, or writhed again under the torturing lash of + the slave-driver. + </p> + <p> + Harry Lucas and wife, and Jane Cooper, silently prepared themselves for + the conflict, determined to sell their lives as dearly as possible. When + they were nearly ready to start, Jane Cooper sent her oldest daughter and + younger sister, (she who is now our worthy friend Mrs. P. of Bath), into + the woods, and then when the men undertook to get Lucas and the two women + on board the boat the struggle commenced. The women fought the Captain and + his confederates like a lioness robbed of her whelps! They ran and dodged + about, making the woods ring with their screams and shouts of "Murder! + Murder! Help! Help! Murder!" until the Captain's party, seeing they could + do nothing to quell them, became so exceedingly alarmed lest they should + be detected in their illegal proceedings, that they ran off at full speed, + as if they thought an officer at their heels. In their hurry and fright + they caught two of Harry's children, and throwing them into the boat, + pushed off as quick as possible, amid the redoubled cries of the agonized + parents and sympathizing friends, all trying in every way possible, to + recover from the merciless grasp of the man-stealer, the two frightened + and screaming children. Guns were fired and horns sounded, but all to no + purpose—they held tightly the innocent victims of their cupidity, + and made good their escape. + </p> + <p> + Mr. D. C——, a gentleman of wealth and high standing in Steuben + County, became responsible for the fifty dollars which Capt. Helm promised + to pay Simon Watkins for his villainy in betraying, Judas-like, those + unsuspecting persons whom it should have been his pleasure to protect and + defend against their common oppressor,—his own as well as theirs. + </p> + <p> + In addition to this rascality, it can not appear very creditable to the + citizens of Steuben County, that Capt. Helm and Thomas McBirney should + both hold high and important offices at the time, and <i>after</i> they + had been tried and convicted of the crime of kidnapping. Both of these + gentlemen, guilty of a State's prison offence, were judges of the common + pleas. T. McBirney was first judge in the county, and Capt. Helm was side + judge; and notwithstanding their participation in, and conviction of, a + flagrant outrage on the laws of God and man, they managed not only to + escape the penalty, but to retain their offices and their respectable + standing in community for years after. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII. — LOCATE IN THE VILLAGE OF ROCHESTER. + </h2> + <p> + I continued to labor in the employ of Mr. O. Comstock, whose son, Zeno, + was married during the year 1816, and purchased a farm on the site of the + present flourishing village of Lockport, to which he moved his family and + effects; but from a mistaken supposition that the Erie Canal, which was + then under contemplation, would take a more southern route, he was induced + to sell his farm in Hartland, which has proved a mine of wealth to the + more fortunate purchaser. + </p> + <p> + In the winter of that year, I was sent by my employer to Hartland with a + sleigh-load of produce, and passed through the village of Rochester, which + I had never before seen. It was a very small, forbidding looking place at + first sight, with few inhabitants, and surrounded by a dense forest. + </p> + <p> + I recollect that while pursuing my journey, I overtook a white man driving + a span of horses, who contended that I had not a right to travel the + public highway as other men did, but that it was my place to keep behind + him and his team. Being in haste I endeavored to pass him quietly, but he + would not permit it and hindered me several hours, very much to my + annoyance and indignation. This was, however, but a slight incident + indicating the bitter prejudice which every man seemed to feel against the + negro. No matter how industrious he might be, no matter how honorable in + his dealings, or respectful in his manners,—he was a "nigger," and + as such he must be treated, with a few honorable exceptions. + </p> + <p> + This year also, my father died in the village of Palmyra, where, as I have + before mentioned, he received injuries from which he never entirely + recovered. After about six months severe illness which he bore with + commendable patience and resignation, his spirit returned to God who gave + it; and his sorrowing friends and bereaved family followed his remains to + their final abode, where we laid him down to rest from unrequited labor + and dire oppression, until "all they who are in their graves shall hear + the voice of the Son of God, and they that hear shall live forever," where + the "tears shall be wiped from off all faces"—and where the + righteous bondman shall no longer fear the driver's lash or master's + frown, but freely join in the song of "Alleluia! The Lord God Omnipotent + reigneth!" + </p> + <p> + My father had a good reputation for honesty and uprightness of character + among his employers and acquaintances, and was a kind, affectionate + husband and a fond, indulgent parent. His, I believe was the life and + death of a good man. "Peace be to his ashes." + </p> + <p> + The following season I commenced a new business—that of peddling in + the village of Rochester such articles as my employer, Mr. Comstock, + desired to sell: the products of his farm,—wheat, corn, oats, + butter, cheese, meat, and poultry—all of which met a ready sale, + generally for cash at liberal prices. That market was then but little + known to the generality of farmers, and the enterprising gentlemen of that + place, were desirous of encouraging commerce with the surrounding country, + offered every encouragement in their power. Hence, we found it a + profitable business, which I continued in for several months. + </p> + <p> + The present flourishing city of Rochester was then, as I have said, but a + village in its infancy, situated near the upper falls of the Genesee + River, and about seven miles from its mouth. Here, some time previously, + three gentlemen from Maryland bought a large tract of land, and as no + business man could fail to observe and appreciate its rare advantages they + commenced laying out a village. Sirs Fitzhugh, Carroll, and Rochester, + composed the company; but the management of the business devolved almost + wholly on Col. Rochester, whose wealth, enterprise, and intelligence well + qualified him for the undertaking; and as it had been assigned him to + cognominate the new village, I have heard it said that he jocularly gave + his reason for selecting its present title, as follows: "Should he call it + <i>Fitzhugh</i> or <i>Carroll</i>, the slighted gentleman would certainly + feel offended with the other; but if he called it by his own name, they + would most likely <i>both</i> be angry with him; so it was best to serve + them alike." + </p> + <p> + There was then two grist mills,—one owned by Mr. Ely, and the other + by Mr. Brown; one small building for religious worship, occupied by the + Presbyterians on Carroll street (now State street); and but two stone + buildings within what now comprises that beautiful city. There were then + no brick buildings at all, but business was good; merchants and mechanics + from the East soon began to settle there and give it a thriving aspect. + </p> + <p> + About this time another company was formed, whose moving spirit was Mr. E. + Stone, a man of worth and talent; the object of which was to locate + another village at the head of navigation and about half way between the + mouth of the river and Rochester, which they called <i>Carthage</i>. + </p> + <p> + The company commenced building and improving the place so rapidly, that + many who came to purchase residences and business stations were at a loss + to decide which of the two places would finally become the center of + business. It, however, was soon perceivable that the advantage of water + privileges, stone, and access to both, was greatly in favor of Rochester. + At Carthage the Genesee is narrow and its banks steep and abrupt, rising + in many places three hundred feet above the bed of the river, which of + course render the privileges and business on it far less easy of access + for building purposes. I may have occasion to speak hereafter of the + expensive and magnificent bridge at Carthage, which was the wonder and + admiration of the times. + </p> + <p> + The following year I concluded to go into business for myself, and was as + much at loss as others, whether to locate at Rochester or Carthage; but + after considering the matter in all its bearings, and closely watching the + progress of events, my choice preponderated in favor of Rochester, and to + that place I went, designing to enter into business on my own account. + </p> + <p> + It was indeed painful to my feelings to leave the home and family of Mr. + Comstock, where I had experienced so much real comfort and happiness, + where I had ever been treated with uniform kindness, where resided those + kind friends to whom I felt under the greatest obligation for the freedom + and quietude I then enjoyed, as well as for the little knowledge of + business and of the world that I then possessed. Thinking, however, that I + could better my condition, I subdued, as well as I could, my rising + emotions, and after sincerely thanking them for their goodness and favors—wishing + them long life and prosperity,—I took my departure for the chosen + place of my destination. + </p> + <p> + Soon after I left Mr. Comstock's, that gentleman, sent his hired man, + named John Cline, to Rochester with a wagon load of produce to sell, as + had been his custom for some time. In vain the family looked for his + return at the usual hour in the evening, and began to wonder what had + detained him; but what was their horror and surprise to find, when they + arose the next morning, the horses standing at the door, and the poor + unfortunate man lying in the wagon, <i>dead</i>! How long they had been + there nobody knew; no one had heard them come in; and how the man had been + killed was a matter of mere conjecture. The coroner was sent for and an + inquest held, and yet it was difficult to solve the whole mystery. + </p> + <p> + The most probable explanation was, that he was sitting in the back part of + the wagon, and fell over on his left side, striking his neck on the edge + of the wagon box, breaking it instantly. + </p> + <p> + The verdict of the jury was, in accordance with these facts, "accidental + death," &c. + </p> + <p> + When I left Mr. Comstock's I had acquired quite a knowledge of reading, + writing, arithmetic, and had made a small beginning in English grammar. + </p> + <p> + It had been for some time a question which I found hard to decide, whether + or not I should pursue my studies as I had done. If I went into business + as I contemplated, I knew it would end my proficiency in the sciences; and + yet I felt a desire to accumulate more of the wealth that perisheth. + Considering too that I was advancing in age, and had no means of support + but by my own labor, I finally concluded to do what I have from that time + to this deeply regretted,—give up the pursuit of an education, and + turn my attention wholly to business. I do not regret having desired a + competency, nor for having labored to obtain it, but I <i>do</i> regret + not having spared myself sufficient leisure to pursue some regular system + of reading and study; to have cultivated my mind and stored it with useful + knowledge. + </p> + <p> + Truly has it been said, "knowledge is power." But it is not like the + withering curse of a tyrant's power; not like the degrading and + brutalizing power of the slave-driver's lash, chains, and thumb-screws; + not like the beastly, demonical power of rum, nor like the brazen, + shameless power of lust; but a power that elevates and refines the + intellect; directs the affections; controls unholy passions; a power so + God-like in its character, that it enables its possessor to feel for the + oppressed of every clime, and prepares him to defend the weak and + down-trodden. + </p> + <p> + What but ignorance renders the poor slave so weak and inefficient in + claiming his right to liberty, and the possession of his own being! Nor + will that God who is "no respecter of persons," hold him guiltless who + assumes unlimited control over his fellow. The chain of Slavery which + fetters every slave south of Mason and Dixon's Line, is as closely linked + around the master as the slave. The time has passed by when African blood + alone is enslaved. In Virginia as well as in some other slave States, + there is as much European blood in the veins of the enslaved as there is + African; and the increase is constantly in favor of the white population. + This fact alone speaks volumes, and should remind the slave-breeding + Southerner of that fearful retribution which must sooner or later overtake + him. + </p> + <p> + In September, 1817, I commenced business in Rochester. Having rented a + room of Mr. A. Wakely, I established a meat market, which was supplied + mostly by my former employer, Mr. Comstock, and was liberally patronized + by the citizens; but there were butchers in the village who appeared to be + unwilling that I should have any share in public patronage. Sometimes they + tore down my sign, at others painted it black, and so continued to annoy + me until after I had one of their number arrested, which put a stop to + their unmanly proceedings. + </p> + <p> + The village was now rapidly increasing, and yet the surrounding country + was mostly a wilderness. Mr. E. Stone, who then owned the land on the east + side of the river, thought his farm a very poor one; he, however, + commenced clearing it in the midst of wild beasts and rattlesnakes, both + of which were abundant, and in a few years was richly rewarded for his + labor, in the sale of village lots, which commanded high prices. + </p> + <p> + In the summer of 1818, I commenced teaching a Sabbath School for the + neglected children of our oppressed race. For a while it was well + attended, and I hoped to be able to benefit in some measure the poor and + despised colored children, but the parents interested themselves very + little in the undertaking, and it shortly came to naught. So strong was + the prejudice then existing against the colored people, that very few of + the negroes seemed to have any courage or ambition to rise from the abject + degradation in which the estimation of the white man had placed him. + </p> + <p> + This year, also, I purchased a lot of land, eighteen by fifty feet, + situated on Main street, for which I was to pay five hundred dollars. + Having secured my land, I began making preparations for building, and soon + had a good two story dwelling and store, into which I moved my effects, + and commenced a more extensive business. + </p> + <p> + Some disadvantage as well as sport was occasioned on business men, who + resided on the confines of Ontario and Genesee Counties. It was indeed + laughable to witness the races and maneuvering of parties in those days + when men were imprisoned for debt. If a man in Ontario County had a + suspicion that an officer was on his track, he had only to step over the + line into Genesee, to be beyond the power of an officer's precept. + </p> + <p> + A great deal of trouble as well as unpleasant feeling was engendered by + the exercise of that law, which allowed the creditor so great advantage + over the debtor. This, together with the fact that very many of the + citizens of Rochester were men of small means, the more wealthy portion + felt called upon to protect their interests, by forming themselves into + what was called a "Shylock Society," the object of which was to obtain a + list of all the names of persons who had been, or were then, on "the + limits" for debt. This list of names was printed, and each member of the + society furnished with a copy, which enabled him to decide whether or not + to trust a man when he came to trade. The formation of this society gave + rise to another, whose members pledged themselves to have no dealing with + a member of the "Shylock Society," and also to publish all defaulters in + "high life," which served to check these oppressive measures and restore + harmony. + </p> + <p> + Among others who came to settle in the thriving village of Rochester, was + a colored man named Daniel Furr, who came from the East. He soon became + acquainted with a very respectable young white lady, of good family, who + after a short acquaintance appeared to be perfectly enamored of her dusky + swain; and notwithstanding the existing prejudice, she did not scruple to + avow her affection for him,—a devotion which appeared to be as + sincerely returned by the young "Othello." They resolved to marry; but to + this, serious objections arose, and all that the lady's family and friends + could do to break off the match was done, but without effect. They could, + however, prevail on no one to perform the marriage ceremony in the + village, and finally concluded to go to a magistrate in the town of + Brighton, four miles distant. At this stage of the proceedings I was + appealed to, to accompany them. I took the matter into consideration and + came to the conclusion that I could take no active part in the affair, nor + bear any responsible station in the unpleasant occurrence. Is it no sin in + the sight of the Almighty, for Southern gentlemen(?) to mix blood and + amalgamate the races? And if allowed to them, is it not equally + justifiable when the commerce is prompted by affection rather than that of + lust and force? But I at length consented to accompany them, after + learning that all the mischief was already done that could be feared, and + that the gallant lover desired to marry the lady as the only atonement he + could make for the loss of her reputation. + </p> + <p> + We arrived at the house of the magistrate about one o'clock at night, and + all were soundly sleeping. They were, however, aroused, and when our + business was made known, an exciting scene followed. The magistrate + refused at first to marry them; and the lady of the house took aside the + intended bride, spending two hours in endeavoring to dissuade her from the + contemplated union; assuring her that her house should be freely opened to + her, that no attention should be spared during her expected confinement, + &c.; but all to no purpose. They returned to the parlor where the + magistrate again tried his power of persuasion, but with as little success + as his lady had met: and then he reluctantly married them. The newly-made + husband paid a liberal fee, and we took our leave. I returned to my home + to reflect on the scenes of the past night, and Mr. and Mrs. Furr to the + house of a friend of the bride in Penfield. + </p> + <p> + The report soon reached the village that the marriage had been + consummated, which produced a great excitement. Threats of an alarming + character were openly made against the "nigger" who had dared to marry a + white woman, although at her own request. And there was also a class of + persons who associated together, professing great friendship for the + persecuted husband, and often drew him into their company, pretending to + defend his cause while they were undoubtedly plotting his destruction. + </p> + <p> + One day, after Furr had been drinking rather freely with his pretended + friends, he was taken so violently ill, that a physician was immediately + called. I was with him when the doctor arrived. He gazed upon the + suffering man with an angry expression, and inquired in a tone of command, + "Daniel, what have you been doing?" In vain the poor creature begged for + relief, the doctor merely repeating his question. After looking at him for + some time, he finally administered a potion and hastily left the room, + saying as he did so, "that Furr was as sure to die as though his head had + been cut off." And so it proved, though not so speedily as the medical man + had predicted; nor did he ever visit him again, notwithstanding he + lingered for several days in the most intense agony. It was a strong man + grappling with disease and death, and the strife was a fearful one. But + death at last ended the scene, with none of all his professed friends, + except his faithful but heart-broken wife, to administer to his + necessities. No sound save that of the moaning widow broke the stillness + of his death-chamber. A few friends collected, who prepared the emaciated + body for the grave; enclosing it in a rude board coffin it was conveyed to + its last resting place, followed by three or four men, just as the shades + of evening had fallen upon this sin-cursed world; there in darkness and + silence we lowered his remains, and left the gloomy spot to return to his + disconsolate wife, who had been too ill to join the meager procession. + </p> + <p> + It has ever been my conviction that Furr was poisoned, most likely by some + of his false friends who must have mingled some deadly drug with his + drinks or food; nor do I believe that the medicine administered by the + physician was designed to save his life. But to Him who knoweth all + things, we leave the matter. + </p> + <p> + His despised, forsaken, and bereaved wife soon followed him to the grave, + where she sleeps quietly with her innocent babe by her side; and where + probably this second Desdemonia finds the only refuge which would have + been granted her by a heartless and persecuting world. + </p> + <p> + Oh, when will this nation "cease to do evil and learn to do well?" When + will they judge character in accordance with its moral excellence, instead + of the complexion a man unavoidably bears to the world? + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV. — INCIDENTS IN ROCHESTER AND VICINITY. + </h2> + <p> + After long petitioning, the inhabitants of that section succeeded in + having the new county of Monroe set off from Genesee and Ontario Counties, + in 1821, which gave a new impulse to the business interests of the already + flourishing town, which had heretofore labored under some disadvantages in + consequence of having all public business done at Canandaigua or Batavia. + </p> + <p> + About this time, too, was the Carthage bridge built by a company of + enterprising gentlemen of that village which at that day was considered + one of the wonders of the age; but as its history is well known to all + interested in the enterprises of those days, it is only necessary to say, + that the magnificent structure, so grand in its appearance, such a pattern + of mechanical ingenuity, exhibiting in all its vast proportions, both + strength and beauty, combined with utility and grandeur; and erected at + such an enormous expense of time, labor, and cash, was destined soon to + fall. + </p> + <p> + It had cost some ten thousand dollars; and had been warranted by the + builders to stand one year. How great then must have been the loss and + disappointment when in a little more than twenty-four hours after the time + specified, the ruins of that beautiful structure were found floating on + the broad bosom of the Genesee! And yet when we take into consideration + the vast amount of human life which hourly passed over its solid surface, + we can but wonder at the intervention of a kind Providence which prevented + any loss of life at the time of its fall. A child had but just passed over + it, when with one general crash it sank to the waters below; mocking in + its rapid flight, the wisdom of the architect and foresight of frail + humanity. The fall of Carthage bridge was indeed a calamity felt by the + public generally, and sounded the death-knell of all future greatness to + Carthage, or at least for some years to come. + </p> + <p> + About this time the village was thrown into a state of excitement by the + arrest of a colored woman named Ellen, who it was charged had escaped from + service due to a Mr. D., south of Mason and Dixon's Line. She had been + arrested in accordance with a law passed by Congress in 1793, which + forbids persons owing service in one State to flee to another; and which + also obliges those receiving such service, to render to the claimant any + fugitive from labor due, &c. Poor Ellen! She had many friends and able + counsel, but nothing short of an open violation of the law of the land, + could prevent her return to the house of bondage. She was tried and given + up to him who claimed dominion over her. Hopeless and heart-broken, she + was escorted from the boasted land and village of freedom, by a company of + the "Light Horse," under the command of Capt. Curtis. One poor, persecuted + slave woman, upon whose heart had fallen a shadow darker than death's; + driving every earthly hope of liberty from her wounded spirit; helpless + and forlorn! She indeed must have required this military parade—this + show of power! And that too, by men who throw up their caps with a shout + for freedom and equal rights! Oh, "consistency, thou art a jewel!" + </p> + <p> + As I recollect but one other incident of the kind occurring in Rochester, + I will now name it. + </p> + <p> + A colored man named Davis, generally known as "Doctor Davis," with a + reputation unsullied for industry, truth and sobriety, was arrested as a + fugitive from slave labor in Kentucky. Two men came on from that State, + acting in the double capacity of agents for the claimant and witnesses + against the slave. They employed Mr. L. as counsel, and hastened on the + trial of the afflicted African. When it became generally known that Davis + was arrested, and about to be tried, the excitement grew intense among all + classes; but more particularly among the colored people. When the trial + came on, the Court room was crowded to overflowing, and every avenue + leading to it densely thronged with deeply anxious persons, assembled to + witness the result. It became evident, however, that the poor man must be + given up to his grasping master, unless some means were devised to rescue + him from the power of an unjust law. His friends were on the alert, and as + the trial proceeded, the colored men found an opportunity to get him into + a corner of the crowded apartment; where, while the officers stood at the + door, they dressed him in disguise, and otherwise so completely changed + his personal appearance, that he passed out of the Court room, undetected + by the officers, and as all supposed was safely pursuing his way to + Canada. + </p> + <p> + The hawk-eyed counsel for the Kentuckians, however, too soon observed + exultation written on every dusky countenance, to keep quiet. Starting to + his feet in great alarm, he cried out "Where is Davis?" And oh, how that + question startled every one present. Every eye gazed hither and thither, + and every ear intently listened for the answer. After a moment of + breathless silence, the excited counselor was assured that the "bird had + flown," which announcement was received with a rapturous shout of joy by + the audience, greatly, however, to the discomfiture of the gentlemen from + Kentucky, who had thought themselves so sure of their prize. Nor would + they be thwarted now. It was not yet too late to overtake their victim, + and slavery required at their hands a sacrifice which they were ready to + make. Hand-bills were in immediate circulation, offering a reward of fifty + dollars for the apprehension of the flying fugitive. Fifty dollars, for + the body and soul of a man to plunge into the degradation of Slavery! + Fifty dollars for the ruin of a fellow being, for whom Christ gave his + precious life! Yes, fifty dollars are offered to any human blood-hound who + will hunt and worry the poor slave, who must fly from this boasted land of + liberty, to seek protection in the dominion of England's Queen! + </p> + <p> + Unfortunately for Davis, some of these hand-bills were thrown on board the + very packet on which he had embarked for Buffalo; nor was this all. The + bills would have left him uninjured, but a scoundrel—an apology for + a man—was there also, who, for the consideration of fifty dollars + was willing to compromise all pretensions to manhood and humanity, and + drag from the boat the panting slave, whom he cast beneath the heel of his + oppressor. When Davis was finally retaken, those Kentucky dealers in human + chattels, held him with a grasp that banished all hope of escape by + flight; and then in his sorrow and despair the wretched, hopeless man + cried out "Oh, my God, must I return to the hell of Slavery? Save me, Oh, + dear Lord, save this, thy helpless, friendless servant, from a fate so + dreadful! Oh, Christian friends and neighbors, I appeal to you to rescue + me from a life far more terrible than death in any form! Oh, God, is there + no protection for me in the laws of New York? I claim it, by all that is + sacred in her past history! Give me liberty or death! or death!" he + repeated, with a shudder; then casting one glance of hopeless agony on his + persecutors, he secretly drew from his pocket a razor, and before he could + be prevented he drew it across his throat, and fell gasping in the midst + of his slave-hunting tormentors, while a collection of bystanders cried + "Shame! shame! on the institution of Slavery!" + </p> + <p> + Poor Davis was not dead, but supposing he soon would be, these gentlemen + were requested to give security, and indemnify the town for all expenses + it might incur on Davis' account. But instead of giving their bond as + requested, they took a sudden start for Kentucky, where it was very + generally desired they might remain. + </p> + <p> + With good treatment, Davis, after a long time, recovered sufficiently to + be removed by his friends to a place of safety; and when so far restored + as to be able he returned to Rochester, where he received assistance which + enabled him to reach Canada. I have often heard from him during his + residence in that country, where no slaves exist and he has done well, + having quite an extensive practice in medicine, and lives in the quiet + enjoyment of that liberty which he struggled so hard to obtain and came so + near losing; yet, to this day he prefers death to Slavery. And who does + not? None, who have breathed the air of freedom after an experience of + unrequited toil to enrich a brutal and selfish master. Truly is it said, + "a contented slave is a degraded being." + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV. — SAD REVERSES OF CAPT. HELM. + </h2> + <p> + I must again introduce to the kind reader my old master, Capt. Helm, who + we left residing in Bath, several years ago. And as I have before + intimated he had now become a very poor man; indeed so reduced was he now + that he lived with one of his slave women, and was supported by public + charity! Learning, too, that I had saved by my industry a few hundred + dollars, it seemed very congenial with his avaricious habits to endeavor + to obtain what I possessed. In accordance with his plan he employed a + lawyer named Lewland to come to my place of business, which he did, and + demanded of me to pay Capt. Helm two hundred dollars. He also left a + notice, forbidding all persons to take or destroy any property in my + possession; and then impudently inquired how I expected to gain my + freedom; if I thought of applying for a writ of <i>habaeus corpus</i>; and + many other questions; to which I replied that I should pay no money on the + order of Capt. Helm; apply for no writ; but should continue to maintain my + personal rights and enjoy the freedom which was already mine, and which I + designed to keep, assuring him that the Captain had forfeited his claim, + if he had any, to me or my services, when he hired me to Mr. Tower. + </p> + <p> + He hung about me for a day or two, and then left me to pursue my business + —I saw no more of him. Some time afterward Mr. H.E. Rochester + informed me that he had a <i>subpoena</i> for me, which I found was issued + by the direction of Capt. Helm. By Mr. Rochester's counsel, I took it to + Mr. A. Sampson, who assured me that my old master had commenced a suit + against me in the Court of Equity, and the case would be tried before Wm. + B. Rochester, Esq., who was one of the circuit judges. Capt. Helm claimed + every particle of property I possessed; a claim that occasioned me great + anxiety and some cost. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Sampson encouraged me to hope, however, that the case would be + dismissed as two other cases of that kind had been. + </p> + <p> + I labored to the best of my ability to prepare myself for the trial, which + was to decide whether I had a right to possess myself and command my own + services and earnings, or whether all belonged to Capt. Helm. As I looked + forward with anxious forebodings to the day appointed for the suit to + commence, I was startled by the announcement of my old master's <i>death</i>! + Yes, Capt. Helm was dead; and with him died the law suit. He who had so + wronged me, who had occasioned me so much suffering and sorrow had gone to + his account. He who had once been thought to be one of the wealthiest as + well as one of the greatest men in the county, died a pauper—neglected + and despised, and scarcely awarded a decent burial. Like his wife, who + died such a horrid death, he had been reared in affluence and was an + inheritor of vast possessions, but his home was in a slave State; he was + raised on a plantation, and nurtured in the atmosphere of Slavery. + </p> + <p> + In his youth he had contracted the habit of drinking to excess, beside + that of gambling, horse-racing and the like, which followed him through + life. Forgotten and scorned in his poverty by many who had partaken of his + abundance, sipped his wine, and rode his fast horses. + </p> + <p> + During the last war his princely mansion was ever open to the officers of + the army, and many a wounded soldier has been cheered and comforted by his + hospitality. But now he is regarded as no better than his poorest slave, + and lies as lowly as they, in the narrow house appointed for all the + living. + </p> + <p> + My old master had two brothers: the oldest, Thomas Helm, was a Captain in + the United States Army, and had been in many hard-fought battles. His + younger brother, William, was a Captain also; but Thomas was the man to + awaken curiosity. I have lived with him, but never knew of his going + unarmed for an hour, until he left Virginia and came to Steuben County, + where he died. When at the South, I have seen strangers approach him, but + they were invariably commanded to "stand" and to "approach him at their + peril." He finally came to the State of New York, bringing with him his + "woman" with whom he lived, and two children, with whom he settled on a + piece of land given him by my old master, where the old soldier lived, + died, and was buried on one of his small "clearings" under an old apple + tree. He owned a few slaves, but at his death his "woman" collected every + thing she could, and among the rest, two or three slave children, to whom + she had no right or claim whatever, and made her way to Kentucky. About a + year ago I visited the spot where the brave old defender of his country + had been buried, but found very little to mark the resting place of the + brother of my old master. They had passed away. Their wealth, power and + bravery had come to nought; and no tribute was now paid to the memory of + one of "Old Virginia's best families." The <i>blood</i> of which they were + wont to boast, was now no more revered than that which commingled with the + African and circulated in the veins of his despised and downtrodden + slaves. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI. — BRITISH EMANCIPATION OF SLAVERY. + </h2> + <p> + As time passed on I found myself progressing in a profitable business. I + had paid for my house and lot, and purchased another adjoining, on which I + had erected a valuable brick building. The Lord prospered all my + undertakings and I felt grateful for my good fortune. I kept all kinds of + groceries and grain, which met a ready sale; and now I began to look about + me for a partner in life, to share my joys and sorrows, and to assist me + on through the tempestuous scenes of a life-long voyage. Such a companion + I found in the intelligent and amiable Miss B——, to whom I was + married on the eleventh of May, 1825. She was the youngest daughter of a + particular friend, who had traveled extensively and was noted for his + honesty and intelligence. + </p> + <p> + About this time, too, "Sam Patch" made his last and fatal leap from a + scaffold twenty five feet above the falls of Genesee, which are ninety-six + feet in height. From thence he plunged into the foaming river to rise no + more in life. The following spring the body of the foolish man was found + and buried, after having lain several months in the turbulent waters of + the Genesee. + </p> + <p> + This year was also rendered memorable by the efficient labors of Professor + Finney, through whose faithful preaching of the gospel, many were brought + to a saving knowledge of the truth. + </p> + <p> + The "Emancipation Act" had now been passed, and the happy time for it to + take effect was drawing nigh. Slavery could no longer exist in the Empire + State nor receive the protection of her laws. Would to God it had so + continued to be what it professed—the refuge of the bondman and the + home of the free. But alas! Now the flying fugitive from Slavery finds no + security within her borders; he must flee onward, to the dominion of Queen + Victoria, ere he rests, lest the exaction of the odious "Fugitive Slave + Law" return him to the house of bondage. + </p> + <p> + But the Emancipation Bill had been passed, and the colored people felt it + to be a time fit for rejoicing. They met in different places and + determined to evince their gratitude by a general celebration. In + Rochester they convened in large numbers, and resolved to celebrate the + glorious day of freedom at Johnson's Square, on the <i>fifth</i> day of + July. This arrangement was made so as not to interfere with the white + population who were everywhere celebrating the day of their independence—"the + Glorious Fourth,"—for amid the general and joyous shout of liberty, + prejudice had sneeringly raised the finger of scorn at the poor African, + whose iron bands were loosed, not only from English oppression, but the + more cruel and oppressive power of Slavery. + </p> + <p> + They met according to previous appointment, Mr. A. H——, having + been chosen president, Mr. H. E——, marshal, and Mr. H. D——, + reader of the "Act of Emancipation," and "The Declaration of + Independence." A large audience of both white and colored people + assembled, and the day which had been ushered in by the booming cannon, + passed by in the joyous realization that we were indeed free men. To the + music of the band the large procession marched from the square to the + hotel, where ample provision was made for dinner, after listening to the + following oration, which I had been requested to deliver. + </p> + <p> + I must not omit to mention that on the morning of that happy day, a + committee of colored men waited upon the Hon. Matthew Brown, and in behalf + of the citizens of Monroe County, presented their thanks for his noble + exertions in the Legislature, in favor of the Act by which thousands were + made free men. + </p> + <p> + They were received by that worthy gentleman with grateful and pleasing + assurances of his continued labor in behalf of freedom. + </p> + <p> + Now I will lay before the reader my address to the audience on that + eventful day. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVII. — ORATION—TERMINATION OF SLAVERY. + </h2> + <p> + The age in which we live is characterised in no ordinary degree, by a + certain boldness and rapidity in the march of intellectual and political + improvements. Inventions the most surprising; revolutions the most + extraordinary, are springing forth, and passing in quick succession before + us,—all tending most clearly to the advancement of mankind towards + that state of earthly perfection and happiness, from which they are yet so + far distant, but of which their nature and that of the world they inhabit, + are most certainly capable. It is at all times pleasing and instructive to + look backward by the light of history, and forward by the light of + analogical reasoning, to behold the gradual advancement of man from + barbarism to civilization, from civilization toward the higher perfections + of his nature; and to hope—nay, confidently believe, that the time + is not far distant when liberty and equal rights being everywhere + established, morality and the religion of the gospel everywhere diffused,—man + shall no longer lift his hand for the oppression of his fellow man; but + all, mutually assisting and assisted, shall move onward throughout the + journey of human life, like the peaceful caravan across the burning sands + of Arabia. And never, on this glorious anniversary, so often and so + deservedly celebrated by millions of free men, but which we are to-day for + the first time called to celebrate—never before, has the eye been + able to survey the past with so much satisfaction, or the future with + hopes and expectations so brilliant and so flattering; it is to us a day + of two-fold joy. We are men, though the strong hand of prejudice and + oppression is upon us; we can, and we will rejoice in the advancement of + the rapidly increasing happiness of mankind, and especially of our own + race. We can, and we will rejoice in the growing power and glory of the + country we inhabit. Although Almighty God has not permitted us to remain + in the land of our forefathers and our own, the glories of national + independence, and the sweets of civil and religious liberty, to their full + extent; but the strong hand of the spoiler has borne us into a strange + land, yet has He of His great goodness given us to behold those best and + noblest of his gifts to man, in their fairest and loveliest forms; and not + only have we beheld them, but we have already felt much of their benignant + influence. Most of us have hitherto enjoyed many, very many of the dearest + rights of freemen. Our lives and personal liberties have been held as + sacred and inviolable; the rights of property have been extended to us, in + this land of freedom; our industry has been, and still is, liberally + rewarded; and so long as we live under a free and happy government which + denies us not the protection of its laws, why should we fret and vex + ourselves because we have had no part in framing them, nor anything to do + with their administration. When the fruits of the earth are fully afforded + us, we do not wantonly refuse them, nor ungratefully repine because we + have done nothing towards the cultivation of the tree which produces them. + No, we accept them with lively gratitude; and their sweetness is not + embittered by reflecting upon the manner in which they were obtained. It + is the dictate of sound wisdom, then, to enjoy without repining, the + freedom, privileges, and immunities which wise and equal laws have awarded + us—nay, proudly to rejoice and glory in their production, and stand + ready at all times to defend them at the hazard of our lives, and of all + that is most dear to us. + </p> + <p> + But are we alone shut out and excluded from any share in the + administration of government? Are not the clergy, a class of men equally + ineligible to office? A class of men almost idolized by their countrymen, + ineligible to office! And are we alone excluded from what the world + chooses to denominate polite society? And are not a vast majority of the + polar race excluded? I know not why, but mankind of every age, nation, and + complexion have had lower classes; and, as a distinction, they have chosen + to arrange themselves in the grand spectacle of human life, like seats in + a theater—rank above rank, with intervals between them. But if any + suppose that happiness or contentment is confined to any single class, or + that the high or more splendid order possesses any substantial advantage + in those respects over their more lowly brethren, they must be wholly + ignorant of all rational enjoyment. For what though the more humble orders + cannot mingle with the higher on terms of equality. This, if rightly + considered, is not a curse but a blessing. Look around you, my friends: + what rational enjoyment is not within your reach? Your homes are in the + noblest country in the world, and all of that country which your real + happiness requires, may at any time be yours. Your industry can purchase + it; and its righteous laws will secure you in its possession. But, to + what, my friends, do you owe all these blessings? Let not the truth be + concealed. You owe them to that curse, that bitter scourge of Africa, + whose partial abolishment you are this day convened to celebrate. Slavery + has been your curse, but it shall become your rejoicing. Like the people + of God in Egypt, you have been afflicted; but like them too, you have been + redeemed. You are henceforth free as the mountain winds. Why should we, on + this day of congratulation and joy, turn our view upon the origin of + African Slavery? Why should we harrow up our minds by dwelling on the + deceit, the forcible fraud and treachery that have been so long practised + on your hospitable and unsuspecting countrymen? Why speak of fathers torn + from the bosom of their families, wives from the embraces of their + husbands, children from the protection of their parents; in fine, of all + the tender and endearing relations of life dissolved and trampled under + foot, by the accursed traffic in human flesh? Why should we remember, in + joy and exultation, the thousands of our countrymen who are to-day, in + this land of gospel light, this boasted land of civil and religious + liberty, writhing under the lash and groaning beneath the grinding weight + of Slavery's chain? I ask, Almighty God, are they who do such things thy + chosen and favorite people? But, away with such thoughts as these; we will + rejoice, though sobs interrupt the songs of our rejoicing, and tears + mingle in the cup we pledge to Freedom; our harps though they have long + hung neglected upon the willows, shall this day be strung full high to the + notes of gladness. On this day, in one member at least of this mighty + Republic, the Slavery of our race has ceased forever! No more shall the + insolent voice of a master be the main-spring of our actions, the sole + guide of our conduct; no more shall their hands labor in degrading and + profitless servitude. Their toils will henceforth be voluntary, and be + crowned with the never failing reward of industry. Honors and dignities + may perhaps never be ours; but wealth, virtue, and happiness are all + within the compass of our moderate exertions. And how shall we employ a + few moments better than in reflecting upon the means by which these are to + be obtained. For what can be more proper and more profitable to one who + has just gained an invaluable treasure, than to consider how he may use it + to the best possible advantage? And here I need not tell you that a strict + observance to all the precepts of the gospel ought to be your first and + highest aim; for small will be the value of all that the present world can + bestow, if the interests of the world to come are neglected and despised. + None of you can be ignorant of what the gospel teaches. Bibles may easily + be obtained; nor can there be a greater disgrace, or a more shameful + neglect of duty than for a person of mature age, and much more, for any + father of a family to be without that most precious of all books—the + Bible. If, therefore, any of you are destitute of a Bible, hasten to + procure one. Will any of you say that it can be of no use to you, or that + you cannot read it? Look then to that noblest of all remedies for this + evil, the Sunday School—that most useful of all institutions. There + you may learn without loss of time or money, that of which none should be + ignorant—to read. + </p> + <p> + Let me exhort you with earnestness to give your most sincere attention to + this matter. It is of the utmost importance to every one of you. Let your + next object be to obtain as soon as may be, a competency of the good + things of this world; immense wealth is not necessary for you, and would + but diminish your real happiness. Abject poverty is and ought to be + regarded as the greatest, most terrible of all possible evils. It should + be shunned as a most deadly and damning sin. What then are the means by + which so dreadful a calamity may be avoided? I will tell you, my friends, + in these simple words—hear and ponder on them; write them upon the + tablets of your memory; they are worthy to be inscribed in letters of gold + upon every door-post—"industry, prudence, and economy." Oh! they are + words of power to guide you to respectability and happiness. Attend, then, + to some of the laws which industry impose, while you have health and + strength. Let not the rising sun behold you sleeping or indolently lying + upon your beds. Rise ever with the morning light; and, till sun-set, give + not an hour to idleness. Say not human nature cannot endure it. It can—it + almost requires it. Sober, diligent, and moderate labor does not diminish + it, but on the contrary, greatly adds to the health, vigor, and duration + of the human frame. Thousands of the human race have died prematurely of + disease engendered by indolence and inactivity. Few, very few indeed, have + suffered by the too long continuance of bodily exertion. As you give the + day to labor, so devote the night to rest; for who that has drunk and + reveled all night at a tippling shop, or wandered about in search of + impious and stolen pleasures, has not by so doing not only committed a + most heinous and damning sin in the sight of Heaven, but rendered himself + wholly unfit for the proper discharge of the duties of the coming day. Nor + think that industry or true happiness do not go hand in hand; and to him + who is engaged in some useful avocation, time flies delightfully and + rapidly away. He does not, like the idle and indolent man, number the slow + hours with sighs—cursing both himself and them for the tardiness of + their flight. Ah, my friends, it is utterly impossible for him who wastes + time in idleness, ever to know anything of true happiness. Indolence, + poverty, wretchedness, are inseparable companions,—fly them, shun + idleness, as from eminent and inevitable destruction. In vain will you + labor unless prudence and economy preside over and direct all your + exertions. Remember at all times that money even in your own hands, is + power; with it you may direct as you will the actions of your pale, proud + brethren. Seek after and amass it then, by just and honorable means; and + once in your hand never part with it but for a full and fair equivalent; + nor let that equivalent be something which you do not want, and for which + you cannot obtain more than it cost you. Be watchful and diligent and let + your mind be fruitful in devises for the honest advancement of your + worldly interest. So shall you continually rise in respectability, in rank + and standing in this so late and so long the land of your captivity. + </p> + <p> + Above all things refrain from the excessive use of ardent spirits. There + is no evil whose progress is so imperceptible; and at the same time so + sure and deadly, as that of intemperance; and by slow degrees it + undermines health, wealth, and happiness, till all at length tumble into + one dreadful mass of ruin. If God has given you children, he has in so + doing imposed upon you a most fearful responsibility; believe me, friends, + you will answer to God for every misfortune suffered, and every crime + committed by them which right education and example could have taught them + to avoid. Teach them reverence and obedience to the laws both of God and + man. Teach them sobriety, temperance, justice, and truth. Let their minds + be rightly instructed—imbued with kindness and brotherly love, + charity, and benevolence. Let them possess at least so much learning as is + to be acquired in the common schools of the country. In short, let their + welfare be dearer to you than any earthly enjoyment; so shall they be the + richest of earthly blessings. + </p> + <p> + My countrymen, let us henceforth remember that we are men. Let us as one + man, on this day resolve that henceforth, by continual endeavors to do + good to all mankind, we will claim for ourselves the attention and respect + which as men we should possess. So shall every good that can be the + portion of man, be ours—this life shall be happy, and the life to + come, glorious. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + The opinion of the public regarding the celebration and performances of + that day, together with the behavior of the colored people, will be seen + by the following short extract from the <i>Rochester Daily Advertiser</i>, + published soon after the occurrence of those events: + </p> + <h3> + "ABOLITION OF SLAVERY. + </h3> + <p> + "The extinction of that curse by the laws of our State, was marked with + appropriate rejoicings on the part of the African race in this + neighborhood. A procession of considerable length and respectable + appearance, preceded by a band of music, moved from Brown's Island through + the principal streets to the public square, yesterday forenoon, where a + stage and seats were erected, for the speakers and audience. The throne of + Grace was addressed by the Rev. Mr. Allen, a colored clergyman. The act + declaring all slaves free in this State, on the fourth day of July, 1827, + was read, which was succeeded by the reading of the Declaration of + Independence and delivery of an oration by Mr. Steward. We have heard but + one opinion from several gentlemen who were present, and that was highly + complimentary to the composition and delivery of the same. + </p> + <p> + "The exercises were concluded by a short discourse from the Rev. Mr. + Allen, and the procession moved off to partake of an entertainment + prepared for the occasion. The thing was got up in good order, and passed + off remarkably well. The conduct of the emancipated race was exemplary + throughout, and if their future enjoyment of freedom be tinctured with the + prudence that characterised their celebration of its attainment, the + country will have no reason to mourn the philanthropy that set them free." + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + Thus ended our first public celebration of our own and our country's + freedom. All conducted themselves with the strictest propriety and + decorum, retiring to their homes soberly and in proper season. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVIII. — CONDITION OF FREE COLORED PEOPLE. + </h2> + <p> + Pursuant to a call given in the summer of 1830, by the colored residents + of Philadelphia, for a National Convention of their race, I started in + company with a friend to attend it; having previously engaged seats inside + Mr. Coe's stage-coach as far as Utica, N.Y., to which place we had paid + our fare the same as other passengers. + </p> + <p> + We rode on to Auburn very pleasantly, but when at that place, we with + others moved to resume our seats; we were met by a stern rebuke for + presuming to seat ourselves on the inside, and were ordered to ride on the + outside of the coach. In vain we expostulated; in vain we reminded the + driver of the agreement, and of our having paid for an inside seat; we + were told to take the outside of the coach or remain behind. + </p> + <p> + Desiring to attend the convention, we concluded to go on, submitting to + this rank injustice and dishonesty, until our return, when we determined + to sue the proprietor of that line of stages. An opportunity was offered + soon after, when I commenced a suit for damages against Mr. Sherwood, who + was the great stage proprietor of those days. He, however, cleared himself + by declaring that he was in no way responsible for the failures of Mr. + Coe, to whom I must look for remuneration. I never found it convenient to + sue Mr. Coe, and so the matter ended. + </p> + <p> + We passed through New York City to the place of our destination, where we + found many of our brethren already assembled. + </p> + <p> + Philadelphia, which I now saw for the first time, I thought the most + beautiful and regularly laid out city I ever beheld. Here had lived the + peaceable, just, and merciful William Penn; and here many of his adherents + still reside. Here, too, was the place where the Rt. Rev. Bishop Allen, + the first colored American bishop in the United States, had labored so + successfully. When the Methodists sought to crush by cruel prejudice the + poor African, he stepped boldly forward in defence of their cause, which + he sustained, with a zeal and talent ever to be revered. + </p> + <p> + Thousands were brought to a knowledge of the truth, and induced "to seek + first the kingdom of heaven and its righteousness," through his + instrumentality. Through the benign influence of this good man, friends + and means were raised for his poor brethren, to build houses of worship, + where they would no more be dragged from their knees when in prayer, and + told to seat themselves by the door. Oh, how much good can one good and + faithful man do, when devoted to the cause of humanity—following in + the footsteps of the blessed Christ; doing unto others as they would be + done by; and remembering those in bonds as bound with them. What though + his skin be black as ebony, if the heart of a brother beats in his bosom? + Oh, that man could judge of character as does our Heavenly Father; then + would he judge righteous judgment, and cease to look haughtily down upon + his afflicted fellow, because "his skin is colored not like his own." + </p> + <p> + We convened at the specified time, and organized by appointing Rev. R. + Allen, president, A. Steward, vice-president, and J.C. Morrell, secretary. + The convention which continued in session three days, was largely attended + by all classes of people, and many interesting subjects were ably + discussed; but the most prominent object was the elevation of our race. + Resolutions were passed calculated to encourage our brethren to take some + action on the subjects of education and mechanism. Agricultural pursuits + were also recommended;—and here allow me to give my opinion in favor + of the latter, as a means of sustenance and real happiness. + </p> + <p> + I knew many colored farmers, all of whom are well respected in the + neighborhood of their residence. I wish I could count them by hundreds; + but our people mostly flock to cities where they allow themselves to be + made "hewers of wood and drawers of water;" barbers and waiters,—when, + if they would but retire to the country and purchase a piece of land, + cultivate and improve it, they would be far richer and happier than they + can be in the crowded city. It is a mistaken idea that there is more + prejudice against color in the country. True, it exists everywhere, but I + regard it less potent in the country, where a farmer can live less + dependant on his oppressors. The sun will shine, the rains descend, and + the earth bring forth her increase, just as readily for the colored + agriculturist as for his pale face neighbor. Yes, and our common mother + Earth will, when life is ended, as readily open her bosom to receive your + remains in a last embrace, as that of the haughty scorner of our rights. + </p> + <p> + In the city, however, there is no escape from the crushing weight of + prejudice, to ramble over fields of your own cultivation; to forget your + sorrows in the refreshing air that waves the loaded branches of an orchard + of your own planting; nor to solace yourself with a gambol over the green + meadow with your little ones. It is all toil, toil, with a burthened heart + until shadows fall across the hearth-stone, and dismal forebodings darken + the fireside, from whence the weary wife retires to refresh herself in + broken slumber for the renewed toil of another day. Will not my friends + think of these and many other advantages in favor of a country life, and + practice accordingly? + </p> + <p> + After the close of the convention, I returned to my business in Rochester. + </p> + <p> + Until the discussion, which commenced about this time on the subject of + temperance, I had been engaged, as most other grocers were at that time, + in the sale of spirituous liquors somewhat extensively. My attention had + never before been called especially to the subject, though I had witnessed + some of its direst evils; but now, when I saw the matter in its true + light, I resolved to give it up. I was doing well and making handsome + profits on the sale of alcoholic beverages. I had also experienced a good + deal of trouble with it. My license allowed me to sell any quantity less + than five gallons; but it was a fine of twenty-five dollars if drunk on + the premises,—one half of the sum to go to the complainant. If a + vicious man got out of funds it became both easy and common for him to + give some person a sixpence, half of which was to be spent for whisky, + which made him a witness for the other, who would make immediate + complaint, and collect his share of the fine. Nor could I prevent men who + came with bottles, and purchased whisky, from drinking it where they + pleased; consequently I was often called to answer to such complaints. + </p> + <p> + One morning a man entered my store and called for liquor, which the clerk + gave him. After drinking it, he went directly to the office of A. House, + Esq., and entered a complaint against the clerk who had served him; then + stepped out for consultation with his counsel. At that moment I arrived at + the office of the magistrate to whom I immediately made complaint against + myself, relating to him also just how the event happened. In a few minutes + the original complainant returned, to whom 'Squire House explained that he + should have arraigned the proprietor of the store, and not the clerk as he + had done. Determined on making a speculation, however, he demanded a + precept for myself. The 'Squire, laughing most heartily, informed him that + he was too late,—that Mr. Steward had the start of him, having just + entered a complaint against himself, by which he saves one half of the + fine. The man walked out, looking rather "cheap," nor did he or others + annoy me afterwards by making complaints of that kind. + </p> + <p> + But now I saw, as never before, the sin of selling that which would make + beasts of men, and only stopped to inquire what was duty in the matter. + All the arguments in favor of its sale were more forcible then than now. + All classes of persons used and drank the article; and it required more + moral courage, to relinquish the business than it does now. Nevertheless, + it appeared plain to my mind, that duty to God and my fellow-men required + it, and I cheerfully gave it up forever. + </p> + <p> + I could not conscientiously, nor do I see how any man can, continue to + traffic in this most fruitful source of pauperism and crime. No benefit + whatever arises from its use as a beverage or from its sale. It is a curse + to the drinker, to the seller, and to the community. Those who are + licensed venders take from the government fifty dollars for every one put + into the treasury. The money paid for licenses is a very meager + compensation for the beggary, crime, and bloodshed which rum produces. All + who have any knowledge of the statistics of the State, or of our prison + and police records know, that intemperance has done more to fill the + prisons, work-houses, alms-houses, and asylums of the State than all other + influences combined; and yet men uphold the traffic. Their favors are for + those who love its use and sale, and their anathemas for him, who is + striving to save a nation of drunkards from swift destruction; yea, their + own sires, sons, and brothers from the grave of the inebriate. + </p> + <p> + When in Rochester a short time since, soliciting subscribers for this + work, I stepped into a distillery and asked a man to subscribe for it. He + hesitated in his decision until he took a tumbler and filling it with + brandy, invited me to drink. I thanked him, saying I never drink brandy. + "Never drink!" he growled, "then I tell you, sir, that you stand a much + better chance of being struck by lightning than of getting a subscriber + here." Oh, very well; most likely had he agreed to take a copy, he would + have been sorely displeased with my views of the liquor traffic, and + perhaps with the compliment I have here paid him. + </p> + <p> + But in the foregoing remarks I have said but a tithe of what my heart + feels, when I think of the sufferings occasioned by drunkenness. + </p> + <p> + Even the cup of the burthened slave, writhing in his chains and toiling + under the lash, is not full of bitterness until the demon rum throws in + its dregs and fills it to overflowing. + </p> + <p> + How often does it occur that a passionate master, heated with wine,—mad + with himself and all about him, pours out his vengeful ire on the head and + back of some helpless slave, and leaves him weltering in his blood! How + often may be heard the agonized wail of the slave mother, deploring the + departure of some innocent child that has been lost in gambling, while the + master was intoxicated! + </p> + <p> + How often do the shrieks of the poor but virtuous slave girl, ring through + the midnight air, as she, pleading for death rather than life, rushes + screaming away from a brutal master, infuriated and drunk! If it is a + fact, and certainly it is, that the master is thus affected by his costly + wine; what, think you, will be the temper and condition of the coarse and + heartless overseer who drinks his miserable whisky or bad brandy? It is + horrible, beyond description. I have often myself seen a drunken overseer, + after pouring down dram after dram, mount his horse and ride furiously + among the slaves, beating, bruising, mangling with his heavy cowhide every + one he chanced to meet, until the ground presented the appearance of a + battlefield. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIX. — PERSECUTION OF THE COLORED PEOPLE. + </h2> + <p> + While the colored population of New York were rejoicing in the measure of + freedom allowed them by the more wholesome laws of that State, our + brethren in Ohio were being oppressed and maltreated by the unjust and + odious "black laws" of that professedly free State, enacted with special + reference to the disposition of the colored race. + </p> + <p> + In Cincinnati, O., within sight of the slave land of Kentucky, a terrible + persecution had commenced, and an effort was made to drive all colored + persons from the place. + </p> + <p> + Our people had settled there in large numbers, but now a mob had assembled + in that city with the determination to drive them, not only from their + homes and city, but from the State. A bloody conflict ensued, in which the + white and black man's blood mingled freely. So great had been the loss of + property; and go horrid and fearful had been the scene, that our people + chose to leave, rather than remain under such untoward circumstances. They + lived in constant fear of the mob which had so abused and terrified them. + Families seated at the fireside started at every breath of wind, and + trembled at the sound of every approaching footstep. The father left his + family in fear, lest on his return from his daily labor, he should find + his wife and children butchered, and his house left desolate. + </p> + <p> + Meetings were held to devise plans and means for leaving the place where + they had been so cruelly treated. But where should they go? And why should + they be compelled to leave the State of Ohio? The fact is, that the + African race there, as in all parts of this nominally free Republic, was + looked down upon by the white population as being little above the brute + creation; or, as belonging to some separate class of degraded beings, too + deficient in intellect to provide for their own wants, and must therefore + depend on the superior ability of their oppressors, to take care of them. + Indeed, both the time and talents of eminent men have been wasted in + unsuccessful research for the line of demarcation, between the African and + the highest order of animals,—such for instance as the monkey or the + ourang-outang. Some even, have advanced the absurd idea, that wicked Cain + transmitted to them the "mark" which the Almighty set upon him for the + murder of his brother; and that he, (who then must have survived the + deluge), is the progenitor of that despised and inferior race—the + negro slave of the United States of America! + </p> + <p> + If it be true, that the natural inferiority of the black man, connects him + so closely with the animal creation, it looks passing strange to me that + he should be made responsible for the violation of laws which he has been + declared too imbecile to aid in framing or of comprehending. Nor is it + less strange to see him enslaved and compelled by his labor to maintain + both his master and himself, after having declared him incapable of doing + either. Why not let him go then? Why hold with an unyielding grasp, so + miserable and useless a piece of property? Is it benevolence that binds + him with his master's chain? Judge ye. Stranger still is the fact of + attaching such vast influence to his presence and so much concern + regarding his movements, when in a state of freedom, if indeed, he is of + so little worth and consequence, and so nearly related to the brutes that + perish. + </p> + <p> + Surely, the Legislature of Ohio, or of any other State, would never feel + called upon to sit in grave counsel, for the purpose of framing laws which + would impose fine and imprisonment on a monkey, should one chance to + locate within its jurisdiction; nor would they think it advisable for the + court to assemble, or a jury to be empanelled, to drive from their midst + an ourang-outang. And yet this and more must be done to get rid of the + hated negro, who has been born in that State, or has fled to it for + protection from the manstealer. + </p> + <p> + When strangers pass hastily through this country, and after a careless + glance at the colored population, report them to be "an indolent, + improvident, and vicious class of persons," they should consider some of + the many obstacles thrown in the way of the most favored of that race. + Knowing as they do, the rigor of the law, and feeling as they do, the + oppressive power of prejudice, it becomes almost impossible for them to + rise to that station they were designed to fill, and for which their + natural abilities as certainly qualify them, as though they had never been + robbed of their God-given rights. But let us return to our tried friends + in Cincinnati. + </p> + <p> + They finally resolved to collect what they could of their possessions and + establish a colony in Canada. In accordance with this resolution, they + agreed to first send an agent to obtain liberty to settle there, and if + successful to select and purchase a large tract of land, making such + arrangements as he thought best for their speedy removal to their new + home. Israel Lewis was their appointed agent, who departed immediately for + Upper Canada to perform his mission; and there for the present we will + leave him and return to Rochester. + </p> + <p> + Our more favored brethren in New York felt a deep sympathy for their + outraged countrymen in Cincinnati; a sympathy equaled only by their + indignation at the cause of such demand. + </p> + <p> + A meeting expressive of their views and feelings on that subject, was + convened in the city of Rochester during which, the following preamble and + resolutions were read and unanimously adopted: + </p> + <p> + <i>Whereas</i>, The city of Cincinnati has again become the scene of + another dreadful mob and bloodshed, where nothing but terror and confusion + reigned for a number of hours together. + </p> + <p> + <i>And Whereas</i>, Our brethren and fellow citizens were left exposed to + the fury of an ungovernable mob, made up of the base, the ignorant, and + vile, the very dregs of society; and probably led on by slaveholders, who + of all men are the most execrable; while boasting of liberty, he tramples + on the dearest rights of men and in the greatest robber of it on earth. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, That we deprecate an appeal to arms by any class of our + fellow citizens, except in extreme cases, and we think that such a case + has been presented in the late outrage at Cincinnati. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, That when a class of men so far forget the duty they owe + to God, their fellow men, and their country, as to trample under their + feet the very laws they have made, and are in duty bound to obey and + execute, we believe it to be the duty of our brethren and fellow citizens, + to protect their lives against such lawless mobs; and if in the conflict, + any of the mobocrats perish, every good citizen should say Amen. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, That we do truly sympathize with the friends of God's + poor; the friends of the oppressed, throughout this boasted land of + liberty, in the losses they have sustained in consequence of the mob. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, That we believe the time is not far distant, when the <i>Queen + City of the West</i>, shall be redeemed from the hateful influence of the + slaveholder; redeemed from that cruel prejudice of caste which, hangs like + a mill-stone around the neck of our people; redeemed from all those + unequal laws, which have a tendency to make the strong stronger and the + weak weaker; redeemed from their falsehearted friends, whose sarcastic + smile is more to be feared than the frowns of an open enemy. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, That the untiring exertions of our friends, and the + indefatigable industry of our brethren, are sure guarantees that the State + of Ohio will not long be what she now is,—a hissing and by-word on + account of her iniquitous laws; but that she will rise above every narrow + minded prejudice, and raise up her sable sons and daughters and place them + on an equality with the rest of her citizens. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, That we deeply deplore the loss our friends have + sustained in the destruction of their printing press in Cincinnati. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, That we as an oppressed people, feel it our duty to give + our undivided support to the press and the laborers in our cause. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + Mr. Israel Lewis made his way to Canada, and having obtained permission to + establish a colony, he bargained with the Canada Company for one township + of land, for which he agreed to pay the money demanded, in a few days, and + then returned to Cincinnati, by way of Rochester. The poor, persecuted + colored people, had in the mean time made ready for their flight from + their homes, their native land, and from this boasted free Republic, to + seek a residence in the cold and dreary wilds of Canada; to claim that + protection from the English government which had been denied them in the + land of their birth; and like the overtasked Israelites, "they went out + with their wives and their little ones," but with smaller possessions. + </p> + <p> + During the stay of Mr. Lewis in Rochester, he reported there and + elsewhere, that eleven hundred persons were then in the dense woods of + Canada in a state of actual starvation, and called upon the humane + everywhere, to assist them in such extreme suffering. + </p> + <p> + To me he also told the story of their destitution, which affected me + deeply. I had at that time just made a public profession of my faith in + the Christian religion and my determination to be governed by its holy + precepts, I felt for the distressed and suffering everywhere; but + particularly for those who had fled, poor and destitute, from cruel + task-masters, choosing rather the sufferings of cold and hunger, with + liberty, than the meager necessities of life and Slavery. I concluded to + go to Canada and try to do some good; to be of some little service in the + great cause of humanity. + </p> + <p> + As soon as practicable therefore, I left Rochester for Toronto, the + capital of Upper Canada, which I found quite a thriving town, and + containing some fine brick buildings, and some I saw were built of mud, + dried in the sun, wearing rather a poor than pretty appearance. At Toronto + we hired a team to take us on to Ancaster, fifty miles distant. We + traveled now through a new country; the roads were very bad, and the + inhabitants few. We, however, reached Ancaster, a small village, where we + remained one night and next morning pursued our journey to the settlement + of the poor fugitives from Cincinnati. After some hard traveling, we + finally arrived at the place where we found our brethren, it is true, but + in quite destitute circumstances. Our fare was poor indeed, but as good as + they could get. The township was one unbroken wilderness when purchased + for the colony, and of course their lands must be cleared of the heavy + timber before crops could be got in, hence, there was a great deal of + destitution and suffering before their harvest could ripen after the land + was prepared for the seed. + </p> + <p> + The day after I arrived at the settlement, which consisted of a few rude + log cabins, a meeting was called to give the township a name. Several were + suggested, but I at length motioned to name it in honor of the great + philanthropist, Wilberforce. This was carried, and the township from that + time has been known by that name. It is situated on what is known as the + Huron Tract, Kent County, London District, and is the next north of the + township of London. Our neighbors on the south, were a company of Irish + people, who owned the township, and on the west side were a township of + Welshmen, a hardy, industrious and enterprising people. + </p> + <p> + In Wilberforce there were no white inhabitants; the land appeared level + and handsome, with but one stream of any magnitude running through it; + this was the Oxsable, which was dry during a part of the year. All was one + vast forest of heavy timber, that would compare well with that of Western + New York. Beech, maple, ash, elm, oak, whitewood, bass, balm of gilead, + &c. The soil was good for corn, wheat, rye, oats, and most kinds of + the grain and vegetables raised in New York, and was a superior grazing + country, about fifteen miles from London. This was a village containing + perhaps thirty dwellings, and two hundred inhabitants; a court-house and + jail all under one roof, built of stone and plastered; small doors and + windows in the style of some of the old English castles. London was built + in the forks, or between the east and west branches of the river Thames; + hence, you would hear people speak of "going to the forks," instead of the + village; it is about two hundred miles from Buffalo, and the nearest port + between the two is Port Stanley, thirty miles from London. + </p> + <p> + I returned from Canada, where I had seen an oppressed people struggling + with the hardships and privations of a new settlement; I had seen + wretchedness in some places, but by no means sufficient to justify the + report made by Mr. Lewis, and I determined I would remove there with my + family, and do all in my power to assist the colored people in Canada. + </p> + <p> + I had witnessed a disposition on the part of some to prevent our brethren + from settling in Wilberforce, while the colonizationists made a grand + argument of it in favor of their wicked policy. All must see that it + became a necessity with those who fled to Canada to save themselves from + constant abuse or from Slavery, and in some instances their lives; and not + because they admitted the justice of one portion of American citizens + driving another from their native land; nor their right to colonize them + anywhere on the habitable globe. + </p> + <p> + All these things taken into consideration, determined me to join them in + the enterprize of building up an asylum for the oppressed, where our + colored friends could obtain a home, and where, by their industry they + could obtain a competency for themselves, besides providing a safe retreat + for the weary fugitive from Slavery; guiding by its beacon light of + liberty, the destitute and oppressed everywhere, to home and plenty. + </p> + <p> + I felt willing to make any sacrifice in my power to serve my Lord, by + administering to the necessities of my down-trodden countrymen. How far my + desire has been accomplished God only knows, but I do know that the purest + motives influenced me, and an honest purpose directed my steps in removing + to Wilberforce. Not so with all, however. Some there were, Judas-like, who + "cared not for the poor; but because he was a thief and had the bag, and + bore what was put therein," made great exertions for a time in favor of + the settlement. It too soon became apparent that to make money was the + prominent object with by far too great a number of the colonists; hence, + our future difficulties. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XX. — REMOVAL TO CANADA. + </h2> + <p> + In 1830, I closed my business in Rochester, preparatory to leaving for + Canada. Some of my friends thought I had better remain in the States and + direct emigrants to Wilberforce; while others were certain I could benefit + them more by going myself at once,—the latter I had determined to + do; but as the time drew near for me to start, an unaccountable gloominess + and forebodings of evil took possession of my mind. Doubts of the + practicability of the undertaking began to arise, though nothing + unfavorable had occurred. To the throne of grace, I often bore the subject + and besought my Heavenly Father to enlighten my mind, and direct my steps + in duty's path regarding it; but to confess the truth, I never received + any great encouragement from that source, though it occupied my mind + constantly. During the hours of slumber I was continually being startled + by frightful dreams,—sometimes I thought I saw a monstrous serpent + as large as a log stretched across the road between Rochester and the + Genesee River; at another I thought myself in the air so high that I could + have a full view of the shores of Lake Ontario, and they were alive with + snakes; and then I saw a large bird like an eagle, rise up out of the + water and fly toward the south. + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding these omens, I turned my steps toward Wilberforce. In May, + 1831, we bid adieu to our friends in Rochester, and taking passage to + Buffalo on a canal boat, we arrived in due time, and from whence we sailed + for Port Stanley, or as it is sometimes called, Kettle Creek. It took a + week to make this trip, which, with favorable wind might have been made in + two days. The mouth of the creek makes a safe harbor at that place, where + there is also a dock, one ware-house and several farm houses. The place + was then very wild and picturesque in its appearance; we did not stop + long, however, to admire its beauty, but engaged a farmer to take us on to + London. + </p> + <p> + Ten miles on our way, and we came to a newly laid out village, called St. + Thomas, from whence we pursued our journey through a new country to + London, where we arrived tired and hungry, and put up for the night with a + Mr. Faden. There I purchased a span of horses for one hundred and fifty + dollars, and putting them before a new lumber wagon brought on from + Rochester, we started for our wild and new home in good spirits, at which + we arrived in good time. + </p> + <p> + The colony was comprised of some fourteen or fifteen families, and + numbered some over fifty persons in all. The first business done after my + arrival, was to appoint a board of managers, to take the general oversight + of all the public business of the colony. The board consisted of seven + men, chosen by the settlers, and as I was now one of them, they gave me + the office of President. It was also resolved by the board, to send out + two agents for the purpose of soliciting aid for the erection of houses + for worship, and for the maintenance of schools in the colony. + </p> + <p> + The Rev. N. Paul was chosen one of their agents, and he received from me a + power of attorney, authorising him to collect funds for the above purposes + in England, Ireland, and Scotland; the other, I. Lewis was empowered to + solicit and collect funds for the same objects in the United States. + </p> + <p> + Preparations were immediately made to fit Mr. Paul out for his mission to + England, from whence he was to remit any funds he might receive to Arthur + Tappan, of New York City; first to pay for his outfit, and afterwards to + the treasurer of the board of managers, for the support of schools in + Wilberforce. Mr. Paul, however, still lacked money to proceed to England, + and therefore went to Rochester, where he found my old and tried friend + Everard Peck; who was ever known as the poor man's friend, and the support + of the weak everywhere. To this good man, whose memory is still dear to + thousands, Mr. Paul showed his power of attorney, at the same time + informing him of the condition and wants of the colony; and as was ever + his wont, when help was needed, his purse, (though not one of the + heaviest), was at his service. Through the kind influence of Mr. Peck, and + some of the colored friends in that city, a note for seven hundred dollars + was drawn up, signed by Mr. P. and cashed at the Bank, which enabled the + agent to make the voyage without further delay. He reached England, and + collected quite large sums of money, but entirely failed in the remittance + of any sums, either to Mr. Tappan or myself. When the note of seven + hundred dollars became due, Mr. Peck was obliged to pay, and lose it. It + was out of my power, nor had any of the friends the means to do any thing + towards paying it, inasmuch as they had assisted Paul all they could and + got nothing in return. There was one thing, however, that the reverend + gentleman did do,—he wrote me from time to time, to keep me advised + of the success of his mission, and once informed me that he had then + twelve hundred dollars on hand; but not a farthing could we get. We wrote + him again and again, reminding him of the bank debt, and the uneasiness of + his friends on account of it, but all to no purpose,—the Atlantic + was between us, and he was making money too easily, to like to be + interrupted. He never paid one dollar. + </p> + <p> + Let us now look after the other agent, who had likewise been fitted out, + to prosecute his mission in the States. That he collected money + professedly for the assistance of the colony, is too well known to require + proof, but how much, we could not determine; we had reason to believe, + however, that he retained quite a large sum. He would neither pay it over + to the board, nor give any account of his proceedings. Very little did he + ever pay over to the aid of the colony as designed. He was frequently + written to, and every means in our power used, to induce him to give some + account of his mission, but in vain; he would do nothing of the kind. + Things went on in this way for two years, when it became evident that he + had no intention of satisfying the minds of the settlers; and farther, + that he meant to collect what he could, and use it as he pleased. We + learned too, that when abroad, he lived extravagantly,—putting up at + the most expensive hotels, giving parties, and doing many things, not only + beyond his means, but that brought dishonor on the cause and colony. When + he returned to the settlement, he would, if he had funds, make presents to + his particular friends instead of paying it to the treasurer, as he was + pledged to do, until the majority of the colony became thoroughly + disgusted with his heartlessness and dishonesty. It was also perceivable + that Lewis and Paul both, were getting weary of the solicitations of the + board and complaints of the settlers, and were anxious to be rid of them, + and enjoy their ill gotten gains in their own way. + </p> + <p> + It was never intended by the managers, to send out agents to beg money to + be divided among the colonists; but to support schools, &c. Most of + the settlers were able to work and did so; and were now getting along + quite pleasantly. + </p> + <p> + Finally, after we had tried every means in vain, to get a settlement with + Lewis, and to obtain his papers, there was nothing more we could do, but + to warn the public against him, by publishing the facts in the case; this + we did in various newspapers of Canada and in the States. An article + inserted in the "Rochester Observer," to that effect, was like throwing a + lighted match into a keg of powder. The excitement was intense on the part + of Lewis and his friends, who were joined by the friends of N. Paul, to + destroy, if they could, the board of managers. I, however, being the only + member of that devoted board, who happened to be extensively known in the + States, their anathemas were all poured out on me, and all their energies + brought forward to insure my destruction. They were few in number, it is + true, but they had money, and I had little to spend in litigation; + besides, Lewis was in debt, and his creditors did not like to see his + means of paying them swept away. The Canadians seemed to think there was + no harm done if Lewis did get money out of the "Yankees," as long as it + came into their hands at last, and so, on the whole, they raised a + tremendous storm, designed, however, to sweep nobody away but myself; and + I have continued to this day, notwithstanding all their artful malignity. + Nothing, I am persuaded, could have saved me from imprisonment at that + time, had I not possessed a high reputation for truth and honesty during + my previous sojourn in the colony. + </p> + <p> + Lewis had dealt somewhat extensively with Mr. Jones, who was the principal + agent for the Canada Company; but failing to fulfil his agreement, + regarding the payment for a large tract of land, it so exasperated Mr. + Jones, that he declared he would have nothing to do with any of the + colored people; and so when I wanted to buy a lot of land, he would not + sell it to me because he so despised Lewis. + </p> + <p> + How much harm can one wicked man do! and yet it cannot be right to judge + the character of a whole class or community by that of one person. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXI. — ROUGHING IT IN THE WILDS OF CANADA. + </h2> + <p> + The "Canada Company," of which I have so frequently spoken, was an + association of wealthy gentlemen, residing in England; something like the + East India Company, especially regarding the title of lands. They had sent + on their agent and purchased a large tract of land known as the "Huron + Tract," extending from London to Lake Huron, where they laid out a + village, named Goderich, sixty miles distant from Wilberforce. With this + company, Mr. Lewis had contracted for a township of land, as agent for the + Cincinnati refugees; but failing to meet the demand, the company kindly + extended the time of payment; but when that time also passed without + receiving any thing from Lewis, the general agent, Mr. Jones became so + indignant, that he utterly refused to sell a foot of land to any colored + person whatever. This proved to be one of the greatest detriments to the + prosperity of the colony it ever met. + </p> + <p> + The Society of Friends at this time, however, with commendable sympathy + for the oppressed and abused colored residents of Cincinnati, and with + their proverbial liberality, raised a sum of money sufficient to purchase + eight hundred acres of land of the Canada Company for the benefit of the + colony. The funds were placed in the hands of one of their number, + Frederick Stover, who went to Canada as their agent, purchased the land, + and settled colored people upon it, which comprised nearly all of the + Wilberforce settlement. This occurred before I settled in Canada, and the + consequence was, when I desired to purchase land, none could be obtained. + At the time, however, of which I am speaking, the Canada Company were + constructing a road through their possessions, some seventy miles in + length, and the principal contractor, Mr. Ingersoll, had agreed to take + land in part payment for his services on the road. In accordance with this + agreement, he accepted one lot of land situated within the Wilberforce + settlement, which he agreed to sell to Mr. Lewis for twenty-five dollars. + Mr. Lewis, knowing that I was anxious to purchase, accepted the offer, and + then came and showed the contract, offering it to me on condition that I + paid him the twenty-five dollars which he had just paid Mr. Ingersoll. + This I was glad to do; I paid the demand; took an assignment on the back + of the receipt, and passed into immediate possession of the land. He at + the same time requested me to take up a note of twenty-five dollars for + him; which I did, on his promising to refund the money in a short time. + </p> + <p> + I commenced laboring on the wild land I had purchased; cleared some ten + acres, which in consequence of its being so heavily timbered, cost me at + least twenty-five dollars per acre; built a house and barn—supposing + myself its legal possessor,—until I chanced to meet Mr. Ingersoll, + who informed me that Mr. Jones had refused to sell him the land to be + disposed of to a colored person; that he had duly informed Lewis of the + fact, and had returned to him the twenty-five dollars received. Not a word + of this, had Lewis communicated to me, though he knew I was making + expensive improvements, in the faith that I was its only owner. Instead of + atoning for the wrong already done me, he made it the basis of a deeper + injury. + </p> + <p> + After one year's residence in Wilberforce, I found it necessary to return + to Rochester to settle some unfinished business; and when on my way + thither I stopped at London, where I found Lewis, who had not only + preceded me but had taken out a <i>capias</i>, for forty pounds currency. + I was therefore obliged to get bail for my appearance at court, after + which I pursued my journey. + </p> + <p> + On my arrival in Rochester, I found business at a stand; and the community + in a state of excitement and alarm, on account of that fell destroyer, the + cholera. This was its first visit to the United States, and the fearful + havoc it was making, spread terror and consternation throughout the land. + I returned to Canada; but found on my arrival at London, that "the + pestilence that walketh at noon-day," had preceded me, and taken from that + village my friend, Mr. Ingersoll, with several others. So great had been + the alarm, that instead of my appearing at court as I expected to do, I + found it adjourned, and the judge returned to his home. + </p> + <p> + I hastened on to Wilberforce, which had fortunately escaped the fearful + scourge, with terrible apprehensions. + </p> + <p> + Having a little spare time, I went out with my rifle, in search of deer; + but soon came upon a large wolf, which I wounded with the first shot; he, + however, sprang aside and was gone. On looking about for him I espied + another!—reloading my rifle, I fired, and he fell dead at my feet, + while my dog at the same time I heard barking furiously. Having dispatched + this second intruder, I saw that my dog had the first one, entangled in + the branches of a fallen tree. I searched for my balls, and was vexed to + find that I had left them at home. In this predicament I cut with my + knife, a knot from a beech limb, put it in my rifle, and took deadly aim + at the enraged wolf. The wooden ball struck him between the eyes and + killed him on the spot. + </p> + <p> + The two dead animals, with their skins, I sold for nine dollars and a + half,—making pretty good wages for a few hours labor. + </p> + <p> + Hunting was very generally pursued by the settlers, with great earnestness + and considerable skill. The forest abounded with deer, wolves, bears, and + other wild animals. Bears were plenty, and very troublesome because so + dangerously tame. One day, our children had built for themselves a + play-house, a few rods from the door, and were enjoying their play when + they were called in to dinner. A moment after, I observed one of the + settlers gazing intently at the play-house; I called to know what so + attracted his attention, and he informed me that an old bear, with three + cubs, had just then taken possession of the playhouse. And sure enough + there they were! knocking about among the dishes, and munching the crumbs + of bread which the children had left. The man was supplied with a loaded + rifle and urged to shoot them, but he begged to be excused from a pitched + battle with so many; and the bears leisurely took their departure for the + woods without molestation. The play-house, however, was soon deserted by + the children after these unbidden guests had made so free with it; and we + were ourselves somewhat alarmed for the safety of our children, who were + accustomed to roam in the edge of the forest, and make swings of the + luxuriant grape vines. + </p> + <p> + But such incidents are common in a new country, surrounded as we were by a + dense wilderness. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXII. — NARROW ESCAPE OF A SMUGGLER. + </h2> + <p> + From the time I first settled in Wilberforce, my house had ever been open + to travelers and strangers; but a conversation I happened to overhear, led + me to take a course different from what I had at first intended. I was at + a public house about twenty miles from home, when I heard the landlord + advising his guest to eat heartily, for, said he, "you will find nothing + more worthy of your attention, until you reach Wilberforce. When you + arrive at that settlement, inquire for A. Steward, from the States, and he + will give you a meal fit for a prince." I began to reflect on the subject + and concluded, inasmuch as people would send company to me, it would be + better to make some preparation for entertaining them. I had plenty of + furniture, and all I needed was a larger supply of food, to commence + keeping a tavern. This was easily obtained, and I opened a public house + which was well patronized. + </p> + <p> + One day while I was absent from home, a man drove to the door the finest + span of horses, I think I ever saw,—black as jet, with proudly + arched necks, and glossy tails that nearly swept the ground. The gentleman + sprang from his carriage, bounded through the open door, and in the most + excited manner, began to inquire "who owns this establishment? When will + he return? Can I be accommodated? Can I see your barn?" &c. The stable + boy took him to the barn, from whence he soon returned; his face flushed, + and breathing so heavily as to be heard all through the apartment; + trembling so violently that he could scarcely speak at all,—but made + out to inquire, "if there was not some place besides the barn where he + could put his horses?" He was told that there was a small shelter built + for cows, in bad weather, and the next moment he was examining it. In a + very short time he had his horses and carriage stowed away in the + cow-shed. He acted like a crazy man; but when he had secured his horses, + he re-entered the house and frankly apologized for his conduct. "I may as + well tell you the truth," said he; "I am suspected of smuggling goods; a + reward is offered for my arrest, and the constables are on my track, in + pursuit of me. My name is Cannouse, and I am from M——, in + Ontario County." + </p> + <p> + But perhaps they can not prove you guilty of smuggling, said I, in an + after conversation. + </p> + <p> + "Ah," said he, "there is for me no such hope or probability; I have been + engaged for the last few months in the sale of dress-goods and + broad-cloths, and my exposure and flight is the consequence of my own + folly. While in the village of St. Catharines, I took a young girl out to + ride, after she had engaged to accompany another young fellow, which of + course offended him; and he being too well posted up on my affairs, went + directly to the custom house officer and informed against me. I was + sitting in the parlor, perfectly at ease, when a young man, a relative of + the young lady in question, burst into the room, shouting, 'Fly! fly! for + your life! The officers are upon you!' And I did fly; with barely time to + reach the woods, for as I sprang through the back door, the officers + entered through the front door. My horses were my first consideration; + they had been raised by my father, and should I lose them, I should never + dare to meet him again. In my hasty flight, I engaged the young man to + conceal them till night, and then to drive them to a certain place where I + would meet him. This he did, and I kept on my flight until I came to the + house of a friend, where I halted to make inquiries. The gentleman had + just come from London, and had seen handbills at every conspicuous place, + describing me and my horses. I asked him what I should do? He said, 'you + are not safe a moment; there is no hope but in flight; avoid the main + road, and get to the colony if you can; if you succeed, go to A. Steward; + he is an upright man and will never betray you for money,' And here I am: + if I am arrested, six months imprisonment, three hundred dollars fine, and + the forfeiture of my father's valuable and favorite horses, will be my + portion. I have had no regular meal for the last three days, and my head + aches violently." + </p> + <p> + We gave him some refreshment, and conducted him to a room, assuring him + that he should have it to himself. All remained quiet until midnight, when + a man knocked cautiously at our door. I opened it myself, and a gentleman, + looking carefully about the place, inquired, + </p> + <p> + "Are you full?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said I. — "Have you any travelers here to night?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "How many?" + </p> + <p> + "Two." + </p> + <p> + "Where are they?" + </p> + <p> + "In this room; walk in, sir." + </p> + <p> + He took the light from my hand, and stepping lightly up to a bed, where + two travelers were quietly sleeping, he closely examined their faces. He + soon returned the light, and without further inquiry retired from the + house. When his companions came up, I distinctly heard him tell them that + the smuggler was not there. + </p> + <p> + "You may be mistaken," said the other, "and we must search the barn for + his horses." + </p> + <p> + This they did thoroughly, after procuring a lantern; but without finding + any thing to reward their diligent search; and they finally drove off. + </p> + <p> + When they had gone, Cannouse groaned most bitterly, and trembled from head + to foot at the thought of his narrow escape. The next day an officer rode + up to where the children were playing, with a handbill which he read, and + inquired if they had seen a person bearing that description, pass <i>that + day?</i> They answered negatively, and he rode on. The poor frightened + Cannouse stayed with us a week; and nearly every day during the time, the + house and barn were searched for him. The children kept watch, and when + they saw any one coming they would let him know, in time to take himself + and horses into a thicket near by. When he thought pursuit was over, he + started to leave; but when, in a half hour after, a <i>posse</i> of men + drove up to my door, flourishing their handbills, I thought it all over + with Cannouse. I told them that he was not there; but they chose to have + another search, and when they found nothing, the officer sprang into his + carriage, exclaiming, "come on, boys; we'll soon have him now; we have + tracked him here, and he can't be far off." + </p> + <p> + Cannouse had left us, feeling quite secure; but he had traveled but a + short distance, when he observed a horse shoe loose, and to get it + fastened he drove down to a blacksmith's shop, which happened to stand at + the foot of a hill; and between it and the highway there had been left + standing a clump of trees which nearly hid it from view. While there, + getting his horse shod, the officers passed him unobserved, and he finally + escaped. + </p> + <p> + Some time after, a gentleman called on us who had seen Cannouse in + Michigan, where he was doing well. He had succeeded in reaching Detroit, + from whence he passed safely to his home; but probably learned a lesson + not to be forgotten. He was a talented young man—one who would have + felt deeply the disgrace of imprisonment,—and it was indeed a + pleasure to me to do what I could, to effect his release from an + unenviable position. I would never have betrayed him; but happily I was + not asked directly for him, until he was gone from my house and + protection. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0023" id="link2HCH0023"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIII. — NARRATIVE OF TWO FUGITIVES FROM VIRGINIA. + </h2> + <p> + The settlers in Wilberforce, were in general, industrious and thrifty + farmers: they cleared their land, sowed grain, planted orchards, raised + cattle, and in short, showed to the world that they were in no way + inferior to the white population, when given an equal chance with them. In + proof of this let me say, that it was uniformly the practice of persons + traveling from London to Goderich, to remain in our settlement over night, + in preference to going on to find entertainment among their own class of + people. And we believe that the whites are bound to admit, that the + experiment of the Wilberforce colony proves that the colored man can not + only take care of himself, but is capable of improvement; as industrious + and intelligent as themselves, when the yoke is taken from off their + necks, and a chance given them to exercise their abilities. True, many of + them had just escaped from cruel task-masters; ignorant of almost every + thing but the lash,—but the air of freedom so invigorated and put + new life into their weary bodies, that they soon became intelligent and + thrifty. + </p> + <p> + Among the settlers might be gathered many a thrilling narrative, of + suffering and hair-breadth escapes from the slave-land,—one of which + I will tell as 'twas told to me. + </p> + <p> + In a small rude cabin, belonging to one of the large plantations in + Virginia, sat at a late hour of the night, an afflicted slave-man and his + devoted wife, sad and weeping. At length the husband repeated what he + before had been saying: + </p> + <p> + "I tell you, wife, we must flee from this place, without delay. Oh, I + cannot endure the idea of seeing you sold for the Southern market, to say + nothing of myself; and we shall most likely be separated, which I can't + bear! Oh, Rosa, the thought distracts me,—I can't bear it!" + </p> + <p> + "Are you sure," said Rosa, "that master thinks of such a frightful doom + for us?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh yes, I know it; I heard master to-day making a bargain with the slave + dealer that has been hanging about here so long; and when it was finished, + I heard him reading over the list, and our names, wife, are the first on + it." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, dear!" sobbed the wife, "we shall certainly be retaken and whipped to + death; or else we shall starve in the wilderness! Oh, it is very hard to + be compelled to leave all our friends and the old plantation where we were + born!" + </p> + <p> + "Yes; it is both hard and unjust," said Joe, and an indignant frown + contracted his brow,—"here is our birth-place, and here, for forty + years have I toiled early and late to enrich my master; and you, my poor + wife, a few years less; and now we are to be sold, separated, and all + without a choice of our own. We must go, Rosa. If we die, let us die + together!" + </p> + <p> + "It shall be as you say, Joe," she replied, "but it frightens me to think + of the hardships of the way, and the danger of being recaptured." + </p> + <p> + "Courage, wife: no fate can be worse than the one designed for us; and we + have no time to lose. Tomorrow night, then, we must make the first effort + to gain our liberty, and leave all that is dear to us except each other!" + And they retired to rest, but not to sleep. + </p> + <p> + The following night was very dark; and as soon as all was quiet on the + plantation, they stole out of their cabin and stealthily crept over the + ground until they reached the highway; and then, guided only by the north + star, they made their way to the nearest woods. So fearful had they been + of being suspected, that they took no provision of any kind with them. All + night they plunged forward through the tangled thicket and under-brush, + surrounded by thick darkness, glancing now and then upward to their only + light, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Star of the North! though night winds drift the fleecy + drapery of the sky, + + Between thy lamp and thee, I lift, yea, lift with hope + my sleepless eye." +</pre> + <p> + When day dawned they threw their weary bodies on the ground, famished and + thirsty, and waited for the darkness to again conceal them while they + pursued their journey. The second day of their flight, the pain of hunger + became almost beyond endurance. They found a few roots which relieved them + a little; but frequently they lost their way, and becoming bewildered, + knew not which way to go; they pushed on, however, determined to keep as + far from their pursuers as possible. Their shoes were soon worn out; but + bare-footed, bare-headed, and famishing with hunger, they pressed forward, + until the fourth day, when they found themselves too weak to proceed + farther. Hope, the anchor of the soul, had failed them! They were starving + in a dense forest! No track or path could they find, and even had they + seen a human being, they would have been more terrified than at the sight + of a wild beast! + </p> + <p> + Poor Rosa, could go no farther—her strength was all gone—and + as her emaciated husband laid her on the cold earth, he exclaimed, "Oh, + dear God! <i>must</i> we, after all our efforts, starve in this dark + wilderness! Beside his fainting wife, he finally stretched himself, + sheltered only by a few bushes, and tried to compose himself to die! but + resting a few moments revived him, and he aroused himself, to make one + more effort for life! Stay you here, wife, and I will try once more to + find the highway; it cannot be far from here; and if I am taken, I will + submit to my fate without a struggle; we can but die." So saying, he left + her, and began to reconnoitre the country around them. Much sooner than he + expected he emerged from the wood, and not far distant he saw a house in + the direction from whence he came; being, however, as most of the slaves + are, superstitious, he thought it would be a bad omen to turn backward, + and so continued to look about him. It seemed, he said, that some unseen + power held him, for though starving as he was, he could not take a step in + that direction; and at last as he turned around, to his great joy, he saw + another dwelling a little way off, and toward that he hastened his now + lightened footsteps. With a palpitating heart, he approached the door and + knocked cautiously. The man of the house opened it, and as soon as he saw + him, he said, "You are a fugitive slave, but be not alarmed, come in; no + harm shall befall you here; I shall not inquire from whence you came; it + is enough for me to know that you are a human being in distress; consider + me your friend, and let me know your wants." + </p> + <p> + "Bread! Oh, for a morsel of bread!" said the famished creature, while his + hitherto wild and sunken eyes, began to distil grateful tears. The "good + Samaritan" stepped to another apartment and brought him a piece of bread, + which he expected to see him devour at once, but instead, he looked at it + wistfully, literally devouring it with his eyes; turned it over and over, + and at last stammered out, "my good master, without a piece of bread for + my poor starving wife, I can never swallow this, tempting as it is." + </p> + <p> + "Poor man," said his benefactor, "can it be that you have a wife with you, + wretched as yourself?" He brought out a loaf of bread, some cheese and + meat, and while the fugitive was preparing to return, the kind gentleman + said, "I am glad you came to me; had you called at the house you first + saw, you would have been betrayed, and immediately arrested. You must + remember," he continued, "that you are young and valuable slaves, and that + your master will make every effort in his power to find you, especially + since he has made a sale of you. To-day and to-night, remain in the woods, + and the next morning you may come to me, if all is quiet; should I see + danger approaching you, I will warn you of it by the crack my rifle. Go + now, to your poor wife, and listen for the signal of danger; if you hear + none, come to me at the appointed time." He returned, and after feeding + his helpless Rosa, she revived, and soon felt quite comfortable and + grateful. + </p> + <p> + When the morning came for them to leave their retreat, they listened + intently, but hearing nothing, Joe started for the residence of his + friend. He had been gone but a short time, when his wife, who lay in the + bushes, thought she heard the tramp of horses,—she crept nearer the + highway, and peeping through the bush—Oh, horror! what was her + consternation and sickening fear, to find herself gazing upon the + well-known features of her old master, and two of his neighbors, all armed + to the teeth! Her heart seemed to stand still, and the blood to chill in + her veins. Had she been discovered she would have been an easy prey, for + she declared that she could not move a step. In the meantime her husband + had got about half way to the residence of his preserver, when his quick + ear detected the sound made by the feet of horses, and as he stopped to + listen more intently, the sharp crack of a rifle sent him bounding back to + his concealment in the forest. + </p> + <p> + The party of horsemen rode on to the dwelling of the kind hearted + gentleman, and inquired whether he had seen any fugitive slaves pass that + way. + </p> + <p> + "I saw," said he, "a man and woman passing rapidly along the road, but do + not know whether they were fugitives, as I did not see their faces." The + human blood-hound, thanked the gentleman for the information, and + immediately set out in pursuit; but, just as the informant had intended, + in a direction <i>opposite</i> to that the slaves had taken. That night, + Joe and Rosa visited the house of their benefactor, where they were + supplied with clothing and as much food as they could carry; and next day + they went on their way rejoicing. They settled in Cincinnati, where they + lived happily, until the mob drove them with others, to the Wilberforce + settlement, where they are in no danger of the auction block, or of a + Southern market; and are as much devoted to each other as ever. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0024" id="link2HCH0024"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIV. — PLEASANT RE-UNION OF OLD AND TRIED FRIENDS. + </h2> + <p> + It is well known to those who have assisted in clearing land in a new + country, that bears, who are not Jews, are very troublesome, and levy a + heavy tax on the settlers, to supply themselves with pork-their favorite + food. One old bear in particular, had for a long time annoyed the + colonists, by robbing their hog-stys almost every night. We failed in all + our plans to destroy his life, until a woman saw him one day, walking at + ease through the settlement. A half dozen of us gave chase immediately, + and came up with him after traveling two miles. So anxious was I to kill + him, that I fired at first sight and missed him, which gave us another two + miles chase. When, however, we came up, he was seated on a branch of a + tree, leisurely surveying us and the dogs, with great complacency. The + contents of my rifle brought him to the ground, and stirred his blood for + battle. One blow from his powerful paw, sent my fine greyhound some yards + distant, sprawling upon the ground, and when he renewed the attack, Bruin + met him with extended jaws, taking and munching his head in his mouth. My + rifle was now reloaded, and the second shot killed him on the spot. We + tied his legs together, and lifting him on a pole, marched in triumph into + the settlement, where guns were discharged and cheers given, in + approbation of our success. + </p> + <p> + One winter's evening we had drawn closely around the blazing fire, for the + air was piercing cold without, and the snow four feet deep on a level. Now + and then, a traveler might be seen on snow-shoes; but though our cabin was + situated on the king's highway, we seldom saw company on such a night as + this. While the wind whistled, and the snow drifted about our dwelling, we + piled the wood higher in our ample fire-place, and seated ourselves again, + to resume the conversation, when I was startled by a loud and furious + knocking at the door. I opened it to what I supposed to be three Indians. + Their costume was that of the red man; but the voice of him who addressed + me was not that of an Indian. "Can you keep three poor devils here + to-night?" said he, and when I made farther inquiry, he repeated the same + question; "we can sleep," he continued, "on the soft side of a board; only + give us poor devils a shelter." + </p> + <p> + I told him we were not accustomed to turn away any one on such a night; + that they were welcome to come in; and they were soon seated around our + large and cheerful fire. + </p> + <p> + They had laid aside their snow-shoes and knapsacks, and the heat of the + fire soon made their blankets uncomfortable; but as one of them made a + move to throw it off, another was heard to whisper, "wait a little; we are + among strangers, you know; so do not make a display of yourself." The + fellow drew his blanket about him; but we had heard and seen enough to + awaken curiosity, if not suspicion. In passing out of the room soon after, + I heard one of these pretended Indians say to his companion, "I know these + folks are from the States, for I smell coffee." When they finally sat down + to table, and saw silver upon it, they cast surprised and knowing glances + at each other, all of which we closely observed, and were convinced, that + they were not red men of the forest, but belonged to that race who had so + long looked haughtily down upon the colored people; that the least + exhibition of comfort, or show of refinement astonished them beyond + measure. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime, my wife had whispered to me that she was sure that the + principal speaker was no other than the aristocratic Mr. G——, + of Canandaigua. I could not believe it; I could not recognize in that + savage costume, one who had been bred in affluence, and "the star" of + genteel society. But my wife soon developed the affair to our mutual + satisfaction: G——, on taking from her a cup of coffee, + remarked, "this looks good; and I have had no good coffee since I left my + mother's house." + </p> + <p> + "Does your mother still reside in C——?" asked Mrs. Steward. + </p> + <p> + "My mother! my mother! what do you know of my mother!" said he, looking + sharply at her; but observing that they were recognized, they began to + laugh, and we had a hearty congratulation all round; while G——, + starting-up from table, exclaimed, + </p> + <p> + "Come, boys, off with this disguise; we are among friends now." + </p> + <p> + Our Indian guests, now appeared in costume more like "Broadway dandies," + than savages. Dressed in the finest cloth, with gold chains and repeaters; + and all that constituted the toilet of a gentleman. After tea they + requested to dry some costly furs, which they took from their knapsacks + and hung around the fire. The following day they took their leave, with + many apologies and explanations, regarding their appearance and conduct. + They were in the wilderness, they said, trading for very valuable furs; + they had money, jewelry and rich goods, which they had taken that method + to conceal. + </p> + <p> + During all this time, there had been another visitor in the house, who was + sitting in a corner, absorbed in writing. Our mock Indians had noticed + him, and not knowing who he was, expressed a determination "to quiz that + deaf old devil," after supper. We all seated ourselves around the fire, + and our Canandaigua friends, though no longer savages, had not forgotten + the silent man in the corner; they began to question him, and he aroused + himself for conversation; nor was it long before they forgot their design + to quiz him, and found themselves charmed listeners to the brilliant + conversation, of that world-renowned champion of humanity, Benjamin Lundy, + for he it was. + </p> + <p> + On this particular evening, he gave us a sketch of his journey to Hayti; + to accompany there and settle some emancipated slaves; which I thought + very interesting, and as I have never seen it in print I will here relate + it, as near as I can, in his own words: + </p> + <p> + In the State of Maryland, there lived a slaveholder the proprietor of some + sixty slaves, and being somewhat advanced in years, he determined to free + them, in accordance with the laws of that State, which required that they + be sent out of it. + </p> + <p> + He had thought the matter over, but being undecided where to send them, he + sent for Mr. Lundy to assist him in his proposed plan; who was only too + glad to comply with a request calculated to carry out his own plans of + philanthropy and equal rights. + </p> + <p> + When he had listened to the suggestions and expressed desires of the + planter, he offered his arguments in favor of the West India Islands; and + it was decided to send them to Hayti, as their future place of residence. + </p> + <p> + Six weeks were allowed for preparations; then Mr. Lundy was to return and + take charge of them on the voyage, and see them settled in their new + homes. + </p> + <p> + When the appointed time arrived, Mr. Lundy was there to accompany them on + board a vessel bound for Hayti; on which was furnished as comfortable + quarters, as the kindness of their conscientious master and his own + benevolent heart could suggest. When all was ready, the Christian master + came on board, to take leave of those faithful servants,—many of + whom had served him from their childhood, and all of whom he had bound to + his heart by kindness and Christian benevolence. It was a sad parting; not + because the slaves did not love liberty, but because they appreciated + their master's kind forbearance, and solicitude for their future welfare. + He had ever been a humane and indulgent master; one who lightened the + burthen of the poor slave, all in his power. A moment's reflection will + show, that it is invariably this conscientious kind of slaveholders, who + are induced to emancipate their slaves; and not the avaricious, cruel + tyrant, who neither fears God nor regards his fellow man. + </p> + <p> + The master of the slaves had kindly informed them of his intentions,—of + the probable length of the voyage, and the unavoidable sickness they would + experience, &c.; but now, they were gazing up into his kind face for + the last time, as he knelt in prayer, commending that numerous flock—raised + on his own plantation—to the care and protection of Almighty God, + beseeching Him to protect them in the storm and dangers of the ocean; to + guide them through this life, and save them in the world to come; until + the sobs and cries of the poor slaves drowned his utterance. He at length + took his final leave of them, and of Mr. Lundy; and the ship sailed + immediately. They, however, met storms and adverse winds, which detained + them; and then the poor, ignorant slaves began to believe what they had + before suspected: that this was only some wicked plan of Mr. Lundy's, laid + to entice them away from a kind master, and to plunge them into some + dreadful degradation and suffering. "Master" had not told them of the + adverse winds, and they were certain that some mischief was intended; they + grew sullen and disobedient; and notwithstanding the kindness of Mr. + Lundy, they murmured and complained, until his kind heart sank within him; + still he pursued the even tenor of his way, trusting in God for + deliverance. He watched over them in sickness, and administered to all + their wants; but his tender solicitude for their health and comfort, only + excited suspicion, and increased their ungrateful ill humor. + </p> + <p> + One pleasant evening, Mr. Lundy paced the deck in deep thought. He was + sad, and well nigh hopeless. He had seen enough in the fierce look and + sullen scowl; and had heard enough of the bitterness, and threatening + anger of the negroes, to know that a storm was gathering, which must soon + burst in all its wild fury over his devoted head. He was a small, feeble + man, compared with those who watched his every movement, and gnashed their + teeth upon him so fiercely. None but the Almighty could save him now; and + to Him who "rides upon the wings of the wind, and maketh the clouds His + chariot," he drew near in fervent prayer; after which he retired in peace + and confidence to his berth. During the night, a fine breeze sprang up; + and when he went on deck the next morning, they were in sight of the + luxuriant shore of Hayti! The officers of the island boarded the ship; but + their language was unintelligible to the negroes, who still looked daggers + at every one who spoke. They landed; but the fearful, and ungrateful + slaves continued sullen and forbidding. Mr. Lundy left them, however, and + went into the country, where he selected their future residence; and made + every preparation for their comfort and convenience in his power; saw them + conveyed to their neat, pleasant homes, and all happily settled. This work + was accomplished; and he merely called to bid adieu to his ungrateful + charge, when he found that one of the slaves had been appointed to speak + to him, in behalf of the whole number, and confess how deeply they had + wronged him. While they were conversing, the others gathered around, with + tears and prayers for forgiveness; and finally fell at his feet, imploring + pardon for themselves, and blessings on the kind, patient and humane + Benjamin Lundy. He hurried from the affecting scene, and soon after + returned to America. + </p> + <p> + Thus that cold evening passed more pleasantly away in our rude cabin; and + our Canandaigua gentlemen, after an agreeable acquaintance, and pleasant + chat with Mr. Lundy, retired for the night—not like savages, but + like gentlemen as they were; and I doubt not, with a more exalted opinion + of "the deaf old devil in the corner" + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0025" id="link2HCH0025"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXV. — PRIVATE LOSSES AND PRIVATE DIFFICULTIES. + </h2> + <p> + Soon after settling in Wilberforce, I found that the rumor I had heard in + the States, concerning the refusal to sell land to colored persons, was + literally correct, and my farm being too small to yield a support for my + family, and knowing it would be useless to apply for more land, I engaged + to carry packages for different merchants in the adjoining villages, as + well as to and from the settlement. Possessing a pair of excellent horses + and a good wagon, I found it a profitable business, and the only one I + could well do, to eke out the proceeds of my farm, and meet my expenses. + </p> + <p> + One day as I was returning from the village, one of my horses was taken + suddenly ill. I took him to a tavern near by, and as I could discover no + cause for his illness, I concluded to leave him a few days, supposing rest + would soon restore him. I accordingly hired another horse, and returned to + the colony. In a day or two after, I collected my packages as usual, and + started on my route, designing to leave the hired horse and take my own; + but when I arrived at the tavern, I found some Indians engaged in taking + off the hide and shoes of my poor, dead horse. This was indeed, a great + loss to me; but I consoled myself with the thought that I had one good + horse left, yet he would hardly be sufficient to accomplish alone, the + labor I had engaged to perform; nor had I the means to spare, to purchase + another. I therefore hired one, and commenced business again, with the + determination to make up my loss by renewed diligence and perseverance. + </p> + <p> + I started in good spirits; but had proceeded but a few miles, when my + remaining horse, which I had supposed perfectly sound, reeled and fell in + the harness! And before I could relieve him of it, my noble animal and + faithful servant, had breathed his last! Without a struggle or a movement + he lay lifeless on the cold earth. I was sad. I deplored the loss of my + good, and valuable team; but more the mystery and suspicion that hung over + the event. I returned home and sat down to devise some plan of procedure. + What could I do? Half the means of our support had been suddenly and + mysteriously snatched from us. What could I do next? While thus + ruminating, I arose to answer a summons at the door, and who should enter + but Mr. B. Paul, a brother to our foreign agent, who had so long absented + himself from our house, that I was indeed surprised to see him at this + time. He, however, seated himself, with great apparent concern for my + recent loss, which he soon made the subject of conversation and the object + of his visit. + </p> + <p> + "There has been," said he, "a great deal of unpleasant feeling, and + injudicious speaking on both sides, for which I am heartily sorry. The + colony is too weak to sustain a division of feelings; and now, that your + recent losses have left you in a far less favorable condition to sustain + yourself and family, I have called to make a settlement of our former + difficulties, and to offer you two hundred and fifty dollars out of the + collections for the colony." + </p> + <p> + I saw through the plan at once, and considered it only a bribe, to prevent + my exposing the iniquity of others. Should I consent to take a part of the + ill-gotten spoils, with what confidence could I attempt to stay the hand + of the spoiler. I wanted money very much, it is true; but after a moment's + reflection, not enough to sanction the manner in which it had been + obtained; and though I confess, the offer presented to me a strong + temptation, I am thankful that I was enabled to resist it. I refused to + accept the money; and after sending away the tempter and his offered gain, + I felt my heart lighter, and my conscience more peaceful than is often the + lot of sinful, erring man in this world of trial and conflict; and yet I + could but feel that the mystery in which the death of my horses was + involved, was partially at least, explained. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0026" id="link2HCH0026"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVI. — INCIDENTS AND PECULIARITIES OF THE INDIANS. + </h2> + <p> + During our residence in Canada, we were often visited by the Indians, + which gave us an opportunity to learn their character, habits and + disposition; and some incidents illustrative of the peculiarities of that + abused people, I will here mention. + </p> + <p> + I recollect one bitter cold night, about eleven o'clock, I happened to + awake, and looking out toward the fire, I was surprised to see standing + there, erect and quiet, a tall, brawny Indian, wrapped in his blanket; his + long hunting knife and tomahawk dangling from his belt; and his rifle in + his hand. Had he been in his own wigwam, he could not have looked about + him with more satisfaction and independence. I instantly sprang to my + feet, and demanded his errand. + </p> + <p> + "Me lost in the woods, and me come to stay all night," was his grave + reply. + </p> + <p> + "Then," said I, "give me your weapons, and I will make no objection." + </p> + <p> + He disarmed himself, and gave his weapons to me, with an air of haughty + disdain for my fears. I put them in a place of safety and then prepared + his bed, which was nothing more than the floor, where they choose to + sleep, with their head to the fire. My offer of anything different from + this he proudly resented as an insult to his powers of endurance, and + would say, "beds for pale faces and women; hard board for Indians." He + threw himself down, drew his blanket about him, and was soon sleeping + soundly. As soon as the day began to dawn, he was up, called for his arms, + and after thanking me in the brief Indian style of politeness, departed + for the forest. He had found our doors all fastened, save a low back door, + through which he entered, passing through a back room so full of + miscellaneous articles, that it was difficult to go through it in the day + time without upsetting something; but the Indian understood all this, he + made no noise, nor would he have spoken at all, had I not awakened; and + yet, he would have scorned to injure any one beneath the roof that gave + him shelter, unless he had been intoxicated. + </p> + <p> + One sabbath afternoon, one of my children was sitting in the door, when a + tall, emaciated Indian came up and said, "Will my little lady please to + give me a drink of water?" While she went for it, I invited him to a seat + within. There was something dignified and commanding in his appearance, + and something in his voice and countenance, that won my confidence and + respect at once. He remained in the place some time, and I learned his + history. + </p> + <p> + In his younger days he had been a great warrior; and even now, when + recounting, as he often did, the scenes of the battle field, his eye would + burn with savage fire, lighting up his whole countenance with the fiercest + kind of bravery, and often with a hideous yell that would startle our very + souls, he would burst from the room and bound over the fields and forest, + with the fleetness of a deer—making the woods ring with his + frightful war-cry, until the blood seemed ready to curdle in our veins. He + had also been one of the famous Tecumseh's braves; and had stood by him + when he fell on the fifth of October, 1813. This old brave, whenever he + called the name of Tecumseh, bowed his head reverently; and would often + try to tell us how very deeply they mourned when it could no longer be + doubted that the brave heart of Tecumseh, brother of the celebrated Wabash + prophet, had ceased to beat. + </p> + <p> + "Had an arrow pierced the sun and brought it to my feet," said the old + warrior, "I could not have been more astounded than at the fall of + Tecumseh." Then he told us that once, after a great and victorious battle, + Tecumseh, in his war paint and feathers, stood in the midst of his braves, + when a little pale faced girl made her way weeping to him and said, "My + mother is very ill, and your men are abusing her, and refuse to go away." + "Never," said the Indian, "did I see a frown so terrible on the face of + Tecumseh, as at that moment; when he with one hand clutched his tomahawk, + and with the other led the little girl to the scene of riot. He approached + the unruly savages with uplifted tomahawk, its edge glittering like + silver, and with one shout of 'begone!' they scattered as though a + thunderbolt had fallen in their midst." + </p> + <p> + But the old warrior at Wilberforce fought no more battles, except in + imagination those of the past. After peace was declared he bought a + valuable piece of land, with the intention of spending the remainder of + his life more quietly; but unfortunately there lived not far from him a + man who had once been the possessor of that farm, and had lost it in some + way, and was now in reduced circumstances. + </p> + <p> + He was both envious and vicious; and because he could not himself buy the + land, he was determined that the old Indian should not have it. After + having tried many ways to get it from him, he finally complained of him, + for fighting for the British and against the country where he now resided. + This was successful; he was arrested and thrown into prison, and without a + trial, removed from one prison to another, until he, with several others, + was sent South to be tried as traitors. While on the way, the keeper of + this Indian wished to call on his mother, who lived in a little cottage by + the roadside, to bid her farewell. She was an aged woman, and when her son + left her to join his companions, she followed him to the door weeping, + wringing her hands in great distress, and imploring the widow's God to + protect her only son. She had had four; all of whom went forth, with an + American mother's blessing, to fight in defence of their country; and this + one alone, returned alive from the field of battle. Now as he took his + final departure for the South, she clasped her hands, raised her tearful + eyes to heaven, and while large drops rolled over her wrinkled cheeks, she + cried, "Oh, God, protect my only one, and return him to me in safety, ere + I die." This scene, the imprisoned, and as some supposed, heartless + Indian, watched with interest; no part of it escaped his attention; but + they passed on, and safely reached Detroit. The prisoners were conducted + to a hotel and secured for the night; our Indian hero being consigned to + an attic, which they supposed a safe place for him. There happened to be + on that night, a company of showmen stopping at that hotel, and exhibiting + wax-work; among the rest, was a figure of General Brock, who fell at + Queenston Heights, and a costly cloak of fur, worn by the General previous + to his death. Nothing of this escaped the eagle-eye and quick ear of the + Indian. When all was quiet in the hotel, he commenced operations, for he + had made up his mind to leave, which with the red man is paramount to an + accomplishment of his design. He found no great difficulty in removing the + window of his lofty apartment, out of which he clambered, and with the + agility of a squirrel and the caution of a cat, he sprang for the + conductor and on it he slid to the ground. He was now free to go where he + pleased; but he had heard something about the cloak of Gen. Brock; he knew + too, that the friends of the General had offered fifty guineas for it, and + now he would just convey it to them. + </p> + <p> + With the sagacity of his race, he surveyed the hotel, and determined the + exact location of the show-room. Stealthily and noiselessly, he entered + it; found the cloak—took it and departed, chuckling at his good + fortune. As he was creeping out of the apartment with his booty, a thought + struck him, which not only arrested his footsteps, but nearly paralized + his whole being. Would not his keeper be made to answer, and perhaps to + suffer for his escape and theft? Of course he would. "Then in the darkness + I saw again," said the old brave, "that old pale-faced mother, weeping for + the loss of her only son," when he immediately returned the cloak to its + place, and with far more difficulty than in his descent, he succeeded in + reaching his attic prison, where he laid himself down, muttering to + himself, "not yet,—poor old pale-face got but one." + </p> + <p> + They took him to Virginia, where, instead of a trial, they gave him about + the same liberty they do their slaves. He staid one winter; but when the + spring opened, the fire of the red man took possession of him, and when + sent to the forest to chop wood, he took a bee-line for his former + residence. But what was he to do for food? With a rifle, he could live + happily in the woods, but he had none; so after considering the matter, he + said to himself, "Me <i>must</i> get a rifle," and instantly started for + the highway. The first cabin he saw, he entered in great apparent + excitement, and told the woman of the house, that he had seen a "big deer + in the woods, and wanted a rifle to shoot it. When you hear my gun," he + said, "then you come and get big deer." She gave him her husband's + excellent rifle and a few bullets; he looked at them, and said he must + have more, for "it was a big deer;" so she gave him the bullet-mould and a + piece of lead, with which he departed, after repeating his former + injunction, to come when she heard the rifle; but, said he, "she no hear + it yet." + </p> + <p> + He at length arrived at his own farm, from which he had been so cruelly + driven, and concealed himself behind a log in sight of his own house, to + watch the inmates. He soon learned that it was occupied by the man who had + persecuted him in order to obtain it, his wife and one child. All day + until midnight, he watched them from his hiding place, then assuming all + the savage ferocity of his nature, and giving himself the most frightful + appearance possible, he entered the house, and noiselessly passed to their + sleeping room, where he placed himself before them with a long knife in + his hand. Having assumed this frightful attitude, he commanded them in a + voice of thunder, to get up and give him some supper. They were awake now. + Oh, horror! what a sight for a guilty man, and a timid woman! "Me come to + kill you!" said the Indian, as he watched their blanched cheeks and + quivering lips. They tottered about on their trembling limbs to get + everything he asked for, imploring him for God's sake to take all, but + spare their lives. "Me will have scalps," he answered fiercely; but when + he had eaten all he desired, he adjusted his blanket, and putting on a + savage look, he remarked as if to himself, "Me go now get my men and kill + him, kill he wife, and kill he baby!" and left the house for his post of + observation. + </p> + <p> + The frightened inmates lost no time, but hastily collecting some + provisions, fled to the frontier, and were never heard of afterwards. + </p> + <p> + The Indian immediately took possession of his own and quite an addition + left by the former tenants. + </p> + <p> + While the kind-hearted old Indian repeated to me the story of his wrongs, + it reminded me of the injustice practised on myself, and the colored race + generally. Does a colored man by hard labor and patient industry, acquire + a good location, a fine farm, and comfortable dwelling, he is almost sure + to be looked upon by the white man, as an usurper of <i>his</i> rights and + territory; a robber of what he himself should possess, and too often does + wrong the colored man out of,—yet, I am happy to acknowledge many + honorable exceptions. + </p> + <p> + I have often wondered, when looking at the remnant of that once powerful + race, whether the black man would become extinct and his race die out, as + have the red men of the forest; whether they would wither in the presence + of the enterprising Anglo-Saxon as have the natives of this country. But + now I have no such wondering inquiries to make; being persuaded that the + colored man has yet a prominent part to act in this highly-favored + Republic,—of what description the future must determine. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0027" id="link2HCH0027"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVII. — OUR DIFFICULTIES WITH ISRAEL LEWIS. + </h2> + <p> + Being under the necessity of referring again to the difficulties existing + in the Wilberforce colony, I shall here introduce a circular, published in + New York city, which will give the reader an understanding of the real + cause of our embarrassments, and the character of our agent, Israel Lewis. + </p> + <h3> + CIRCULAR + </h3> + <p> + <i>New York, May 9th</i>, 1836. + </p> + <p> + The committee of colored citizens of the city of New York, as servants of + the public, sincerely regret the necessity of bringing the within subject + before the public. Their duty to God, to society, and to themselves, only + actuates them in this matter. + </p> + <p> + The fact that many individuals in different sections of the country, have + long suspected the integrity of Israel Lewis, but possessing no authentic + documentary evidence, they have been prevented from making an effort, to + counteract his too successful attempts and those of his agents, in the + collection of funds from the public, has induced us to transmit this + circular. + </p> + <p> + THEODORE S. WRIGHT, PETER OGDEN, THOMAS DOWNING, GEORGE POTTS, CHARLES B. + RAY, DAVID RUGGLES, JOHN STANS, WILLIAM P. JOHNSON, WILLIAM HAMILTON, + SAMUEL E. CORNISH. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + ISRAEL LEWIS. + </h3> + <p> + <i>Wilberforce, U.C., March 28th, 1836.</i> + </p> + <p> + The board of managers of the Wilberforce settlement, met and passed + unanimously the following resolutions—Present, Austin Steward, + Philip Harris, Peter Butler, William Bell, John Whitehead, Samuel Peters. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, 1st. That we deeply regret the manner in which our + friends in the States have been imposed upon by Israel Lewis; and that we + hereby inform them, as a board of managers or otherwise, that we have + received less than one hundred dollars of all the money borrowed and + collected in the States. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, 2d. That although we have not received one hundred + dollars from said Lewis, yet, when we shall have received the funds + collected by our agent, the Rev. Nathan Paul, in England, we will refund + as far as our abilities will allow and our friends may require, the money + contributed for our supposed benefit, by them in the States. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, 3d. That we tender our sincere thanks to our beloved + friends, Arthur Tappan and others, who have taken such deep interest in + the welfare of our little colony. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, 4th. That the foregoing resolutions be signed by the + whole board, and sent to the States to be published in the <i>New York + Observer</i> and other papers. + </p> + <p> + AUSTIN STEWARD, <i>President</i>, PETER BUTLER, <i>Treasurer</i>, JOHN + HALMES, <i>Secretary</i>. + </p> + <p> + PHILIP HARRIS, } WILLIAM BELL, } JOHN WHITEHEAD, } <i>Managers.</i> SAMUEL + PETERS, } + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <i>New York, April 25th, 1836.</i> + </p> + <p> + At a public meeting of the colored citizens of New York city, held in + Phoenix Hall, Thomas L. Jennings in the Chair, and Charles B. Ray, + Secretary, the following resolutions were passed unanimously: + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, That the thanks of this meeting be tendered to the Rev. + Samuel E. Cornish, for the able and satisfactory report of his mission to + Upper Canada, especially to the Wilberforce settlement. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, That this meeting deem it their imperative duty, to + announce to the public, that in view of facts before them, Israel + Lewis [1] + has abused their confidence, wasted their benevolence, and forfeited all + claim to their countenance and respect. + </p> + <p> + <i>Resolved</i>, That a committee of ten, be appointed to give publicity + to the foregoing resolutions; also, to the communication from the managers + of the Wilberforce settlement, as they may deem necessary in the case. + </p> + <p> + THOMAS L. JENNINGS, <i>Chairman</i>, CHARLES B. RAY, <i>Secretary</i>. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <pre> + [1] It necessarily follows that + the public should withhold their money from his subordinate agents.] + </pre> + <p> + It will now appear that I was not the only unfortunate individual who had + difficulty with Mr. Lewis. Mr. Arthur Tappan made known through the press, + about this time, that Israel Lewis was not a man to be fully relied upon + in his statements regarding the Wilberforce colony; and also, if money was + placed in his hands for the benefit of the sick and destitute among the + settlers, it would be doubtful whether it was faithfully applied according + to the wishes of the donors. + </p> + <p> + For this plain statement of facts, Mr. Lewis commenced a suit against Mr. + Tappan, for defamation of character; laying the damages at the round sum + of ten thousand dollars. It appeared that Lewis valued his reputation + highly now that he had elevated himself sufficiently to commence a suit + against one of the best and most respectable gentlemen in New York city; a + whole souled abolitionist withal; one who had suffered his name to be cast + out as evil, on account of his devotion to the colored man's cause— + both of the enslaved and free; one who has, moreover, seen his own + dwelling entered by an infuriated and pro-slavery mob; his expensive + furniture thrown into the street as fuel for the torch of the black man's + foe; and, amid the crackling flame which consumed it, to hear the vile + vociferations of his base persecutors, whose only accusation was his + defence of the colored man. This noble hearted, Christian philanthropist, + who took "joyfully the spoiling of his goods" for the cause of the + oppressed, was the chosen victim of Lewis' wrath and violent vituperation; + and that too, where he was well known as a most honorable, humane + gentleman; and all for naming facts which were quite generally known + already. + </p> + <p> + Lewis returned to Wilberforce, flushed and swaggering with the idea of + making his fortune in this speculation of a law-suit against Mr. Tappan; + and to remove all obstacles, he sent a man to me, to say that if I would + publish nothing, and would abandon the interests of the colonists, he + would give me a handsome sum of money. I soon gave him to understand that + he had applied to the wrong person for anything of that kind; and he then + laid a plan to accomplish by fraud and perjury, what he had failed to do + by bribery. + </p> + <p> + I have before mentioned the fact of my having taken up a note of + twenty-five dollars for Mr. Lewis, on condition that he would soon refund + the money. I did it as a favor, and kept the note in my possession, until + about a year afterward, when I sued him to recover my just due on the + note. We had then began to differ in our public business, which led to + other differences in our transaction of both public and private matters + relating to the colony. He of course gave bail for his appearance at + court, and it ran along for some time until he found he could not bribe me + to enter into his interests, and then for the first time, he declared that + I had stolen the note! And finally succeeded in getting me indicted before + the grand jury! + </p> + <p> + In this I suppose Lewis and his confederates had two objects: first, to + get rid of me; secondly, that they might have a chance to account for my + continued hostility, by saying that it arose in consequence of a private + quarrel, and not for any true interest I had in their collecting money + deceptively. + </p> + <p> + Lewis appeared so bent on my destruction, that he forgot it was in my + power to show how I came by the note. The Court of King's Bench met, but + in consequence of the cholera, was adjourned, and of course, the case must + lie over until another year. + </p> + <p> + When the time for the trial drew near, I was, in the midst of my + preparations to attend it, counseled and advised by different persons to + flee from the country, which I had labored so hard and so conscientiously + to benefit, and received in return nothing but detraction and slander. But + conscious of my innocence, I declared I would not leave; I knew I had + committed no crime; I had violated no law of the land,—and I would + do nothing to imply guilt. He who hath formed the heart, knoweth its + intent and purpose, and to Him I felt willing to commit my cause. True, + the court might convict, imprison, and transport me away from my helpless + family of five small children; if so, I was determined they should punish + an innocent man. Nevertheless, it was a dark time; I was not only saddened + and perplexed, but my spirit was grieved, and I felt like one "wounded in + the house of his friends,"—ready to cry out, "had it been an enemy I + could have borne it," but to be arraigned, for the <i>first</i> time in my + life, as a <i>criminal</i>, by one of the very people I had spent my + substance to benefit, was extremely trying. Guiltless as I knew myself to + be, still, I was aware that many incidents had transpired, which my + enemies could and would construe to my disadvantage; moreover, Lewis had + money, which he would freely distribute to gain his point right or wrong, + and to get me out of his way. + </p> + <p> + In due time the trial came on, and I was to be tried for <i>theft</i>! + Lewis had reported all through the settlement that on a certain time I had + called at his house, and from a bundle of papers which his wife showed me, + I had purloined the note, which had caused me so much trouble. To prove + this it was necessary to get his wife to corroborate the statement. This + was not an easy matter. Mrs. Lewis, indignant and distressed by her + husband's unkindness, had left him and taken up her abode in the family of + a hospitable Englishman. After Lewis had been sent out as an agent for the + colony, finding himself possessed of sufficient funds to cut a swell, he + associated and was made a great deal of, by both ladies and gentlemen in + high stations of life; the consequence of which was, he looked now with + disdain upon his faithful, but illiterate wife, who like himself had been + born a slave, and bred on a Southern plantation; and who had with him + escaped from the cruel task-master, enduring with him the hardships and + dangers of the flying fugitive. + </p> + <p> + Now her assistance was necessary to carry forward his plans, and he + endeavored in various ways to induce her to return, but in vain. When he + sent messengers to inform her how sorry he felt for his past abuse, she + said she feared it was only some wicked plot to entice her away from the + peaceable home she had found. Lewis saw that he must devise some other + method to obtain her evidence. He therefore called on the brother of the + Englishman in whose family Mrs. Lewis was, and in a threatening manner + told him that he understood his brother was harboring his wife, and that + he intended to make him pay dear for it. The brother, to save trouble, + said he would assist him to get his wife, and that night conducted Lewis + to her residence. No better proof can be given that Mrs. Lewis possessed + the true heart of a woman, than that the moment her husband made humble + concessions, and promised to love and protect her henceforth, she forgave + him all his past infidelity and neglect, and looked with hope to a + brighter future. In return Lewis presented her with a note, telling her to + take it to a certain person and present it, and he would give her twenty + dollars on it. This would, he doubtless thought, leave her in his power. + </p> + <p> + As Mrs. Lewis could not read, the unsuspecting wife presented the paper + all in good faith. The gentleman looked at her sharply, suspiciously,—and + then asked her, if she was not aware that she was presenting him a paper + completely worthless! The poor woman was mortified and astonished; and + instead of returning to her husband, fled to Wilberforce, and called at + our house. Knowing how disastrous to me would be her false statement, and + ignorant of her state of mind, I asked her if she had come to assist Mr. + Lewis by swearing against me. I saw at once, that she had not yet been + informed of her husband's design. + </p> + <p> + "Swear against you, Mr. Steward!" said she. "I know nothing to swear that + would injure you; I have always known you as an honest, upright man, and + you need not fear my turning against an innocent person, for the benefit + of one I know to be guilty. Nor would I have left my place, had I known + what I now do." So all help and fear was ended in that quarter. + </p> + <p> + When at length the appointed morning arrived, I arose early, but with a + saddened heart. I looked upon my wife and helpless family, reflecting that + possibly this might be the last time we should all assemble around the + breakfast table in our hitherto quiet home, and I could scarcely refrain + from weeping. I, however, took my leave, and a lad with me, to bring back + a message of the result, if the court found sufficient cause to detain me + for trial. But when I found that I must be tried, I felt too unhappy to + make others so, and kept out of the lad's way. He returned without a + message; and I took my seat in the prisoner's box. I had just taken a + letter out of the post office, from Rochester, containing recommendations + and attestations from the first men in the city, of my good character, + which relieved my feelings somewhat: nevertheless, my heart was heavy, and + especially when, soon after I took my seat, a trap-door was opened and a + murderer was brought up and seated by my side! + </p> + <p> + Chief Justice Robinson, made his appearance in great pomp—dressed in + the English court style-then the crier, in a shrill voice, announced the + opening of the court, and finished by exclaiming, "God save the King!" His + lordship then called the attention of the jury to the law of the land; + particularly to that portion relating to their present duty; and the grand + jury presented me to the court, for feloniously taking a certain + promissory note from the house of Israel Lewis. The King's Attorney had + but one witness, and that was Lewis. He was called to the stand, permitted + to relate his story, and retire without any cross-examination on the part + of my Attorney; but that gentleman called up three respectable white men, + all of whom swore that they would not believe Israel Lewis under oath! + Then submitted the case to the jury without remark or comment, and the + jury, without leaving their seats, brought in a verdict of "NOT GUILTY." + Thus ended my first and last trial for theft! Oh, how my very soul + revolted at the thought of being thus accused; but now that I stood + justified before God and my fellow-men, I felt relieved and grateful; nor + could I feel anything but pity for Lewis, who, like Hainan, had been so + industriously engaged in erecting "a gallows fifty cubits high" for me, + but found himself dangling upon it He raved like a madman, clutched the + arm of the Judge and demanded a new trial, but he shook him off with + contempt and indignation, as though he had been a viper. In his wild fury + and reckless determination to destroy my character, he had cast a foul + stain upon his own, never to be effaced. I had felt bound to preserve my + reputation when unjustly assailed, but it had been to me a painful + necessity to throw a fellow-being into the unenviable and disgraceful + attitude in which Lewis now stood; and yet, he would not, and did not + yield the point, notwithstanding his ignominious defeat. + </p> + <p> + He very soon began to gather his forces for another attack upon me, and + followed the same direction for his accusation,—the land purchase. + </p> + <p> + The reader will recollect without further repetition, that as I could + purchase no land of the Canada Company, because of their indignation + against Lewis, I was glad to accept of the contract he had made with Mr. + Ingersoll, for lot number four in the colony; that I paid the sum + demanded, and took his assignment on the back of the contract, and as we + then were on good terms, it never occurred to me that a witness was + necessary to attest to the transaction. But after his failure to prove me + a thief; his next effort was to convict me of forgery! It will be + remembered that Lewis after selling out to me, returned the contract to + Mr. Ingersoll, and that I had lost by the means, the land, and at least + five hundred dollars' worth of improvements. Then I brought a suit against + Lewis, to recover the money I had paid him for the contract; and then it + was that he asserted and attempted to prove, that I had forged the + assignment, and therefore, had no just claim on him for the amount paid. + But in this, as in the other case, he met a defeat and made an entire + failure. I recovered all that I claimed, which, was only my just due. One + would suppose that after so many unsuccessful attempts to ruin me, he + would have left me alone,—but not so with Lewis: he had the ambition + of a Bonaparte; and doubtless had he possessed the advantages of an + education, instead of having been born and bred a slave, he might, like an + Alexander or Napoleon, have astonished the world with his deeds of daring. + I am, however, no admirer of what the world call "great men,"—one + humble, self-sacrificing Christian, like Benjamin Lundy, has far greater + claim on my respect and reverence. + </p> + <p> + Lewis, failing in his second attack, backed up as he had been in all his + wicked course, by a friend wearing the sacred garb of a minister of the + gospel, cooled off, and it became evident to all, that he was meditating + some different mode of warfare. To this concealed confederate, I must + attach great blame, on account of the influence his station and superior + learning gave him, not only over Mr. Lewis, but the colonists generally, + and which should have been exerted for the good of all, in truth and + honesty. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0028" id="link2HCH0028"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVIII. — DESPERATION OF A FUGITIVE SLAVE. + </h2> + <p> + We had as yet received no funds from our foreign agent, N. Paul, and the + board of managers had resolved to send a man after him. An Englishman and + a white man named Nell, would gladly undertake the mission, leaving his + wife and five children among the settlers. Again was I under the necessity + of returning to New York, to obtain the funds required to send out Mr. + Nell after our agent in England. + </p> + <p> + The night before I left home, I had a singular dream which I will briefly + relate. I dreamed of journeying on a boat to Albany, and of stopping at a + house to take tea. Several persons, I thought, were at the table, and as a + cup of tea was handed me, I saw a woman slyly drop something into it. I, + however, drank the tea, and dreamed that it made me very sick. + </p> + <p> + I found it difficult to drive from my mind the unpleasant impression this + dream had made upon it, but finally succeeded in doing so, attributing it + to the many and malicious threatenings which had been made by Lewis and + his associates. They had boldly asserted, that "if I went to the States, I + would never return alive," and several other threats equally malignant. I, + however, started with Mr. Nell for Rochester, where we made an effort to + raise money to aid in defraying the expenses of the voyage, and succeeded + in collecting about a hundred dollars. From thence we passed on to Albany, + where we fell in company with a number of Mr. Paul's friends, who appeared + to be terribly indignant, and accused me of coming there to expose their + friends,—Paul and Lewis. We had some warm words and unpleasant + conversation, after which they left me very unceremoniously, and appeared + to be very angry. A short time after, one of them returned, and in the + most friendly manner invited me to his house to tea. I was glad of an + opportunity to show that I harbored no unpleasant feelings toward them, + and immediately accompanied him home. The moment that we were all seated + at the table, an unpleasant suspicion flashed through, my mind. The table, + the company—all seemed familiar to me, and connected with some + unpleasant occurrence which I could not then recall. But when the lady of + the house poured out a cup of tea, and another was about to pass it, I + heard her whisper, "I intended that for Mr. Steward," my dream for the + first time, flashed through my mind, with all the vivid distinctness of a + real incident. I endeavored to drive it from my thoughts, and did so. + Pshaw! I said to myself; I will not be suspicious nor whimsical, and I + swallowed the tea; then took my leave for the steamboat, on our way to New + York city. + </p> + <p> + When we had passed a few miles out of Albany, the boat hove to, and there + came on board four men—one of the number a colored man. The white + men repaired to their state-rooms, leaving the colored man on deck, after + the boat had returned to the channel. He attracted my attention, by his + dejected appearance and apparent hopeless despair. He was, I judged, about + forty years of age; his clothing coarse and very ragged; and the most + friendless, sorrowful looking being I ever saw. He spake to no one, but + silently paced the deck; his breast heaving with inaudible sighs; his brow + contracted with a most terrible frown; his eyes dreamily fastened on the + floor, and he appeared to be considering on some hopeless undertaking, I + watched him attentively, as I walked to and fro on the same deck, and + could clearly discover that some fearful conflict was taking place in his + mind; but as I afterwards repassed him he looked up with a happy, patient + smile, that lighted up his whole countenance, which seemed to say plainly, + I see a way of escape, and have decided on my course of action. His whole + appearance was changed; his heart that before had beat so wildly was quiet + now as the broad bosom of the Hudson, and he gazed alter me with a look of + calm deliberation, indicative of a settled, but desperate purpose. I + walked hastily forward and turned around, when, Oh, my God! what a sight + was there! Holding still the dripping knife, with which he had cut his + throat! and while his life-blood oozed from the gaping wound and flowed + over his tattered garments to the deck, the same exultant smile beamed on + his ghastly features! + </p> + <p> + The history of the poor, dejected creature was now revealed: he had + escaped from his cruel task-master in Maryland; but in the midst of his + security and delightful enjoyment, he had been overtaken by the human + blood-hound, and returned to his avaricious and tyrannical master, now + conducting him back to a life of Slavery, to which he rightly thought + death was far preferable. + </p> + <p> + The horrors of slave life, which he had so long endured, arose in all + their hideous deformity in his mind, hence the conflict of feeling which I + had observed,—and hence the change in his whole appearance, when he + had resolved to endure a momentary pain, and escape a life-long scene of + unrequited toil and degradation. + </p> + <p> + There happened to be on the boat at the time, several companies of citizen + soldiers, who, shocked by the awful spectacle, expressed their decided + abhorrence of the institution of Slavery, declaring that it was not for + such peculiar villainy, that their fathers fought and bled on the battle + field. So determined were they in their indignation; so loudly demanded + they a cessation of such occurrences on board our boats, and the soil of a + free State, that the slaveholders became greatly alarmed, and with all + possible dispatch they hurriedly dragged the poor bleeding slave into a + closet, and securely locked the door; nor have I ever been able to learn + his final doom. Whether the kindly messenger of death released him from + the clutches of the man-stealer, or whether he recovered to serve his + brutal master, I have never been informed. + </p> + <p> + After this exciting scene had passed, I began to realize that I was + feeling quite ill; an unusual load seemed to oppress my stomach, and by + the time we had reached New York city, I was exceedingly distressed. I + hastened to a boarding house, kept by a colored woman, who did everything + in her power to relieve me; but I grew worse until I thought in reality, I + must die. The lady supposed I was dying of cholera, sent to Brooklyn after + Mr. Nell; but having previously administered an emetic, I began to feel + better; and when I had finally emptied my stomach of its contents, <i>tea + and all</i>, by vomiting, I felt into a profound sleep, from which I awoke + greatly relieved. The kindness of that lady I shall not soon forget. She + had a house full of boarders, who would have fled instantly, had they + known that, as she supposed, I was suffering from cholera; and instead of + sending me to the hospital, as she might have done, she kept all quiet + until it was over, doing all she could for my relief and comfort; yet, it + was a scene of distress which I hope may never be repeated. + </p> + <p> + On the following morning, I saw in the city papers, "A Card," inserted by + the owner of the poor slave on board the steamboat, informing the public + that he was returning South with a fugitive slave, who, when arrested, + evinced great willingness to return; who had confessed also, that he had + done very wrong in leaving his master, for which he was sorry,—but + he supposed that the abolitionists had been tampering with him. That was + all! Not a word about his attempt to take his life! Oh no, he merely + wished to allay the excitement, that the horrid deed had produced on the + minds of those present. + </p> + <p> + I was indignant at the publication of such a deliberate falsehood, and + immediately wrote and published that I too was on board the same boat with + the fugitive; that I had witnessed an exhibition of his willingness to + return to Slavery, by seeing him cut his throat, and lay on the deck + wallowing in his blood; that the scene had so excited the sympathies of + the soldiers present, that his owner had been obliged to hurry him out of + their sight, &c. + </p> + <p> + When this statement appeared in the newspapers, it so exasperated the + friends of the slaveholder, that I was advised to flee from the city, lest + I might be visited with personal violence; but I assured my advisers that + it was only the wicked who "flee when no man pursueth, but the righteous + are bold as a lion." I therefore commenced the business that brought me to + that city. Messrs. Bloss, Nell, and myself, made an effort, and raised + between three and four hundred dollars for the purpose of sending Mr. Nell + after Rev. N. Paul. + </p> + <p> + Most of the funds collected, we gave to Mr. Nell, who sailed from New + York, and arrived safely in England, just as N. Paul was boarding a vessel + to return to New York. + </p> + <p> + Had Mr. Nell acted honorably, or in accordance with his instructions, he + would have returned with the agent; but he remained in England, and for + aught I know is there yet. He was sent expressly after Mr. Paul, and when + he left that kingdom, Nell's mission was ended. He proved himself less + worthy of confidence than the agent, for he <i>did</i> return when sent + for, and he did account for the money he had collected, though he retained + it all; but Mr. Nell accounted for nothing of the kind; and if he has ever + returned, I have not seen him. Mr. N. Paul arrived in New York in the fall + of 1834, and remained there through the winter, to the great + disappointment and vexation of the colonists. I wrote him concerning our + condition and wants, hoping it would induce him to visit us immediately; + but he had married while in England, an English lady, who had accompanied + aim to New York, where they were now living; nor did he appear to be in + any haste about giving an account of himself to the board of managers who + had employed him. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0029" id="link2HCH0029"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIX. — A NARROW ESCAPE FROM MY ENEMIES. + </h2> + <p> + During my absence in New York city, Lewis and his confederates were + prophesying that I would never trouble them more, and shaking their heads + quite ominously at the happy riddance. One day, our hired man entered the + house and inquired of my wife, when I was expected home. She told him she + did not know, having received no intelligence from me. He assured her that + a letter had been received by some one in the colony; that he had seen it, + and had heard Mr. Lewis speak of conveying it to her,—but as it did + not come, she gave it up, supposing some mistake had been made. I had, + however, written, naming the time when she might expect me; but no letter + of mine reached her, during my long absence, for which she could not + account. A short time before that specified for my return, a woman, whose + husband was an associate of Mr. Lewis, came to my house, and urged my wife + "to leave word at the village of London, to have Mr. Steward detained + there, should he arrive toward evening, and by no means allow him to start + for the colony after dark." My family had so often been alarmed by such + warnings, and had so frequently been annoyed by the violent threatenings + of Lewis, that they ceased to regard them, and paid little attention, to + this one. + </p> + <p> + I arrived at London on the day I had appointed for my return, but was + detained there until a late hour; feeling anxious, however, to get home + that night, supposing that I was expected,—I therefore hired a horse + to ride the remaining fifteen miles to the settlement. + </p> + <p> + The road from London to Wilberforce led through a swamp, known as + "McConnell's Dismal Swamp," and it was indeed, one of the most dreary + places in all that section of country. I am certain that a hundred men + might conceal themselves within a rod of the highway, without being + discovered. + </p> + <p> + The horse I had engaged, was a high spirited animal, and to that fact, I + doubtless owe my life. The moon shone brightly, and nothing broke the + stillness of the night, as I rode onward, but the clatter of my horse's + hoofs, and an occasional "bow-wow" of some faithful watch-dog. + </p> + <p> + When I reached the swamp and entered its darkened recesses, the gloom and + stillness was indeed fearful; my horse started at every rustling leaf or + crackling brush, until I attempted to pass a dense thicket, when I was + started by the sharp crack of a rifle, and a bullet whizzed past me, close + to my ear! The frightened horse reared and plunged, and then springing as + if for life, he shot off like an arrow, amid the explosion of fire arms + discharged at me as I rode away. I lost my balance at first, and came near + falling, but recovering it I grasped the rein tightly, while my fiery + steed flew over the ground with lightning speed; nor did I succeed in + controlling him until he had run two miles, which brought me to my own + door. + </p> + <p> + I found my family well, and very grateful that I had arrived safely after + so fearful an encounter. + </p> + <p> + When morning came I sent a person out to inquire whether any of the + settlers were out the night previous, and the report was, "Israel Lewis + and two other men were out all night; that they had been seen near the + Dismal Swamp;" moreover, Lewis was seen to come in that morning with his + boots covered with swamp mud,—these the Rev. Mr. Paul's boys cleaned + for him, all of which was evidence that he it was, who had way-laid me + with criminal intent. + </p> + <p> + I afterwards learned, that those three men left the settlement at dusk, + for the swamp; that they stationed themselves one rod apart, all on one + side of the road, each man with a loaded rifle,—the poorest marksman + was to fire first, and if he did not bring me down, probably the second + would; but Lewis being the best shot of the three, was to reserve his fire + until the last, which they supposed I could not escape. It was quite dark + in the thicket, and my spirited horse plunged in every direction so + furiously, that they could take no aim at me, until he had started to run, + when we were soon beyond their reach. + </p> + <p> + We had already had so much difficulty in our little colony that we were + getting heartily sick of it. I was well aware that Lewis was thirsting for + revenge; that he wished to do me a great wrong; and yet I was thankful on + his account, as well as on my own, that he had been prevented from + imbruing his hands in the blood of a fellow being. + </p> + <p> + Had he succeeded in taking my life, as he undoubtedly intended to do, he + would have been arrested immediately, and most likely punished as a + murderer. He had boldly threatened my life, and the colonists were + expecting something of the kind to take place. Had I not arrived at the + colony, it was known at London that I had started for the settlement that + night, and an immediate search would have been instituted; nor could the + wicked deed have brought the least peace to the mind of Lewis or his + companions, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "No peace of mind does that man know, + Who bears a guilty breast; + His conscience drives him to and fro, + And never lets him rest." +</pre> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0030" id="link2HCH0030"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXX. — DEATH OF B. PAUL, AND RETURN OF HIS BROTHER. + </h2> + <p> + The bold and wicked attempt to take my life, recorded in the preceding + chapter, aroused a feeling of indignation in the community against Lewis, + and completely destroyed the little influence he had left; moreover, he + had now been so extensively published as an impostor, that he could + collect no more money on the false pretense of raising it for the benefit + of the colony. As soon as his money was gone and his influence destroyed, + —many who had been his firmest friends, turned against him, and + among this class was the Rev. Benjamin Paul. He had ever professed the + greatest friendship for, and interest in the success of Mr. Lewis. + Heretofore, whenever he went to the States he was commissioned by that + gentleman's family, to purchase a long list of expensive articles, which + the poor colonists were seldom able to buy; and he generally returned to + them richly laden with goods, purchased with, money given to the poor, + sick, and destitute in the colony. + </p> + <p> + Mr. B. Paul had ever been a very proud man, but not a very healthy one. He + was inclined to pulmonary diseases; but had kept up pretty well, until + Lewis was effectually put down, and his own character involved in many of + his notorious proceedings, together with the disappointment occasioned by + his brother remaining so long in England, when his health failed, and he + sank rapidly under accumulating disasters, to the grave. + </p> + <p> + The Welshmen had partially engaged him to preach for them the ensuing + year, but something they had heard of him changed their minds, and they + were about appointing a meeting to investigate his conduct, when they were + informed of his illness, and concluded to let it pass. His son, with whom + he lived, became deranged, and his oldest daughter on whom he was greatly + dependent, had been dismissed from school, where she had been for some + time engaged in teaching. All these unpleasant circumstances in his sickly + state weighed heavily upon his proud heart; and he not only declined in + health, but sank into a state of melancholy and remorse for his past + course of living. As he lay pining and murmuring on his death bed, I could + but reflect how different the scene from that of an apostle of the Lord + Jesus Christ, who could exclaim, when about to be offered, "I have fought + a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith; henceforth + there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness." + </p> + <p> + I called to see him as he lay writhing in agony, his sunken eyes gleaming + wildly, rolling and tossing from side to side, while great drops of + perspiration stood upon his forehead, continually lamenting his misspent + time, and the life he had led! He took my hand in his cold, bony fingers, + thanking me that I did not so despise him, that I could not come to see + him in his sorrow and affliction. Generally, however, when he raved and + talked of his wicked life, his family excluded all persons from his room + except his attendants. + </p> + <p> + Pride, which had ever been his besetting sin, displayed itself in his + conduct to the last, for he had a lengthy will made, dispensing some + sixteen hundred dollars to different individuals, when he must have known + that his whole possessions would not amount to half that sum. As I looked + upon him I could but reflect on the mysterious ways of Providence. Before + me lay a man, who had for years arrayed himself against me, using all his + influence as a man and a minister to injure me, by setting Lewis forward + in his wickedness; his family living in extravagance and a style far + beyond their means, while mine had labored hard and were sometimes + destitute, often harassed and perplexed on every side by himself and + party. And for what? Because I would not join hands with iniquity, and + deeds of darkness. Notwithstanding the contrast, when I heard his bitter + lamentations and self-reproaches, I could lift my heart to God, in + gratitude for His protecting goodness, which had preserved me an <i>honest + man</i>. I had often erred no doubt, but it had never been designedly; and + never did I value a good conscience more than when standing by the + death-bed of Benjamin Paul, who now had passed the Jordan of death; and it + is enough to know that his future, whether of joy or woe, will be meted + out to him, by a merciful and just God,—nevertheless, his last + moments on earth were such as ought to arouse every professed Christian, + to redoubled diligence in watchfulness and prayer, lest they fall into + temptation,— lest they determine to become rich, and thereby fall + into diverse and hurtful lusts, and pierce themselves through with many + sorrows. + </p> + <p> + Soon after the event above narrated, a law was passed in the Province, + allowing each township to elect three commissioners, whose duty it should + be, to transact the public business pertaining to the township. Each + township should also elect one township clerk, whose business it should + be, to hold and keep all moneys, books, and papers belonging to said town; + with power to administer oaths, and in fact, he, with the commissioners, + were to constitute a board, possessing all the power of a court, in + relation to township business. + </p> + <p> + In our colony, located in the township of Bidulph, the colored people were + a large majority of the inhabitants, which gave us the power to elect + commissioners from our own settlement, and therefore, three black men + where duly chosen, who entered on the duties of their office, while your + humble servant, A. Steward, was elected township clerk, with all the + responsibility of the office resting upon him and the same power given him + as though he had been born in Her Britannic Majesty's dominion, with a + face as white as the driven snow. I felt the responsibility of my office, + but not more deeply than I did this assurance of entire confidence, and + respect shown me by my townsmen, after all the cruel persecutions I had + met; after all the accusations of theft, forgery, &c., that vicious + person could bring against me. + </p> + <p> + The Rev. Nathaniel Paul, with his lady, arrived at Wilberforce in the + spring of 1835, to the great joy of the colonists, to find that his + brother had gone the way of all the earth, and his remains quietly resting + on his own premises, where his afflicted family still resided. + </p> + <p> + In the colony there was a great deal of excitement regarding the course + our agent would pursue, and all waited with anxious expectancy to see him + enrich the treasury with his long-promised collections. + </p> + <p> + We had agreed, on sending him forth as an agent for the colony, to give + him fifty dollars per month for his services, besides bearing his + expenses. + </p> + <p> + The reverend gentleman, charged, on his return to the colony, the sum + specified, for four years, three months and twenty days. We spent several + days in auditing his account, with increased fearful forebodings. We found + his receipts to be, in the United Kingdoms of Great Britain, one thousand + six hundred and eighty-three pounds, nineteen shillings; or, eight + thousand and fifteen dollars, eighty cents. His expenditures amounted to + one thousand four hundred and three pounds, nineteen shillings; or, seven + thousand and nineteen dollars, eighty cents. Then his wages for over four + years, at fifty dollars per month, left a balance against the board of + several hundred dollars, which we had no funds to cancel, inasmuch as the + reverend gentleman had paid us nothing of all he had collected in Europe, + nor even paid a farthing toward liquidating the debts incurred for his + outfit and expenses. + </p> + <p> + There was also in Mr. Paul's charge against the board of managers, an item + of two hundred dollars, which he had paid to Wm. Loyd Garrison, while that + gentleman was also in England; but by whose authority he had paid or given + it, it was hard to determine. We gave him no orders to make donations of + any kind. To take the liberty to do so, and then to charge it to our poor + and suffering colony, seemed hard to bear; still we allowed the charge. + Had we, in our straitened and almost destitute circumstances, made a + donation of that, to us, large sum of money to Mr. Garrison or any body + else, certainly <i>we</i> should, at least, have had the credit of it; and + as Mr. Garrison had made no acknowledgment of the receipt, I wrote him on + the subject, and his answer will be found, heading our correspondence, in + this volume. + </p> + <p> + Not a dollar did the treasurer ever receive of the Rev. N. Paul, unless we + call the donations he had made without our permission, a payment. He did, + it is true, award to the board, the sum of two hundred dollars, paid by + him to Mr. Garrison, and fifty dollars more given by himself to Mr. Nell, + on his departure from England. Not a farthing could we get of him; and in + short, as far as the monied interest of the colony was concerned, his + mission proved an entire failure. How much good the reverend gentleman may + have done in spreading anti-slavery truth, during his stay in Europe, is + not for me to say. The English, at that time held slaves; and report + speaks well of his labors and endeavors to open the eyes of that nation to + the sin of slavery and the injustice of the colonization scheme. It is + said that he continually addressed crowded and deeply interested + audiences, and that many after hearing him, firmly resolved to exert + themselves, until every chain was broken and every bondman freed beneath + the waving banner of the British Lion. Perhaps his arduous labors assisted + in freeing the West India islands of the hateful curse of Slavery; if so, + we shall not so much, regret the losses and severe trials, it was ours to + bear at that time. + </p> + <p> + The indignant and disappointed colonists, however, took no such view of + his mission; and knowing as they did, that he had paid not a cent of cash + into the treasury, nor liquidated one debt incurred on his account, they + became excited well nigh to fury,—so much so, that at one time we + found it nearly impossible to restrain them from having recourse to Lynch + law. They thought that the reverend gentleman must have large sums of + money at his command somewhere—judging from his appearance and mode + of living, and that a little wholesome punishment administered to his + reverence, by grave Judge Lynch, enthroned upon a "cotton bale," might + possibly bring him to terms, and induce him to disgorge some of his + ill-gotten wealth, which he so freely lavished upon himself, and was + withholding from those to whose wants it had been kindly contributed. + </p> + <p> + Just, as was their dissatisfaction, I was satisfied by the examination of + his accounts, that he had spent nearly all of the money collected for us; + his expenses had been considerable; beside, he had fallen in love, during + his stay in England, with a white woman, and I suppose it must have + required both time and money to woo and win so fine and fair an English + lady, said also to possess quite a little sum of money, that is, several + thousand dollars, all of which our poor, little suffering colony must pay + for,—the reverend gentleman's statement to the contrary + notwithstanding. + </p> + <p> + We succeeded at last, after a tedious effort, in satisfying the minds of + the settlers to the extent, that a violent outbreak was no longer to be + feared or dreaded. When all was quiet in the colony, I ventured to make my + first call on the wife of N. Paul, who was then stopping with the widow of + the late Rev. B. Paul, residing some three miles from us. + </p> + <p> + The houses of the colonists were generally built of logs, hewn on both + sides, the spaces chinked with mortar, and the roof constructed of boards. + The lower part was generally left in one large room, and when another + apartment was desired, it was made by drawing a curtain across it. When we + arrived at the residence of Mrs. Paul, we were immediately ushered into + the presence of Mrs. Nathaniel Paul, whom we found in an inner apartment, + made by drawn curtains, carpeted in an expensive style, where she was + seated like a queen in state,—with a veil floating from her head to + the floor; a gold chain encircling her neck, and attached to a gold watch + in her girdle; her fingers and person sparkling with costly jewelry. Her + manners were stiff and formal nor was she handsome, but a tolerably fair + looking woman, of about thirty years of age: and this was the wife of our + agent for the poor Wilberforce colony! + </p> + <p> + N. Paul had now settled his business with the colonists, and being about + to leave for the States, we appealed to his honor as a man and a + Christian, to call at Rochester and pay the seven hundred dollar bank + debt, for which he was justly and legally holden, and relieve honorably, + those kind gentlemen who had raised the money for him. He well knew the + condition of our friend E. Peck, and that the names of some of our colored + friends were also attached to the note; all of whom were relying + implicitly on his or our honor to pay the obligation. That we had no funds + in the treasury he was well aware; also, that all were deeply concerned + about that debt. All this he knew; and in answer to our earnest and + repeated injunction, he promised most faithfully and solemnly that he + would call at Rochester, and take up the note. On those conditions he was + allowed to leave the colony, and when parting with me, no more to meet in + this life, his last assurance was, that he would cancel that obligation. + What then could we think of his word, when we learned soon after that he + passed Rochester, without calling, direct to Albany; nor did he ever + return, or make any explanation of his conduct; nor give any reason why + his promise was not redeemed and the money paid. + </p> + <p> + He preached in Albany until his health failed, then he was obliged to live + the best way he could, and at last to depend on charity. + </p> + <p> + His disease was dropsy, from which he suffered deeply, being unable to lie + down for some time previous to his death. I have been told that his + domestic life was far from a peaceable or happy one, and that in poverty, + sorrow and affliction, he lingered on a long time, till death at last + closed the scene. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0031" id="link2HCH0031"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXI. — MY FAMILY RETURN TO ROCHESTER. + </h2> + <p> + I was now seriously meditating a return to Rochester. My purpose in going + to Canada, has already been made known to the reader, as well as some of + the disappointments I met, and some of the trials and difficulties I had + to encounter. + </p> + <p> + Now, after laboring, and suffering persecution for about five years, my + way was comparatively clear; still I wished to leave the Province and + return to the States, in which prospect my family greatly rejoiced. + Doubtless most persons in the position I then occupied, would have chosen + to remain; but for several reasons, I did not. + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding I had been during my youth, a poor, friendless, and + illiterate slave, I had, through the mercy of God and the kindness of + friends, not only obtained my freedom, but I had by the industry and + perseverance of a few years, acquired a tolerable English education, + established a profitable business, built for myself a good and extensive + business reputation, and had laid the foundation for increasing wealth and + entire independence. + </p> + <p> + Indeed, so far as a competency is concerned, I possessed that when I left + Rochester. My house and land was paid for; my store also, and the goods it + contained were free from debt; beside, I had several hundred dollars in + the bank for future use,—nor do I boast, when I say that the comfort + and happiness of myself and family, required no further exertion on my + part to better our worldly condition. We were living in one of the best + countries on the earth, surrounded by friends,—good and intelligent + society, and some of the noblest specimens of Christian philanthropy in + the world. My wife and children, had not only been accustomed to the + comforts, if not the luxuries of life, but also to associate with persons + of refinement and cultivation; and although they had willingly accompanied + me to Canada, where they had experienced little less than care, labor and + sorrow, it cannot be thought very strange that they should desire to + return. We were colored people to be sure, and were too often made to feel + the weight of that cruel prejudice, which small minds with a perverted + education, know so well how to heap upon the best endeavors of our + oppressed race. Yet truth and justice to my friends, compel me to say, + that after a short acquaintance, I have usually been treated with all that + kindness and confidence, which should exist between man and man. + </p> + <p> + At my house of entertainment in Canada, it was not uncommon for gentlemen + of my former acquaintances, to stop for a friendly chat; merchants, + journeying through our settlement, after goods, would frequently call, + with their money, watches, and other valuables, carefully concealed about + their persons; but when they learned our name, and had become acquainted a + little, they would not only freely expose their wealth, but often place + all their money and valuables in my hands, for safe keeping; nor was their + confidence ever misplaced to my knowledge. + </p> + <p> + Another thing: when I went to Wilberforce, I supposed that the colonists + would purchase the whole township of Bidulph, and pay for it, which might + have been done, had they been fortunate enough to put forward better men. + Then when we had a sufficient number of inhabitants, we could have sent a + member to Parliament, one of our own race, to represent the interests of + our colony. In all this we were disappointed. The Canada Company, in their + unjust judgment of a whole people, by one dishonest man, had stopped the + sale of lands to colored persons, which of course, put an end to the + emigration of respectable and intelligent colored men to that place; nor + was there any prospect of a favorable change. Moreover, the persecutions + which gave rise to the colony, had in a great measure ceased; anti-slavery + truth was taking effect on the minds of the people, and God was raising up + many a friend for the poor slave, to plead with eloquent speech and tears, + the cause of the dumb and down-trodden. + </p> + <p> + These, with other considerations, influenced me in my decision to leave + Canada. As soon, however, as my intentions were made known, I was + importuned on all sides, by persons both in and out of the settlement, to + remain awhile longer, at least. This will be seen by a reference to the + appendix. + </p> + <p> + After due deliberation, I concluded to send my family to the States, and + remain myself, until my year should terminate, for which I had been + elected township clerk. In accordance with this determination, I made + preparation to take my family to Port Stanley, forty miles distant. But + what a contrast was there between our leaving Rochester, five years + before, and our removing from the colony! Then, we had five two-horse + wagon loads of goods and furniture, and seven in family; now, our + possessions were only a few articles, in <i>a one-horse wagon</i>, with an + addition of two members to our household! The settlers collected about us, + to take an affectionate leave of my wife and children; but tears and sobs, + prevented an utterance of more than a "God bless you," and a few like + expressions. The scene was indeed an affecting one: all the weary days of + our labor; all the trials and difficulties we had passed; all the sweet + communion we had enjoyed in our religious and social meetings; all the + acts of neighborly kindness, seemed now to be indelibly impressed on every + memory, and we felt that a mutual regard and friendship had bound us + closer to each other, in the endearing bonds of Christian brotherhood— + bonds not to be broken by the adverse scenes incident to frail human life. + </p> + <p> + Arrived at Port Stanley, we were kindly entertained by a Mr. White, a + fugitive slave from Virginia, who owned a snug little farm on the bank of + Kettle Creek, and who appeared to be in a good and prosperous condition. + Being detained there, waiting for a boat, on which I was anxious to see my + family comfortably situated before I left them, I was aroused at an early + hour on the second morning of our stay, by a loud rapping at the door; and + hearing myself inquired for, I dressed myself immediately, and followed + Mr. White into the sitting room, where I saw two strange men, armed with + bludgeons! I soon learned, however, that one of them was the + under-sheriff, who had come to arrest me for a debt of about forty + dollars, and the other armed man had come to assist him, I assured them I + was ready to accompany them back to London, which I was obliged to do, a + prisoner, leaving my family among comparative strangers. The debt had + become due to a man who had worked for us in the building of a saw-mill. I + arranged the matter without going to jail, but before I could return to + Port Stanley, my family, kindly assisted by Mr. White, had departed for + Buffalo. The weather was cold and the lake very rough, but they safely + arrived in Rochester, after a journey of three days. During their passage + up the lake my oldest daughter took a severe cold, from which she never + recovered. + </p> + <p> + I returned to the colony to attend to the duties of my office, and to + close my business with the colony, preparatory to joining my family, who + were now settled in Rochester, but in very different circumstances from + those in which they had left it. I had deposited quite a sum of money in + the Rochester Bank; but our continual expenditures at Wilberforce, in my + journeyings for the benefit of the colony, and in the transacting of + business pertaining to its interests, had left not one dollar for the + support of my family, or to give me another start in business. + Nevertheless, I felt willing to submit the case to Him who had known the + purity of my intentions, and who had hitherto "led me through scenes dark + and drear," believing he would not forsake me now, in this time of need. + </p> + <p> + Consoling myself with these reflections, I renewed my endeavors to do my + best, leaving the event with my God. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0032" id="link2HCH0032"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXII. — THE LAND AGENT AND THE SQUATTER. + </h2> + <p> + I have named, I believe, that all the colored people, who purchased lands + of Lewis, could get no deed nor any remuneration for their improvements. + This they thought hard and unfair. Some had built a house and barn, + cleared land, &c.; but when they wished to pay for their farms, they + could get no deed, and were obliged to lose all their labor. + </p> + <p> + This raised such a general complaint against the land agents, that they + finally agreed to pay the squatters for their improvements, if they would + leave their farms. An opportunity was soon offered to test their sincerity + in this agreement. A shrewd fellow, who had been many years a sailor, + named William Smith, had made valuable improvements on land, for which he + could get no deed, and then he wished to leave it. His wife, also, died + about this time, leaving him with eight children, which determined him to + leave the colony, and after providing homes for his children, to return to + his former occupation on the high seas; but he also determined not to + leave without receiving the pay which the agents had agreed to give for + his improvements. + </p> + <p> + "Oh yes," said they, in answer to his repeated solicitations, "you shall + be paid, certainly, certainly; you shall be paid every farthing." But when + the appointed day came for the pompous land agents to ride through the + settlement, you might see Smith station himself at first one and then + another conspicuous place on the road, hoping they would have the + magnanimity to stop and pay him, especially, as he had informed them of + his destitute and almost desperate condition, with eight young children to + maintain, and no means to do so, after giving up to them the farm. Before + them as usual rode their body servant, of whom Smith would inquire at what + hour the agents might be expected. And most blandly would he be informed + of some particular hour, when perhaps, within the next ten minutes, the + lordly agent would fly past him, on their foaming steeds, with the speed + of a "lightning train." This course they repeated again and again. One + day, when all of the land agents rode through the settlement in this + manner, Smith followed them on foot over fifty miles. He at last + intercepted them, and they promised with the coolest indifference, that on + a certain day, not far distant, they would certainly pay him all he + claimed, if he would meet them at a certain hotel in London. To this he + agreed; and the poor fellow returned to the colony almost exhausted. + </p> + <p> + His funds were nearly all spent, and he wished to take his children to New + York; yet his only hope was in the integrity and honor of the land agents. + </p> + <p> + On the day appointed, he was at London long before the hour to meet, had + arrived. He entered the village with a determined air, and saw the agents + just riding up to a hotel,—but not the one they had told him to call + at. He, however, waited for no invitation, but entered the hotel and + inquired of the servant for his master. He said his master was not there! + </p> + <p> + "I know he is," said Smith, "and I want to see him." + </p> + <p> + The servant withdrew, but soon returned to say that his master was engaged + and could not see him that day. Smith followed the servant into the hall, + calling out to him in the most boisterous manner, demanding to be told the + reason <i>why</i> he could not see his master. The noise which Smith + purposely made, soon brought into the hall one of the agents, a Mr. + Longworth, a short, fat man,—weighing in the neighborhood of three + hundred pounds! When he saw Smith, he strutted about, assuring him that + this disgraceful uproar was quite uncalled for, and finally putting on a + severe look, told him that he could not have anything for his + improvements; of course not,— he really could not expect; certainly + not, &c. Smith plainly assured the agent that his "blarney" would + avail him nothing; he had come by their own appointment to get his pay, + and that he certainly should <i>have</i>—if not in the way they + themselves agreed upon, he would choose his own method of getting it! Thus + saying, he stepped back, threw down his woolly head, and goat fashion, let + drive into the fat Englishman's "bread basket!" He sprawled about and soon + recovered his standing, but continued to scream and halloo with rage and + mortification, more than with pain, until he had brought to the spot + landlord, boarders, and servants, to witness the affray; but Smith, + nothing daunted, administered two or three more effectual butts with his + hard head into the lordly agent, when the subdued and now silent English + gentleman, drew from his pocket book, and carefully counted out, every + dollar Smith had at first demanded. Smith accepted it pleasantly, thanked + him and withdrew, amid the shouts and jeers of the spectators, which the + agent was more willing to avoid than he. That was the way the land agent + paid the squatter. + </p> + <p> + It seemed, however, a little too bad, to make a fine English gentleman, + feel as "flat" as Longworth appeared to feel; yet it was undoubtedly the + only method by which Smith could recover a farthing. The agents, it was + supposed, did not design to pay for any improvements; indeed, some very + hard and unjust incidents occurred in connection with, that matter, and + probably Smith was about the only one, who ever received the full value of + his claim. + </p> + <p> + There was committed about this time, a most shocking murder, in the London + district. A farmer who had a respectable family, consisting of a wife and + several children, became so addicted to the use of spirituous liquors, + that he neglected both his family and farm so much, that his friends felt + called upon to request the distiller, who was his near neighbor, to + furnish him with no more intoxicating drink. This, so exasperated the + poor, ruined and besotted wretch, that he raved like a madman—such + as he undoubtedly was—crazed and infuriated, by the contents of the + poisoned cup of liquid damnation, held to his lips by a neighboring + distiller; a fellow-being, who for the consideration of a few shillings, + could see his neighbor made a brute and his family left in destitution and + sorrow. Perhaps, however, he did not anticipate a termination so fearful; + yet that is but a poor excuse for one who lives by the sale of rum. When a + rumseller gives that to a man, which he knows will "steal away his + brains," and make him a maniac, how can he anticipate his future conduct? + And who is responsible? Ah, who? + </p> + <p> + When Severin found he could get no more intoxicating beverage, he in his + demoniacal rage, conceived the idea of despatching his whole family, and + set about his purpose by first snatching the young babe and casting it + into the fire! When the poor wife and mother came shrieking to the rescue + of her darling infant, he with one furious blow, laid her a bleeding + corpse at his feet! Two other young children he next murdered, and left + them mingling their blood with that of their mother's, while he ran + furiously after the two older ones, who were endeavoring to escape to a + neighbor's for assistance; and overtaking, killed them both! When the + miserable wretch had completed his hellish design, he started for his + nearest neighbor, named Smith, and told him that there was a black and a + white man at his house, murdering his family, requesting him to go to + their assistance. Mrs. Smith, believing that Severin designed to murder + her husband, insisted on his calling his young men to assist him, which he + did; and on arriving at the scene of slaughter, a most horrid spectacle + was before them: five dead bodies weltering in blood, aside from that of + the innocent babe, whose little form lay roasted and charred, on the fatal + and bloody hearthstone of the drunkard! Victims all, of an intoxicated + husband and father! When the guilty man saw the mangled remains of his + household, he only increased his depravity by trying to make others + responsible for the wicked deed,—exclaiming in feigned anguish, "my + dear wife! my poor children! I was afraid they would murder you! Oh, my + lost family!" &c. Community was soon alarmed; Severin, arrested, + tried, convicted, and sentenced to suffer the extreme penalty of the law. + </p> + <p> + It is sufficient for us to say, that the evidence was clear and + conclusive, that he was the only murderer of his family; nor was it + doubted that Mrs. Smith's suspicion was correct; yet, with all the array + of positive testimony brought against him, he denied the commission of the + crime to the last moment of his life! When brought out for execution, he + was placed under the gallows, and the rope with its fatal noose adjusted + around his neck, when one of the attorneys arose, and with great + solemnity, addressed him, in the most impressive manner: "We have done," + said he, "all in our power to save your life; but you are justly + condemned, and in a few minutes more, will enter the presence of the + All-seeing eye of Jehovah; now let me beseech you, in the name of God, to + tell the truth, before you die." Severin declared himself innocent of the + crime, for which he was about to suffer; but was consoled, he said, with + the belief that he should, in a few short moments, meet in blissful + re-union his dear, murdered wife and children in heaven, to part no more! + </p> + <p> + Prayers were read; and during the reading of the Lord's prayer, at the + words "Thy will be done," the hardened wretch was launched into eternity. + </p> + <p> + No room was left to doubt the fact, that Severin with his own hand + destroyed the life of his unhappy and abused wife, and also that of his + helpless family. Yet in one sense, may we say with the murderer, it was + not he who committed the awful and inhuman deed, but boldly and truthfully + charge it to man's bitterest foe—Rum! What but the maddening effects + of spirituous liquors, could so demoralize, so demonize a man, as to + convert the once loving husband and proud father, into a reckless fiend, a + heartless savage? Oh, Rum! earth contains not another so fell a foe! + </p> + <p> + Should any who may read these humble pages, find an effectual warning in + the unhappy end of Severin, one which shall induce them to pause in their + course, or at once and forever abandon the use of alcoholic drinks, I + shall gratefully feel that I have not written this incident in vain. + </p> + <p> + Before I left Wilberforce, the Rev. S.E. Cornish, made a visit, and + preached the Word of Life to the colony, greatly to the satisfaction and + comfort of the settlers. After distributing liberally of his abundance, to + his poor brethren, he departed for the States, attended by the prayers and + blessings of the Wilberforce colonists. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0033" id="link2HCH0033"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIII. — CHARACTER AND DEATH OF I. LEWIS. + </h2> + <p> + I have spoken in the preceding chapter, of a visit from the Rev. S.E. + Cornish, to the colony. He had previously written me, concerning the + object of his proposed visit, which was to obtain the depositions of the + board of managers, relative to all the money received through their agents + for the colony. He was sent to Canada then, and once afterwards, for and + at the expense of A. Tappan, on business pertaining to the law-suit + instituted by I. Lewis against that gentleman, for defamation of + character. The depositions taken in the colony, with the expense of twice + sending an agent to Canada, must have made a round sum for that kind + gentleman to pay, merely for telling a truth already known! + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cornish had also been informed of my intention to leave the colony, + and that my family were already gone. He, knowing something concerning the + state of things, urged me to remain at least, until his arrival, as will + be seen by a reference to his letter in the appendix. + </p> + <p> + As I look back on those scenes of labor and trial, I find cause for deep + humiliation and gratitude to God, for His goodness and gracious + protection, over my frail life, through unseen dangers of various kinds, + and for his continued favors and unmerited blessings. Many of my fellow + men have fallen in death's cold embrace since that time, while my health + and life has been mercifully preserved. + </p> + <p> + Three of the leading characters of the Wilberforce colony are now dead. + Rev. Benjamin Paul, lies in the silent grave-yard in Wilberforce, C.W. His + brother, Rev. Nathaniel Paul, also sleeps the dreamless sleep of death, + and his dust rests in the beautiful cemetery in Albany, N.Y. + </p> + <p> + Israel Lewis has also finished his earthly career after robbing the poor + of their just dues, and persecuting those who endeavored to defend them; + after living in extravagance—"faring sumptuously every day,"—he + became reduced in circumstances; despised and dishonored, his proud spirit + was at last broken. His health gave way; when at length, unattended and + alone, he found his way to a hospital in Montreal, where he soon after + died, leaving not enough of all his gains to afford him a decent burial! + </p> + <p> + Oh, what a reward "for all his labor under the sun!" His fame, his wealth, + and his law-suits, all have perished with his memory. Poor man! + </p> + <p> + Israel Lewis was born a slave, raised on a Southern plantation, and + subjected to all the cruelties and deprivations of a bondman. His natural + abilities were above mediocrity, but having never had the advantages of an + education, or the privileges of a society calculated to cultivate and + refine his natural aspiring intellect, and to direct his indomitable will + in the acquirement of the more imperishable graces of the human heart, he + had come to manhood with a determined, selfish disposition, to accomplish + whatever gratified his vanity or administered to the wants of his animal + nature. + </p> + <p> + And may we not, with propriety here inquire, whether our common Father, + who has declared himself to be "no respecter of persons," has endowed men + with enlarged capacities for the attainment of that knowledge and wisdom, + so requisite to the elevation of character,—for the express purpose + of seeing them made beasts of burden, and their superior faculties + prostituted by the sensuality imposed by Slavery, and to be sold as + chattels, with impunity? I tell you, nay. The day when Almighty God will + avenge the work of his own hands, hasteth greatly! Were it not so, we + might rejoice in the ignorance of the poor slaves, and pray that none of + them may ever be endowed with a superior intellect to that of the brutes + they are made to resemble. Then would the proud spirit no longer chafe, + and manhood writhe in the unbroken chain; but, like the ox to the yoke or + the horse to the harness, they might submit, without a conscious violation + of their dearest and God given rights. But we were speaking of Israel + Lewis. + </p> + <p> + A natural energy and strength of character, he had inherited; a malicious, + selfish, and consequently a deceptive disposition, his life as a slave had + undoubtedly bestowed upon him. Intellect must have scope, and when nothing + is left within its grasp but vice, can we wonder that the slave possessing + the most talent, should generally prove the greatest villain. + </p> + <p> + Uneducated as was Lewis, his quick perception, his ungoverned passions, + and his native independence, not only made him a dangerous slave, but an + unfaithful and overbearing companion. He, however, took a wife—a + slave like himself,—whose devotedness and good sense, cannot be made + manifest, more than in her willingness to leave all that was dear to her + on earth, and flee from their birth-place, she knew not whither; but + confiding in the professed love and protection of her husband, she + cheerfully followed him to the dense forest, in search of that freedom, + denied them in their native country,—submitting herself gladly to + all the hardships and fearful anxieties of a fugitive slave. What to her + were horsemen, armed with dirk and rifle! What though the trained and + inhuman blood-hound bayed upon their track! Was not he who had sworn a + life-long allegiance to her by her side! Should he be killed or retaken, + what could she desire, but to be his companion still! Slavery even, bitter + as was the cup, might contain for her <i>one sweet drop</i>, while + connubial love lighted up their rude cabin, and sweetened their daily + toil; but the additional anticipation of LIBERTY, to their domestic + happiness—oh blessed hope! How it quickened their weary footsteps, + and, with fixed eyes upon the star of the North, they pressed forward + through every difficulty, until they finally reached Cincinnati, O. There + they lived quietly, and with others, suffered the terrors of the mob, + where also he was chosen agent, to seek a more safe and quiet home for his + afflicted and outcast countrymen. The office was accepted, and Lewis + became the founder of the Wilberforce colony. + </p> + <p> + The personal appearance of Israel Lewis was prepossessing; his manner and + address easy and commanding. To those unacquainted with his private life, + his ungoverned passions, and his unprincipled, revengeful disposition, he + could appear the gentleman, the philanthropist, and the Christian. + </p> + <p> + His education was limited; yet he had managed to gather a sufficient + knowledge of the sciences to enable him to read and write, together with + quite a fund of general information; and then his shrewdness and tact + accomplished all the rest. To strangers he could appear a ripe scholar, if + left unquestioned. He was a good speaker, and once spake with eloquence + and marked effect before the Legislature, assembled in the Senate Chamber, + at Albany, N.Y. + </p> + <p> + Had the childhood of Mr. Lewis been passed under more favorable auspices; + had his intellectual faculties been so cultivated as to predominate over + his animal propensities, and his towering aspirations directed toward the + accomplishment of acts, lofty in their benevolence, noble in their + sacrifice, high in their honorable purpose, and great in their purity; I + can but believe that his powerful intellect would have achieved the fame + of a Lundy, or would have bequeathed to his brethren a memory like that of + a Clarkson. Instead, we have found him devoting his energies to the + gratification of his avarice, pride, and ambition—characteristics + directly opposed to the deportment of the humble Christian, and such as + our Heavenly Father has never promised to prosper. How truly has "the wise + man" said, "He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that + hateth gifts shall live." How strikingly has this passage been verified in + the course of Lewis! For a few paltry sums of gain, could he consent, not + alone to rob the poor, for whom it was kindly given as unto the Lord, but + to turn scornfully away from that poor, illiterate, and humble slave wife, + whom he had, in their mutual adversity, vowed to cherish in <i>prosperity</i> + as well as in all other circumstances through life. That wife, who had + borne with him the sorrows of Slavery—the humble choice of a + bondman! She, who fled with him anticipating additional happiness in a + life of freedom! Poor woman! Disappointment is of an earthly growth, yet + God is merciful; notwithstanding we have the same authority as above, for + saying that "Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the + Lord: though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished." + </p> + <p> + In the hands of a righteous Judge we leave him, who, for the wealth that + perisheth,—who, for worldly honor and selfish gratification, could + barter his honesty and integrity, as "Esau, who sold his birth-right for a + mess of pottage." + </p> + <p> + To me the lesson is an impressive one, and I am thinking it would be well + for us all to examine the foundation on which we stand. If based upon the + solid and broad foundation of christianity, doing to others in all things + as we would they should do to us, sacrificing on all occasions our own + ease, and worldly honor, for the benefit of our fellow-men, and the good + of our country, then indeed, we need fear no evil; if the winds of + adversity howl about our dwelling, we shall find it will stand, being + founded on a ROCK. But if we build upon "the sands" of fame or + self-aggrandizement, and, like the towering oak, lift our insignificant + heads in proud defiance of the coming storm, we may expect that our + superstruction will fall! "And great will be the fall of it!" + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0034" id="link2HCH0034"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIV. — MY RETURN TO ROCHESTER. + </h2> + <p> + Having closed my business in Wilberforce, I prepared to leave on the + expiration of my term of office as township clerk, which was now near at + hand. Notwithstanding, I ever felt a sensation of relief and pleasure, + when I thought of returning to my old home and friends in the States, yet + as often as I look abroad over the settlement and remember all my glowing + hopes,—all my delightful anticipations of a prosperous future for + those poor, struggling colonists; when I recollected with what zeal and + honest purpose, with what sincerity and sacrifice I had prosecuted my + labor among them,—a dark shadow of disappointment would flit across + my mind, however welcome it might be. That I had firm and tried friends in + the colony, I had never the least reason to doubt, not to suppose their + number less after a five years residence with them; but our expectations + had not been realized. Our hope of settling a township, to be represented + in Parliament by one of our own people, was now forever blasted. I + remembered too, that many of the colonists had been unjustly incited + against my course; but in the retrospect my heart did not condemn me. + Errors many, no doubt I had committed; but I was grateful, when reviewing + the whole ground, for a conscience void of offence toward God and man; and + I finally took my leave of all, craving the choicest blessings of Heaven + to rest upon that infant colony and its interests. + </p> + <p> + On the nineteenth day of January, 1837, I left Wilberforce, passing + through Brantford, Hamilton, Queenston, Lewiston, and from thence to + Rochester. During my journey, I could not avoid feeling sad and + despondent, as my mind incessantly returned to the review of my mission, + upon which I could look with no other decision than that of an entire + failure. I had spent my time, wasted my substance for naught, and was now + returning to my dependant family,—that, with myself, had been + stripped of nearly every means of comfort and support. + </p> + <p> + What would my Rochester friends think of my conduct? Notwithstanding all + my despondency and evil foreboding at that time, I am now well satisfied + that my labor was not all in vain, but that some good did result from it. + </p> + <p> + As I drew near the city, a gloom like thick darkness overshadowed me: I + thought of the unfavorable transactions which had occurred between the + directors of the colony and my friends in Rochester, and fell to wondering + how they would receive me. + </p> + <p> + On the twenty-third of January, 1837, I finally re-entered the city + penniless; but as I soon found, not so friendless as my fears would have + it. Among, the first to welcome me back to my old home, was that friend of + "blessed memory," Everard Peck, who had been apprised of some of the + losses I had met and the trials I had passed through. This gentleman was + also one of the first to propose to be one of five men, who should loan me + one hundred dollars each, for five years. Through the disinterested + kindness of this worthy gentleman, I was in a few days after my arrival, + well established in a store of provisions and groceries. The five kind + gentlemen, to whom I was so deeply indebted for the loan, were: Everard + Peck, George A. Avery, Samuel D. Porter, Levi W. Sibley, and Griffith, + Brother & Co. + </p> + <p> + This noble act of generosity and kindness, on the part of my friends, to + furnish me with the means to commence business, especially when their + prospect was anything but flattering, regarding my ever being able to + refund their well-timed and gracious liberality,—affected me more + deeply than all the censure and persecution I had elsewhere received. + Their frown and displeasure, I was better prepared to meet than this + considerate act of Christian sympathy, which I am not ashamed to say + melted me to tears, and I resolved to show my appreciation of their + kindness by an industry and diligence in business hitherto unsurpassed. + </p> + <p> + E. Bardwell, then a merchant on Exchange Street, next laid me under a + lasting obligation by offering to sell me goods on credit; others + proffered assistance by promising their continual patronage, which was to + me the same as cash,—and soon the store I had opened on Main Street, + was doing an extensive business. My profits were small to be sure, and I + had a heavy rent to pay for my store and dwelling, yet I was making a + comfortable living for my family, and laying by something to reimburse the + kind friends who had helped me in the time of need, when I found that the + health of my family required more of my time and assistance than ever + before. My oldest daughter, who, I have before mentioned, having taken a + violent cold on Lake Erie, was now confined to her bed. All that could be + done to save the life of a darling child—our first born—was + done; and if we sometimes went beyond our means, it was a satisfaction to + us to see her enjoy some of the comforts of life of which my mission to + Canada had deprived her. One physician after another was employed to stay + the approach of the destroyer: some said they could cure her, if paid in + advance; to all of which I cheerfully acceded, but only to see our beloved + sink lower, and patiently pine away. + </p> + <p> + No one but a parent who has watched the rapid decline of a darling child, + and marked with a bursting heart the approaching footsteps of the spoiler, + can imagine how powerless we felt at that time. The wealth of the Indias, + had we possessed it, would have been freely given, although it would have + been unavailing, to shield that loved and gentle form from pain, and we + were obliged to look hopelessly on, while our little patient, suffering + daughter sank lower and lower every day. In vain were our parental arms + outstretched for her protection; from death we could not save her. She had + long since ceased to glide about the house, and soothe with her silvery + tones all the childish fears of the little ones. Helpless she now lay, + burning with fever, and wasting from our sight, "till soft as the dew on + the twilight descending," the cold damps of death gathered on her youthful + brow. One pleasant morning after passing a restless night, I observed her + to gaze earnestly upward, and a moment after I called her name but + received no answer. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Her languishing head was at rest; + Its thinkings and achings were o'er; + Her quiet, immoveable breast, + Was heaved by affliction no more." +</pre> + <p> + On the fifteenth day of April, 1837, she sweetly fell asleep, aged eleven + years. Sorrowfully we followed her remains to Mount Hope, where we laid + her down to rest until the resurrection morning. Death had now made its + first inroad in our family circle, and since then we have laid two other + loved ones by her side. We sorrowed, but not without hope. + </p> + <p> + My business continued to prosper, and I concluded to buy a small variety + store, containing some three or four hundred dollars worth of goods on the + corner of Main and North Streets, formerly owned by Mr. Snow, but, having + two stores on my hands, I did not make much by the trade. + </p> + <p> + The first summer after I returned to Rochester, the friends of temperance + made a fine celebration, and gave me the privilege of providing the + dinner. + </p> + <p> + I considered it not only a privilege, but an honor, and felt very grateful + to the committee who conferred the favor upon me. + </p> + <p> + The celebration came off on the Fourth of July, and was indeed a splendid + affair. The multitude were addressed on the public square, by some of the + best speakers in the country. I laid in a large quantity of provisions of + every available kind, built a bower, hired waiters, and prepared seats for + five hundred to dine; but when the oration was over, and the multitude + came to the table, I found that as many more seats were wanted. We, + however, accommodated as many as we could, at one dollar each, and all + passed off well, to the great satisfaction of all concerned. + </p> + <p> + When all was over, and the friends learned that I had on hand a large + amount of cooked provision, they continued their kindness by purchasing + it, thus preventing any loss on my part. + </p> + <p> + My store on the corner of Main and North Streets, was at the head of the + market, and I was enabled to supply both of my stores with country produce + on the best possible terms. I kept two clerks at each store, and all + seemed prosperous for a time, when from some cause, which I could never + understand, my business began to fail. My family had ever lived prudently, + and I knew that was not the cause. I thought to better my circumstances by + taking a store in the Rochester House, but that proved to be a bad stand + for my business, and after one year, I removed to Buffalo Street, opposite + the Court House. I ought to say, that as soon as I found that my income + was getting less than my expenses, I went to the gentlemen who had loaned + me the five hundred dollars, and showed them the true state of my affairs, + and they kindly agreed to take fifty per cent., which I paid them. + </p> + <p> + After locating on Buffalo Street, I took in a partner, named John Lee, a + young man, active and industrious, who paid into the firm three hundred + dollars, with which we bought goods. With what I had on hand, this raised + the joint stock to about a thousand dollars, on which we were making + frequent additions, and on which we had an insurance of six hundred + dollars. Our business was now more prosperous than at any previous time, + and we began to look up with hope and confidence in our final success. One + night I returned to my home as usual, leaving Lee in the store. About + twelve o'clock, Mr. Morris awoke me with a few loud raps, and the + announcement that my store was on fire and a part of my goods in the + street! I hastened to the place, where I found, as he had said, what was + saved from the fire piled up in the street and the fire extinguished. The + building was greatly damaged and the goods they rescued were nearly + ruined. Now we were thrown out of business, and the firm was dissolved. + With the assistance of W.S. Bishop, a lawyer, we made out the amount of + damage, which was readily paid by the agent for the insurance company. + </p> + <p> + When the Fourth of July came round again, the temperance men resolved on + having another demonstration, and as before, I was requested to supply the + dinner, which I did, after the same manner as the year previous. + </p> + <p> + Having been thrown out of business by the fire, I began to examine my + pecuniary matters, and found that I was some three or four hundred dollars + in debt, which I had no means of paying. True, I had met with a great + misfortune, but I felt that to be an honest man I must meet all + obligations, whether legally bound to do so or not; yet it was beyond my + power at that time, and I finally concluded to leave the city, and try to + better my condition by some other business, or at least to clear myself + from debt. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0035" id="link2HCH0035"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXV. — BISHOP BROWN—DEATH OF MY DAUGHTER. + </h2> + <p> + I removed with my family to the village of Canandaigua, where I commenced + teaching a school for colored children, assisted by my daughter. The + school was sustained partly by the liberality of the citizens of the + village, and partly by donations from abroad. It was continued two years, + and the children made rapid progress while they were under our tuition. + </p> + <p> + Soon after I left Rochester, I visited New York city, and while there, I + joined "The African Methodist Episcopal Conference." Bishop Brown, of + Philadelphia, presided over the deliberations of that body, and appeared + to be a man of deep piety, as well as apt in business, and was a native of + one of the Carolinas. I found a pleasing acquaintance also, with Bishop + Walters of Baltimore, Md. He was small in stature; but a powerful speaker, + and discharged every duty with "an eye single to the glory of God." He has + now gone to give an account of his stewardship, and I pray that "his + mantle may fall" upon one as capable of leading our people as he. The + conference consisted of some sixty or seventy ministers of the gospel, + with these two Bishops at their head. The conference continued its session + ten days. When it was closed, Bishop Brown, with several others, started + on a visit to the West. They called at Rochester, and then passed over to + Canada, where a conference was to be holden. We arrived, after a pleasant + journey, at Hamilton, where the English government have a regiment of + black soldiers stationed. It was common, in passing through the streets of + Hamilton, to meet every few rods, a colored man in uniform, with a sword + at his side, marching about in all the military pomp allowed only to white + men in this <i>free republic</i>. + </p> + <p> + All being in readiness, Bishop Brown opened the conference under the + authority of Her Britannic Majesty, with great solemnity, which seemed to + be felt by the whole assembly. This meeting appeared to me far more + interesting than the one we had attended in New York city. The colored + people were much more numerous in Hamilton, and in far better + circumstances than in New York. It is a hard case to be poor in any large + city, but to be both poor and black, as was the condition of the majority + of our friends in New York, was indeed a terrible calamity. Every class, + no matter how worthless they might be, would be allowed to rent a house in + preference to a colored man. The consequence was, our people were crowded + back into the most unhealthy alleys, in old dilapidated tenements unfit + for human beings to dwell in, and such as could not be disposed of to any + other class of people. I am happy to say, however, that a favorable change + has taken place in New York, since the time of which I am speaking. + Capitalists have noted the good reputation of the colored people as + tenants, and have of late erected good dwellings for their accommodation. + In Hamilton there was none of that wretchedness and squalid poverty, nor + any of that drunken rowdyism so common in Eastern cities, perceivable + among the colored people. + </p> + <p> + Our conference was largely attended by all classes, both black and white, + —many of the latter invited the Bishop with his associates to their + dwellings to dine, indeed we seldom took a meal at our lodgings, so + constantly were we solicited by friends to accompany them home. + </p> + <p> + We also found many fugitive slaves in that city, many of whom were + intelligent mechanics. Some of them took us about the place, showing us + the different buildings they were engaged in erecting; quite a number were + employed in building a church which appeared to be done in a workman-like + manner. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime our meeting was progressing in a very interesting manner, + and when the closing services were commenced, the house was filled to + overflowing; still many could not be accommodated. The preaching was + solemn and impressive, and it really seemed to me that the glory of God + filled the house in which we worshipped; saints rejoiced and shouted + "glory to God, in the highest," while sinners trembled and cried out, + "what must we do to be saved from the wrath to come." There were several + hopeful conversions during the session of conference; and after its close + we spent one day in making social calls, and viewing the city and its + surroundings. + </p> + <p> + Burlington Bay makes an excellent harbor for shipping, while Burlington + Heights loom up on the north in all their wild and terrific grandeur. Near + the bay resides Mr. McNab, so notorious in the history of the Canadian + revolution. We went in a large company to look at his beautiful grounds + and residence, over which we were politely conducted by his amiable lady. + </p> + <p> + It was indeed a lordly mansion, with its surroundings laid out in the + English style of princely magnificence. + </p> + <p> + On our return to the city at evening, we were invited to attend a grand + soiree, got up in honor of the Bishop's first visit to that place. Several + families of colored people combined to provide the splendid entertainment, + while one lady presided at the board. She was very beautiful and very + dark; but a complete model of grace and elegance, conversing with perfect + ease and intelligence with all, both black and white ministers, who + surrounded the festive board, as well as our Irish friends, not a few of + whom were present. One honest son of the Emerald Isle entered, and not + understanding the matter, inquired of his brother "Pat," in rather a loud + whisper, "What's all them nagurs setting to that table for?" He, however, + soon satisfied himself, and all passed off quietly and in excellent order. + At a late hour the company, after a benediction, withdrew and dispersed. + </p> + <p> + We left Hamilton the following morning, feeling grateful and pleased with + our meeting and visit. + </p> + <p> + It was a beautiful morning; the lake was still, no sound was heard but the + rushing waves, as our boat moved on through its placid waters, toward our + destination, then called Fort George, now Niagara, where we took stage for + the Falls. + </p> + <p> + At that place of resort, we stopped to view the stupendous work of + Almighty God, and listen to the ceaseless thundering of the cataract. How + tame appear the works of art, and how insignificant the bearing of proud, + puny man, compared with the awful grandeur of that natural curiosity. Yet + there, the rich from all parts of the world, do congregate! There you will + find the idle, swaggering slaveholder, blustering about in lordly style; + boasting of his wealth; betting and gambling; ready to fight, if his + slightest wish is not granted, and lavishing his cash on all who have the + least claim upon him. Ah, well can he afford to be liberal,—well can + he afford to spend thousands yearly at our Northern watering places; he + has plenty of human chattels at home, toiling year after year for his + benefit. The little hoe-cake he gives them, takes but a mill of the wealth + with which they fill his purse; and should his extravagance lighten it + somewhat, he has only to order his brutal overseer to sell—soul and + body —some poor creature; perchance a husband, or a wife, or a + child, and forward to him the proceeds of the sale. While the wretched + slave marches South with a gang, under the lash, he lavishes his funds in + extravagant living,—funds gathered from the tears and blood of a + helpless human being. Have you, dear reader, ever watched the slaveholder + at such places as I have, gliding through the shady groves, or riding in + his splendid carriage, dressed in the richest attire, and with no wish + ungratified that gold can purchase; and have you ever been guilty of + envying him, or of wishing yourself in his condition? If so, think of the + curse which rests on him who grinds the face of the poor. Think of his + doom in the day of final retribution, when he shall receive at the bar of + a righteous Judge, "according to the deeds done in the body," and not + according to his wealth and power. Think you, that the prayers, cries, and + pleadings of the down-trodden slave that for years have been ascending to + the throne of a just God, will never be avenged? Yea, verily, the day of + reckoning hastens on apace, and though, "He bear long with them; He will + surely avenge them of their adversaries; and that speedily!" + </p> + <p> + As we pursued our journey to Buffalo, we passed Grand Island, from whence + Mordecai Emanuel Noah, some years ago issued a proclamation, calling on + the Jews to come and build on that island the "City of Refuge," but which + I believe was not responded to, as I saw it remained in its native + wildness. He had also a monument erected there at the time, which might be + seen from the highway and canal, consisting of a white marble slab, six + feet in height, with a suitable inscription upon it, to direct the poor + Jew to the City of Refuge. + </p> + <p> + It was quite conspicuous, but not so magnificent as Gen. Brock's at + Queenston Heights. + </p> + <p> + Arrived at Buffalo, we held several meetings which were very interesting. + The colored people were then numerous in that city, and owned one of the + largest churches in Western New York. We found a large and prosperous + society under the superintendence of Elder Weir, who was a good and + talented man, setting a godly example for his flock to imitate. At Buffalo + I parted with my pleasant and instructive traveling companion, Bishop + Brown, never to meet again on the shores of time. Soon after that pleasant + journey he died, and passed from his labor to reward. + </p> + <p> + Buffalo was then, as now a great place for business. Vessels from all + parts of the country crowded the docks, and I then thought that it must in + time become one of the largest cities in the Union. After a pleasant visit + with our people there, I returned to my home in Canandaigua, where I now + began to feel quite settled. + </p> + <p> + I had been requested to act as agent for the "Anti-Slavery Standard," with + which I complied, and leaving my daughter to teach the school, I spent the + most of my time in traveling through the country to advance the interests + of that paper. + </p> + <p> + When I returned from Buffalo, she was complaining of poor health, nor was + it long before we saw that she was rapidly declining. + </p> + <p> + This beloved daughter, I had spared no pains nor money to educate and + qualify for teaching. I had encountered all the trials and difficulties + that every colored man meets, in his exertions to educate his family. I + had experienced enough to make me fear that I should not always be able to + get my children, into good schools, and therefore determined at whatever + cost, to educate this child thoroughly, that she might be able, not only + to provide for her own wants, but to teach her younger brothers and + sisters, should they be deprived of the advantages of a good school. Well + had she rewarded my labor; well had she realized all my fondest hopes and + expectations,—but alas! for human foresight and worldly wisdom! The + accomplishments and qualifications of a teacher were attained; and proudly + we looked for the achievement of our long-contemplated design. How hard to + believe that the fell destroyer was upon her track! Her education had + qualified her for teaching the sciences; but now I saw, that her faith in + the religion of the blessed Christ, was assisting her to teach her own + heart a lesson of patience, and quiet submission to the will of Him who + holds the issues of life,—and Oh, how difficult for us to learn the + solemn lesson, that her wasting form, her gradual sinking away, was hourly + setting before us. + </p> + <p> + Slowly her strength failed; she, however, saw our sorrowful anxiety, and + would try to relieve it with a cheerful appearance. One day perhaps she + would be able to walk about, which would revive our wavering hope; the + next she was prostrate and suffering; then hope died and we were sad! All + the spring time she languished; the summer came, the roses bloomed, and + the grain began to ripen, but she was wasting away. The orchard yielded + its golden harvest; the birds sang merrily on the trees, but a dark shadow + had fallen on our hearthstone, and a gloom, like the pall of death, rested + on our household. Her place at table was already vacant; no longer she + called the little ones about her to hear them repeat their tasks,—all + of which admonished us, that soon the bed where we could now see her, + would be vacated; and we should no longer witness her patient smile, and + know that she was still with us. The pastor of the Baptist church often + called to pray with, and for, the quiet sufferer, which she appreciated + very highly, for she was a Christian in every sense of the word. + </p> + <p> + On the thirtieth day of August, at about eleven o'clock, A.M., without a + struggle or a groan, her spirit returned to God who gave it. "Sweetly as + babes sleep," she sank into the embrace of death. Happily, triumphantly, + had she seen the grim messenger approach; but she knew whom she had + believed, and that He was able to keep that which she had committed to + Him, unto the resurrection of the just. + </p> + <p> + She had previously made a confession of her faith in Christ, and had been + buried with Him in baptism. A few days after her demise, a long, sad train + wound its way to the village church yard, where we deposited the remains + of our beloved,—Patience Jane Steward, in the eighteenth year of her + age; and then returned to our desolate house, to realize that she had left + a world of pain and sorrow, where the fairest rose conceals a thorn, the + sweetest cup a bitter drop, for a home where the flowers would never fade, + and where pain, sorrow and death will never come. We all felt the solemn + and impressive warning, "Be ye also ready, for in such an hour as ye think + not, the Son of Man cometh." + </p> + <p> + As often as I recalled her triumphant, peaceful death, her firm reliance + on God, and sweet submission to His will, I could not forbear contrasting + her departure with that of Mrs. Helm, whose death I have elsewhere + described; and could fervently pray, that I might live the life of the + righteous, that my last end might be like hers. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Behold the Western evening light, + It melts in deep'ning gloom; + So calmly Christians sink away, + Descending to the tomb. + + The winds breathe low, the withering leaf + Scarce whispers from the tree,— + So gently flows the parting breath, + When good folks cease to be. + + How beautiful on all the hills, + The crimson light is shed; + 'Tis like the peace the Christian gives, + To mourners round his bed. + + How mildly on the wandering cloud, + The sunset beam is cast,— + 'Tis like the mem'ry left behind, + When loved ones breathe their last. + + And now above the dews of night, + The yellow star appears; + So faith springs in the breast of those, + Whose eyes are bathed in tears. + + But soon the morning's happier light, + Its glory shall restore; + And eyelids that are sealed in death, + Shall wake to close no more." +</pre> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0036" id="link2HCH0036"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXVI. — CELEBRATION OF THE FIRST OF AUGUST. + </h2> + <p> + The anti-slavery friends in Canandaigua, had resolved to celebrate the + anniversary of the West India emancipation, in suitable manner in that + village, for which funds had been unsparingly collected, to defray the + expenses of the coming demonstration. The first of August, 1847, fell on + Sunday, and our people concluded to devote that day to religious meetings, + and the second to their proposed celebration. + </p> + <p> + Frederick Douglass and Mr. Van Loon, from Poughkeepsie, addressed the + people on the Sabbath; and also, on the same evening, a large concourse at + the Court House. The day following, there were not less than ten thousand + people assembled on the beautiful grounds, belonging to the village + Academy-attentive listeners all to the eloquent speeches delivered, and + interested spectators of the imposing exercises. + </p> + <p> + When the vast multitude had convened, the exercises were commenced by the + Rev. S.R. Ward, who addressed the throne of grace, after which, Mr. + Frederick Douglass delivered an oration, in a style of eloquence which + only Mr. Douglass himself can equal, followed by a song from the Geneva + choir, and music by Barring's band. Rev. H.H. Garnet, editor of "The + National Watchman," next spake, and with marked effect, followed by + Messrs. Ward and Douglass; after which, the assemblage formed a + procession, and marching to the Canandaigua Hotel, partook of a sumptuous + dinner, provided by the proprietor of that house. At six P.M., they again + assembled on the square, and were most eloquently addressed by both Ward + and Garnet; at the close, they repaired to the ladies' fair, where they + found everything in a condition which spake well for the enterprise and + industry of our colored sisters. Their articles for sale, were of a choice + and considerate selection, and such as sold rapidly and at fair prices. + When all was pleasantly over, the ladies contributed twenty dollars toward + paying the speakers present. + </p> + <p> + A most beautiful ode was composed by a warm and generous friend of the + cause, which was sung in the grove, in a spirit which produced a thrilling + interest. Gladly would I give the reader the whole composition, but its + length makes it objectionable for this place, but should they happen to + hear a soul-stirring and sublime ode, commencing with, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Hail! to this day returning; + Let all to Heaven aspire," &c., +</pre> + <p> + they may know it is the one to which I refer. + </p> + <p> + It was indeed, a glorious day for the colored population generally; and + many were the indications of a diminution of that prejudice so prevalent + everywhere. Some, who had supposed the colored man so inferior to + themselves as to be incapable of making an interesting speech, were + convinced of their error, after hearing Messrs. Douglass, Ward and Garnet. + Mr. Van Loon was a white clergyman, but a brother indeed; his soul + illumined by the pure light of the gospel of peace; his heart full of + sympathy for the oppressed; his tongue pleading eloquently for equal + rights; and his hands busily engaged in breaking every yoke, resting on + the necks of poor humanity. So vigorously, so zealously did he unfold the + horrors of the slave system; so truthfully and faithfully did he expose + the treachery of northern politicians, and so pathetically did he appeal + to the humanity of every professed Christian to speak out boldly for the + dumb; to shield, by the holy principles of their religion, the poor, + bound, illiterate slave, from Southern cruelty and bondage,—that + some of our aristocratic citizens, some of our white savans, repaid his + truthful eloquence, by visiting upon him the bitterest maledictions. From + the negro, said they, we will accept these statements as true,—from + him, they are pertinent and forcible; but when such unpalatable truths are + uttered by a white clergyman, we cannot abide, nor will we listen to them! + </p> + <p> + Let consistency blush, and justice hang down its head! Is not truth the + same, whether proclaimed by black or white,—bond or free? Is a + falsehood to be pardoned because uttered by a negro? If indeed, as was + admitted, the sentiments expressed by our eloquent colored speakers, were + <i>true</i>, could they be false, when enforced by our intellectual + friend, Van Loon? Certainly not; nor would the case have been so decided + by these Solons, in any other case: or where the prejudice against color + had not warped and blinded their otherwise good judgments. Our speaker, + however, performed his duty faithfully, and with great satisfaction to the + colored people and their true friends present. + </p> + <p> + The remains of this fearless champion of liberty; this humble disciple of + the despised Nazarene, now sleeps in death, beside the placid waters of + the Hudson, while his cherished memory lives in the affections of + thousands, who "are ready to perish," and is honored by the pure in heart, + wherever his name has been known throughout the land. In the day of final + reckoning, think you, he will regret having plead the cause of the + bondman? Ah, no; nor can we doubt that to him will be rendered the welcome + plaudits: "Well done, good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy + of thy Lord. Thou hast been faithful over a few things; I will make thee a + ruler over many things." What then are the few light afflictions endured + in this life, when compared with "an eternal weight of glory," awarded to + the faithful in that which is to come? + </p> + <p> + Pleasant, happy, and beneficial, as had been the reunion of old and tried + friends, to celebrate a glorious event, yet, like all earthly enjoyments, + it was brought to a termination, reluctant as were the friends to + separate. Since that day, many have been the demonstrations of grateful + joy and gladness on the glorious anniversary of the emancipation of slaves + on the West India Islands; and yet, in this boasted "land of the free, and + home of the brave;" this famous and declared <i>free</i> Republic,—the + American slave still clanks his heavy chain, and wears the galling yoke of + the bondman! + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0037" id="link2HCH0037"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXVII. — CONCLUSION. + </h2> + <p> + For several years past, anti-slavery truth has been spreading, and in + proportion as light has shone upon the "peculiar institution," exposing to + the world its crimes and blood,—enstamping upon its frontlet, "THE + SUM OF ALL VILLAINIES,"—has the wrath of the impious slaveholder + been kindled, and his arm outstretched to strengthen the chain, and press + closer the yoke upon the helpless slave, proving conclusively that he + loves darkness because his deeds are evil. Nor is this all; he and his + apologists will insolently tell you, that <i>you</i> are the guilty ones + who have tightened the bonds of the slave, increased his hardships, and + blighted his prospect of freedom, by your mistaken kindness, in showing + the slaveholder the enormity of his sin! Can this be so? Have we any + direct influence over his human chattels? None. Then who is it that rivets + the chain and increases the already heavy burden of the crushed slave, but + he who has the power to do with him as he wills? He it is, who has been + thrust, unwillingly perhaps, into sufficient light to show him his moral + corruption, and the character of the sin he is daily committing; he it is, + whose avarice and idleness induces to hold fast that which is to him a + source of wealth,— and by no means to allow the same light to fall + in upon the darkened intellect of his slave property, lest his riches + "take to themselves wings;" or, as may be more properly said, <i>take to + themselves legs and run away</i>. + </p> + <p> + What stronger proof can we ask in favor of our position, than the + intolerant spirit of the South? If the system and practice of Slavery is a + righteous one, instituted by an All-wise God, certainly no human power— + especially one so impotent and futile as the abolition power is said to be + —can ever overthrow it. Why then are the mails so closely examined, + and fines imposed on prohibited anti-slavery documents? Is it beyond their + power to confute the arguments adduced, or are they fearful that a ray of + Northern light may fall on the mind of some listening slave, and direct + him to the depot of an under-ground railroad? Judge ye! + </p> + <p> + What but this same fearful and intolerant spirit,—this over-bearing, + boasting spirit, was it, that cowardly attacked a Christian Senator, while + seated unsuspectingly at his desk, and felled him to the floor, bleeding + and senseless? Was not the villainous blow which fell upon the honored + head of CHARLES SUMNER, dealt by the infamous Brooks of South Carolina, + aimed at the free speech of the entire North? Was it, think you, a + personal enmity that the cowardly scoundrel had toward our worthy Northern + Senator, which induced the attack? No, no. Brooks spake for the South, and + boldly has it responded—Amen! + </p> + <p> + It has said through its representatives, that you Northerners are becoming + too bold in speaking of our sin, and we will use brute force to repel it— + an argument with which we are familiar. You have told us that we ought not + to hold slaves, nor extend slave territory, which will in a measure + destroy our slave market, and prove injurious to our slave-breeding + population. You have told us we have no right to usurp Kansas,—no + right to murder "Free State men," and no right to sustain there, a set of + "ruffians" to make Kansas a slave State. You have told us, that we have no + right to live on the unrequited toil of our slaves; nor to sell them to + the highest bidder; nor spend the proceeds of the sale in idle + extravagance. Now know, all ye Northerners, by this cowardly blow on the + devoted head of your honored and respected Senator, that we shall no + longer permit you to tell us such unpalatable truths, nor allow you the + privilege of free speech! We have too long held the balance of power in + the government to yield it now; and we give you to know, that whatever we + ask of this government, we expect to obtain; nor will we hear any of your + objections. When we desire you to turn blood-hound, and hunt for us our + fugitive slaves, we expect you to do it, and to see them returned to their + masters, without a murmur on your part. Should you object or dare refuse, + we shall certainly <i>cane somebody</i>, or else do what we have + threatened for the last quarter of a century,—"DISSOLVE THE UNION!" + Bah! + </p> + <p> + My house has ever been open to the fugitive slaves; but more particularly + when I resided in Rochester, did I have occasion to see and feel the + distresses of that class of persons; and it appears to me, that the heart + must be of adamant, that can turn coldly away from the pleadings of the + poor, frightened, flying fugitive from Southern bondage. + </p> + <p> + For many years past, I have been a close and interested observer of my + race, both free and enslaved. I have observed with great pleasure, the + gradual improvement in intelligence and condition of the free colored + people of the North. In proportion as prejudice has diminished, they have + gradually advanced; nor can I believe that there is any other great + impediment in the way to a higher state of improvement. That prejudice + against color is not destroyed, we very well know. Its effects may be seen + in our down-cast, discouraged, and groveling countrymen, if no where else. + Notwithstanding the late diminution, it exists in many of our hotels: some + of them would as soon admit the dog from his kennel, at table, as the + colored man; nevertheless, he is sought as a waiter; allowed to prepare + their choicest dishes, and permitted to serve the white man, who would + sneer and scorn to eat beside him. Prejudice is found also, in many of our + schools,—even in those to which colored children are admitted; there + is so much distinction made by prejudice, that the poor, timid colored + children might about as well stay at home, as go to a school where they + feel that they are looked upon as inferior, however much they may try to + excel. + </p> + <p> + Nor is that hateful prejudice—so injurious to the soul, and all the + best interests of the negro—excluded from the professed church of + Christ. Oh, no; we often find it in the house of worship, in all its cruel + rigor. Where people assemble to worship a pure and holy God, who can look + upon no sin with allowance—the creator of all, both white and black,—and + where people professing to walk in the footsteps of the meek and quiet + Jesus, who has taught us to esteem others better than ourselves; we often + see the lip of some professed saint, curled in scorn at a dusky face, or a + scowl of disapprobation if a colored person sits elsewhere than by the + door or on the stairs. How long, O Lord, must these things be! + </p> + <p> + Of my enslaved brethren, nothing so gratifies me, as to hear of their + escape from bondage; and since the passage of that iniquitous "Fugitive + Slave Bill," I have watched with renewed interest the movements of the + fugitives, not only from Slavery direct, but those who have been compelled + to flee from the nominally free States, and ask the protection of a + monarchial government, to save them from their owners in a land of boasted + liberty! + </p> + <p> + The knowledge I have of the colored men in Canada, their strength and + condition, would cause me to tremble for these United States, should a war + ever ensue between the English and American governments, which I pray may + never occur. These fugitives may be thought to be a class of poor, + thriftless, illiterate creatures, like the Southern slaves, but it is not + so. They are no longer slaves; many of whom have been many years free men, + and a large number were never slaves. They are a hardy, robust class of + men; very many of them, men of superior intellect; and men who feel deeply + the wrongs they have endured. Driven as they have been from their native + land; unprotected by the government under which they were born, and would + gladly have died,—they would in all probability, in case of a + rupture, take up arms in defense of the government which has protected + them and the country of their adoption. England could this day, very + readily collect a regiment of stalwart colored men, who, having felt the + oppression of our laws, would fight with a will not inferior to that which + actuated our revolutionary forefathers. + </p> + <p> + And what inducement, I ask, have colored men to defend with their lives + the United States in any case; and what is there to incite them to deeds + of bravery? + </p> + <p> + Wherever men are called upon to take up arms in defense of a country, + there is always a consciousness of approaching wrong and oppression, which + arouses their patriotism and incites to deeds of daring. They look abroad + over fields of their own cultivation; they behold too, churches, schools, + and various institutions, provided by their labor, for generations yet to + come; they see their homes, their cherished hearthstone, about to be + desecrated, and their wives and little ones, with their aged sires, + exposed to the oppression of a ruthless foe. Then, with what cheerful and + thrilling enthusiasm, steps forward the husband, the father, the brother, + and bares his bosom to the sword,—his head to the storm of the + battle-field, in defence of his country's freedom, and the God-given + rights of himself and family! But what sees the oppressed negro? He sees a + proud and haughty nation, whose Congressmen yearly meet to plot his ruin + and perpetuate his bondage! He beholds, it is true, a few Christ-like + champions, who rise up with bleeding hearts to defend his cause; but while + his eye kindles with grateful emotion, he sees the bludgeon of the South— + already reeking in the blood of freemen—raised and ready to fall + with murderous intent upon the head of any one, who, like the illustrious + Sumner, dare open his mouth in defence of Freedom, or speak of the wrongs + of the poor negro, and the sins of the Southern autocrat! + </p> + <p> + What inducement then, has the slave to shoulder his musket, when the + American drum beats the call, "To Arms! To Arms!" Does he not remember + that the wife of his bosom; the children,—"bone of his bone, and + flesh of his flesh,"—and the rude hearth-stone they for a time are + allowed to surround, belong not to himself, but to the tyrannical master, + who claims dominion over all he possesses. As his property then, let the + slave owner go forth in defence of his own, and lay down his life if he + please; but the poor slave has no home, no family to protect; no country + to defend; nor does he care to assist in sustaining a government that + instead of offering him protection, drives him from the soil which has + been cultivated by his own labor,—to beg at the hand of England's + Queen, "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." + </p> + <p> + Humiliating as it is for an American citizen to name these things, they + are nevertheless true; and I would to God that America would arise in her + native majesty, and divest herself of the foul stain, which Slavery has + cast upon her otherwise pure drapery! Then would she be no longer a + hissing and by-word among the nations; but indeed what she professes to + be, "the land of the free, and the home of the brave;" an asylum for the + oppressed of every clime. + </p> + <p> + But should the monarchial government of England call for the services of + the colored man, freely would his heart's blood be poured out in her + defence,—not because he has a particular preference for that form of + government; not because he has ceased to love his native country,—but + because she has acknowledged his manhood, and given him a home to defend. + Beneath the floating banner of the British Lion, he finds inducements to + lay down his life, if need be, in defence of his own broad acres, his + family and fireside,—all of which were denied him under the Stars + and Stripes of his fatherland. But a short time ago, the colored men of + Cincinnati, O., were promptly denied the privilege they had solicited, to + join with other citizens, in celebrating the anniversary of WASHINGTON'S + Birth Day! Oh, no; there must be no colored man in the company, met to + honor him who still lives in the heart of every American citizen,—"the + father of his country,"—and yet, who scorned not to sleep beside his + faithful negro! Nor did the nephew of the illustrious General, despise the + command of the black regiment, which Gen. Jackson so proudly commended for + their bravery, and bestowed upon it his personal thanks, for their + services on the field of battle. + </p> + <p> + Do the Northern or Free States of the Union think to clear their skirts of + the abomination of Slavery, by saying that they own no slaves? Very true. + But is the poor, flying fugitive from the house of bondage, safe one + moment within your borders? Will he be welcomed to your homes, your + tables, your firesides? Will your clergymen bid you clothe and feed him, + or give him a cup of cold water, in the name of a disciple of that holy + Christ, who has said,—"inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the + least of these little ones, ye have done it unto me?"—Or will your + own miserable Fugitive Slave Law, close the mouth of your clergy; crush + down the rising benevolence of your heart; and convert you into a human + blood-hound, to hunt down the panting fugitive, and return him to the hell + of Slavery? Oh, my God!—the fact is too horrible to acknowledge, and + yet it is a stubborn one. Not on one foot of land under the broad folds of + Columbia's banner, can the slave say, "I am free!" Hungry, naked, and + forlorn, he must flee onward; nor stop short of the outstretched arms of + an English Queen. Yet, thanks be to our Heavenly Father, that all have not + bowed the knee to the Southern autocrat or slave power. A few noble souls, + thank God, remain, who, in defiance of iniquitous laws, throw open wide + their doors to the trembling, fleeing bondman, whose purses are freely + emptied to supply his wants, and help him on in his flight to the British + dominion. But can these out-gushings of a benevolent heart—the + purest impulses of a noble nature—be permitted to flow out + spontaneously, in open daylight? Alas, no! You must be quiet; make no + noise, lest an United States' Marshal wrest from you the object of your + Christian sympathy, and impose on you a heavy fine, for your daring to do + to another as you would he should do to you. + </p> + <p> + Is not the necessity of an "<i>under ground railroad</i>," a disgrace to + the laws of any country? Certainly it is; yet I thank God, that it does + afford a means of escape to many, and I pray that the blessings of Heaven + may ever rest upon those who willingly superintend its interests. Oh, my + country! When will thy laws, just and equal, supersede this humiliating + necessity! + </p> + <p> + Is my reader about to throw the blame of our nation's wrong on England, + and accuse her of first tolerating Slavery? We admit it; but did she not + repent of the evil she had done, and speedily break every yoke, and let + the oppressed go free? Certainly; no slave now breathes in England's + atmosphere. But, say you, her white poor are slaves to the aristocracy, + from which sentiment I beg leave to differ. Oppressed they may be, and + doubtless are, as the poor are apt to be in any and every country; but + they are not sold in the market, to the highest bidder, like beasts of + burden, as are the American slaves. No Englishman, however poor, + destitute, or degraded he may be, but owns himself, his wife and children; + nor does he fear that they be sold and torn from his embrace, while he is + laboring for their support. Poverty, my friend, does not comprise the + bitterness of Slavery, no more than "one swallow makes a summer,"—nor + does it consist solely in ignorance and degradation. Its bitterness arises + from a consciousness of wrong; a sense of the violation of every right God + has given to man, and the uncertainty of his future, over which he has no + control. + </p> + <p> + If the American people flatter themselves with the idea of getting rid of + the hated negro race, by colonizing them on the sickly soil of Liberia, or + any other country, they will surely find themselves mistaken. They are + Americans; allied to this country by birth and by misfortune; and here + will they remain,—not always as now, oppressed and degraded,—for + all who have any interest in the matter, well know that the free colored + people, are rapidly advancing in intelligence, and improving their + condition in every respect. Men of learning and genius, are now found + among those with fleecy locks, and good mechanics with dusky complexion. + </p> + <p> + This marked improvement in the condition and rapid advancement in + intelligence among our people, seems to have alarmed the colonizationists, + and made them fearful that those very down-trodden slaves, who have for + years labored for nought; whose blood and tears have fertilized the + Southern soil, may, perchance, become their equals in intelligence, and + take vengeance on their oppressors for the wrongs done them; and lest they + should do so, they would gladly remove them to some far-off country. + </p> + <p> + Yet here, in North America, will the colored race remain, and ere long in + my opinion, become a great people, equal with the proud Anglo-Saxon in all + things. The African has once been a powerful nation, before Christian + Englishmen invaded her coasts with rum, and incited her chiefs to war, by + purchasing with gaudy, but worthless trinkets, her conquered captives; and + we have every reason to believe, that though her glory as a nation has + departed, that her sons will yet be acknowledged free men by the white + population of this country. + </p> + <p> + There have been black generals in the world before Napoleon was born, and + there may be again; and to-day, notwithstanding all the prejudice against + color, that everywhere exists in this guilty nation, there are men of + talent among us, inferior to none on the earth; nor are their numbers few, + though rapidly increasing. + </p> + <p> + Well may the South arouse herself, form societies, replenish its treasury + with a tax imposed on the free colored people, to defray the expense of + sending manumitted slaves to Liberia! + </p> + <p> + Listen a moment to the cant of the colonizationist. Hear him talk of the + duty he owes to Africa, and how happy, how intelligent, how prosperous + everything is in Liberia. But when that delightful country asks to be + taken into fellowship with the United States, and to have her independence + recognized—ah, then he lifts his hands in horror and begs to be + excused from so close a relation. + </p> + <p> + This is all cant, in my humble opinion; and when I see men so anxious to + send the negro out of their sight, I feel quite certain that they are + conscious of having deeply wronged him, and think to remove him, to atone + for their guilty consciences. Would they refuse to acknowledge the + independence of Liberia, if their interest in the colored people was + genuine, especially when several other nations had done so? Oh, no. But + that is not "<i>the rub</i>." How could one of our lordly nabobs of the + South, sit in Congress with perhaps one of his own manumitted slaves as a + representative from Liberia or Hayti! He would die of mortification. Very + well then; but let him talk no more of sending colored men to that country + to make them free men. + </p> + <p> + The colored people generally, I am happy to say, have a right conception + of the colonization plan, and will never be induced to go to Africa, + unless they go as missionaries to the heathen tribes, who certainly should + have the gospel preached to them. Some, from a sense of duty, may go as + teachers,—which is all well enough,—but certain it is, that no + amount of prejudice or abuse, will ever induce the colored race to leave + this country. Long have they been oppressed; but they are rising-coming up + to an elevated standard, and are fast gathering strength and courage, for + the great and coming conflict with their haughty oppressors. + </p> + <p> + That there must be ere long, a sharp contest between the friends of + Freedom and the Southern oligarchy, I can no longer doubt. + </p> + <p> + When our worthy ministers of the gospel, are sent back to us from the + South, clothed with a coat of tar and feathers; when our best and most + sacrificing philanthropists are thrown into Southern dungeons; when our + laboring men are shot down by haughty and idle Southern aristocrats, in + the hotels of their employers, and under the very eye of Congress; when + the press is muzzled, and every editor, who has the manliness to speak in + defence of Freedom, and the wickedness of the slaveholder, is caned or + otherwise insulted by some insignificant Southern bully; and when at last, + our Mr. SUMNER is attacked from behind, by a Southern, cowardly scoundrel, + and felled senseless on the floor of the Senate chamber, for his defence + of Liberty,—then, indeed, may Northern men look about them! Well may + they be aroused by the insolence and tyranny of the South! + </p> + <p> + And for what <i>is</i> all this? Do not our Southern men know, that if + light and truth are permitted to reach the minds of the people, that + Kansas will be lost to them as slave territory, wherein the Southern + slave-breeder can dispose of his own flesh to the highest bidder! Hear + them talk as they do, in their pious moments, with upturned faces, in + solemn mockery, of returning the negro to his <i>native</i> Africa! How + many pure Africans, think you, can be found in the whole slave population + of the South, to say nothing of their nativity? Native Africa, indeed! Who + does not know, that in three-fourths of the colored race, there runs the + blood of the white master,—the breeder of his own chattels! Think + you, that a righteous God will fail to judge a nation for such flagrant + sins? Nay, verily. If the All-wise God, who has created of one blood all + nations of the earth, has designed their blood to commingle until that of + the African is absorbed in that of the European,—then is it right, + and amalgamation of all the different races should be universally + practiced and approved. If it be right for the Southern slaveholder, to + cruelly enforce the mixture of the races, to gratify his lust, and swell + the enormity of his gains, certainly it cannot be wrong to amalgamate from + choice and affection. Let us ask then, why did our Omnipotent Creator make + the marked distinction? Certainly not for the purpose that one race might + enslave and triumph over another; but evidently, that each in his own + proper sphere might glorify God, to whom their respective bodies and + spirits belong. Why, indeed, was the black man created, if not to fulfil + his destiny <i>as a negro</i>, to the glory of God? + </p> + <p> + Suffer me then to exhort you, my countrymen, to cease looking to the white + man for example and imitation. Stand boldly up in your own national + characteristics, and show by your perseverance and industry, your honor + and purity, that you are men, colored men, but of no inferior quality. The + greatest lack I see among you, is unity of action, pardonable, to be sure, + in the eyes of those who have seen your oppression and limited advantages; + but now that many of you have resolved to gain your rights or die in the + struggle, let me entreat you to band yourselves together in one + indissoluble bond of brotherhood, to stand shoulder to shoulder in the + coming conflict, and let every blow of yours tell for Freedom and the + elevation of your race throughout the land. Speak boldly out, for the dumb + and enslaved of your unfortunate countrymen, regardless of the frowns and + sneers of the haughty tyrants, who may dare lift their puny arm, to + frustrate the design of the Almighty, in preserving you an unmixed and + powerful race on the earth. + </p> + <p> + While I would not that you depend on any human agency, save your own + unyielding exertion, in the elevation of our race; still, I would not have + you unmindful of, nor ungrateful for, the noble exertions of those kind + white friends, who have plead the cause of the bondman, and have done all + in their power to aid you, for which, may the God of the oppressed + abundantly bless them. + </p> + <p> + Let your attention be given to the careful training and education of the + rising generation, that they may be useful, and justly command the respect + of their fellow-men. Labor for a competency, but give not your whole + attention to amassing the wealth that perishes; but seek to lay up for + yourselves "treasures where moth doth not corrupt, nor thieves break + through and steal." + </p> + <p> + Suppose not, my brethren, that your task is a light one, or one that can + be performed without years of patient toil and unyielding perseverance. + Our oppressors are not very ready to credit our exertion,—too often + forgetting the effects of our long degradation, and vainly expecting to + see us arise at once, to the highest standard of elevation, able to cope + successfully with those who have known no such discouragements or + disadvantages, as has been our lot to bear. + </p> + <p> + These and many other obstacles must be bravely met, and assiduously + removed,—remembering that Slavery has robbed some of us, and + prejudice many others, of that perseverance so necessary to the + accomplishment of any enterprize; but in the elevation of ourselves and + race, let us never falter and grow weary, until we have reached the + elevated station God designed us to occupy, and have fitted the rising + generation to fill and improve it after our earthly course is finished and + we leave to them the stage of action. + </p> + <p> + Allow me, however, to entreat, that no success which may attend your + determined efforts; no position which you may attain,—may ever so + occupy your mind, as to cause you to forget for one moment, the + afflictions of your countrymen, or to cease to remember the groaning + millions in bonds, until every slave shall triumphantly chant the song of + deliverance from Slavery's dark prison house. + </p> + <p> + Bear with me, my dear brethren, while I claim a friend's license, to say, + that I would not that you place implicit confidence in any of the + political organizations of the present time; but remember that the + majority of those parties are diligently laboring for their own interest. + Look you then to yours; are you less capable of securing your rights than + they? Never was there a time when indolence and supineness among us, would + be so unpardonable as now, nor when so much depended on our active and + judicious exertions. + </p> + <p> + Let us not forget, that in the past, we could and did truthfully complain, + that we had no helper,—bound and crushed beneath an overwhelming + weight of prejudice and ignorance, we lay helpless at the feet of our + political spoilers. A favorable change has since been effected in the + public sentiment; and now that we see thousands who are willing to aid us, + and as many more who will not hinder our labor,—shall we fold our + hands in idleness?—or shall we renew our energies, in the cause of + freedom and of our own advancement? Although we may not implicitly rely + upon the political exertion of others, let us not fear to co-operate with + the friends of liberty everywhere, as far as a good conscience will + permit, and our limited privileges will allow, by our determined zeal for + the right, make our influence felt in the nation. See what wrong and + oppression our white brethren have met in Kansas, from the slave power; + and let their noble deeds of patriotism; their liberal sacrifices for + freedom, be not only our example, but an incentive to do our duty. Have + they more at stake in that mighty struggle than we, that they should leave + their homes of refinement and comfort, take their lives in their hands and + bravely contend for their rights, surrounded by scenes of blood and + carnage? Certainly not. No people on the earth can have greater incentives + to arouse them to action, than the colored people of this country now + have; I trust therefore, that our future independence and prosperity, will + suffer nothing from the inactivity of our race. + </p> + <p> + Some may entertain the belief that the African slave trade is entirely + abandoned. I think not. Often are seen strange, suspicious looking + vessels, lying along the African coast, for no other purpose than that of + kidnapping the poor, ignorant natives. Stealthily the slave-trader lands + his wicked crew, in the vicinity of some negro village or cluster of huts, + and when a favorable opportunity occurs, he and his men rush upon the + frightened African, burn their huts, and amid the shrieks of the captives, + and the groans of the helpless and aged, who have been trampled down in + their rude haste to secure the young and able-bodied natives, bear them to + the vessel, where they are stowed away in the hold of the ship, which + bears them to Christian (?) America, where they are sold as slaves. + </p> + <p> + Some years ago, a woman engaged in washing clothes, near the sea coast, + had a lad with her to take care of her two younger children—one a + young babe—while she was at work. They wandered away a short + distance, and while amusing themselves under some bushes, four men, to + them strange looking creatures, with white faces, surrounded them; and + when the lad attempted to run away, they threw the infant he held in his + arms, on the ground, and seizing the other two children, bore them + screaming with fear, to the ship. Frantic and inconsolable, they were + borne to the American slave market, where they were sold to a Virginia + planter, for whom they labored sorrowfully and in tears, until old age + deprived them of farther exertion, when they were turned out, like an old + horse, to die; and did die destitute and uncared for, in their aged + infirmity, after a long life of unrequited toil. That lad, stolen from + Africa's coast, was my grand-father. + </p> + <p> + It is not, however, necessary for us to look beyond our own country, to + find all the horrors of the slave traffic! A tour through the Southern + States will prove sufficient to satisfy any one of that fact; nor will + they travel over one of them, before—if they have a heart of flesh—they + will feel oppressed by the cruel outrage, daily inflicted on their + fellow-beings. The tourist need not turn aside to seek evidences: he will + very readily observe the red flag of the auctioneer floating over the + slave pen, on which he may read in large letters, waving in the pure air + of heaven, "SLAVES, HORSES, AND OTHER CATTLE, <i>in lots to suit + purchasers!</i>" He may halt a moment, and look at the multitude, + collecting under the folds of that infamous banner, where will be found a + few gentlemanly appearing slave holding planters, superbly mounted, and + perhaps with their servants in waiting; but the larger number he will find + to be drunken, coarse, brutal looking men, swaggering about in the + capacity of slave-traders. + </p> + <p> + Let him enter the low, dingy, filthy building, occupied by human + merchandize, and he will there behold husbands and wives, parents and + children, about to be sold, and perhaps separated forever! See the trader, + as he examines with inhuman indifference the bones and sinews, the teeth + and joints of the <i>articles</i> on hand, even of females, and hear him + make inquiries concerning her capabilities, that would make a savage + blush! And see the miserable woman lift her red and swollen eyes to the + face of the heartless trader, and the next moment cast a despairing glance + over the motley crowd, in search of a compassionate look—a pitying + eye. Should she see one countenance wearing a kind, humane expression, it + will most likely bring her frantically to his feet, where, kneeling, with + uplifted hands, she pleads: "Oh, Massa, do buy me! Do buy me and little + Sam! He be all of the chil'ens I got left! O, Lord! O, Lord! Do, Massa, + buy me, and this one baby! Oh, do Massa!" But the weight of the cow-hide + drives her to the auction block, where in mock solemnity she is + represented as "an article of excellent breed, a good cook, a good + seamstress, and withal a good Christian, a ra'al genewine lamb of the + flock!"—and then she is struck off to the highest bidder, who + declares that he "won't have the young'un any how, 'cause he's gwine to + drive her down to Lousianny." + </p> + <p> + He may see, too, the wild, despairing look of some frightened young slave + girl, passing under the lustful gaze of some lordly libertine, who + declares himself "in search of a fancy article for his own use!" + </p> + <p> + One after another is taken from the block, until all are disposed of, amid + the agonized wail of heartbroken wives and mothers, husbands and fathers, + and the piercing screams of helpless children, torn from a parent's + embrace, to be consigned to the care of strangers. + </p> + <p> + Nor need I inform our traveler of the inhuman method generally approved, + in hunting with trained blood-hounds, kept and advertised for the purpose + of recapturing any poor slave who may attempt to escape from this cruel + bondage. He may perchance, come across the mangled and lifeless body of + some fugitive, which has just been run down and torn in pieces by the dogs + of the hunter! Should he stop a few moments, he will soon see a hole dug + in the ground, and the remains of the slave pitched into it, covered + sufficiently to hide the unsightly mass from view, and there will be an + end of the whole matter! "Shall I not visit for these things? saith the + Lord; and shall not my soul be avenged on such a nation as this?" + </p> + <p> + In giving to the public this unvarnished, but truthful narrative, of some + of the occurrences of my humble and uneventful life, I have not been + influenced by a vain desire for notoriety, but by a willingness to gratify + a just and honorable request, repeatedly made by numerous and respected + friends, to learn the truth concerning my connection with the Wilberforce + colony; the events which there transpired during my stay, and the cause of + my losing a hard-earned property. Regarding the affairs of the colony, I + have, therefore, endeavored to be particular,—believing that duty to + myself and brethren, required me to give them the within information; but + nothing have I set down in malice. Much more might have been said relative + to some of the leading characters in that settlement, had I not been + fearful of its assuming the character of a personal enmity or retaliation. + He who knows and will judge the actions of men, will bear me witness, that + I have cherished no such feelings toward any of those who then lived, but + now sleep in death. + </p> + <p> + In justification, however, of my statements regarding the character of Mr. + Lewis, I will call the attention of the reader to some of the many letters + received from good and eminent men, to show that I was not alone in the + low estimate of his virtues. Gladly I leave that unpleasant subject, + hoping that nothing in our past history will serve to becloud the bright + future beginning to dawn on the prospects of our disfranchised and + oppressed countrymen. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0039" id="link2H_4_0039"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CORRESPONDENCE. + </h2> + <h3> + LETTER FROM A. STEWARD TO WM. L. GARRISON. + </h3> + <h3> + MR. GARRISON, + </h3> + <p> + Dear Sir:—In a recent examination of the business transactions + between the Board of Managers of the Wilberforce Colony, and their agent + Rev. N. Paul, I find a charge made by him, and allowed by the board, of + the sum of two hundred dollars, which he paid to yourself. Finding no + receipt or acknowledgment from you, I write to ask you to favor me with + one, or an explanation of the facts in the case, either of which will + greatly oblige me, as I design to make it public. Truly Yours, &c., + </p> + <h3> + A. STEWARD. + </h3> + <p> + Canandaigua, N.Y., May, 1856. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + MR. GARRISON'S REPLY TO A. STEWARD. + </h3> + <h3> + DEAR SIR: + </h3> + <p> + You state that Rev. N. Paul, as agent for the Wilberforce Settlement, + U.C., in rendering his accounts on his return from England, charged the + Board of Managers with the sum of two hundred dollars, paid by him to me + while in England; that said sum was allowed by the board; adding that you + do not recollect of my acknowledging or giving credit to the Settlement + for it. + </p> + <p> + In reply, I can only assure you that there must be a mistake in regard to + this item. I borrowed no money, nor had I any occasion to ask a loan of my + friend Paul, my expenses being defrayed by funds contributed by friends in + this country; nor could I with propriety receive, nor he give me any part + of the money contributed for the benefit of the Wilberforce Settlement; + hence, a loan or gift from him, could have been nothing more than a + personal matter between ourselves. Moreover, had he at that time or any + other, given me in good faith the sum named as belonging to the + Settlement, (believing that as we were laboring together, for the interest + of one common cause, the board would not hesitate to allow it,) he would + certainly have demanded a receipt, which it would have pleased me to give, + of course, that he might satisfy the board that their liberality had been + disbursed according to their wishes, or his judgment. But receiving no + money from your agent, will be a sufficient reason for not acknowledging + it, or giving due credit to the Settlement. + </p> + <p> + I can account for this charge on his part, in no way, except that as he + was with me a part of the time I was in London, and we traveled together a + part of the time, during which, he ably and effectively assisted me in + exposing that most iniquitous combination, "The American Colonization + Society,"—he charged to me, (that is, to my mission) sundry items of + expense which he undoubtedly believed justly incurred by his helping me to + open the eyes of British philanthropists to the real design of that + society; and I shall ever remember with gratitude, his heartiness and zeal + in the cause and in my behalf. I owe much to the success that so signally + crowned my mission, to his presence, testimony, and eloquent denunciation + of the colonization scheme. I, however, received no money from him, and + can but think that the above explanation was the occasion of his making + the charge, and which I trust will leave on his memory, no intentional + [final word missing from text]. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + FROM MR. BAKER TO A. STEWARD. + </h3> + <h3> + MR. A. STEWARD, + </h3> + <p> + Dear Sir:—Israel Lewis, the former agent of your Settlement, last + spring represented to me the suffering condition of your poor, and + requested that I should forward some goods, for which I should be paid; I + did so, and sent goods to the amount of one hundred thirty-six dollars and + ninety-eight cents. The goods were sold at cost. + </p> + <p> + I am also endorsed on a note for two hundred thirteen dollars and ten + cents, which falls due 24th of this month, and which I shall have to pay. + This note was given by Lewis for the purpose of raising money to fit out + Mr. Paul, on his mission to England. I was promised that the money should + be here to meet it. + </p> + <p> + I have heard nothing from Lewis or this business since, and as I + understand you are the agent, I must look to you to make provision to meet + the note, and pay for the goods. Good faith requires that all contracts by + your agency be fulfilled. + </p> + <p> + Yours, Respectfully, + </p> + <h3> + CORNAL BAKER. + </h3> + <p> + New York City, Dec., 1833. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + FROM MR. L.A. SPALDING TO A. STEWARD + </h3> + <h3> + DEAR FRIEND: + </h3> + <p> + In August last, Israel Lewis, accompanied by Rev. Nathaniel Paul called + upon me and exhibited a power of attorney, signed by you as president of + the trustees of the colony, authorizing Lewis to take loans, &c., for + the benefit of the colony. + </p> + <p> + Feeling a deep interest in the progress of the colony, I agreed to become + security with E. Peck, at the Bank of Rochester, for the payment of seven + hundred dollars, which soon was raised by Lewis on the note, for the + benefit of the colony. I was in hopes to have seen you. E. Peck and + myself, both are willing to aid you in your noble enterprise,—and + may others feel the same disposition. But as we have families and friends, + who look to us for support and protection, it is proper that we should + have your personal pledge to save us from embarrassment. + </p> + <p> + We know your character <i>well</i>, and we have also great confidence in + Israel Lewis, and the others engaged with you,—but none of them are + so thoroughly known to us as yourself. + </p> + <p> + Our asking for your personal pledge, does not arise from any fears that + the note will not be paid; but as it was signed to aid you, we think it + proper that you should respond by guaranteeing that we shall not be + injured. + </p> + <p> + I accordingly copy the note in question, and write a guarantee which I + wish you to sign and hand to my brother. + </p> + <p> + I feel much anxiety in regard to your progress; in your forming schools; + religious and temperance societies; and in your taking every measure to + elevate the unfortunate colored man who may go to your colony for + protection and improvement. + </p> + <p> + Very Respectfully Yours, + </p> + <h3> + LYMAN A. SPALDING. + </h3> + <h3> + AUSTIN STEWARD. + </h3> + <p> + Lockport, N.Y. 1831. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + FROM THE CONVENTIONAL BOARD, PHILADELPHIA, PA., TO A. STEWARD. + </h3> + <p> + MR. AUSTIN STEWARD, Wilberforce, U.C., + </p> + <p> + Esteemed Friend:—I am charged by the conventional board, to inform + you that at the last session of the general convention, you was duly + elected their <i>General Corresponding Agent</i>, for the Wilberforce + Settlement and parts adjacent. Respectfully and in an official capacity, + would I ask you to accept the appointment. + </p> + <p> + And in pursuance of the said appointment, the board would be happy to have + at least a monthly correspondence from you, on all such matters as may, in + your opinion, be thought conducive to the prosperity of the settlement, + the elevation and future happiness of the free people of color. + </p> + <p> + In particular, we would wish you to give as accurate an account as + possible, of the number of settlers; the number of acres as purchased; at + what price; what number are improved and under culture; what number of + houses or tenements are in the Settlement, &c., &c. + </p> + <p> + What are your present prospects in regard to crops; your political + advantages or disadvantages. + </p> + <p> + We would also respectfully ask you to inform us, what number of settlers + might emigrate there each year, without injuring the Settlement. Also, + what kind of machines you most need; also, what are the terms for which + laborers are contracted for and how paid. + </p> + <p> + The board have been thus particular, because they rely with full + confidence on your <i>patriotism</i> and capability, which have been + unanimously assigned to you. + </p> + <p> + You will perceive our object is, to contribute, as far as lays in our + power, pecuniary aid, and assist in securing you such agricultural and + mechanical emigrants as, in your opinion, the Settlement may need; and in + all our recommendations to you, we shall endeavor to have an eye to + character, knowing full well that by that alone you must stand or fall. + </p> + <p> + We have been informed here by a letter (purporting to be written by a Mr. + Stover), that the Canada Company actually refuses to sell land to colored + persons; and that they are anxious to buy out the colored settlers at + Wilberforce. + </p> + <p> + Be pleased to inform me if that be a fact, with its particulars; and if + there be any disadvantages in purchasing land by colored emigrants. + </p> + <p> + The board would be happy to know if you have had any news from your agent + in England. If any, what are his prospects? + </p> + <p> + You will please be particular and candid in stating your wants (as well as + disadvantages) to us, as we will do our utmost to satisfy them, as well as + promote the happiness of the settlers, and the prosperity of the + Settlement. + </p> + <p> + Be pleased to answer as soon as possible, for we as brothers in common, + feel deeply interested. + </p> + <p> + With sentiments of sincere friendship, + </p> + <p> + I remain, yours, + </p> + <h3> + JUNIUS C. MORRELL. + </h3> + <p> + A true copy from the record. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + RESOLUTIONS PASSED BY THE BOARD OF MANAGERS OF THE WILBERFORCE COLONY. + </h3> + <p> + At a meeting of the Board of Managers, held September 30th, 1831, to call + the Agents to an account: + </p> + <p> + Resolved, That the Report of N. Paul be accepted, and unanimously agreed + to. + </p> + <p> + At a meeting of the Board of Directors, all the members present, March + 18th, 1832: + </p> + <p> + Resolved, That we disapprove of the conduct of Israel Lewis, in his being + absent so long, and also his not communicating with the Board of + Directors, and not informing them from time to time, how he is prosecuting + his agency. + </p> + <p> + Resolved, That the chairman of this board be instructed to write to said + Lewis, to return home, and lay before this board his doings. + </p> + <p> + At a meeting of the Board, held April 1st, 1832, all the members and + Israel Lewis present with them, he made the following Report, and resigned + his office as agent, which was accepted: + </p> + <p> + Lewis said that seven hundred dollars was all that he had collected. That + he paid one hundred and fifty dollars for board in New York, thirty-five + dollars for clothes, and two hundred dollars to N. Paul, as an out-fit for + England. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + CIRCULAR. + </h3> + <h3> + THE BOARD OF MANAGERS FOR THE COLONY, + </h3> + <p> + To the Christians and Philanthropists in the United States: + </p> + <p> + We, the undersigned inhabitants and Board of Managers for the Colony of + Wilberforce, beg leave to state that the frost cut off the crops in this + part of the country last year, and some of the colonists are in great need + of assistance. And we flatter ourselves that when the peculiar + circumstances of this infant Settlement are duly considered, this appeal, + to a generous and discriminating public, will not be made in vain. + </p> + <p> + The board are sensible from the cause above stated, that the inhabitants + of Wilberforce will be compelled to ask aid from the friends of humanity + in the States, or they must suffer. + </p> + <p> + Under these circumstances they commissioned the Rev. James Sharp, as their + agent, and sent him to the States; but owing to the opposition of Israel + Lewis,—who had been formerly employed as agent, but was removed from + the agency—his labors were almost wholly lost to the board. + </p> + <p> + We would simply say, that Lewis was acting for a certain company here; but + we have made inquiries, and find but one man in Wilberforce that belongs + to said company, and he is an old man, in his dotage. That man is Simon + Wyatt. We might say more, but we think there has been enough written to + satisfy the public. + </p> + <p> + In consequence of the unfaithfulness of Israel Lewis, and the numerous + agents that may be looking around the country after him, the board have + come to the conclusion to dispense with a traveling agent for the present. + </p> + <p> + And we would humbly request Lyman A. Spalding, Esq., of Lockport; E. Peck, + Esq., of Rochester; Rev. Dr. Budd, of Auburn; Charles Davis, Esq., of + Ludlowville, Tompkins County, N.Y.; Arthur Tappan, Esq., city of New York; + to act as receivers for the Colony. The above named gentlemen, will see + that the funds which they may receive, be faithfully applied according to + the wishes of the donors. + </p> + <p> + All money placed in each of the banks at Rochester and a duplicate sent on + to the Colony, may be cashed here without any discount. + </p> + <p> + To Christians we appeal: by the brotherhood of Christ, and by their own + hopes of being united in him, to extend to us the means of obtaining + bread; give us, in the name of Jesus, of your abundance; give us, as God + has blessed you, for the poor among us want bread and clothing. + </p> + <p> + It is to be hoped that every clergyman in the States, will lay this + circular before their respective congregations, and give every person an + opportunity to throw in their mite into the treasury of the Lord! + </p> + <p> + AUSTIN STEWARD, Pres't JOSEPH TAYLOR, Sec'y. PHILIP HARRIS, + </p> + <p> + JOHN WHITEHEAD, PETER BUTLER, SAMUEL PETERSON, WILLIAM BROWN. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + FROM REV. J. BUDD TO A. STEWARD AND OTHERS. + </h3> + <h3> + MESSRS. PAUL AND STEWARD: + </h3> + <p> + I have ever taken a great degree of interest in the welfare of your + colony, and have in various ways, brought it before the public. + </p> + <p> + It has pained me deeply to learn that there are divisions among you. The + whole deportment and manner of Lewis, who has been here, has evidently + impressed the public in his favor. Although I do not wish to take ground + as his advocate, to the extinction of others, I am not inclined to think + him dishonest from the testimony now before me. + </p> + <p> + But, apart from him, my present impression is that the most effectual way + for you to promote the cause of the Colony, is not, at this stage of the + business, to appear before the public in a hostile attitude to Lewis. + </p> + <p> + I know some excellent and prominent gentlemen in this quarter, who think + he is unkindly treated; at any rate, while the investigation, lately + commenced at Albany, is going on, it appears to me not wise in you to put + forth any further publication reflecting upon Lewis. He may have acted + imprudently; but he has excited himself very much, and should the idea + prevail that you and he are in a state of collision, it would be very bad + for you. + </p> + <p> + I consider your Colony as a very important matter, and will do all in my + power to promote your welfare, but it is very material not to prejudice + the public against you. + </p> + <p> + Before I move in the matter, I wish to know the real state of the matter + between Lewis and the Colony. As soon as I can know that he has defrauded + you and deceived the public, I will not hesitate to give my views on the + subject, and put forth any efforts in my power for your advancement. + </p> + <p> + There should no sectarian or party feeling be allowed to creep into your + institution. + </p> + <p> + I thank you for naming me as a receiver for your Colony, and should + anything come to me, I shall hand it over to James S. Seymour, Esq., + Cashier of the Bank of Auburn, who should have been named instead of me. I + hope you will put his name in my place, or at any rate, name him with me, + for he has been from the first, much interested in your behalf. + </p> + <p> + If you will allow me, I will briefly say, that my opinion is, your best + way to relieve your immediate wants, would be to issue a brief circular, + stating the failure of your crops, your newness of settlement, &c., + &c.; and call upon the public for help, without naming Lewis or + alluding to your difficulty with him; let your papers be properly + authorized, and say that the agent you employ is not engaged in getting + funds to pay for land, found schools, &c., but to get immediate + provisions for the Colony. + </p> + <p> + If you will send an agent here and prepare your circular in this way—let + it be short—and I will print it and give copies of it to him for + circulation, free of charge. + </p> + <p> + With many prayers for the prosperity of your Colony, + </p> + <p> + I am your Friend, + </p> + <h3> + JOHN BUDD. + </h3> + <p> + Auburn, N.Y., May, 1833. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + REPLY TO J. BUDD BY A. STEWARD. + </h3> + <p> + To THE REV. J. BUDD, + </p> + <p> + Sir:—We feel under renewed obligation to you, for you friendly + advice; but we have already sent out several copies of our circular to + different places, and probably some of them have been printed before this + time. + </p> + <p> + We have no object in view, but truth, justice,—the greatest good of + the Settlement, and of our brethren in general. Israel Lewis has, however, + collected large sums of money, for our relief, of which we have not had + the benefit. Nearly two years ago, he was appointed agent for the Colony, + to collect funds to build a meeting-house, to endow schools, &c. In + less than one year he received more than two thousand dollars, which he + squandered; and we have neither meeting-house nor schools, nor never will + have, so long as the money goes into the hands of Lewis. All that we would + have forgiven him gladly, if he would consent to be still and not usurp + the agency against the wishes of the people. + </p> + <p> + Sir, is it not expected that he would appear well; as you say, that "the + whole deportment and manner of Lewis, who has been in this place, + evidently have impressed the people in his favor,"—while collecting + money with the eye of the public upon him. But follow him home into + another kingdom, and there see the man in his true character; stripped of + his borrowed plumage,—and we will guarantee that you would agree + with us, in believing that he is an arch hypocrite. + </p> + <p> + We should be sorry to prejudice the public against our Settlement, more + especially when we are actuated by the purest motives,—that of + preventing the Christian public from being imposed upon, by drawing large + sums from them for us, as they suppose, when in truth such sums never + reach us at all. + </p> + <p> + Sir, we know that you are actuated by the purest motives, but you are + deceived in the character of the man, (Lewis). When I was living in the + States and only saw him there, collecting money for the poor, I thought + him honest as you now do; but two or three years' residence in Wilberforce + Colony, has abundantly satisfied me that his object is to get money, that + he may live in a princely style, and not for the benefit of the poor as he + pretends. + </p> + <p> + Such are the true facts in the case. We should be glad to have the name of + James S. Seymour, Esq., added to the list, and any other prominent citizen + you may think would help the cause. + </p> + <p> + In regard to the investigation at Albany, we do not see how the public are + to arrive at the facts in the case from any statement Lewis may make; for + all his statements that I have seen in print, are positively void of + truth, in the most essential part, so that they are of little or no + importance at all unless substantiated by other testimony. + </p> + <p> + The circular contains no testimony that has not been heretofore laid + before the public. Mr. Benjamin Paul recently wrote a letter to the + editors of "The Baptist Register," in which he stated that Lewis had fed + and clothed the colonists like a father, which is not true; and so + sensible was Paul of the fact, that when the letter reached here, together + with the surprise it created wherever Lewis was known, that Paul + cheerfully contradicted it, confessed that he was mistaken, and thus made + it known to the public. + </p> + <p> + We certainly have no sectional feelings in the matter, though Lewis has + labored hard to impress the public with a contrary belief; and he has even + brought false charges of the basest kind against our more respectable + citizens, all to draw the attention of the public from the true facts in + the case. + </p> + <p> + It is a general time of health here in the Colony. The season is very + favorable; our crops look well, and with the blessings of God we shall + raise enough to supply our wants this year. + </p> + <p> + Yours, with due respect, + </p> + <p> + In behalf of the Colonists, + </p> + <h3> + A. STEWARD. + </h3> + <p> + Wilberforce, June, 1833. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + FROM A. STEWARD TO G. BANKS AND OTHERS. + </h3> + <h3> + MESSRS. BANKS, WILBER, BROCKENBERG & HARRIS: + </h3> + <p> + I have received a communication through your corresponding secretary, Mr. + James C. Brown, and I hasten to answer it. The last communication I have + received from Mr. N. Paul, was in December, 1833, at which time he was + vigorously prosecuting his mission, as will more fully appear by the + annexed copy of said letter, which I cheerfully send you. His return is + expected daily. + </p> + <p> + [Copy OF N. PAUL'S LETTER.] + </p> + <h3> + MY DEAR BROTHER STEWARD: + </h3> + <p> + When I last addressed you, I informed you that I expected to leave this + country before a return letter from you could be expected. I therefore + stated, if I remember correctly, that you need not write. + </p> + <p> + I now find that I shall be detained much longer than I then calculated; + and this detention is owing to the Slavery question. The friends of the + cause, advised me to forego my object, until that question was settled; + and then they would turn their attention to my cause, and render me what + assistance they could. + </p> + <p> + All their united strength was needed now, while that question was pending. + But thanks be to God, that is now settled. On the first day of August + next, will be the proudest day that ever Britain knew; for from that time + henceforth, there will not remain a single slave throughout His Majesty's + dominions. + </p> + <p> + The friends of the cause are now turning their attention to Slavery in the + United States, and are about to form a society for the abolition of + Slavery throughout the world. They all think highly of our Settlement, and + will give it their cordial support. + </p> + <p> + The leading abolitionists have given me letters of recommendation + throughout the Kingdom, and have appointed one of their most effective men + to travel with me,—his name is John Scoble, a very ready, + intelligent, earnest, and an eloquent speaker. I think I can do more now + in one month, than I could in three before the question was settled in + regard to their own slaves. + </p> + <p> + You will at once see that although the people concluded my object to be an + important one, yet, they generally thought that they ought to lend all + their aid in removing the stain from their own land first This stain is + now effectually effaced, and my meetings are exceedingly crowded. I + addressed an audience at Norwich of from three to four thousand persons, + week before last, when about five hundred dollars was collected. So you + see I am getting on. I start, the Lord willing, next week for Scotland, + and shall spend the winter there and in the North of England. In the + spring I shall return and take passage for Canada. I doubt not, that you + are anxiously looking for my return; yet, you cannot want to see me more + than I want to return; but I tell you now as I have told you before, that + I shall not return until I have done all that can be done by my labor. + </p> + <p> + Yours, + </p> + <h3> + N. PAUL. + </h3> + <h3> + SIRS: + </h3> + <p> + The above copy will give you all the recent information we have received + concerning the mission of our foreign agent. + </p> + <p> + Please accept my kindest regards, with my acknowledgments of your + distinguished consideration, while I remain, + </p> + <p> + Yours truly, + </p> + <h3> + AUSTIN STEWARD. + </h3> + <p> + Wilberforce, U.C. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + FROM A. STEWARD TO MR. NELL. + </h3> + <h3> + DEAR SIR: + </h3> + <p> + We are glad to acknowledge your favor of October last, and to hear of your + safe arrival in England, your health and fair prospects. + </p> + <p> + Since my removal to Wilberforce, I have opened a school, which Mrs. + Steward has engaged to teach for one year; while I shall probably devote + my time to traveling through the States, for the benefit of the Colony, + which is indeed poor, and in want of some assistance; and yet, not a + dollar have we in the treasury to help them with. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Paul has not returned, though we are daily expecting him. Our friends + in New York, still have confidence in his pledge to do right; and we are + anxiously expecting its fulfilment. + </p> + <p> + Your wife, Mrs. Nell, and the children are well, and we are still doing + all in our power for their comfort; but my means, in consequence of having + been so much abroad the past season, are limited; by which you will see, + my dear Sir, the necessity of remitting funds to me, that I may make your + family more comfortable in all things, without distressing my own. + </p> + <p> + The settlers are well, and are looking with hopeful expectancy for you to + do something handsome for them, in which I do hope they may not be + disappointed. Lewis is still in New York. We have appointed another agent, + named Scott, but who is doing nothing for the Colony now. + </p> + <p> + May the blessings of God rest upon you, and your endeavors; your good + deportment put to silence your enemies; may they who foresee that you will + cheat the poor colored children, be sadly mistaken, and your good deeds + finally enrol your name on the proud list of philanthropists, headed by a + Wilberforce and a Clarkson. + </p> + <p> + Yours, in great haste, + </p> + <h3> + AUSTIN STEWARD. + </h3> + <p> + Wilberforce, Dec., 1835. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + FROM L.A. SPALDING TO A. STEWARD AND OTHERS. + </h3> + <h3> + DEAR FRIENDS: + </h3> + <p> + I have received a letter from Israel Lewis, New York, requesting me to + forward fifty dollars to the treasurer of the Wilberforce Colony, which I + will do at the first convenience. I sent fifty dollars some time since, + which I presume was received. + </p> + <p> + I have also received a letter from B. Lundy, who speaks very flatteringly + of the Settlement; but gives me some information relating to Lewis, which + will injure you, unless you act wisely. + </p> + <p> + Now I suggest for your consideration, whether it would not be best to keep + perfectly quiet relative to him, until after he returns and settles with + the directors. If he cannot then satisfy you, he will no doubt surrender + up his documents and agency like a man, and leave you to appoint another. + </p> + <p> + By all means you must agree among yourselves, not suffering any difference + of opinion to become public. Your enemies will seize upon this, and injure + your prospects; besides, you gain nothing by it. Your friends too, could + then say that you acted imprudently. I hope to have a good account of the + settlement of your difficulties if any should exist. + </p> + <p> + Respectfully your Friend, + </p> + <h3> + LYMAN A. SPALDING. + </h3> + <h3> + AUSTIN STEWARD & BENJ. PAUL. + </h3> + <p> + Lockport, N.Y., 2d Mo., 4th, 1832. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + FROM REV. S.E. CORNISH TO A. STEWARD. + </h3> + <h3> + DEAR STEWARD: + </h3> + <p> + I have this day received your letter, and God willing, I will be with you + in the course of ten or twelve days. Please to keep your people together, + until I come. I will see that they be not oppressed by that notorious + Israel Lewis. I believe him to be one of the worst men living, whose deeds + will yet come to light. Do stay in the Colony and keep all things as they + are until I come. + </p> + <p> + Yours, with high esteem, + </p> + <h3> + SAMUEL E. CORNISH. + </h3> + <p> + P.S.—I am glad that Mrs. Steward is in Rochester; your Colony is by + no means suited to her talents and refined mind. She never could be happy + there. My love to all the Colonists; I will do every thing for them in my + power. S.E.C. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + FROM B. LUNDY TO A. STEWARD AND OTHERS. + </h3> + <h3> + ESTEEMED FRIENDS: + </h3> + <p> + Again I take this method of communicating some private information to my + personal friends, relative to my proceedings in Mexico. My last visit to + that country, (like the one preceding), having been prolonged far beyond + the time which I had anticipated, I feel it incumbent on me to explain the + causes thereof especially to such as take an interest in the enterprize in + which I have engaged, and those who have kindly assisted me with, means to + defray the expenses of my journey, &c. + </p> + <p> + Soon after the date of my last printed letter, which was issued from this + place, I went to New Orleans, with the intention of taking a passage by + sea, to some port in Mexico; but after waiting in that city about two + weeks, and finding no opportunity to obtain one, I proceeded up the Red + River, and journeyed through Texas again by land. My health continued very + good for some length of time; but when I reached the middle part of the + Texas country, it was my misfortune to come again in contact with the + direful "cholera," and again I was the subject of its virulent attacks. My + detention was great, and affliction severe; though I finally expelled the + disorder as I had done before. My sufferings were somewhat aggravated in + several instances, by the fearful prejudices of the people among whom I + traveled. I was very anxious to get through my journey, and often assayed + to travel before I was in fact well enough. The consequence was, that I + frequently took relapses, and sometimes had to lie out under trees, even + in time of rain, within sight of houses, the people being unwilling to + give me shelter therein, fearing that my disorder was contagious. + </p> + <p> + At length I reached the Mexican town of San Antonio de Bexar, and there I + tarried, until I had got pretty well rid of the cholera. I then pursued my + journey to Monclova, the seat of government for the State of Coahuila and + Texas, in company with several Mexican gentlemen and foreigners. Previous + to this time, I had traveled several hundred miles entirely alone, and + generally encamped in the woods or plains at night. On my arrival at + Monclova, I was doomed to encounter "misfortune" of a very different + character. Here I found that the Englishman, (mentioned in my other + letter), with whom I had contracted to petition for two grants of land, + had totally failed in his application. The petition had been laid before + the Governor, and he was about issuing the grants, when he received a + decree from the Legislature—which was then in session—forbidding + him to grant any more land, under any pretext. This measure was taken to + prevent the great land speculators from carrying on their swindling + operations in Texas. An act was soon after passed by that body, repealing + all their Colonization laws; and thus every hope that I had so fondly + entertained, and each fair prospect, seemingly so near its realization, + was instantly blasted and utterly destroyed! If ever the fortitude of man + was tried, mine was then. If ever stoic philosophy might be successfully + called to the aid of human courage, I felt the necessity of invoking it + upon that occasion. Nearly two years of toil, privation and peril, have + been wasted. My sufferings had been great, though my spirit soared on the + bouyancy of hope. Now the fair superstructure of an important enterprise, + whose ideal magnitude had employed my mind, to the exclusion of many + hardships endured, suddenly vanished from my sight, and left before me a + hideous and gloomy void with no other encouragement than total + disappointment, conscious poverty and remediless despair! What should I + then have done? My health was restored, but my detention and consequent + expenses had been so great that my funds were nearly exhausted. I came to + the country for an important purpose; and I reasoned with myself thus; + although my way is closed in this State, cannot something be done + elsewhere? I will not boast of the stoutest heart among men, but mine must + not quail. Something further must be done if possible, and I will try. + </p> + <p> + In the course of my travels, I had seen a part of the adjoining State of + Tamaulipas, and had been informed that the colonization laws thereof were + liberal. I was even aware that some parts of it are more suitable for the + culture of the sugar cane, than any tract I could have obtained in + Coahuila and Texas. And upon a little reflection, I determined to make + further investigations in Tamaulipas, and had been informed of the State. + As soon as my horse was a little rested, I set out, alone, on a journey of + between four and five hundred miles, part of the way through an awfully + mountainous region, and much of it an uninhabited wilderness. I encamped + out almost every night, during the whole journey; very seldom near any + human habitation. I had no fire-arms nor anything to defend myself against + the ferocious beasts of the forest, which I had evidence to convince me + were frequently numerous, and not far distant. In two weeks I reached the + city of Matamoras, in the State of Tamaulipas, quite destitute of funds, + after parting with almost every disposable article belonging to my + wardrobe, &c. The people of this place being all perfect strangers to + me, I did not for a while unfold to them the real object of my visit; but + instead thereof, I opened a shop, and commenced working at my old trade— + the saddling business. I soon got as much work as I could do—supported + myself, replenished my pocket, made some acquaintance with a number of + people, and obtained more information respecting the Colonization laws of + the State. A few weeks elapsed, while I was employed in this way. I then + mounted my horse again, and proceeded to the capital of the State; and + after negotiating for some time with the Governor and Council of the + State, I succeeded in obtaining a grant of land, upon advantageous terms. + I then performed another journey of almost two hundred and fifty miles, + "alone," to Matamoras again; and soon thereafter embarked for the United + States. + </p> + <p> + My friends will thus perceive that I have not been idle; though much time + has been occupied in my last expedition. I shall not attempt to excite + their sympathy by exhibiting the twentieth part of what I have suffered. I + do not even like to look back upon some of the scenes through which I have + passed. But thanks to a kind and all-sustaining Providence, complete + success has at last crowned my exertions. I strove hard to command it; and + I leave it to others to say whether I have deserved it or not. + </p> + <p> + The terms upon which I have obtained my grant of land will be noticed in a + public address, which I shall forward with this letter. + </p> + <p> + Since my arrival in this place, I have been confined by sickness; but am + now convalescent, and shall visit my friends to the eastward, as soon as + circumstances will permit. I cannot close this communication without an + expression of my sincere thanks to those kind friends who rendered me + assistance in defraying the expenses of my last Mexican tour. Their favors + will be most gratefully remembered, and I shall feel myself under + additional obligations to labor for the melioration of the condition of + the poor and suffering slave. + </p> + <p> + In the next number of the "Genius of Universal Emancipation," I shall + insert the names of those who contributed to aid me in the prosecution of + my enterprise; and correct information relative to all proceedings + therein, will be given in the pages of that work, as the business + connected with it progresses. + </p> + <p> + I am, most respectfully, your Friend, + </p> + <h3> + B. LUNDY. + </h3> + <p> + N. & B. PAUL, AUSTIN STEWARD, REV. J. SHARP. + </p> + <p> + Nashville, 5th Mo., 1835. + </p> + <h3> + THE END. + </h3> + <div style="height: 6em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Twenty-Two Years a Slave, and Forty +Years a Freeman, by Austin Steward + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK TWENTY-TWO YEARS A SLAVE *** + +***** This file should be named 11137-h.htm or 11137-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + https://www.gutenberg.org/1/1/1/3/11137/ + +Etext produced by William A. 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You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Twenty-Two Years a Slave, and Forty Years a Freeman + Embracing a Correspondence of Several Years, + While President of Wilberforce Colony, London, Canada West + +Author: Austin Steward + +Release Date: February 18, 2004 [EBook #11137] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK TWENTY-TWO YEARS A SLAVE *** + + + + +Produced by William A. Pifer-Foote and PG Distributed Proofreaders + + + + +[Illustration: [Signature of] Austin Steward] + + + + +TWENTY-TWO YEARS A SLAVE, +AND +FORTY YEARS A FREEMAN; + +EMBRACING A +CORRESPONDENCE OF SEVERAL YEARS, WHILE +PRESIDENT OF WILBERFORCE COLONY, +LONDON, CANADA WEST, + +BY +AUSTIN STEWARD. + + +1856 + + + +FROM GOVERNOR CLARK. + +STATE OF NEW YORK, +EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, + +Albany, May 10, 1856. + +MR. A. STEWARD, Canandaigua, + +Dear Sir:--I notice a paragraph in the "Ontario Times" of this date, +making the announcement that you are preparing "a sketch of events +occurring under your own observation during an eventful life," to be +entitled, "Twenty Years a Slave, and Forty Years a Freeman;" and that you +design soon to make an effort to obtain subscribers for the book. + +Being desirous of rendering you what encouragement I may in the work, you +are permitted to place my name on your list of subscribers. + +Respectfully Yours, + +MYRON H. CLARK. + + * * * * * + +ROCHESTER, SEPTEMBER, 1856 + +MR. WM. ALLING, + +Dear Sir:--The undersigned have heard with pleasure, that you are about +issuing a Book made up from incidents in the life of Austin STEWARD. We +have been the early acquaintances and associates of Mr. Steward, while a +business man in Rochester in an early day, and take pleasure in bearing +testimony to his high personal, moral and Christian character. In a world +of vicissitude, Mr. Steward has received no ordinary share, and we hope, +while his book may do the world good, it may prove a substantial benefit +to him in his declining years. + +ASHLEY SAMPSON, +THOMAS KEMPSHALL, +FREDERICK STARR, +CHAS. J. HILL, +L.A. WARD, +EDWIN SCRANTOM, +JACOB GOULD. + + * * * * * + +RECOMMENDATORY. + +ROCHESTER, JULY 1, 1856. + +A. STEWARD, ESQ., + +Dear Sir:--In reply to your letter upon the propriety of publishing your +life, I answer, that there is not only no objection to it, but it will be +timely, and is demanded by every consideration of humanity and justice. +Every tongue which speaks for Freedom, which has once been held by the +awful gag of Slavery, is trumpet-tongued--and he who pleads against this +monstrous oppression, if he can say, "here are the scars," can do much. + +It is a great pleasure to me to run back to my boyhood, and stop at that +spot where I first met you. I recollect the story of your wrongs, and your +joy in the supposition that all were now ended in your freedom; of your +thirst for knowledge, as you gathered up from the rudimental books--not +then very plenty--a few snatches of the elements of the language; of +playing the school-master to you, in "setting copies" for your writing-- +book; of guiding your mind and pen. I remember your commencement in +business, and the outrage and indignity offered you in Rochester, by white +competitors on no other ground than that of color.[1] I saw your bitter +tears, and recollect assuring you--what afterwards proved true--that +justice would overtake the offenders, and that you would live to see +these enemies bite the dust! I remember your unsullied character, and your +prosperity, and when your word or endorsement was equal to that of any +other citizen. I remember too, when yourself, and others of your kind, +sunk all the gatherings of years of toil, in an unsuccessful attempt to +establish an asylum for your enslaved and oppressed brethren--and, not to +enumerate, which I might do much farther, I remember when your "old +master," finding you had been successful, while he himself had lost in the +changes on fortune's wheel--came here and set up a claim to yourself and +your property--a claim which might have held both, had not a higher power +suddenly summoned him to a tribunal, where both master and slave shall one +day answer each for himself! + +But to the book. Let its plain, unvarnished tale be sent out, and the +story of Slavery and its abominations, again be told by one who has felt +in his own person its scorpion lash, and the weight of its grinding heel. +I think it will do good service, and could not have been sent forth at a +more auspicious period. The downfall of the hateful system of Slavery is +certain. Though long delayed, justice is sure to come at length; and he +must be a slow thinker and a poor seer, who cannot discern in the elements +already at work, the mighty forces which must eventually crush this +oppression. I know that you and I have felt discouraged at the long delay, +years ago,--when we might have kept up our hopes by the fact that every +thing that is slow is _sure_. Your book may be humble and your +descriptions tame, yet truth is always mighty; and you may furnish the +sword for some modern Sampson, who shall shout over more slain than his +ancient prototype. I close with the wish, that much success may attend +your labors, in more ways than one, and that your last days may be your +best--and am, + +Your old Friend, + +And obed't serv't, + +EDWIN SCRANTOM. + +[Footnote 1: The indignity spoken of was this: Mr. Steward had established +a grocery and provision store on Buffalo Street, in a part of Abner +Wakelee's building, opposite the Eagle Hotel. He put up his sign, a very +plain and proper one, and at night, some competitors, whom he knew, as +well as he could know anything which he could not prove, smeared his sign +with black paint, utterly destroying it! But the misguided men who stooped +to such an act--the victims of sensuality and excess--have years ago ended +their journey, and passed to the bar of a higher adjudication.] + + * * * * * + +CONTENTS. + + +I. SLAVE LIFE ON THE PLANTATION + +II. AT THE GREAT HOUSE + +III. HORSE-RACING AND ITS CONSEQUENCES + +IV. JOURNEY TO OUR NEW HOME IN NEW YORK + +V. INCIDENTS AT SODUS + +VI. REMOVAL FROM SODUS TO BATH + +VII. DUELING + +VIII. HORSE-RACING AND GENERAL TRAINING + +IX. DEATH-BED AND BRIDAL SCENES + +X. HIRED OUT TO A NEW MASTER + +XI. THOUGHTS ON FREEDOM + +XII. CAPTAIN HELM--DIVORCE--KIDNAPPING + +XIII. LOCATE IN THE VILLAGE OF ROCHESTER + +XIV. INCIDENTS IN ROCHESTER AND VICINITY + +XV. SAD REVERSES CAPTAIN HELM + +XVI. BRITISH EMANCIPATION OF SLAVERY + +XVII. ORATION--TERMINATION OF SLAVERY IN THE BRITISH POSSESSIONS + +XVIII. CONDITION OF FREE COLORED PEOPLE + +XIX. PERSECUTION OF THE COLORED PEOPLE + +XX. REMOVAL TO CANADA + +XXI. ROUGHING IT IN THE WILDS OF CANADA + +XXII. NARROW ESCAPE OF A SMUGGLER + +XXIII. NARRATIVE OF TWO FUGITIVES FROM VIRGINIA + +XXIV. PLEASANT RE-UNION OF OLD AND TRIED FRIENDS + +XXV. PRIVATE LOSSES AND PRIVATE DIFFICULTIES + +XXVI. INCIDENTS AND PECULIARITIES OF THE INDIANS + +XXVII. OUR DIFFICULTIES WITH ISRAEL LEWIS + +XXVIII. DESPERATION OF A FUGITIVE SLAVE + +XXIX. A NARROW ESCAPE FROM MY ENEMIES + +XXX. DEATH OF B. PAUL AND RETURN OF HIS BROTHER + +XXXI. MY FAMILY RETURN TO ROCHESTER + +XXXII. THE LAND AGENT AND THE SQUATTER + +XXXIII. CHARACTER AND DEATH OF ISRAEL LEWIS + +XXXIV. MY RETURN TO ROCHESTER + +XXXV. BISHOP BROWN--DEATH OF MY DAUGHTER + +XXXVI. CELEBRATION OF THE FIRST OF AUGUST + +XXXVII. CONCLUSION + +CORRESPONDENCE + + + + +PREFACE. + + + +The author does not think that any apology is necessary for this issue of +his Life and History. He believes that American Slavery is now the great +question before the American People: that it is not merely a political +question, coming up before the country as the grand element in the making +of a President, and then to be laid aside for four years; but that its +moral bearings are of such a nature that the Patriot, the Philanthropist, +and all good men agree that it is an evil of so much magnitude, that +longer to permit it, is to wink at _sin_, and to incur the righteous +judgments of God. The late outrages and aggressions of the slave power to +possess itself of new soil, and extend the influence of the hateful and +God-provoking "Institution," is a practical commentary upon its benefits +and the moral qualities of those who seek to sustain and extend it. The +author is therefore the more willing--nay, anxious, to lay alongside of +such arguments the history of his own life and experiences _as a slave_, +that those who read may know what are some of the characteristics of +that highly favored institution, which is sought to be preserved and +perpetuated. "Facts are stubborn things,"--and this is the reason why +all systems, religious, moral, or social, which are founded in injustice, +and supported by fraud and robbery, suffer so much by faithful exposition. + +The author has endeavored to present a true statement of the practical +workings of the system of Slavery, as he has seen and _felt it himself._ +He has intended "nothing to extenuate, nor aught set down in malice;" +indeed, so far from believing that he has misrepresented Slavery as an +institution, he does not feel that he has the power to give anything like +a true picture of it in all its deformity and wickedness; especially +_that_ Slavery which is an institution among an enlightened and Christian +people, who profess to believe that all men are born _free_ and _equal_, +and who have certain inalienable _rights_, among which are _life, +liberty_, and the pursuit of happiness. + +The author claims that he has endeavored since he had his freedom, as much +as in him lay, to benefit his suffering fellows in bondage; and that he +has spent most of his free life in efforts to elevate them in manners and +morals, though against all the opposing forces of prejudice and pride, +which of course, has made much of his labor vain. In his old age he sends +out this history--presenting as it were his _own body_, with the marks and +scars of the tender mercies of slave drivers upon it, and asking that +these may plead in the name of Justice, Humanity, and Mercy, that those +who have the power, may have the magnanimity to strike off the chains from +the enslaved, and bid him stand up, a Freeman and a Brother! + + + + +CHAPTER I. + +SLAVE LIFE ON THE PLANTATION. + +I was born in Prince William County, Virginia. At seven years of age, I +found myself a slave on the plantation of Capt. William Helm. Our family +consisted of my father and mother--whose names were Robert and Susan +Steward--a sister, Mary, and myself. As was the usual custom, we lived in +a small cabin, built of rough boards, with a floor of earth, and small +openings in the sides of the cabin were substituted for windows. The +chimney was built of sticks and mud; the door, of rough boards; and the +whole was put together in the rudest possible manner. As to the furniture +of this rude dwelling, it was procured by the slaves themselves, who were +occasionally permitted to earn a little money after their day's toil was +done. I never knew Capt. H. to furnish his slaves with household utensils +of any description. + +The amount of provision given out on the plantation per week, was +invariably one peck of corn or meal for each slave. This allowance was +given in meal when it could be obtained; when it could not, they received +corn, which they pounded in mortars after they returned from their labor +in the field. The slaves on our plantation were provided with very little +meat In addition to the peck of corn or meal, they were allowed a little +salt and a few herrings. If they wished for more, they were obliged to +earn it by over-work. They were permitted to cultivate small gardens, and +were thereby enabled to provide themselves with many trifling +conveniences. But these gardens were only allowed to some of the more +industrious. Capt. Helm allowed his slaves a small quantity of meat during +harvest time, but when the harvest was over they were obliged to fall back +on the old allowance. + +It was usual for men and women to work side by side on our plantation; and +in many kinds of work, the women were compelled to do as much as the men. +Capt. H. employed an overseer, whose business it was to look after each +slave in the field, and see that he performed his task. The overseer +always went around with a whip, about nine feet long, made of the toughest +kind of cowhide, the but-end of which was loaded with lead, and was about +four or five inches in circumference, running to a point at the opposite +extremity. This made a dreadful instrument of torture, and, when in the +hands of a cruel overseer, it was truly fearful. With it, the skin of an +ox or a horse could be cut through. Hence, it was no uncommon thing to see +the poor slaves with their backs mangled in a most horrible manner. Our +overseer, thus armed with his cowhide, and with a large bull-dog behind +him, followed the slaves all day; and, if one of them fell in the rear +from any cause, this cruel weapon was plied with terrible force. He would +strike the dog one blow and the slave another, in order to keep the former +from tearing the delinquent slave in pieces,--such was the ferocity of his +canine attendant. + +It was the rule for the slaves to rise and be ready for their task by +sun-rise, on the blowing of a horn or conch-shell; and woe be to the +unfortunate, who was not in the field at the time appointed, which was in +thirty minutes from the first sounding of the horn. I have heard the poor +creatures beg as for their lives, of the inhuman overseer, to desist from +his cruel punishment. Hence, they were usually found in the field +"betimes in the morning," (to use an old Virginia phrase), where they +worked until nine o'clock. They were then allowed thirty minutes to eat +their morning meal, which consisted of a little bread. At a given +signal, all hands were compelled to return to their work. They toiled +until noon, when they were permitted to take their breakfast, which +corresponds to our dinner. + +On our plantation, it was the usual practice to have one of the old slaves +set apart to do the cooking. All the field hands were required to give +into the hands of the cook a certain portion of their weekly allowance, +either in dough or meal, which was prepared in the following manner. The +cook made a hot fire and rolled up each person's portion in some cabbage +leaves, when they could be obtained, and placed it in a hole in the ashes, +carefully covered with the same, where it remained until done. Bread baked +in this way is very sweet and good. But cabbage leaves could not always be +obtained. When this was the case, the bread was little better than a +mixture of dough and ashes, which was not very palatable. The time allowed +for breakfast, was one hour. At the signal, all hands were obliged to +resume their toil. The overseer was always on hand to attend to all +delinquents, who never failed to feel the blows of his heavy whip. + +The usual mode of punishing the poor slaves was, to make them take off +their clothes to the bare back, and then tie their hands before them with +a rope, pass the end of the rope over a beam, and draw them up till they +stood on the tips of their toes. Sometimes they tied their legs together +and placed a rail between. Thus prepared, the overseer proceeded to punish +the poor, helpless victim. Thirty-nine was the number of lashes ordinarily +inflicted for the most trifling offence. + +Who can imagine a position more painful? Oh, who, with feelings of common +humanity, could look quietly on such torture? Who could remain unmoved, +to see a fellow-creature thus tied, unable to move or to raise a hand in +his own defence; scourged on his bare back, with a cowhide, until the +blood flows in streams from his quivering flesh? And for what? Often for +the most trifling fault; and, as sometimes occurs, because a mere whim or +caprice of his brutal overseer demands it. Pale with passion, his eyes +flashing and his stalwart frame trembling with rage, like some volcano, +just ready to belch forth its fiery contents, and, in all its might and +fury, spread death and destruction all around, he continues to wield the +bloody lash on the broken flesh of the poor, pleading slave, until his +arm grows weary, or he sinks down, utterly exhausted, on the very spot +where already stand the pools of blood which his cruelty has drawn from +thee mangled body of his helpless victim, and within the hearing of those +agonized groans and feeble cries of "Oh do, Massa! Oh do, Massa! Do, Lord, +have mercy! Oh, Lord, have mercy!" &c. + +Nor is this cruel punishment inflicted on the bare backs of the male +portion of slaves only. Oh no! The slave husband must submit without a +murmur, to see the form of his cherished, but wretched wife, not only +exposed to the rude gaze of a beastly tyrant, but he must unresistingly +see the heavy cowhide descend upon her shrinking flesh, and her manacled +limbs writhe in inexpressible torture, while her piteous cries for help +ring through his ears unanswered. The wild throbbing of his heart must be +suppressed, and his righteous indignation find no voice, in the presence +of the human monster who holds dominion over him. + +After the infuriated and heartless overseer had satiated his thirst for +vengeance, on the disobedient or delinquent slave, he was untied, and left +to crawl away as best he could; sometimes on his hands and knees, to his +lonely and dilapidated cabin, where, stretched upon the cold earth, he lay +weak and bleeding and often faint from the loss of blood, without a +friend who dare administer to his necessities, and groaning in the agony +of his crushed spirit. In his cabin, which was not as good as many of our +stables at the North, he might lie for weeks before recovering sufficient +strength to resume the labor imposed upon him, and all this time without +a bed or bed clothing, or any of the necessaries considered so essential +to the sick. + +Perhaps some of his fellow-slaves might come and bathe his wounds in warm +water, to prevent his clothing from tearing open his flesh anew, and thus +make the second suffering well nigh equal to the first; or they might +from their scanty store bring him such food as they could spare, to keep +him from suffering hunger, and offer their sympathy, and then drag their +own weary bodies to their place of rest, after their daily task was +finished. + +Oh, you who have hearts to feel; you who have kind friends around you, in +sickness and in sorrow, think of the sufferings of the helpless, +destitute, and down-trodden slave. Has sickness laid its withering hand +upon you, or disappointment blasted your fairest earthly prospects, still, +the outgushings of an affectionate heart are not denied you, and you may +look forward with hope to a bright future. Such a hope seldom animates the +heart of the poor slave. He toils on, in his unrequited labor, looking +only to the grave to find a quiet resting place, where he will be free +from the oppressor. + + + + +CHAPTER II. + +AT THE GREAT HOUSE. + +When eight years of age, I was taken to the "great house," or the family +mansion of my master, to serve as an errand boy, where I had to stand in +the presence of my master's family all the day, and a part of the night, +ready to do any thing which they commanded me to perform. + +My master's family consisted of himself and wife, and seven children. His +overseer, whose name was Barsly Taylor, had also a wife and five children. +These constituted the white population on the plantation. Capt. Helm was +the owner of about one hundred slaves, which made the residents on the +plantation number about one hundred and sixteen persons in all. One +hundred and seven of them, were required to labor for the benefit of the +remaining nine, who possessed that vast domain; and one hundred of the +number doomed to unrequited toil, under the lash of a cruel task-master +during life, with no hope of release this side of the grave, and as far +as the cruel oppressor is concerned, shut out from hope beyond it. + +And here let me ask, why is this practice of working slaves half clad, +poorly fed, with nothing or nearly so, to stimulate them to exertion, but +fear of the lash? Do the best interests of our common country require it? +I think not. Did the true interest of Capt. Helm demand it? Whatever may +have been his opinion, I cannot think it did. Can it be for the best +interest or good of the enslaved? Certainly not; for there is no real +inducement for the slaveholder to make beasts of burden of his fellow men, +but that which was frankly acknowledged by Gibbs and other pirates: "we +have the power,"--the power to rob and murder on the high seas!--which +they will undoubtedly continue to hold, until overtaken by justice; which +will certainly come some time, just as sure as that a righteous God reigns +over the earth or rules in heaven. + +Some have attempted to apologize for the enslaving of the Negro, by saying +that they are inferior to the Anglo-Saxon race in every respect. This +charge I deny; it is utterly false. Does not the Bible inform us that +"God hath created of one blood all the nations of the earth?" And +certainly in stature and physical force the colored man is quite equal to +his white brother, and in many instances his superior; but were it +otherwise, I can not see why the more favored class should enslave the +other. True, God has given to the African a darker complexion than to his +white brother; still, each have the same desires and aspirations. The +food required for the sustenance of one is equally necessary for the +other. Naturally or physically, they alike require to be warmed by the +cheerful fire, when chilled by our northern winter's breath; and alike +they welcome the cool spring and the delightful shade of summer. Hence, +I have come to the conclusion that God created all men free and equal, and +placed them upon this earth to do good and benefit each other, and that +war and slavery should be banished from the face of the earth. + +My dear reader will not understand me to say, that all nations are alike +intelligent, enterprising and industrious, for we all know that it is far +otherwise; but to man, and not to our Creator, should the fault be +charged. But, to resume our narrative, + +Capt. Helm was not a very hard master; but generally was kind and +pleasant. Indulgent when in good humor, but like many of the southerners, +terrible when in a passion. He was a great sportsman, and very fond of +company. He generally kept one or two race horses, and a pack of hounds +for fox-hunting, which at that time, was a very common and fashionable +diversion in that section of country. He was not only a sportsman, +but a gamester, and was in the habit of playing cards, and sometimes +betting very high and losing accordingly. + +I well remember an instance of the kind: it was when he played cards with +a Mr. W. Graham, who won from him in one sweep, two thousand and seven +hundred dollars in all, in the form of a valuable horse, prized at sixteen +hundred dollars, another saddle-horse of less value, one slave, and his +wife's gold watch. The company decided that all this was fairly won, but +Capt. Holm demurred, and refused to give up the property until an +application was made to Gen. George Washington, ("the father of his +country,") who decided that Capt. Helm had lost the game, and that Mr. +Graham had fairly won the property, of which Mr. G. took immediate +possession, and conveyed to his own plantation. + +Capt. Helm was not a good business man, unless we call horse-racing, +fox-hunting, and card-playing, business. His overseer was entrusted with +every thing on the plantation, and allowed to manage about as he pleased, +while the Captain enjoyed himself in receiving calls from his wealthy +neighbors, and in drinking what he called "grog," which was no more nor +less than whisky, of which he was extremely fond, notwithstanding his +cellar contained the choicest wines and liquors. To show his partiality +for his favorite beverage, I will relate an incident which occurred +between Capt. Helm and Col. Charles Williamson. The Colonel, believing +wine to be a healthier beverage than whisky, accepted a bet made by Capt. +Helm, of one thousand dollars, that he would live longer and drink +whisky, than the Colonel, who drank wine. Shortly after, Col. Williamson +was called home by the British government, and while on his way to +England, died, and his body, preserved in a cask of brandy, was taken +home. The bet Capt. Helm made considerable effort to get, but was +unsuccessful. + +Mrs. Helm was a very industrious woman, and generally busy in her +household affairs--sewing, knitting, and looking after the servants; but +she was a great scold,--continually finding fault with some of the +servants, and frequently punishing the young slaves herself, by striking +them over the head with a heavy iron key, until the blood ran; or else +whipping them with a cowhide, which she always kept by her side when +sitting in her room. The older servants she would cause to be punished +by having them severely whipped by a man, which she never failed to do for +every trifling fault. I have felt the weight of some of her heaviest keys +on my own head, and for the slightest offences. No slave could possibly +escape being punished--I care not how attentive they might be, nor how +industrious--punished they must be, and punished they certainly were. Mrs. +Helm appeared to be uneasy unless some of the servants were under the +lash. She came into the kitchen one morning and my mother, who was cook, +had just put on the dinner. Mrs. Helm took out her white cambric +handkerchief, and rubbed it on the inside of the pot, and it crocked it! +That was enough to invoke the wrath of my master, who came forth +immediately with his horse-whip, with which he whipped my poor mother +most unmercifully--far more severely than I ever knew him to whip a horse. + +I once had the misfortune to break the lock of master's shot gun, and when +it came to his knowledge, he came to me in a towering passion, and charged +me with what he considered the _crime_ of carelessness. I denied it, and +told him I knew nothing about it; but I was so terribly frightened that he +saw I was guilty, and told me so, foaming with rage; and then I confessed +the truth. But oh, there was no escaping the lash. Its recollection +is still bitter, and ever will be. I was commanded to take off my clothes, +which I did, and then master put me on the back of another slave, my +arms hanging down before him and my hands clasped in his, where he was +obliged to hold me with a vise-like grasp. Then master gave me the most +severe flogging that I ever received, and I pray God that I may never +again experience such torture. And yet Capt. Helm was not the worst of +masters. + +These cruelties are daily occurrences, and so degrading is the whole +practice of Slavery, that it not only crushes and brutalizes the wretched +slave, but it hardens the heart, benumbs all the fine feelings of +humanity, and deteriorates from the character of the slaveholders +themselves,--whether man or woman. Otherwise, how could a gentle, and in +other respects, amiable woman, look on such scenes of cruelty, without +a shudder of utter abhorrence? But slaveholding ladies, can not only look +on quietly, but with approbation; and what is worse, though very common, +they can and do use the lash and cowhide themselves, on the backs of their +slaves, and that too on those of their own sex! Far rather would I spend +my life in a State's Prison, than be the slave of the best slaveholder +on the earth! + +When I was not employed as an errand-boy, it was my duty to stand behind +my master's chair, which was sometimes the whole day, never being allowed +to sit in his presence. Indeed, no slave is ever allowed to sit down in +the presence of their master or mistress. If a slave is addressed when +sitting, he is required to spring to his feet, and instantly remove his +hat, if he has one, and answer in the most humble manner, or lay the +foundation for a flogging, which will not be long delayed. + +I slept in the same room with my master and mistress. This room was +elegantly furnished with damask curtains, mahogany bedstead of the +most expensive kind, and every thing else about it was of the most costly +kind. And while Mr. and Mrs. Helm reposed on their bed of down, with a +cloud of lace floating over them, like some Eastern Prince, with their +slaves to fan them while they slept, and to tremble when they awoke, I +always slept upon the floor, without a pillow or even a blanket, but, like +a dog, lay down anywhere I could find a place. + +Slaves are never allowed to leave the plantation to which they belong, +without a written pass. Should any one venture to disobey this law, he +will most likely be caught by the _patrol_ and given thirty-nine lashes. +This patrol is always on duty every Sunday, going to each plantation under +their supervision, entering every slave cabin, and examining closely the +conduct of the slaves; and if they find one slave from another plantation +without a pass, he is immediately punished with a severe flogging. + +I recollect going one Sunday with my mother, to visit my grand-mother; and +while there, two or three of the patrol came and looked into the cabin, +and seeing my mother, demanded her pass. She told them that she had one, +but had left it in another cabin, from whence she soon brought it, which +saved her a whipping but we were terribly frightened. + +The reader will obtain a better knowledge of the character of a Virginia +patrol, by the relation of an affair, which came off on the neighboring +plantation of Col. Alexander, in which some forty of Capt. Helm's slaves +were engaged, and which proved rather destructive of human life in the +end. + +But I must first say that it is not true, that slave owners are respected +for kindness to their slaves. The more tyrannical a master is, the more +will he be favorably regarded by his neighboring planters; and from the +day that he acquires the reputation of a kind and indulgent master, he is +looked upon with suspicion, and sometimes hatred, and his slaves are +watched more closely than before. + +Col. Alexander was a very wealthy planter and owned a great number of +slaves, but he was very justly suspected of being a kind, humane, and +indulgent master. His slaves were always better fed, better clad, and had +greater privileges than any I knew in the Old Dominion; and of course, the +patrol had long had an eye on them, anxious to flog some of "those +pampered niggers, who were spoiled by the indulgence of a weak, +inefficient, but well-meaning owner." + +Col. A. gave his slaves the liberty to get up a grand dance. Invitations +were sent and accepted, to a large number of slaves on other plantations, +and so, for miles around, all or many of the slaves were in high +anticipation of joining in the great dance, which was to come off on +Easter night. In the mean time, the patrol was closely watching their +movements, and evinced rather a joyful expectancy of the many they +should find there without a pass, and the flogging they would give them +for that, if not guilty of any other offence, and perhaps they might catch +some of the Colonel's slaves doing something for which they could be +taught "to know their place," by the application of the cowhide. + +The slaves on Col. A.'s plantation had to provide and prepare the supper +for the expected vast "turn out," which was no light matter; and as slaves +like on such occasions to pattern as much as possible after their master's +family, the result was, to meet the emergency of the case, they _took_ +without saying, "by your leave, Sir," some property belonging to their +master, reasoning among themselves, as slaves often do, that it can not be +_stealing_, because "it belongs to massa, and so do _we_, and we only use +one part of his property to benefit another. Sure, 'tis all massa's." +And if they do not get detected in this removal of "massa's property" from +one location to another, they think no more of it. + +Col. Alexander's slaves were hurrying on with their great preparations for +the dance and feast; and as the time drew near, the old and knowing ones +might be seen in groups, discussing the matter, with many a wink and nod; +but it was in the valleys and by-places where the younger portion were to +be found, rather secretly preparing food for the great time coming. +This consisted of hogs, sheep, calves; and as to master's _poultry_, that +suffered daily. Sometimes it was missed, but the disappearance was always +easily accounted for, by informing "massa" that a great number of hawks +had been around of late; and their preparation went on, night after night, +undetected. They who repaired to a swamp or other by-place to cook by +night, carefully destroyed everything likely to detect them, before they +returned to their cabins in the morning. + +The night for the dance _came_ at last, and long before the time, the road +leading to Col. Alexander's plantation presented a gay spectacle. The +females were seen flocking to the place of resort, with heads adorned with +gaudy bandanna turbans and new calico dresses, of the gayest colors, +--their whole attire decked over with bits of gauze ribbon and other +fantastic finery. The shades of night soon closed over the plantation, and +then could be heard the rude music and loud laugh of the unpolished slave. +It was about ten o'clock when the _aristocratic slaves_ began to assemble, +dressed in the cast-off finery of their master and mistress, swelling out +and putting on airs in imitation of those they were forced to obey from +day to day. + +When they were all assembled, the dance commenced; the old fiddler struck +up some favorite tune, and over the floor they went; the flying feet of +the dancers were heard, pat, pat, over the apartment till the clock +warned them it was twelve at midnight, or what some call "low twelve," to +distinguish it from twelve o'clock at noon; then the violin ceased its +discordant sounds, and the merry dancers paused to take breath. + +Supper was then announced, and all began to prepare for the sumptuous +feast. It being the pride of slaves to imitate the manners of their master +and mistress, especially in the ceremonies of the table, all was conducted +with great propriety and good order. The food was well cooked, and in a +very plentiful supply. They had also managed in some way, to get a good +quantity of excellent wine, which was sipped in the most approved and +modern style. Every dusky face was lighted up, and every eye sparkled with +joy. However ill fed they might have been, here, for once, there was +plenty. Suffering and toil was forgotten, and they all seemed with one +accord to give themselves up to the intoxication of pleasurable amusement. + +House servants were of course, "the stars" of the party; all eyes were +turned to them to see how they conducted, for they, among slaves, are what +a military man would call "fugle-men." The field hands, and such of them +as have generally been excluded from the dwelling of their owners, look to +the house servant as a pattern of politeness and gentility. And indeed, it +is often the only method of obtaining any knowledge of the manners of what +is called "genteel society;" hence, they are ever regarded as a privileged +class; and are sometimes greatly envied, while others are bitterly hated. +And too often justly, for many of them are the most despicable +tale-bearers and mischief-makers, who will, for the sake of the favor of +his master or mistress, frequently betray his fellow-slave, and by +tattling, get him severely whipped; and for these acts of perfidy, and +sometimes downright falsehood, he is often rewarded by his master, who +knows it is for his interest to keep such ones about him; though he is +sometimes obliged, in addition to a reward, to send him away, for fear +of the vengeance of the betrayed slaves. In the family of his master, +the example of bribery and treachery is ever set before him, hence it is, +that insurrections and stampedes are so generally detected. Such slaves +are always treated with more affability than others, for the slaveholder +is well aware that he stands over a volcano, that may at any moment rock +his foundation to the center, and with one mighty burst of its long +suppressed fire, sweep him and his family to destruction. When he lies +down at night, he knows not but that ere another morning shall dawn, he +may be left mangled and bleeding, and at the mercy of those maddened +slaves whom he has so long ruled with a rod of iron. + +But the supper, like other events, came to an end at last. The expensive +table service, with other things, which had been secretly brought from the +"great house," was hurriedly cleansed by the slaves, and carefully +returned. The floor was again cleared, the violin sounded, and soon they +were performing another "break down," with all the wild abandon of the +African character,--in the very midst of which, the music suddenly ceased, +and the old musician assumed a listening attitude. Every foot was +motionless; every face terrified, and every ear listening for the cause of +the alarm. + +Soon the slave who was kept on the "look-out," shouted to the listeners +the single word "_patrol!_" and then the tumult that followed that +announcement, is beyond the power of language to describe! Many a poor +slave who had stolen from his cabin, to join in the dance, now remembered +that they had no pass! Many screamed in affright, as if they already felt +the lash and heard the crack of the overseer's whip; others clenched their +hands, and assumed an attitude of bold defiance, while a savage frown +contracted the brow of all. Their unrestrained merriment and delicious +fare, seemed to arouse in them the natural feelings of self-defence and +defiance of their oppressors. But what could be done? The patrol was +nearing the building, when an athletic, powerful slave, who had been but a +short time from his "fatherland," whose spirit the cowardly overseer had +labored in vain to quell, said in a calm, clear voice, that we had better +stand our ground, and advised the females to lose no time in useless +wailing, but get their things and repair immediately to a cabin at a short +distance, and there remain quiet, without a light, which they did with all +possible haste. The men were terrified at this bold act of their leader; +and many with dismay at the thought of resistance, began to skulk behind +fences and old buildings, when he opened the door and requested every +slave to leave who felt unwilling to fight. None were urged to remain, and +those who stood by him did so voluntarily. + +Their number was now reduced to twenty-five men, but the leader, a +gigantic African, with a massive, compact frame, and an arm of great +strength, looked competent to put ten common men to flight. He clenched +his powerful fist, and declared that he would resist unto death, before he +would be arrested by those savage men, even if they promised not to flog +him. They closed the door, and agreed not to open it; and then the leader +cried, "Extinguish the lights and let them come! we will meet them hand to +hand!" Five of the number he stationed near the door, with orders to rush +out, if the patrol entered, and seize their horses, cut the bridles, or +otherwise unfit them for use. This would prevent them from giving an alarm +and getting a reinforcement from surrounding plantations. In silence +they awaited the approach of the enemy, and soon the tramping of horses' +feet announced their approach, but when within a few yards of the house +they halted, and were overheard by one of the skulking slaves, maturing +their plans and mode of attack. There was great hesitancy expressed by a +part of the company to engage in the affair at all. + + "Coming events cast their shadow before." + +The majority, however, seemed to think it safe enough, and uttered +expressions of triumph that they had got the rascals at last. + +"Are you not afraid that they will resist?" said the weaker party. + +"Resist?" was the astonished answer. "This old fellow, the Colonel, has +pampered and indulged his slaves, it is true, and they have slipped +through our fingers whenever we have attempted to chastise them; but they +are not such fools as to dare resistance! Those niggers know as well as +we, that it is _death_, by the law of the State, for a slave to strike a +white man." + +"Very true," said the other, "but it is dark and long past midnight, and +beside they have been indulging their appetites, and we cannot tell what +they may attempt to do." + +"Pshaw!" he answered, contemptuously, "they are unarmed, and I should not +fear in the least, to go in among them _alone_, armed only with my +cowhide!" + +"As you please, then," he said, rather dubiously, "but look well to your +weapons; are they in order?" + +"In prime order, Sir." And putting spurs to their horses, were soon at the +house, where they dismounted and requested one of the party to remain with +the horses. + +"What," said he, "are you so chicken-hearted as to suppose those d----d +cowardly niggers are going to get up an insurrection?" + +"Oh no," he replied, carelessly, but would not consent to have the horses +left alone. "Besides," said he, "they may forget themselves at this late +hour; but if they do, a few lashes of the cowhide will quicken their +memory, I reckon." + +The slaves were aware of their movements, and prepared to receive them. + +They stepped up to the door boldly, and demanded admittance, but all was +silent; they tried to open it, but it was fastened. Those inside, ranged +on each side of the door, and stood perfectly still. + +The patrol finding the slaves not disposed to obey, burst off the slight +fastening that secured the door, and the chief of the patrol bounded into +their midst, followed by several of his companions, all in total darkness! + +Vain is the attempt to describe the tumultuous scene which followed. Hand +to hand they fought and struggled with each other, amid the terrific +explosion of firearms,--oaths and curses, mingled with the prayers of +the wounded, and the groans of the dying! Two of the patrol were killed +on the spot, and lay drenched in the warm blood that so lately flowed +through their veins. Another with his arm broken and otherwise wounded, +lay groaning and helpless, beside the fallen slaves, who had sold their +lives so dearly. Another of his fellows was found at a short distance, +mortally wounded and about to bid adieu to life. In the yard lay the +keeper of the horses, a stiffened corpse. Six of the slaves were killed +and two wounded. + +It would be impossible to convey to the minds of northern people, the +alarm and perfect consternation that the above circumstance occasioned +in that community. The knowledge of its occurrence was carried from one +plantation to another, as on the wings of the wind; exaggerated accounts +were given, and prophecies of the probable result made, until the +excitement became truly fearful. Every cheek was blanched and every frame +trembled when listening to the tale, that "insurrection among the slaves +had commenced on the plantation of Col. Alexander; that three or four of +the patrol had been killed, &c." The day after, people flocked from every +quarter, armed to the teeth, swearing vengeance on the defenceless slaves. +Nothing can teach plainer than this, the constant and tormenting fear in +which the slaveholder lives, and yet he repents not of his deeds. + +The kind old Colonel was placed in the most difficult and unenviable +position. His warm heart was filled with sorrow for the loss of his +slaves, but not alone, as is generally the case in such instances, because +he had lost so much property. He truly regretted the death of his faithful +servants, and boldly rebuked the occasion of their sudden decease. When +beset and harassed by his neighbors to give up his slaves to be tried for +insurrection and murder, he boldly resisted, contending for the natural +right of the slaves, to act in their own defence, and especially when on +his own plantation and in their own quarters. They contended, however, +that as his slaves had got up a dance, and had invited those of the +adjoining plantations, the patrol was only discharging their duty in +looking after them; but the gallant old Colonel defended his slaves, and +told them plainly that he should continue to do so to the extent of his +ability and means. + +The poor slaves were sad enough, on the morning after their merry meeting, +and they might be seen standing in groups, conversing with a very +different air from the one they had worn the day before. + +Their business was now to prepare the bodies of their late associates for +the grave. Robert, the brave African, who had so boldly led them on the +night before, and who had so judiciously provided for their escape, was +calmly sleeping in death's cold embrace. He left a wife and five slave +children. Two of the other slaves left families, whose pitiful cries it +was painful to hear. + +The Colonel's family, deeply afflicted by what was passing around them, +attended the funeral. One of the slaves, who sometimes officiated as a +minister, read a portion of Scripture, and gave out two hymns;--one of +which commences with + + "Hark! from the tomb a doleful sound." + +Both were sung with great solemnity by the congregation, and then the good +old man offered a prayer; after which he addressed the slaves on the +shortness of human life and the certainty of death, and more than once +hinted at the hardness of their lot, assuring, however, his fellow-slaves, +that if they were good and faithful, all would be right hereafter. His +master, Col. Alexander, was deeply affected by this simple faith and +sincere regard for the best interests of all, both master and slave. + +When the last look at their fellow-servants had been taken, the procession +was formed in the following manner: First, the old slave minister, then +the remains of the dead, followed by their weeping relatives; then came +the master and his family; next the slaves belonging to the plantation; +and last, friends and strangers, black and white; all moved on solemnly to +the final resting-place of those brave men, whose descendants may yet be +heard from, in defence of right and freedom. + + + + +CHAPTER III. + +HORSE-RACING AND ITS CONSEQUENCES. + +Capt. Helm had a race-course on his plantation, on which he trained young +horses for the fall races. One very fine horse he owned, called _Mark +Anthony_, which he trained in the most careful manner for several months +previous to the races. He would put him on the course every morning, +sometimes covering him with a blanket, and then put him to his utmost +speed, which he called "sweating him." Mark Anthony was to be put on the +race-course in October following, as a competitor for the purse of ten +thousand dollars, which was the amount to be lost or gained on the first +day of the fall races. Capt. H. had also another young horse, called +_Buffer_, under a course of training, which he designed to enter the lists +for the second day. His course of training had been about the same as Mark +Anthony's, but being a year or two younger, it was thought that he had not +sufficient "bottom" to risk so much money on, as was at stake on the first +day. + +[Illustration: "Away they go, sweeping round the course with lightning +speed, while every spectator's eye is strained, and every countenance +flushed with intense anxiety."] + +When the time for the races to commence came, all was bustle and +excitement in the house and on the plantation. It was a fine October +morning, and the sun shed a mellow radiance on all around, when people +began to throng the race-course. Some came with magnificent equipages, +attended by their numerous train of black servants, dressed in livery, +--some in less splendid array,--and others on foot, all hurrying on to the +exciting scene. There the noblest blood of Old Virginia, of which many are +wont to boast, was fully represented, as was also the wealth and fashion +of the country for many miles around. + +All were in high spirits, and none seemed to fear that they would be the +losers in the amount of money about to change hands. And for what, pray, +is all this grand outlay--this vast expenditure? Merely the pleasure and +gratification of witnessing the speed of a fine horse, and the vanity of +prejudging concerning it. + +The arrangements were at length completed,--the horses regularly entered, +Mark Anthony among the rest,--and then the word "go!" was given, when each +horse sprang as if for his life, each striving to take the lead. Away they +go, sweeping round the course with lightning speed, while every +spectator's eye is strained, and every countenance flushed with intense +anxiety. + +Some of the noble animals were distanced the first heat, and others were +taken away by their owners. + +The judges allowed twenty minutes to prepare the horses for the second +trial of their speed--a trial which must enrich or empoverish many of the +thousands present. Already there were sad countenances to be seen in the +crowd. + +The horses were again in readiness, and the word given,--away they flew +with the fleetness of the wind, to come in the second time. + +But who can describe the anxiety written on every face, as they prepared +for the third and last trial? I cannot. Many had already lost all they had +staked, and others who had bet high began to fear for the result. Soon, +however, all was again prepared and those foaming steeds, after having +exerted their animal power to the utmost, have accomplished their task and +come in for the last time. The purse was won, _but not by Mark Anthony_. +Capt. Helm was more fortunate the second day. Buffer won the smaller +purse, but the Captain came from the races, a much poorer man than when +they commenced. These repeated failures and heavy losses had the effect to +arouse him to a sense of his pecuniary position, and he soon after began +to think and talk about going to some new country. + +He resolved at last to visit the far-off "Genesee Country," which he +shortly after put in practice, and after an absence of about three weeks +he returned in good health, and delighted with the country; the more so, +doubtless, because he said, "the more slaves a man possessed in that +country the more he would be respected, and the higher would be his +position in society." + +Capt. Helm finally concluded to sell his plantation and stock, except the +slaves, and remove to the Genesee Country, where he designed to locate his +future residence. + +The plantation and stock (retaining the slaves) were advertised for sale, +and on a certain day named, all would be disposed of at a public sale, or +to the highest bidder. + +When the day of sale arrived, there flocked from all parts of the +surrounding country the largest assemblage of people I ever saw in that +place. A large number of wealthy and respectable planters were present, +whose gentlemanly behavior should have been an example to others. + +The majority of that vast crowd, however, were a rough, quarrelsome, +fighting set, just such as might be expected from slave-holding districts. +There were several regularly fought battles during the first day of the +sale. + +One Thomas Ford, a large, muscular, ferocious-looking fellow, a good +specimen of a southern bully and woman-whipper, had been victorious +through the day in numerous fights and brawls; but he had to pay dear for +it when night came. Some one or more of the vanquished party, took +advantage of the dark night to stab him in both sides. The knife of the +assassin had been thrust into his thigh, tearing the flesh upward, leaving +a frightful and dangerous wound; but what is most singular, both sides +were wounded in nearly the same manner, and at the same time, for so +quickly was the deed committed that the offenders made their escape, +before an alarm could be raised for their detection; nor have I ever heard +of any one being arrested for the crime. + +Ford's groans and cries were painful to hear, but his brother acted like a +madman; rushing hither and thither, with a heavy bludgeon in his hand, +with which he indiscriminately beat the fences and whatever came in his +way, crying "Oh my brother, my poor brother! Who has murdered my poor +brother?" + +Physicians came to the aid of the wounded man who at first thought he +might recover, but in a climate like that of Virginia it was impossible. +His friends did all they could to save him, but the poor wretch lingered +a few days and died. Thus ended the life of a bad man and a hard master. + +And who will wonder, if his slaves rejoiced to hear of his death? If they +must be sold to pay his debts, they could not fall into the hands of a +more heartless tyrant. Who then can blame those feeble women and helpless +children, long held as chattels in his iron grasp, if they are grateful +that the man-stealer is no more? + +This Ford was a fair specimen of that class, known in more modern parlance +as a "Border Ruffian." Such as are at this time endeavoring, by their +swaggering and bullying, to cast on the fair fields of Kansas the deep +curse of Slavery--a curse which, like the poison of the deadly Upas, +blights all within its influence: the colored and the white man, the slave +and the master. We were thankful, however, that no more lives were lost +during the vendue, which was commenced with the stock; this occupied two +days. + +The reader will see that we had cause to be grateful, when he takes into +consideration that drinking and fighting was the order of the day, and +drunkenness and carousing the order of the night. + +Then too, the practice of dueling was carried on in all its hideous +barbarity. If a gentleman thought himself insulted, he would immediately +challenge the offender to mortal combat, and if he refused to do so, then +the insulted gentleman felt bound by that barbarous code of honor, to take +his life, whenever or wherever he might meet him, though it might be in a +crowded assembly, where the lives of innocent persons were endangered. + +A case of this kind happened in Kentucky, where the belligerent parties +met in a large concourse of people, the majority of them women and +children; but the combat ensued, regardless of consequences. One woman was +shot through the face, but that was not worthy of notice, for she was +only a _colored woman_; and in that, as in other slave States, the laws +give to the white population the liberty to trample under foot the claims +of all such persons to justice. Justly indignant ladies present +remonstrated, but all to no purpose. The Governor of the State was there +and was in danger of being wounded by their flying bullets, and it is +possible that if he had been in the place of the poor African, some action +would have been taken, and laws made to protect the people against such +inhuman practices. But I must return to Capt. Helm and the vendue. + +The sale continued for several days, during which there was no such thing +as rest or sleep or one quiet moment on the premises. As was customary in +that State, Capt. Helm provided the food and drink for all who came, and +of course a great many came to drink and revel and not to buy; and that +class generally took the night time for their hideous outbreaks, when +the more respectable class had retired to their beds or to their homes. +And many foul deeds and cruel outrages were committed; nor could the +perpetrators be detected or brought to justice. Nothing could be done +but to submit quietly to their depredations. + +One peaceable old slave was killed by having his head split open with an +ax. He was found in the morning lying in the yard, with the bloody +instrument of death by his side. This occasioned some excitement +among the slaves, but as the white people paid but little attention to it, +it soon passed off, and the sorrowful slaves put the old man's remains in +a rough box, and conveyed them to their last resting-place. + +After the sale was over, the slaves were allowed a holiday, with +permission to go and visit their friends and relatives previous to their +departure for their new home in a strange land. + +The slaves generally on Capt. Helm's plantation looked upon this removal +as the greatest hardship they had ever met; the severest trial they had +ever endured; and the separation from our old home and fellow-slaves, +from our relatives and the old State of Virginia, was to us a +contemplation of sorrowful interest. Those who remained, thought us the +most unfortunate of human beings to be taken away off into the State of +New York, and, as they believed, beyond the bounds of civilization, where +we should in all probability be destroyed by wild beasts, devoured by +cannibals, or scalped by the Indians. We never expected to meet again in +this life, hence our parting interviews were as solemn as though we were +committing our friends to the grave. But He whose tender mercies are over +all his creatures, knew best what was for our good. + +Little did Capt. Helm think when bringing his slaves to New York that in a +few short years, they would be singing the song of deliverance from +Slavery's thralldom; and as little thought he of the great and painful +change, to be brought about in his own circumstances. Could any one have +looked into futurity and traced the difficult path, my master was to +tread,--could any one have foreseen the end to which he must soon come, +and related it to him in the days of his greatness and prosperity, he +would, I am certain, have turned from such a narrator of misfortune in a +greater rage than did Namaan when the man of God told him "to go and dip +seven times in the Jordan." + +He could not have believed, nor could I, that in a few years the powerful, +wealthy slaveholder, living in luxury and extravagance, would be so +reduced that the _necessaries_ of life even, were beyond his means, and +that he must be supported by the town! + +But I anticipate. Let us return to the old plantation which seems dearer +than ever, now that we are about to leave it forever. + +We thought Capt. Helm's prospects pretty fair, and yet we shuddered when +we realized our condition as slaves. This change in our circumstances was +calculated to awaken all our fears that had been slumbering, and bring all +the perilous changes to which we might be subjected most vividly to mind. + +We were about to leave the land of our birth, the home of our childhood, +and we felt that untried scenes were before us. We were slaves, it is +true, but we had heart-felt emotions to suppress, when we thought +of leaving all that was so familiar to us, and chose rather to "bear the +ills we had, than to fly to those we knew not of." And oh, the terrible +uncertainty of the future, that ever rests on the slave, even the most +favored, was now felt with a crushing weight. To-day, they are in the old +familiar cabin surrounded by their family, relatives and friends; +to-morrow, they may be scattered, parted forever. The master's +circumstances, not their own, may have assigned one to the dreadful +slave-pen, and another to the distant rice-swamp; and it is this continual +dread of some perilous future that holds in check every joyous emotion, +every lofty aspiration, of the most favored slave at the South. They know +that their owners indulge in high living, and they are well aware also +that their continual indulgences engender disease, which make them very +liable to sudden death; or their master may be killed in a duel, or at a +horse-race, or in a drunken brawl; then his creditors are active in +looking after the estate; and next, the blow of the auctioneer's hammer +separates them perhaps for life. + +Now, after the lapse of so many years, when my thoughts wander back, as +they often do, to my native State, I confess that painful recollections +drive from my mind those joyful emotions that should ever arise in the +heart of man, when contemplating the familiar scenes of his youth, and +especially when recurring to the venerable shades and the sheltering roof +under which he was born. True, around the well-remembered spot where our +childhood's years were spent, recollection still loves to linger; yet +memory, ever ready with its garnered store, paints in glowing colors, +Virginia's crouching slaves in the foreground. Her loathsome slave-pens +and slave markets--chains, whips and instruments of torture; and back of +all this is as truthfully recorded the certain doom, the retributive +justice, that will sooner or later overtake her; and with a despairing +sigh I turn away from the imaginary view of my native State. + +What though she may have been justly styled, "The Mother of Presidents?" +What avails the honor of being the birth-place of the brave and excellent +Washington, while the prayers and groans of the down-trodden African +daily ascend to heaven for redress? What though her soil be fertile, +yielding a yearly product of wealth to its possessors? And what matter is +it, that their lordly mansions are embowered in the shade of trees of a +century's growth, if, through their lofty and tangled branches, we espy +the rough cabin of the mangled bondman, and know that the soil on which he +labors has drunk his heart's blood? + +Ah! to me, life's sweetest memories are all embittered. Slavery had cast +its dark and fearful shadow over my childhood, youth, and early manhood, +and I went out from the land of my birth, a fettered slave. A land which +I can regard only as "the house of bondage and the grave of freedom." But +God forgive me for having envied my master his fair prospects at this +time. + +After the sale of the plantation, Capt. Helm was in possession of quite a +large sum of money, and having never paid much attention to his pecuniary +interests, he acted as if there could be no end of it. He realized about +forty thousand dollars from the sale of his estate in Virginia, which +would have been a pretty sum in the hands of a man who had been accustomed +to look after his own interests; but under the management of one who had +all his life lived and prospered on the unrequited toil of slaves, it was +of little account. He bought largely of every thing he thought necessary +for himself or the comfort of his family, for which he always paid the +most extravagant prices. The Captain was not as well qualified to take +care of himself and family as some of his slaves were; but he thought +differently, and so the preparations for leaving the old plantation for a +home in the wilds of New York, went on under his direction, and at last we +bade a final adieu to our friends and all we held dear in the State of +Virginia. + + + + +CHAPTER IV. + +JOURNEY TO OUR NEW HOME IN NEW YORK. + +All things having been prepared for our departure, our last "Good-bye" +spoken, and our last look taken of the old plantation, we started, amid +the sobs and prolonged cries of separating families, in company with our +master, the overseer and another white man named Davis, who went with us +to take back the five-horse "Pennsylvania team," which was provided for +the conveyance of the food for the slaves, and what little baggage they +might have, and also that of the overseer. + +Capt. Helm had determined to leave his family until he could get his +slaves settled in their future quarters, and a home provided for himself, +when they were expected to join him. + +We traveled northward, through Maryland, Pennsylvania, and a portion of +New York, to Sodus Bay, where we halted for some time. We made about +twenty miles per day, camping out every night, and reached that place +after a march of twenty days. Every morning the overseer called the roll, +when every slave must answer to his or her name, felling to the ground +with his cowhide, any delinquent who failed to speak out in quick time. + +After the roll had been called, and our scanty breakfast eaten, we +marched on again, our company presenting the appearance of some numerous +caravan crossing the desert of Sahara. When we pitched our tents for the +night, the slaves must immediately set about cooking not their supper +only, but their breakfast, so as to be ready to start early the next +morning, when the tents were struck; and we proceeded on our journey in +this way to the end. + +At Sodus Bay there was then one small tavern, kept by a man named Sill. + +The bay is ten miles in length and from a half to two miles in breadth, +and makes an excellent harbor. The surrounding country then was almost an +unbroken wilderness. + +After Capt. Helm had rested a few days at Sodus, he went six miles up the +bay and purchased a large tract of land lying on both sides of that +beautiful sheet of water, and put his slaves on to clear and cultivate +it. Then came the "tug of war." Neither the overseer nor the slaves had +the least knowledge of _clearing_ land, and that was the first thing to be +done. It was useless to consult the Captain, for he knew still less about +matters of that kind. To obviate this difficulty, our master bought out a +Mr. Cummings, who had some cleared land on the west side of the bay. On +this he put the overseer and a part of the slaves, and then hired a Mr. +Herrington to take charge of the remainder. Herrington and his gang of +slaves was sent to the east side to chop down the heavy timber and clear +the land for cultivation, all of which had first to be learned, for we +knew nothing of felling trees, and the poor slaves had rather a hard time +of it. + +Provisions were scarce and could not be procured for cash in that section. +There was no corn to be had, and we had but little left. We had no +neighbors to assist us in this trying time, and we came near starvation. +True, the wild, romantic region in which we were located abounded in +game,--elk, deer, bear, panther, and wolves, roamed abroad through the +dense forest, in great abundance, but the business of the slaves was not +hunting or fishing, but clearing the land, preparatory to raising crops +of grain the coming season. + +At last Capt. Helm chartered a boat, and manned it to go to the mouth of +the Genesee River to buy corn. They embarked under favorable auspices, but +soon there came on such a tremendous storm, that the boat could no longer +be managed, and the crew in despair threw themselves on the bottom of the +boat to await their inevitable destruction, when one of their number, a +colored man named Dunbar, sprang to the helm, and with great difficulty +succeeded in running her safely into a Canadian port, where they were +obliged to part with every thing in their possession to obtain the means +to return to their families in Sodus, who had given them up as lost. But, +to the great joy of all, they came back at last with their lives, but with +nothing for the famishing slaves. Before another boat could be sent for +our relief, we were reduced to the last extremity. We became so weak we +could not work, and it was difficult to drag ourselves about, as we were +now obliged to do, to gather up all the old bones we could find, break +them up fine and then boil them; which made a sort of broth sufficient +barely to sustain life. This we drank, and merely existed, until at last, +the long looked for boat returned, loaded with provision, which saved us +from starvation and gave us strength to pursue our labor. + + + + +CHAPTER V. + +INCIDENTS AT SODUS BAY. + +About this time two slaves who were laboring in the forest, instead of +returning to their cabin as was expected, got lost, and wandered eight +days in the dense forest without provision, except what they could procure +from roots and the bark of trees. Great exertion was made to find them; +guns were fired, horns blown, and shouts raised, but all to no purpose. +Finally, we gave them up, supposing they had starved to death or had been +killed by wild beasts. One of them was an elderly man, named Benjamin +Bristol, and the other, Edmund Watkins, a lad of about eighteen years of +age. They wandered in an easterly direction, a distance of some sixty or +seventy miles, through an unbroken wilderness, vainly trying to find their +way home. On the eighth day, to their inexpressible joy, they came out on +the shore of Lake Ontario, near Oswego; but young Watkins was so +completely exhausted that he declared himself incapable of further +exertion, and begged to be left to his fate. Bristol, however, who chewed +tobacco, which it was supposed kept him from sinking so low as his +companion, took him on his back, and carried him home, which they reached +in a famished state and reduced to skeletons. All were thankful for the +preservation of their lives, and, with the best we could do for them, +they soon recruited and became strong as ever. + +One day, two others and myself thought we saw some animal swimming across +the bay. We got a boat and went out to see what it was. After rowing for +some time we came near enough to perceive it was a large bear. Those who +watched us from the shore expected to see our boat upset, and all on board +drowned, but it was not so to be; the, bear was struck on the nose with a +blow that killed him instantly, and he was hauled ashore in great triumph. + +While these things were transpiring on the east side of the bay, the +overseer on the west side determined to punish one of the slaves who +worked on the east side. The name of the slave was Williams; a strong, +athletic man, and generally a good workman, but he had unfortunately +offended the overseer, for which nothing could appease his wrath but the +privilege of flogging him. The slave, however, thought as he was no longer +in Virginia, he would not submit to such chastisement, and the overseer +was obliged to content himself with threatening what he would do if he +caught him on the west side of the bay. + +A short time after, the overseer called at the cabin of one of the slaves, +and was not a little surprised to find there the refractory slave, +Williams, in company with three other men. He immediately walked up to +him and asked him some question, to which Williams made no reply. +Attended, as he always was, by his ferocious bull-dog, he flourished his +cowhide in great wrath and demanded an instant reply, but he received +none, whereupon he struck the slave a blow with the cowhide. Instantly +Williams sprang and caught him by the throat and held him writhing in his +vise-like grasp, until he succeeded in getting possession of the cowhide, +with which he gave the overseer such a flogging as slaves seldom get. +Williams was seized at once by the dog who endeavored to defend his brutal +master, but the other slaves came to the rescue, and threw the dog into a +huge fire which was near by, from which, after a singeing, he ran off, +howling worse than his master when in the hands of Williams. He foamed and +swore and still the blows descended; then he commanded the slaves to +assist him, but as none obeyed, he commenced begging in the most humble +manner, and at last entreated them as "gentlemen" to spare him; but all to +no purpose. When Williams thought he had thrashed him sufficiently, he let +him go and hurried to his boat and rowed down the bay, instead of crossing +it. The overseer no sooner found himself at liberty than he ran out, +calling to a servant girl to bring his rifle, which was loaded. The rifle +was brought, but before he could get to the bay, Williams had gone beyond +his reach; but unfortunately another boat was at this moment crossing the +bay, which he, mad with rage, fired into. The men in the boat immediately +cried out to him not to repeat the shot, but he was so angry that he swore +he would shoot somebody, and sent another bullet after them. No one was +hurt, however, but the brave overseer was vanquished. Crest-fallen and +unrevenged, he shortly after called on Capt. Helm for a settlement, +which was granted, and bidding a final adieu to the "Genesee Country," he +departed for Virginia, where he could beat slaves without himself +receiving a cow-hiding. No one regretted his absence, nor do I think +any but the most heartless would cordially welcome his return to the land +of Slavery. + +[Illustration: "Instantly Williams sprang and caught him by the throat and +held him writhing in his vise-like grasp, until he succeeded in getting +possession of the cow-hide, with which he gave the overseer such a +flogging as slaves seldom get."] + + + + +CHAPTER VI. + +REMOVAL FROM SODUS TO BATH. + +Capt. Helm went to Virginia for his family, and returning with them, +concluded to locate his future residence in the village of Bath, Steuben +County. He purchased a large tract of land near the village, a large grist +mill, and two saw mills; also, two farms; one called the "Maringo," east +of the village; and the other, called "Epsam," north of it; and a fine +house and lot in the village. He also kept a distillery, which in those +days was well patronized, for nearly every body drank whisky; and with +Capt. Helm it was a favorite beverage. + +The slaves were removed to Bath, where our master was well suited, and was +everywhere noted for his hospitality. He had a great deal of land to +cultivate, and carried on a multiplicity of business. + +Soon after we were settled at Bath, Capt. Helm's eldest daughter, Jenny, +was married to Mr. John Fitzhugh, her cousin, who had come from Virginia +to claim his bride. + +The wedding was a splendid affair. No pains were spared to make it more +imposing than any thing that had ever happened in that country. Never +before had the quiet village of Bath seen such splendor. All that wealth, +power and ambition could do, was done to make the event one of great +brilliancy. Europe contributed her full proportion; Turkey, the Indias, +East and West, were heavily taxed to produce their finest fabrics to adorn +the bride and bridal guests; and contribute delicacies to add elegance to +the festal scene. Two days previous to the wedding, the invited guests +began to arrive with their retinue of servants, and on the evening of the +marriage the large mansion was thrown open, and there was the most +magnificent assemblage I ever beheld. In the drawing-room, where the +ceremony took place, every thing was surpassingly elegant. Costly +chandeliers shed their light on the rich tapestry, and beautiful dresses +glittering with diamonds, and the large mirrors everywhere reflecting the +gay concourse. While the servants were preparing supper it was announced +that the hour had arrived for the ceremony to commence. The bridal pair +took their place in the center of the apartment. Pearls, diamonds, and +jewelry glittered on the bride with such luster, that it was almost +painful to the eye to look upon her. + +The minister, after asking God to bless the assembled guests, and those he +was about to unite in the holy bonds of wedlock, proceeded in a very +solemn and impressive manner with the marriage service. The ceremony +concluded, and good wishes having been expressed over the sparkling wine, +the man of God took his leave, two hundred dollars richer than when he +came. The company were all very happy, or appeared so; mirth reigned +supreme, and every countenance wore a smile. They were seated at tables +loaded with luxuries of every description, and while partaking, a band of +music enlivened the scene. + +All business was suspended for several days, the wedding party making a +tour of ten days to Niagara Falls. After a while, however, affairs assumed +their usual aspect, and business took its regular routine. + +The grist mill belonging to the Captain was the only one for many miles +around, and was a source of great profit to him; the saw mills also, were +turning out a large quantity of lumber, which was in good demand; and the +distillery kept up a _steaming_ business. It yielded, however, a handsome +income to Capt. Helm, who was now, for the first time since I knew him, +overseeing his affairs himself, dispensing altogether with the service of +a regularly installed overseer. + +The oldest son of our master had been absent from home for sometime, nor +did he return to attend his sister's grand wedding. He had sought and +obtained a commission in the United States service as a Lieutenant. +This had been his own choice; he had preferred the service and hardships +of a soldier, to a plantation well stocked with slaves, and the quietude +of domestic life. He had cheerfully given up his friends and prospects as +a planter, and entered the service of his country. Frank Helm, the second +son, soon followed the example of his older brother, Lina. He obtained a +like commission, but he did not, like his brother, get along quietly. His +prospects as an officer were soon blighted, and all hope of being +serviceable to his country vanished forever. + + + + +CHAPTER VII. + +DUELING. + +Lina Helm was an easy, good-natured, clever fellow; but his brother Frank +was his opposite in nearly every thing; proud, fractious and unyielding. +As might be expected, Frank, soon after entering the army, got into an +"affair of honor," according to the duelist's code of laws. He was not, +however, the principal in the difficulty. One of his friends and a +brother officer, had a quarrel with a gentleman whom he challenged to +mortal combat. Frank was the bearer of his friend's challenge, and on +presenting it, the gentleman refused to accept it, saying that the +challenger "was no gentleman." Then, according to the rules of dueling, no +alternative was left for Frank, but to take his brother officer's place, +and fight. This he did and came from the bloody field disabled for life. +In consequence of his lameness, he was under the necessity of resigning +his commission in the army, which he did, and came home a cripple, and +nearly unfitted for any kind of business whatever. + +While on the subject of dueling, permit me to record some of the incidents +of another "affair of honor," which occurred in the District of Columbia, +between Gen. Mason and Mr. M'Carter, two antagonistic politicians. + +M'Carter offered his vote to the inspectors, and Mason challenged it. +M'Carter offered to swear it in, when Mason said if he did so he would +perjure himself. This blew what appeared to be but a spark into an angry +blaze, and a duel was momentarily expected; but their warlike propensities +subsided into a newspaper combat, which was kept up for several weeks, +each party supposing they had the advantage of their adversary. In this +stage of the quarrel, Gen. Jackson, with one of his aid-de-camps, Dr. +Bruno, visited Washington. Dr. Bruno was a friend of Gen. Mason's, and +to him the General submitted the correspondence, desiring his opinion +relative to the advantage one had obtained over the other. Dr. Bruno +decided against his friend, which probably exasperated him still more, +and the General expressed his determination to fight his antagonist. Dr. +Bruno wrote to M'Carter to come to Washington, and he came immediately, +and was as readily waited upon by the Doctor, who inquired if he would +receive a communication from his friend, Gen. Mason. M'Carter replied, +that he "would receive no communication from Gen. Mason, except a +challenge to fight." The challenge was therefore sent, and accepted, and +the Doctor appointed to make the necessary arrangements for the duel. He +proposed the weapons to be pistols, and the distance, ten paces; to +which M'Carter objected, because he said, "the General was a dead shot +with the pistol, while he hardly knew how to use one." Then it was left to +M'Carter to choose the mode of warfare. He proposed muskets and ten paces +distance. This was agreed upon, and finally the morning arrived for the +conflict, and people began to assemble in great numbers to witness this +murderous scene. + +The belligerent parties unflinchingly took their place, each with his +loaded musket at his shoulder, and gazing in each other's face, with +feelings of the most bitter hatred, while their eyes flashed vengeance. + +Oh! what a state of mind was this in which to meet inevitable death? How +could intelligent men, or gentlemen, if you please so to term them, look +placidly on such a horrid scene? Was there no heart of humanity to +interfere and arrest the murderous designs of these madmen? Alas, no! The +slaveholder's "code of honor" must be acknowledged, though it outrage the +laws of God and his country. + +Dr. Bruno asks, "Gentlemen, are you ready?" and the duelists take their +deadly aim at each other. The signal to fire is given, and both weapons +are discharged, and when the smoke had cleared away, what a spectacle +was there presented to the duelist and spectator? Gen. Mason, a husband, +a father, a statesman, and a kind friend, lies bleeding, and gasping for +breath. He is no more! Who will bear to his loving and unsuspecting wife, +the sad intelligence of her sudden bereavement? Who will convey his +lifeless body to his late residence, and throw grief and consternation +into the bosom of his family, and drape in sadness his whole household? +And yet this painful task must be performed. The family of General Mason +remained entirely ignorant of what was transpiring regarding the duel, +until his mangled corpse was brought into his dwelling, from which he had +so recently gone forth in all the vigor of life and manhood. And here let +us drop the curtain, nor intrude on that scene of domestic affliction +around the deserted hearth-stone of the bereaved family of General Mason. + +But where is Mr. M'Carter, the more fortunate party in the duel? Hurrying +away from the frightful scene, his hands dripping with the blood of his +fellow-man, he skulks about, until an opportunity is given him to step on +board a vessel bound to a foreign port; he leaves home, friends and +country, in the vain hope of finding peace of mind, and ridding himself of +that guilt and censure which must attach itself to a crime so heinous as +that of taking the life of another. I can but regard the inhuman practice +of dueling as the legitimate fruit of Slavery. + +Men who have been raised in the Slave States, where, if the laws do not +give them the power, they do not restrain them from cruelly punishing +every offender with personal violence, even unto death, if their insulted +dignity seems to demand it. It is, however, encouraging to know that for +a few years past the practice of dueling has somewhat fallen into +disrepute among the more humane and candid class of community. + + + + +CHAPTER VIII. + +HORSE-RACING AND GENERAL TRAINING. + +After the return of the wedding party, Mr. Fitzhugh purchased a tract of +land near that of Capt. Helm, on which the newly-married couple commenced +keeping house. They, however, became dissatisfied with their location, +and soon after sold their possessions and returned to the South. + +Capt. Helm still continued to take the oversight of his slaves, and was +out every day, superintending his business, just as his overseer used to +do. + +About this time a man named Henry Tower came to Bath to hire "slave boys," +as we were called. The Captain hired to him Simon and myself, and a Mr. +Baker also hired to him one slave named Vol. McKenzie. We three started +for Dresden, Ontario County, where we arrived in due time. + +Mr. Tower had just bought a tract of land, three miles this side of the +village of Lyons, on the Canandaigua outlet. Here Mr. Tower contemplated +making great improvements, building mills, opening stores &c. This tract +of land was comparatively wild, there being but a small frame house for a +dwelling, one for a store, and another for a blacksmith shop. Mr. Tower +had two brothers; James, the eldest, who took charge of the store, and +John, the younger, who took charge of the hands who worked on the farm; +Henry himself superintending the building of the mills. This firm had a +great number of men in their employ that year. I was kept busy helping the +women about the cooking and house-work. And here, for the first time in my +life, I had a comfortable bed to sleep on, and plenty of wholesome food to +eat; which was something both new and strange to me. + +The Towers were thorough-going business-men; they built a large grist +mill, with four run of stone, and also a distillery. In those days it was +customary for nearly all classes to drink spirituous liquors; hence, the +distilleries were sources of great pecuniary interest to those who owned +them. But having lived to see the dreadful evils which the drinking of +alcoholic beverages have produced on community, I can hardly speak of +distilleries in the favorable light in which they were then regarded. + +The Towers, with commendable enterprise, cleared a great number of acres +of land during the first year I lived with them, besides doing a heavy +business in the mill, store and distillery. + +It was customary then for men to assemble at some public place for the +purpose of drinking whisky and racing horses. + +One Saturday afternoon there was to be a race, and all was excitement. +Being young, I wished to go with the rest. I hurried through my work as +fast as possible, and then, with a trembling heart, set off in search of +my master, fearing lest he would refuse me the simple request. But he +happened to be in uncommon good humor, and readily gave his consent; and +away I went, "as happy as a lark." When I reached the race-ground, they +were just preparing to run the horses. Seeing me, they knew me to be a +poor friendless little slave boy, helpless and unprotected, and they could +therefore do with me as they pleased, and have some fine sport at my +expense. + +When I was asked to ride one of the fast horses, I felt proud of the honor +conferred, and was assisted to mount, feeling highly elated with the lofty +position I had gained. + +The word "go," was shouted, and the horse whirled off, and it seemed to me +as if he flew with the speed of lightning. My hat fell off the first +thing; and there I was, clinging with might and main to the neck of the +fiery animal, my head bare, my feet bootless, and my old stripped shirt +blown from my back, and streaming out behind, and fluttering like a banner +in the breeze; my ragged pants off at the knees, and my long legs dangling +down some length below; and at the same time crying "Whoa! whoa!" as loud +as I could. Nor was this all; frightened as I was, nearly to death, I cast +a despairing look behind me, and the loud, derisive laugh of the +bystanders rung in my ears. + +Ludicrous as I must have appeared, this was too much,--I felt a giddiness +coming over me, my brain reeled, my hold relaxed, and the next instant I +had fallen to the ground, where all consciousness left me. When I came to +my senses I was lying in bed, surrounded by all the appurtenances of a +dying person. + +The first thing I heard was Mr. Tower scolding the men who put me on the +horse, and threatening them with a law-suit for presuming to do such a +thing without his permission. Mr. Tower considered himself holden to Capt. +Helm for my safe return, and was therefore justly indignant at their +placing my life in such peril. It was indeed a narrow escape, for the +horse was running with all his speed when I fell. My bones were unbroken, +however, and I suppose it must have been the tremendous jar I got when I +fell that rendered me unconscious; nor do I think it impossible that the +fright may not have contributed somewhat to the catastrophe. + +It was while I was living with that gentleman that the greatest "general +training" ever known in Western New York, came off at "Oak's Corners," in +the town of Phelps. It really seemed to me that the whole world were going +to the training, and I, of course, felt a great curiosity to go where "all +creation" appeared to be going. Mr. Tower permitted me to go, and I +started off in high spirits. When I arrived within two or three miles of +the place the road was almost blocked up with people, and when I got to +Oak's Corners the crowd beggared all description; carriages of all sorts +were there, containing eatables of all kinds, and tents of all dimensions +were on the road-side, for the houses could not begin to accommodate the +people. The entire brigade was to meet at that place, and Gov. Lewis was +expected to review the different companies, and all were anxious to see +the Governor, for, in those days, it was a rare thing to see so high a +dignitary in Western New York; the eastern portion of the State having had +every thing of that kind their own way. + +Nor was the means and mode of traveling brought to such perfection as now. +The roads were new and rough, and our best public conveyances only the +slow lumbering stage-coach; yet, notwithstanding these inconveniences, +there was an innumerable crowd gathered at that place. I spent the day in +walking about the encampment, and seeing what was to be seen, for it was +all new to me. + +Officers were riding over the ground, dressed in uniform, and mounted on +their splendid steeds: their plumes waving over their cocked-hats in true +military array. A band of music, as is usual, accompanied the soldiers. +There was also a "sham-fight," before the breaking up of the encampment, +and it was really terrifying to me, who had never seen a battle fought, to +witness two columns of troops drawn up, and, at the roll of the drum, +behold them engage in deadly conflict, to all appearance, and the smoke +curling up in a blackened mass toward heaven; and, above all, the +neighing of horses, with the feigned groans of the wounded and dying. I +inwardly prayed to God that those men might ever draw their weapons in a +feigned encounter. + +The first night I spent at the encampment was one long to be remembered; +it was like the confusion of Babel. Of all the hideous noises I ever heard +none could exceed those made there that night. They fired guns, quarreled, +drank, and swore, till day light. There was such a crowd at the tavern +that I did not suppose I could get a bed, so I threw myself down upon a +door-step, and began to compose myself to sleep, when a man came and +wakened me, inquiring at the same time whose boy I was. I replied that I +lived with Mr. Tower. "Follow me," said he; I arose and followed him into +the house, where he procured for me a bed, to be shared with another +"boy," who had already occupied it. + +I had just began to doze, when the explosion of firearms startled all in +the house. The keeper of the tavern ran up stairs in great alarm, and when +an examination was made, we found that a drunken fellow had discharged his +musket in the room below the one where we were sleeping, and that the ball +had passed up through the second floor and completely through the bed on +which I slept, to the roof, where, having passed through that also, rolled +from thence to the ground! And yet, strange as it may appear, no one was +injured, though the house was filled to overflowing with guests. + +There were groups of disorderly and drunken men continually roaming over +the camp-ground at night, who seemed to have no other object than to annoy +others, and torment any one they might find sleeping, by shaking them, or, +if soundly asleep, dragging them out of their beds by their feet. Among +these thus annoyed by them was a physician from Canandaigua. Being a +passionate man, they seemed to think it fine sport to arouse him from +sleep and hear him scold. The first time they dragged him from his tent he +merely remonstrated in a very gentlemanly manner, and quietly crept back +again. The rowdies were disappointed; they had expected a "scene." As soon +as he was asleep they attacked him again, dragging him out by the heels; +then he was angry, and told them if they repeated the offence it would be +at the peril of their lives, and a third time retired to his tent; but a +third party soon came, and one, more bold than the rest, entered the tent +and laid hold of the Doctor. He sprang to his feet and drew his sword, +which he ran through the body of a man supposed to be that of his +tormentor; but oh! what sorrow and consternation possessed him when he +found he had taken the life of a quiet, unoffending person who happened +to be standing by, attracted to the spot probably by the noise of the +revelers. The unhappy Doctor was obliged to flee from his country for a +time, but after a while the shadows which had so suddenly fallen on his +fair prospects were cleared away, and he returned to his home and country. + +The second day of the encampment was one of surpassing beauty. The sun +shone in all its softened radiance on that vast concourse of human beings. +The field presented a spectacle which must have been imposing to those of +more experienced vision than mine; but to me, in my ignorant simplicity, +it was superbly grand; fascinating beyond my power of resistance, and made +an impression on my mind never to be effaced. + +The brigade was drawn up in a line, each colonel stationed just so many +paces in front of the line, and all the other officers, such as majors, +quarter-masters, &c., were stationed at an equal distance in the rear. +When all were paraded, the Governor of the State made his appearance, +dressed in full uniform, his hat being one of the Bonaparte style, +attended by his aid-de-camp, who was dressed much in the same manner as +his Excellency Governor Lewis, who, after the salute, took his place at +the head of the brigade, and the military exercises commenced. When the +Governor issued his orders, they were first given to his aid, who passed +them to the officers, and they gave the word of command to the soldiers; +for instance if the Governor wished the brigade to "shoulder arms,"--the +order went to the officer who commanded the first regiment, and he +repeated the order, and was obeyed; then the same order passed to the +next, and so on, until the whole brigade had complied with the order of +his Excellency. + +But this, I believe, was the first and last time that the military were +ever called out on so large a scale, in the State of New York. It was +supposed that the effect would be decidedly injurious to a community and +the idea was abandoned. Young men were so liable to be fascinated by the +magnificent spectacle, that not the rabble only were attracted by the +"trappings of war," but they have a tendency to induce young, and _old men +even_, of fair prospects, to neglect _their agricultural interests_ for +military pursuits, which, in a new country, were certainly of paramount +importance, if not the greater of the two. + +I know that it became very hard for me to content myself to labor as I had +done, after witnessing this grand display. I was completely intoxicated +with a military spirit, and sighed for the liberty to go out "on the +lines" and fight the British. + +The martial music, the waving plumes, and magnificent uniform, had driven +from my mind entirely the bloodshed and carnage of the battle field; +beside, I was sick and tired of being a slave, and felt ready to do almost +any thing to get where I could act and feel like a free man. + +I became acquainted with a Mr. McClure, a merchant in Bath, who, while on +a journey to Philadelphia, to purchase goods, was taken suddenly ill and +died; when his brother, George McClure, came on to attend to his diseased +brother's business. He was a fine, persevering kind of man, and very soon +got to be General McClure, and commanded the brigade in Steuben County, +and, as such, was liable to be called at any time when his services were +required, to go to the frontier and guard our lines from the invasion of +the English army. + +To him I applied for a situation as waiter, which he readily agreed to +give me if I could get the consent of Captain Helm. I thought there would +be no trouble about that; and oh! how I dreamed of and anticipated the +happiness of being _something_ beside a slave, for a _little while at +least_. Almost every day I went to the store to talk to Gen. McClure of +this greatest happiness imaginable, "going to the lines!" and was +impatient for the chance to arrive that would send me there. + +At last Gen. McClure wrote to Gen. Armstrong, to say that he was ready to +obey any order that he might send him, and march to "the lines," if his +services were needed; and, to _my_ inexpressible joy, marching orders were +returned. I nearly flew in search of Capt. Helm, never once suspecting +that he would object; because I knew that he did not then require my +services himself, and the pay would be quite as good as he had been +receiving for my time; besides I had so completely set my heart on going, +that it was impossible for me to dream of a disappointment so bitter as +that of being denied going "to the lines." + +Oh! how then were my high hopes fallen, and how much more hateful appeared +that slavery which had blighted all my military prospects? Nor was Capt. +Helm's heartless and mercenary reply to my humble pleading any antidote to +my disappointed feelings and desire for freedom. He said, "you shall not +go; I will permit nothing of the kind, so let there be an end to it. The +_pay_ is all well enough, I know, but if you get killed your wages will +stop; and then who, do you suppose, will indemnify me for the loss? Go +about your business, and let me hear no more of such nonsense!" + +There was an emergency I had not provided for; and, as I then believed, +the master could make no demand on or for the slaves beyond the grave, I +was silent; but both master and myself were mistaken on that point; for I +have since learned numerous instances where slaves have fought and died +in the service of their master's country, and the slave-owner received +his wages up to the hour of his death, and then recovered of the United +States the full value of his person as property! + +Gen. McClure left soon after for the frontier; my saddened heart followed +him, and that was all; my body was in slavery still, and painful though +it was, I must quietly submit. + +The General, however, reaped but few if any laurels in that campaign; he +burned the small village of Newark, in Canada, for which he got very +little credit on either side of the lake; so I comforted myself as well as +I could with the reflection, that all who "went to the wars" did not +return covered with glory and laurels of victory. + +I continued to live with the Towers; and in the fall of that year, I had +the misfortune to cut my foot badly. While chopping fire wood at the door, +I accidentally struck my ax against a post, which glanced the blow in such +a manner that it came down with sufficient force to nearly sever my great +toe from my left foot, gashing upward completely through the large joint, +which made a terrible wound. Dr. Taylor was immediately called, and sewed +the flesh together, taking two stitches on the upper, and one on the +under, side of the foot, before it began to swell; but when the swelling +came on, the stitches on the upper side gave way, which occasioned the toe +to fall over so much, that I have been slightly lame from that day to +this. For several weeks I was unable to be moved, and was regularly +attended by Dr. Taylor, but as soon as it could be done without danger, I +was taken back to Capt. Helm's, where I found things in much the same +condition as when I left them over a year before. + +On leaving the family of Mr. Tower, I endeavored to express to them as +well in my power the gratitude I felt for their kindness, and the +attention I had received during my lameness. + +We returned to Bath in a sleigh, and arrived without accident or any great +suffering. But the kind treatment I had always received from the Messrs. +Tower and family, made it very hard for me to reconcile myself to my +former mode of living; especially now that I was lame and weak, from +sickness and long confinement; besides, it was cold weather. Oh! how hard +it did seem to me, after having a good bed and plenty of bed clothes every +night for so long time, to now throw myself down, like a dog, on the +"_softest side_" of a rough board, without a pillow, and without a +particle of bedding to cover me during the long cold nights of winter. To +be reduced from a plentiful supply of good, wholesome food, to the mere +pittance which the Captain allowed his slaves, seemed to me beyond +endurance. + +And yet I had always lived and fared thus, but I never felt so bitterly +these hardships and the cruelties of Slavery as I did at that time; making +a virtue of necessity, however, I turned my thoughts in another direction. + +I managed to purchase a spelling book, and set about teaching myself to +read, as best I could. Every spare moment I could find was devoted to that +employment, and when about my work I could catch now and then a stolen +glance at my book, just to refresh my memory with the simple lesson I was +trying to learn. But here Slavery showed its cloven foot in all its +hideous deformity. It finally reached the ears of my master that I was +learning to read; and then, if he saw me with a book or a paper in my +hand, oh, how he would swear at me, sending me off in a hurry, about some +employment. Still I persevered, but was more careful about being seen +making any attempt to learn to read. At last, however, I was discovered, +and had to pay the penalty of my determination. + +I had been set to work in the sugar bush, and I took my spelling book with +me. When a spare moment occurred I sat down to study, and so absorbed was +I in the attempt to blunder through my lesson, that I did not hear the +Captain's son-in-law coming until he was fairly upon me. He sprang +forward, caught my poor old spelling book, and threw it into the fire, +where it was burned to ashes; and then came my turn. He gave me first +a severe flogging, and then swore if he ever caught me with another book, +he would "whip every inch of skin off my back," &c. + +This treatment, however, instead of giving me the least idea of giving it +up, only made me look upon it as a more valuable attainment. Else, why +should my oppressors feel so unwilling that their slaves should possess +that which they thought so essential to themselves? Even then, with my +back bleeding and smarting from the punishment I had received, I +determined to learn to read and write, at all hazards, if my life was only +spared. About this time Capt. Helm began to sell off his slaves to +different persons, as he could find opportunity, and sometimes at a great +sacrifice. It became apparent that the Captain, instead of prospering in +business, was getting poorer every day. + + + + +CHAPTER IX. + +DEATH BED AND BRIDAL SCENES. + +Neither Capt. Helm nor his wife made any religious pretensions. I hardly +know whether or not they were avowed infidels; but they alike ridiculed +all religious professions and possessed some very singular notions +regarding life and death. + +I have often heard the Captain say, that no person need die unless they +choose to do so; and his wife was of the same belief. I have frequently +heard her remark that if mankind would firmly resist death it would flee +from them. + +An opportunity, however, was soon after given to test the truth of this +strange dogma. Mrs. Helm's health began to decline, but she would pay no +attention to it, following her usual course and regular routine of +household duties; but all in vain; she was taken down, alarmingly ill, and +it became apparent to all, that the "king of terrors" had chosen his +victim. She tried with all her natural energy of character, to baffle +his pursuit and escape his steady approach, but all to no purpose. "The +valley and the shadow of death" were before her, and she had no assurance +that the "rod and staff" of the Almighty would sustain and comfort her +through the dark passage. She shrank with perfect horror from the untried +scenes of the future. + +If any one had ever envied Mrs. Helm in her drawing-room, richly attired +and sparkling with jewels, or as she moved with the stately step of a +queen among her trembling slaves, they should have beheld her on her death +bed! They should have listened to her groans and cries for help, while one +piercing shriek after another rang through the princely mansion of which +she had been the absolute mistress! + +[Illustration: "If any one had ever envied Mrs. Helm in her drawing-room, +richly attired and sparkling with jewels, or as she moved with the stately +step of a queen among her trembling slaves, they should have beheld her on +her death-bed!"] + +Surrounded as she was with every elegance and luxury that wealth could +procure, she lay shrieking out her prayers for a short respite, a short +lengthening out of the life she had spent so unprofitably; her eyes +wandering restlessly about the apartment, and her hands continually +clinching the air, as if to grasp something that would prevent her from +sinking into the embrace of death! There was not a slave present, who +would have exchanged places with her. Not one of those over whom she had +ruled so arbitrarily would have exchanged their rough, lowly cabin and +quiet conscience, for all the wealth and power she had ever possessed. + +Nothing of all she had enjoyed in life, nor all that she yet called her +own, could give her one hour of life or one peaceful moment in death! + +Oh! what a scene was that! The wind blew, and great drops of rain fell on +the casements. The room lighted only with a single taper; the wretched +wife mingles her dying groans with the howling of the storm, until, as the +clock struck the hour of midnight she fell back upon her pillow and +expired, amid the tears and cries of her family and friends, who not only +deplored the loss of a wife and mother, but were grieved by the manner in +which she died. + +The slaves were all deeply affected by the scene; some doubtless truly +lamented the death of their mistress; others rejoiced that she was no +more, and all were more or less frightened. One of them I remember went to +the pump and wet his face, so as to appear to weep with the rest. + +What a field was opened for reflection, by the agonizing death of Mrs. +Helm? Born and reared in affluence; well educated and highly accomplished, +possessed of every means to become a useful woman and an ornament to her +sex; which she most likely would have been, had she been instructed in the +Christian religion, and had lived under a different influence. As +infidelity ever deteriorates from the female character, so Slavery +transforms more than one, otherwise excellent woman, into a feminine +monster. Of Mrs. Helm, with her active intellect and great force of +character, it made a tyrannical demon. Her race, however, is ended; her +sun gone down in darkness, and her soul we must leave in the keeping of a +righteous God, to whom we must all give an account for the deeds done in +the body. But in view of the transitory pleasures of this life; the +unsatisfactory realization of wealth, and the certainty of death, we may +well inquire, "What shall it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose +his own soul?" + +Some little time after the scene just recorded, there came to Bath a young +physician named Henry, who commenced practice under very flattering +prospects. He was an accomplished young man, well educated and very +skillful in his profession. He was affable and gay in his manners, and +very fond of company. An intimate acquaintance was soon formed with Capt. +Helm and family, and he called almost daily to chat and drink wine with +the Captain,--both being quite fond of a social glass. + +One night in the depth of winter, the Doctor was called to see a patient +who lived six miles down the Conhocton river. Previous, however, to the +call, he had accepted an invitation to attend a party at Capt. Helm's, +and there he was found. They had music and dancing, while the wine passed +around very freely. None seemed to join in the dance and other amusements +of the evening with more enjoyment than did Dr. Henry; but after he was +sent for, it being a most bitter cold night, he asked the Captain for a +horse to ride to see his patient, to which he readily assented, and had +his fine _race-horse_ (for the Captain had not left off all his old +habits), brought out from the stable, and the Doctor sprang lightly into +the saddle. Unfortunately his way led by the race-course, and when the +trained animal came to it he started with such speed as to throw the +Doctor to the ground, where he lay all that terrible cold night. In the +morning, some person going after wood, came in sight of the Doctor as he +was trying to creep away on his frozen hands and feet. He was put into the +sleigh and taken to the village with all possible speed. All was done for +him that could be, but his feet and legs were frozen solid. His uncle, Dr. +Henry, was brought as soon as possible, who decided that nothing could +save his life but the amputation of both legs, just below the knee. This +was done; but what a change in the prospects of this promising young man! +Instead of stepping lightly about as he used to do, with a smiling +countenance, he at last came forth after a tedious confinement, a cripple +for life, hobbling about on his knees, sad and dejected. And what, think +you, was the cause of this terrible calamity? What prevented the Doctor +from an exertion to save his life? Wine, intoxicating wine, was +undoubtedly the occasion of the heedless and reckless conduct of both +himself and Capt. Helm. And should not this circumstance be a warning to +parents and guardians, to young men and children, "to look not upon the +wine when it is red," and remember that at last "it will bite like a +serpent and sting like an adder?" Should it not also remind those who have +guests to entertain, of the sinfulness of putting the cup to their +neighbor's lips? Certainly it should. But I must resume my story. + +About this time Major Thornton of Bath, died. He had long been an intimate +friend and acquaintance of Capt. Helm, and as the reader is already +informed of the death of Mrs. Helm, they will not be surprised to know +that he began to look earnestly after the widow of his late friend. It +become apparent that his solicitude for the loneliness of Madam Thornton +was not so much as a disconsolate widow, as that of making her the future +Mrs. Helm; nor was it less observable that the new-made widow accepted the +Captain's attentions with great favor, and more as a lover than a +comforter. + +The result was, after the Major had been dead six weeks, Capt. Helm was +married to his widow, and brought her and her servants in great triumph +to his house, giving her the charge of it. His own servants were +discharged, and hers took their places. + +All went on pleasantly for a while; then the slaves began to grow sullen +and discontented; and two of them ran away. Capt. Helm started a man named +Morrison, a Scotchman, in pursuit, who hunted them ten days, and then +returned without any tidings of the absconding slaves. They made good +their escape and were never heard from afterwards, by those whose interest +suffered by the loss. + +I was one afternoon at a neighbor's house in the village, when I was +suddenly taken so violently ill with pain in my head and side, that I had +to be carried home. When we arrived there, I was allowed a pallet of straw +to lie on, which was better than nothing. Day after day, my disease +increased in violence, and my master employed a physician to attend me +through my illness, which brought me very low indeed. I was constantly +burning with fever, and so thirsty that I knew not what I would have given +for a draught of cold water, which was denied me by the physician's +direction. I daily grew weaker until I was reduced to helplessness, and +was little else than "skin and bones." I really thought my time had come +to die; and when I had strength to talk, I tried to arrange the few little +business affairs I had, and give my father direction concerning them. And +then I began to examine my own condition before God, and to determine how +the case stood between Him and my poor soul. And "there was the rub." I +had often excused myself, for frequent derelictions in duty, and often +wild and passionate outbreaks, on account of the hardness of my lot, and +the injustice with which I was treated, even in my best endeavors to do as +well as I knew how. But now, with death staring me in the face, I could +see that though I was a friendless "slave-boy," I had _not_ always done as +well as I knew how; that I had _not_ served God as I knew I ought, nor had +I always set a good example before my fellow-slaves, nor warned them as +well as I might, "to flee the wrath to come." Then I prayed my Heavenly +Father to spare me a little longer, that I might serve Him better; and in +His mercy and gracious goodness, He did so; though when the fever was +turning they gave me up; and I could hear them say, when they came to feel +my pulse, "he is almost gone," "it will soon be over," &c., and then +inquire if I knew them. I did, but was too weak to say so. I recollect +with gratitude, the kindness of Mrs. H.A. Townsend, who sent me many +delicacies and cooling drinks to soften the rigor of my disease; and +though I suppose she has long since "passed away" and gone to her reward, +may the blessing of those who are ready to perish, rest upon the +descendants of that excellent woman. + +Capt. Helm was driving on in his milling, distillery and farming business. +He now began to see the necessity of treating his slaves better by far +than he had ever done before, and granted them greater privileges than he +would have dared to do at the South. Many of the slaves he had sold, were +getting their liberty and doing well. + + + + +CHAPTER X. + +HIRED OUT TO A NEW MASTER. + +While I was staying with my master at Bath, he having little necessity for +my services, hired me out to a man by the name of Joseph Robinson, for the +purpose of learning me to drive a team. Robinson lived about three miles +from the village of Bath, on a small farm, and was not only a poor man but +a very mean one. He was cross and heartless in his family, as well as +tyrannical and cruel to those in his employ; and having hired me as a +"slave boy," he appeared to feel at full liberty to wreak his brutal +passion on me at any time, whether I deserved rebuke or not; nor did his +terrible outbreaks of anger vent themselves in oaths, curses and +threatenings only, but he would frequently draw from the cart-tongue a +heavy iron pin, and beat me over the head with it, so unmercifully that he +frequently sent the blood flowing over my scanty apparel, and from that to +the ground, before he could feel satisfied. + +These kind of beatings were not only excessively painful, but they always +reminded me of the blows I had so often received from the key, in the hand +of Mrs. Helm, when I was but a little waiter lad; and in truth I must say +that the effect of these heavy blows on the head, have followed me thus +far through life; subjecting me to frequent and violent head-aches, from +which I never expect to be entirely free. Even to this day I shudder at +the thought, when I think how Robinson used to fly at me, swearing, +foaming, and seeming to think there was no weapon too large or too heavy +to strike me with. + +He and I were at one time logging with a yoke of oxen, which it was my +business to drive. At that time rattle-snakes were numerous, and a great +terror to the inhabitants. To be bitten by one of these poisonous reptiles +was certain and almost instant death; hence, the greatest caution and +constant vigilance was necessary to avoid them while at work. I had been +sent with the oxen to draw a log to the pile, and when I came up to it, I +observed that it appeared to be hollow; but stepping forward, with the +chain in my hand, ready to attach it to the log, when, oh, horror! the +warning rattle of a snake sounded like a death knell in my ears, +proceeding from the log I was about to lay hold of. I was so much +frightened by the sound, that I dropped the chain as though it were red +hot, left my team, and ran with all the speed in my power, screaming +"murder, murder!" as loud as I could. + +This proceeding, which was the fearful impulse of the moment, offended +Robinson, and gave him another opportunity to beat me most cruelly. He was +himself as much afraid of rattle-snakes as I; but he was the master and I +the "slave boy," which made a vast difference. He caught hold of me, and, +with horrid oaths, beat me with his fist again and again; threatening me +with awful punishment if I did not instantly return and bring the log to +the desired spot. I never can forget the mortal agony I was in, while +compelled by his kicks and blows to return and fasten the chain around the +log containing the deadly serpent. I, however, succeeded with trembling +hands, and drove the oxen, but keeping myself at the fartherest possible +distance from them and the log. When I finally arrived at the pile, Mr. +Robinson and some other men, cut a hole with an ax in the log, and killed +the large, venomous rattle-snake that had occasioned me so much alarm and +such a cruel beating. Nor was the uncontrollable and brutal passion of +Robinson his only deficiency; he was mean as he was brutal. + +He had, at one time, borrowed a wagon of a neighbor living two miles +distant, through a dense forest. On the day of the total eclipse of the +sun, it entered his head that it would be fine sport, knowing my +my ignorance and superstition, to send me, just as the darkness was coming +on, to return the borrowed wagon. I accordingly hitched the ox-team to it +and started. As I proceeded through the wood, I saw, with astonishment and +some alarm, that it was growing very dark, and thought it singular at that +hour of the day. When I reached the place of my destination it was almost +total darkness, and some persons, ignorant as myself, were running about, +wringing their hands, and declaring that they believed the Day of Judgment +had come, and such like expressions. + +The effect of all this was, however, very different from what my master +had expected. I thought, of course, if the judgment day had come, I should +be no longer a slave in the power of a heartless tyrant. I recollect well +of thinking, that if indeed all things earthly were coming to an end, I +should be free from Robinson's brutal force, and as to meeting my Creator, +I felt far less dread of that than of meeting my cross, unmerciful master. +I felt that, sinful as I had been, and unworthy as I was, I should be far +better off than I then was; driven to labor all day, without compensation; +half starved and poorly clad, and above all, subjected to the whims and +caprices of any heartless tyrant to whom my master might give the power to +rule over me. But I had not much time for reflection, I hurried home; my +mind filled with the calm anticipation that the end of all things was at +hand; which greatly disappointed my expectant master, who was looking for +me to return in a great fright, making some very ludicrous demonstration +of fear and alarm. But after a few months more of hardship I was permitted +to return to Capt. Helm's, where I was treated much better than at +Robinson's, and much, better than the Captain used to treat his slaves. + +Capt. Helm, not having demand for slave labor as much as formerly, was in +the practice of hiring out his slaves to different persons, both in and +out of the village; and among others, my only sister was hired out to a +_professed_ gentleman living in Bath. She had become the mother of two or +three children, and was considered a good servant. + +One pleasant Sabbath morning, as I was passing the house where she lived, +on my way to the Presbyterian church, where I was sent to ring the bell as +usual, I heard the most piteous cries and earnest pleadings issuing from +the dwelling. To my horror and the astonishment of those with me, my poor +sister made her appearance, weeping bitterly, and followed by her inhuman +master, who was polluting the air of that clear Sabbath morning, with the +most horrid imprecations and threatenings, and at the same time +flourishing a large raw-hide. Very soon his bottled wrath burst forth, and +the blows, aimed with all his strength, descended upon the unprotected +head, shoulders and back of the helpless woman, until she was literally +cut to pieces. She writhed in his powerful grasp, while shriek after +shriek died away in heart-rending moanings; and yet the inhuman demon +continued to beat her, though her pleading cries had ceased, until +obliged to desist from the exhaustion of his own strength. + +What a spectacle was that, for the sight of a brother? The God of heaven +only knows the conflict of feeling I then endured; He alone witnessed the +tumult of my heart, at this outrage of manhood and kindred affection. God +knows that my will was good enough to have wrung his neck; or to have +drained from his heartless system its last drop of blood! And yet I was +obliged to turn a deaf ear to her cries for assistance, which to this day +ring in my ears. Strong and athletic as I was, no hand of mine could be +raised in her defence, but at the peril of both our lives;--nor could her +husband, had he been a witness of the scene, be allowed any thing more +than unresisting submission to any cruelty, any indignity which the master +saw fit to inflict on _his wife_, but the other's _slave_. + +Does any indignant reader feel that I was wanting in courage or brotherly +affection, and say that he would have interfered, and, at all hazards, +rescued his sister from the power of her master; let him remember that he +is a _freeman_; that he has not from his infancy been taught to cower +beneath the white man's frown, and bow at his bidding, or suffer all the +rigor of the slave laws. Had the gentlemanly woman-whipper been seen +beating his horse, or his ox, in the manner he beat my poor sister, and +that too for no fault which the law could recognize as an offence, he +would have been complained of most likely; but as it was, she was but a +"slave girl,"--with whom the slave law allowed her master to do what he +pleased. + +Well, I finally passed on, with a clinched fist and contracted brow, to +the church, and rung the bell, I think rather furiously, to notify the +inhabitants of Bath, that it was time to assemble for the worship of that +God who has declared himself to be "no respecter of persons." With my own +heart beating wildly with indignation and sorrow, the kind reader may +imagine my feelings when I saw the smooth-faced hypocrite, the inhuman +slave-whipper, enter the church, pass quietly on to his accustomed seat, +and then meekly bow his hypocritical face on the damask cushion, in the +reverent acknowledgment of that religion which teaches its adherents "to +do unto others as they would be done by," just as if nothing unusual had +happened on that Sabbath morning. Can any one wonder that I, and other +slaves, often doubted the sincerity of every white man's religion? Can it +be a matter of astonishment, that slaves often feel that there is no just +God for the poor African? Nay, verily; and were it not for the comforting +and sustaining influence that these poor, illiterate and suffering +creatures feel as coming from an unearthly source, they would in their +ignorance all become infidels. To me, that beautiful Sabbath morning was +clouded in midnight darkness, and I retired to ponder on what could be +done. + +For some reason or other, Capt. Helm had supplied every lawyer in that +section of country with slaves, either by purchase or hire; so when I +thought of seeking legal redress for my poor, mangled sister, I saw at +once it would be all in vain. The laws were in favor of the slave owner, +and besides, every legal gentleman in the village had one or more of the +Captain's slaves, who were treated with more or less rigor; and of course +they would do nothing toward censuring one of their own number, so nothing +could be done to give the slave even the few privileges which the laws of +the State allowed them. + +The Captain sold my aunt Betsy Bristol to a distinguished lawyer in the +village, retaining her husband, Aaron Bristol, in his own employ; and two +of her children he sold to another legal gentleman named Cruger. One day +Captain Helm came out where the slaves were at work, and finding Aaron was +not there, he fell into a great rage and swore terribly. He finally +started off to a beach tree, from which he cut a stout limb, and trimmed +it so as to leave a knot on the but end of the stick, or bludgeon rather, +which was about two and a half feet in length. With this formidable +weapon he started for Aaron's lonely cabin. When the solitary husband saw +him coming he suspected that he was angry, and went forth to meet him +in the street. They had no sooner met than my master seized Aaron by the +collar, and taking the limb he had prepared by the smaller end, commenced +beating him with it, over the head and face, and struck him some thirty or +more terrible blows in quick succession; after which Aaron begged to know +for what he was so unmercifully flogged. + +"Because you deserve it," was the angry reply. Aaron said that he had ever +endeavored to discharge his duty, and had done so to the best of his +ability; and that he thought it very hard to be treated in that manner for +no offence at all. Capt. Helm was astonished at his audacity; but the +reader will perceive that the slaves were not blind to the political +condition of the country, and were beginning to feel that they had some +rights, and meant to claim them. + +Poor Aaron's face and head, however, was left in a pitiable condition +after such a pummeling with a knotty stick. His face, covered with blood, +was so swollen that he could hardly see for some time; but what of that? +Did he not belong to Capt. Helm, soul and body; and if his brutal owner +chose to destroy his own property, certainly had he not a right to do so, +without let or hindrance? Of course; such is the power that Slavery gives +one human being over another. + +And yet it must be confessed that among the poor, degraded and ignorant +slaves there exists a foolish pride, which loves to boast of their +master's wealth and influence. A white person, too poor to own slaves, is +as often looked upon with as much disdain by the miserable slave as by his +wealthy owner. This disposition seems to be instilled into the mind of +every slave at the South, and indeed, I have heard slaves object to being +sent in very small companies to labor in the field, lest that some +passer-by should think that they belonged to a poor man, who was unable to +keep a large gang. Nor is this ridiculous sentiment maintained by the +slaves only; the rich planter feels such a contempt for all white persons +without slaves, that he does not want them for his neighbors. I know of +many instances where such persons have been under the necessity of buying +or hiring slaves, just to preserve their reputation and keep up +appearances; and even among a class of people who profess to be opposed to +Slavery, have I known instances of the same kind, and have heard them +apologize for their conduct by saying that "when in Rome, we must do as +the Romans do." + +Uncle Aaron Bristol was one of Capt. Helm's slaves who had a large amount +of this miserable pride; and for him to be associated with a white man in +the same humble occupation, seemed to give him ideas of great superiority, +and full liberty to treat him with all the scorn and sarcasm he was +capable of, in which my uncle was by no means deficient. + +At this time the Captain owned a fine and valuable horse, by the name of +_Speculator_. This horse, groomed by uncle Aaron, stood sometimes at Bath +and sometimes at Geneva; and at the latter village another horse was kept, +groomed by a white man. The white groom was not very well pleased with +Aaron's continual disparagement of the clumsy animal which my uncle called +"a great, awkward plow-horse;" and then he would fling out some of his +proud nonsense about "_poor white people_ who were obliged to groom their +own old dumpy horses," &c. + +Well, things went on in this unpleasant manner for several weeks, when at +last the white groom and Aaron met at Geneva, and the horse belonging to +the former, designedly or accidentally, escaped from his keeper, and came +with full speed, with his mouth wide open, after Speculator. When the +fiery fellow had overtaken uncle Aaron he attempted to grasp the wethers +of Speculator with his teeth, instead of which he caught Aaron on the +inside of his thigh, near the groin, from whence he bit a large piece of +flesh, laying the bone entirely bare; at the same moment flinging Aaron to +the ground, some rods off; and the next instant he kicked Speculator down +a steep embankment Aaron was taken up for dead, and Dr. Henry sent for, +who dressed his wounds; and after several months' confinement he finally +recovered. It is probable that the biting and overthrow of Aaron saved his +life, as he must have otherwise been killed in the encounter of the two +horses. + +A while after his recovery, uncle Aaron succeeded in procuring a team and +some kind of vehicle, in which he put his wife and children, and between +two days, took "French leave" of his master as well as of the lawyer to +whom his wife belonged. + +The lawyer, however, was far from being pleased when he missed his +property, and immediately set his wits to work to reclaim her. All was +kept secret as possible, but it was whispered about that it was to be +done by a State's warrant, for removing the clothing and furniture they +had taken, and so, being thus arrested, "Madam Bristol" would be glad to +return to her work in the lawyer's kitchen. But Aaron was a smart, shrewd +man, and kept out of their reach, where he soon found friends and +employment, and could go where he pleased, without having an infuriated +master to beat and disfigure him with a knotted stick, until his clothes +were bespattered with blood. They appreciated their liberty, and lived and +died in peace and freedom. + +Capt. Helm continued his old manner of treating slaves, dealing out their +weekly allowance of corn or meal; but living as we now did, so much more +intimately with white inhabitants, our condition was materially improved. +The slaves became more refined in manners and in possession of far greater +opportunities to provide for themselves, than they had ever before +enjoyed, and yet it was _Slavery_. Any reverse in the fortunes of our +master would be disadvantageous to us. Oh, how this fearful uncertainty +weighed upon us as we saw that our master was not prospering and +increasing in wealth; but we had not the dismal fears of the loathsome +slave-pen, rice swamps, and many other things we should have to fear in +Virginia. We were still _slaves_, and yet we had so much greater chance +to learn from the kind, intelligent people about us, so many things which +we never knew before, that I think a slave-trader would have found it a +difficult task to take any one of us to a Southern slave market, if our +master had so ordered it. + +The village of Bath is rather an out-of-the-way place, hemmed in on all +sides by mountains of considerable height, leaving an opening on the +north, through a pleasant valley, to the head of Crooked Lake. Produce +of every kind, when once there, met a ready sale for the New York market. + +In the first settlement of the country this was the only outlet for the +country produce, which was transported in rude boats or vessels called +_arks_, built during the winter season to await the spring freshet; then +they loaded them with wheat or other produce, and sent them to Baltimore +or elsewhere. They used also to obtain great quantities of fine lumber, +and floated it through the same rivers every spring; but it was attended +with great loss of life and property. + +Bath assumed a warlike appearance during the last war with Great Britain; +the public square was dotted all over with officers, marquees, and +soldiers' tents. Some of these soldiers were unprincipled and reckless +men, who seemed to care very little what they did. + +One evening I was walking around the encampment in company with a Mr. +James Morrison, a clerk in the land office, looking at the soldiers, until +we came near a sentinel on duty. He kept his gun to his shoulder until we +came near enough, and then he attempted to run me through with his +bayonet. Young Morrison sprang forward, and seizing the musket, told me +to run; I did so, which probably saved my life. + + + + +CHAPTER XI. + +THOUGHTS ON FREEDOM. + +After living sometime in Bath, and having the privilege of more +enlightened society, I began to think that it was possible for me to +become a free man in some way besides going into the army or running away, +as I had often thought of doing. I had listened to the conversation of +others, and determined to ask legal counsel on the subject the first +opportunity I could find. Very soon after, as I was drawing wood, I met on +the river bridge, Mr. D. Cruger, the eminent lawyer before mentioned, and +I asked him to tell me if I was not free, by the laws of New York. He +started, and looked around him as if afraid to answer my question, but +after a while told me I was _not_ free. I passed on, but the answer to my +question by no means satisfied me, especially when I remembered the +hesitancy with which it was given. + +I sought another opportunity to speak with Mr. Cruger, and at last found +him in his office alone; then he conversed freely on the subject of +Slavery, telling me that Capt. Helm could not hold me as a slave in that +State, if I chose to leave him, and then directed me to D. Comstock and J. +Moore; the first being at the head of a manumission society, and the last +named gentleman one of its directors. + +Our condition, as I have said before, was greatly improved; and yet the +more we knew of freedom the more we desired it, and the less willing were +we to remain in bondage. The slaves that Capt. Helm had sold or hired out, +were continually leaving him and the country, for a place of freedom; and +I determined to become my own possessor. + +There is no one, I care not how favorable his condition, who desires to be +a slave, to labor for nothing all his life for the benefit of others. I +have often heard fugitive slaves say, that it was not so much the cruel +beatings and floggings that they received which induced them to leave the +South, as the idea of dragging out a whole life of unrequited toil to +enrich their masters. + +Everywhere that Slavery exists, it is nothing but _slavery_. I found it +just as hard to be beaten over the head with a piece of iron in New York +as it was in Virginia. Whips and chains are everywhere necessary to +degrade and brutalize the slave, in order to reduce him to that abject and +humble state which Slavery requires. Nor is the effect much less +disastrous on the man who holds supreme control over the soul and body of +his fellow beings. Such unlimited power, in almost every instance +transforms the man into a tyrant; the brother into a demon. + +When the first of our persecuted race were brought to this country it was +to teach them to reverence the only true and living God; or such was the +answer of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth of England, when her subjects +desired the liberty to bring from their native land the poor, ignorant +African. "Let them," said the Queen, "be brought away only by their own +consent, otherwise the act will be detestable, and bring down the +vengeance of heaven upon us." A very different position truly, from the +one assumed at the present day by apologists for the traffic in human +flesh. But, to return to myself. + +I had determined to make an effort to own myself, and as a preliminary +step, I obtained permission of Capt. Helm to visit some friends living in +Canandaigua and Geneva. This was in the winter of 1814. I went first to +Geneva; from there to Canandaigua. Between the two villages I met a +company of United States' troops, returning from Buffalo, where they had +been to repel an invasion of the British. + +The two villages above named, were small but very pretty, having been laid +out with taste and great care. Some wealthy and enterprising gentlemen had +come from the East into this great Western country, who were making every +improvement in their power. The dense forest had long since fallen under +the stroke of the woodman's ax, and in that section, flourishing villages +were springing up as if by magic, where so lately roamed wild beasts and +rude savages, both having fallen back before the march of civilization. + +I called on James Moore, as directed by Mr. Cruger, and found he was one +of the directors of the "Manumission Society," as it was then called. This +was an association of humane and intelligent gentlemen whose object it was +to aid any one who was illegally held in bondage. The funds of the society +were ample; and able counsel was employed to assist those who needed it. +The late lamented John C. Spencer, one of the most eminent lawyers in +Western New York, was then counsel for that society. + +I soon got an interview with Mr. Moore, to whom I related the history of +my life,--the story of my wrongs and hardships. I told him about my having +been hired out by Capt. Helm, which he said was sufficient to insure my +freedom! Oh! how my heart leaped at the thought! The tears started, my +breast heaved with a mighty throb of gratitude, and I could hardly refrain +from grasping his hand or falling down at his feet; and perhaps should +have made some ludicrous demonstration of my feelings, had not the kind +gentleman continued his conversation in another direction. + +He said that indispensable business called him to Albany, where he must go +immediately, but assured me that he would return in March following; then +I must come to him and he would see that I had what justly belonged to +me--my freedom from Slavery. He advised me to return to Bath and go on +with my work as usual until March, but to say nothing of my intentions and +prospects. I returned according to his directions, with a heart so light, +that I could not realize that my bonds were not yet broken, nor the yoke +removed from off my neck. I was already free in spirit, and I silently +exulted in the bright prospect of liberty. + +Could my master have felt what it was to be relieved of such a crushing +weight, as the one which was but partially lifted from my mind, he would +have been a happier man than he had been for a long time. + +I went cheerfully back to my labor, and worked with alacrity, impatient +only for March to come; and as the time drew near I began to consider what +kind of an excuse I could make to get away. I could think of none, but I +determined to go without one, rather than to remain. + +Just before the time appointed for me to meet Mr. Moore, a slave girl +named Milly, came secretly to Bath. She had been one of Capt. Helm's +slaves, and he had a while before sold her to a man who lived some +distance west of the village. Milly had now taken the matter into her own +hands. She had left her master to take care of himself, and was in short, +"running away," determined as myself, that she would be a slave no longer; +resolved on death, or freedom from the power of the slaveholder. + +The time I had set for my departure was so near at hand, that I concluded +to accompany her in her flight. When the dark night came on, we started +together, and traveled all night, and just as the day dawned we arrived at +Manchester, where we stopped a short time with one Thomas Watkins. + +But I was not to be let go so easily. I had been missed at Capt. Helm's, +and several men started in immediate pursuit. I was weary, and so intent +on getting a little rest that I did not see my pursuers until they had +well nigh reached the house where I was; but I _did_ see them in time to +spring from the house with the agility of a deer, and to run for the woods +as for life. And indeed, I so considered it. I was unarmed to be sure, and +not prepared to defend myself against two or three men, armed to the +teeth; but it would have gone hard with me before I surrendered myself to +them, after having dreamed as I had, and anticipated the blessings of a +free man. I escaped them, thank God, and reached the woods, where I +concealed myself for some time, and where I had ample opportunity to +reflect on the injustice and cruelty of my oppressors, and to ask myself +why it was that I was obliged to fly from my home. Why was I there panting +and weary, hungry and destitute--skulking in the woods like a thief, and +concealing myself like a murderer? What had I done? For what fault, or for +what crime was I pursued by armed men, and hunted like a beast of prey? +God only knows how these inquiries harrowed up my very soul, and made me +well nigh doubt the justice and mercy of the Almighty, until I remembered +my narrow escape, when my doubts dissolved in grateful tears. + +But why, oh why, had I been forced to flee thus from my fellow men? I was +guilty of no crime; I had committed no violence; I had broken no law of +the land; I was not charged even with a fault, except of _the love of +liberty_ and a desire to be _free_! I had claimed the right to possess my +own person, and remove it from oppression. Oh my God, thought I, can the +American People, who at this very hour are pouring out their blood in +defence of their country's liberty; offering up as a sacrifice on the +battle field their promising young men, to preserve their land and +hearthstones from English oppression; can they, will they, continue to +hunt the poor African slave from their soil because he desires that same +liberty, so dear to the heart of every American citizen? Will they not +blot out from their fair escutcheon the foul stain which Slavery has cast +upon it? Will they not remember the Southern bondman, in whom the love +of freedom is as inherent as in themselves; and will they not, when +contending for equal rights, use their mighty forces "to break _every +yoke_, and let the oppressed go free?" God grant that it may be so! + +As soon as I thought it prudent, I pursued my journey, and finally came +out into the open country, near the dwelling of Mr. Dennis Comstock, who, +as I have said, was president of the Manumission Society. To him I freely +described my situation, and found him a friend indeed. He expressed his +readiness to assist me, and wrote a line for me to take to his brother, +Otis Comstock, who took me into his family at once. I hired to Mr. +Comstock for the season, and from that time onward lived with him nearly +four years. + +When I arrived there I was about twenty-two years of age, and felt for the +first time in my life, that I was my own master. I cannot describe to a +free man, what a proud manly feeling came over me when I hired to Mr. C. +and made my first bargain, nor when I assumed the dignity of collecting my +own earnings. Notwithstanding I was very happy in my freedom from Slavery, +and had a good home, where for the first time in my life I was allowed to +sit at table with others, yet I found myself very deficient in almost +every thing which I should have learned when a boy. + +These and other recollections of the past often saddened my spirit; but +_hope _,--cheering and bright, was now mine, and it lighted up the future +and gave me patience to persevere. + +In the autumn when the farm work was done, I called on Mr. Comstock for +some money, and the first thing I did after receiving it I went to +Canandaigua where I found a book-store kept by a man named J.D. Bemis, and +of him I purchased some school books. + +No king on his throne could feel prouder or grander than I did that day. +With my books under my arm, and money of my own earning in my pocket, I +stepped loftily along toward Farmington, where I determined to attend the +Academy. The thought, however, that though I was twenty-three years old, I +had yet to learn what most boys of eight years knew, was rather a damper +on my spirits. The school was conducted by Mr. J. Comstock, who was a +pleasant young man and an excellent teacher. He showed me every kindness +and consideration my position and ignorance demanded; and I attended his +school three winters, with pleasure and profit to myself at least. + +When I had been with Mr. Comstock about a year, we received a visit from +my old master, Capt. Helm, who had spared no pains to find me, and when he +learned where I was he came to claim me as "his boy," who, he said he +"wanted and must have." + +Mr. Comstock told him I was _not_ "his boy," and as such he would not +give me up; and further, that I was free by the laws of the State. He +assured the Captain that his hiring me out in the first instance, to Mr. +Tower, forfeited his claim to me, and gave me a right to freedom,--but if +he chose to join issue, they would have the case tried in the Supreme +Court; but this proposition the Captain declined: he knew well enough that +it would result in my favor; and after some flattery and coaxing, he left +me with my friend, Mr. Comstock, in liberty and peace! + + + + +CHAPTER XII. + +CAPT. HELM--DIVORCE--KIDNAPPING. + +The business affairs of Capt. Helm had for some time been far from +prosperous; and now he was quite poor. His slave property proved a bad +investment, and Madam Thornton a far worse one. She had already applied +for a divorce, and a good share of the estate as alimony; both of which +she succeeded in getting, the Captain allowing her to take pretty much +her own course. These troubles, with costs of lawsuits, bad management, +&c., had now emptied the coffers of my old master almost to the last +farthing; and he began to cast about him for some way to replenish his +purse, and retrieve his fallen fortunes. + +Had Capt. Helm been brought up to honorable industry, and accustomed to +look after his own pecuniary interests, he doubtless would have sustained +his position; or if reverses were unavoidable, he would have by +persevering industry, regained what he had lost. But he had been raised in +a slave State, and Southern principles were as deeply instilled into his +mind, as Southern manners were impressed on his life and conduct. + +He had no partiality for labor of any kind; horse-racing and card-playing +were far more congenial to his tastes; reduced as he now was, he would +deny himself no luxury that his means or credit would procure. His few +remaining slaves were given into the hands of an idle, brutal overseer +--while they, half fed, half clothed, grew more and more discontented, and +ran away on every opportunity that offered. + +The Captain at last hit upon a method of making money, which, if it had +been carried into operation on the high seas, would in all probability +have been called by its right name, and incurred the penalty of the +gallows--as piracy. Ought it then to be deemed less criminal because +transpiring on the free soil of the American Republic? I think not. Nor +was it less censurable on account of its failure. + +The Captain's plan was to collect all the slaves he had once owned, many +of whom had escaped to the surrounding villages, and when once in his +grasp, to run them speedily into a slave State, and there sell them for +the Southern market. To carry forward this hellish design, it was +necessary to have recourse to stratagem. Some person must be found to +lure the unsuspecting slaves into the net he was spreading for them. At +last he found a scoundrel named Simon Watkins, who for the consideration +of fifty dollars, was to collect as many of the slaves as he could at one +place; and when he had done so, he was to receive the money, leaving Capt. +Helm to do the rest. + +Simon set immediately about the business, which was first to go to +Palmyra, and in great kindness and generosity, give a large party to the +colored people,--desiring that all Capt. Helm's former slaves, _in +particular_, should be present to have a joyous re-union, and celebrate +their freedom in having a fine time generally. + +Invitations were sent to all, and extensive preparation made for a large +"social party," at Palmyra, at the house of Mrs. Bristol. My parents were +invited; and Simon took the pains to come to Farmington to give me a +special invitation. When the time arrived for the party, I went to Palmyra +with the intention of attending. I had not the least suspicion of any +thing wrong; yet, by some mysterious providence, or something for which I +can not account, a presentiment took possession of my mind that all was +not right. I knew not what I feared, and could in no way define my +apprehensions; but I grew so uneasy, that I finally gave up the party and +returned home, before the guests were assembled. + +Capt. Helm and his assistants came on to Palmyra in disguise, before +evening, and secreted themselves in one of the hotels to await the arrival +of their victims. + +At the appointed hour the slaves began to assemble in large numbers and +great glee, without the least suspicion of danger. They soon began their +amusements, and in the midst of their mirth, Capt. Helm and party +stealthily crept from their hiding place and surrounded the house; then +bursting in suddenly upon the revelers, began to make arrests. Such a +tumult, such an affray as ensued would be hard to describe. + +The slaves fought for their lives and their liberty, and the Captain's +party for their property and power. Fists, clubs, chairs, and any thing +they could get hold of, was freely used with a strength and will of men +who had tasted the joys of freedom. Cries and curses were mingled, while +blows fell like hail on both sides. Commands from our old master were met +with shouts of bold defiance on the part of the negroes, until the +miserable kidnappers were glad to desist, and were driven of--not +stealthily as they came, but in quick time and in the best way they could, +to escape the threatened vengeance of the slaves, who drove them like +"feathers before the wind." But it was a terrible battle and many were +severely wounded; among them was my father. He was taken to his home, +mangled and bleeding, and from the effects of that night's affray he never +recovered. He lingered on in feeble health until death finally released +him from suffering, and placed him beyond the reach of kidnappers and +tyrants. + +The Captain and his party, enraged and disappointed in their plans at +Palmyra, returned to Bath to see what could be done there toward success, +in getting up a gang of slaves for the Southern market. When they came +among the colored people of Bath, it was like a hawk alighting among a +flock of chickens at noon-day. They scattered and ran in every direction, +some to the woods, some hid themselves in cellars, and others in their +terror plunged into the Conhocton River. In this manner the majority of +the negroes escaped, but not all; and those were so unfortunate as to get +caught were instantly thrown into a large covered "Pennsylvania wagon," +and hurried off, closely guarded, to Olean Point. Among those taken were +Harry Lucas, his wife, Lucinda, and seven children; Mrs. Jane Cooper and +four children, with some others, were also taken. + +When Capt. Helm arrived at Olean Point with his stolen freight of human +beings, he was unexpectedly detained until he could build a boat,--which, +to his great dismay took him several days. + +The sorrow and fearful apprehension of those wretched recaptured slaves +can not be described nor imagined by any one except those who have +experienced a like affliction. They had basked for a short season in the +sunshine of liberty, and thought themselves secure from the iron grasp of +Slavery, and the heel of the oppressor, when in the height of their +exultation, they had been thrust down to the lowest depths of misery and +despair, with the oppressor's heel again upon their necks. To be snatched +without a moment's warning from their homes and friends,--hurried and +crowded into the close slave wagon, regardless of age or sex, like sheep +for the slaughter, to be carried they knew not whither; but, doubtless +to the dismal rice swamp of the South,--was to them an agony too great for +endurance. The adult portion of the miserable company determined at last +to go no farther with their heartless master, but to resist unto death if +need be, before they surrendered themselves to the galling chains they had +so recently broken, or writhed again under the torturing lash of the +slave-driver. + +Harry Lucas and wife, and Jane Cooper, silently prepared themselves for +the conflict, determined to sell their lives as dearly as possible. When +they were nearly ready to start, Jane Cooper sent her oldest daughter and +younger sister, (she who is now our worthy friend Mrs. P. of Bath), into +the woods, and then when the men undertook to get Lucas and the two women +on board the boat the struggle commenced. The women fought the Captain and +his confederates like a lioness robbed of her whelps! They ran and dodged +about, making the woods ring with their screams and shouts of "Murder! +Murder! Help! Help! Murder!" until the Captain's party, seeing they could +do nothing to quell them, became so exceedingly alarmed lest they should +be detected in their illegal proceedings, that they ran off at full speed, +as if they thought an officer at their heels. In their hurry and fright +they caught two of Harry's children, and throwing them into the boat, +pushed off as quick as possible, amid the redoubled cries of the agonized +parents and sympathizing friends, all trying in every way possible, to +recover from the merciless grasp of the man-stealer, the two frightened +and screaming children. Guns were fired and horns sounded, but all to no +purpose--they held tightly the innocent victims of their cupidity, and +made good their escape. + +Mr. D. C----, a gentleman of wealth and high standing in Steuben County, +became responsible for the fifty dollars which Capt. Helm promised to pay +Simon Watkins for his villainy in betraying, Judas-like, those unsuspecting +persons whom it should have been his pleasure to protect and defend +against their common oppressor,--his own as well as theirs. + +In addition to this rascality, it can not appear very creditable to the +citizens of Steuben County, that Capt. Helm and Thomas McBirney should +both hold high and important offices at the time, and _after_ they had +been tried and convicted of the crime of kidnapping. Both of these +gentlemen, guilty of a State's prison offence, were judges of the common +pleas. T. McBirney was first judge in the county, and Capt. Helm was side +judge; and notwithstanding their participation in, and conviction of, a +flagrant outrage on the laws of God and man, they managed not only to +escape the penalty, but to retain their offices and their respectable +standing in community for years after. + + + + +CHAPTER XIII. + +LOCATE IN THE VILLAGE OF ROCHESTER. + +I continued to labor in the employ of Mr. O. Comstock, whose son, Zeno, +was married during the year 1816, and purchased a farm on the site of the +present flourishing village of Lockport, to which he moved his family and +effects; but from a mistaken supposition that the Erie Canal, which was +then under contemplation, would take a more southern route, he was induced +to sell his farm in Hartland, which has proved a mine of wealth to the +more fortunate purchaser. + +In the winter of that year, I was sent by my employer to Hartland with a +sleigh-load of produce, and passed through the village of Rochester, which +I had never before seen. It was a very small, forbidding looking place at +first sight, with few inhabitants, and surrounded by a dense forest. + +I recollect that while pursuing my journey, I overtook a white man driving +a span of horses, who contended that I had not a right to travel the +public highway as other men did, but that it was my place to keep behind +him and his team. Being in haste I endeavored to pass him quietly, but he +would not permit it and hindered me several hours, very much to my +annoyance and indignation. This was, however, but a slight incident +indicating the bitter prejudice which every man seemed to feel against the +negro. No matter how industrious he might be, no matter how honorable in +his dealings, or respectful in his manners,--he was a "nigger," and as +such he must be treated, with a few honorable exceptions. + +This year also, my father died in the village of Palmyra, where, as I have +before mentioned, he received injuries from which he never entirely +recovered. After about six months severe illness which he bore with +commendable patience and resignation, his spirit returned to God who gave +it; and his sorrowing friends and bereaved family followed his remains to +their final abode, where we laid him down to rest from unrequited labor +and dire oppression, until "all they who are in their graves shall hear +the voice of the Son of God, and they that hear shall live forever," where +the "tears shall be wiped from off all faces"--and where the righteous +bondman shall no longer fear the driver's lash or master's frown, but +freely join in the song of "Alleluia! The Lord God Omnipotent reigneth!" + +My father had a good reputation for honesty and uprightness of character +among his employers and acquaintances, and was a kind, affectionate +husband and a fond, indulgent parent. His, I believe was the life and +death of a good man. "Peace be to his ashes." + +The following season I commenced a new business--that of peddling in the +village of Rochester such articles as my employer, Mr. Comstock, desired +to sell: the products of his farm,--wheat, corn, oats, butter, cheese, +meat, and poultry--all of which met a ready sale, generally for cash at +liberal prices. That market was then but little known to the generality of +farmers, and the enterprising gentlemen of that place, were desirous of +encouraging commerce with the surrounding country, offered every +encouragement in their power. Hence, we found it a profitable business, +which I continued in for several months. + +The present flourishing city of Rochester was then, as I have said, but a +village in its infancy, situated near the upper falls of the Genesee +River, and about seven miles from its mouth. Here, some time previously, +three gentlemen from Maryland bought a large tract of land, and as no +business man could fail to observe and appreciate its rare advantages they +commenced laying out a village. Sirs Fitzhugh, Carroll, and Rochester, +composed the company; but the management of the business devolved almost +wholly on Col. Rochester, whose wealth, enterprise, and intelligence well +qualified him for the undertaking; and as it had been assigned him to +cognominate the new village, I have heard it said that he jocularly gave +his reason for selecting its present title, as follows: "Should he call it +_Fitzhugh_ or _Carroll_, the slighted gentleman would certainly feel +offended with the other; but if he called it by his own name, they would +most likely _both_ be angry with him; so it was best to serve them alike." + +There was then two grist mills,--one owned by Mr. Ely, and the other by +Mr. Brown; one small building for religious worship, occupied by the +Presbyterians on Carroll street (now State street); and but two stone +buildings within what now comprises that beautiful city. There were then +no brick buildings at all, but business was good; merchants and mechanics +from the East soon began to settle there and give it a thriving aspect. + +About this time another company was formed, whose moving spirit was Mr. E. +Stone, a man of worth and talent; the object of which was to locate +another village at the head of navigation and about half way between the +mouth of the river and Rochester, which they called _Carthage_. + +The company commenced building and improving the place so rapidly, that +many who came to purchase residences and business stations were at a loss +to decide which of the two places would finally become the center of +business. It, however, was soon perceivable that the advantage of water +privileges, stone, and access to both, was greatly in favor of Rochester. +At Carthage the Genesee is narrow and its banks steep and abrupt, rising +in many places three hundred feet above the bed of the river, which of +course render the privileges and business on it far less easy of access +for building purposes. I may have occasion to speak hereafter of the +expensive and magnificent bridge at Carthage, which was the wonder and +admiration of the times. + +The following year I concluded to go into business for myself, and was as +much at loss as others, whether to locate at Rochester or Carthage; but +after considering the matter in all its bearings, and closely watching the +progress of events, my choice preponderated in favor of Rochester, and to +that place I went, designing to enter into business on my own account. + +It was indeed painful to my feelings to leave the home and family of Mr. +Comstock, where I had experienced so much real comfort and happiness, +where I had ever been treated with uniform kindness, where resided those +kind friends to whom I felt under the greatest obligation for the freedom +and quietude I then enjoyed, as well as for the little knowledge of +business and of the world that I then possessed. Thinking, however, that +I could better my condition, I subdued, as well as I could, my rising +emotions, and after sincerely thanking them for their goodness and +favors--wishing them long life and prosperity,--I took my departure for +the chosen place of my destination. + +Soon after I left Mr. Comstock's, that gentleman, sent his hired man, +named John Cline, to Rochester with a wagon load of produce to sell, as +had been his custom for some time. In vain the family looked for his +return at the usual hour in the evening, and began to wonder what had +detained him; but what was their horror and surprise to find, when they +arose the next morning, the horses standing at the door, and the poor +unfortunate man lying in the wagon, _dead_! How long they had been there +nobody knew; no one had heard them come in; and how the man had been +killed was a matter of mere conjecture. The coroner was sent for and an +inquest held, and yet it was difficult to solve the whole mystery. + +The most probable explanation was, that he was sitting in the back part of +the wagon, and fell over on his left side, striking his neck on the edge +of the wagon box, breaking it instantly. + +The verdict of the jury was, in accordance with these facts, "accidental +death," &c. + +When I left Mr. Comstock's I had acquired quite a knowledge of reading, +writing, arithmetic, and had made a small beginning in English grammar. + +It had been for some time a question which I found hard to decide, whether +or not I should pursue my studies as I had done. If I went into business +as I contemplated, I knew it would end my proficiency in the sciences; and +yet I felt a desire to accumulate more of the wealth that perisheth. +Considering too that I was advancing in age, and had no means of support +but by my own labor, I finally concluded to do what I have from that time +to this deeply regretted,--give up the pursuit of an education, and turn +my attention wholly to business. I do not regret having desired a +competency, nor for having labored to obtain it, but I _do_ regret not +having spared myself sufficient leisure to pursue some regular system of +reading and study; to have cultivated my mind and stored it with useful +knowledge. + +Truly has it been said, "knowledge is power." But it is not like the +withering curse of a tyrant's power; not like the degrading and +brutalizing power of the slave-driver's lash, chains, and thumb-screws; +not like the beastly, demonical power of rum, nor like the brazen, +shameless power of lust; but a power that elevates and refines the +intellect; directs the affections; controls unholy passions; a power so +God-like in its character, that it enables its possessor to feel for the +oppressed of every clime, and prepares him to defend the weak and +down-trodden. + +What but ignorance renders the poor slave so weak and inefficient in +claiming his right to liberty, and the possession of his own being! Nor +will that God who is "no respecter of persons," hold him guiltless who +assumes unlimited control over his fellow. The chain of Slavery which +fetters every slave south of Mason and Dixon's Line, is as closely linked +around the master as the slave. The time has passed by when African blood +alone is enslaved. In Virginia as well as in some other slave States, +there is as much European blood in the veins of the enslaved as there is +African; and the increase is constantly in favor of the white population. +This fact alone speaks volumes, and should remind the slave-breeding +Southerner of that fearful retribution which must sooner or later overtake +him. + +In September, 1817, I commenced business in Rochester. Having rented a +room of Mr. A. Wakely, I established a meat market, which was supplied +mostly by my former employer, Mr. Comstock, and was liberally patronized +by the citizens; but there were butchers in the village who appeared to be +unwilling that I should have any share in public patronage. Sometimes they +tore down my sign, at others painted it black, and so continued to annoy +me until after I had one of their number arrested, which put a stop to +their unmanly proceedings. + +The village was now rapidly increasing, and yet the surrounding country +was mostly a wilderness. Mr. E. Stone, who then owned the land on the east +side of the river, thought his farm a very poor one; he, however, +commenced clearing it in the midst of wild beasts and rattlesnakes, both +of which were abundant, and in a few years was richly rewarded for his +labor, in the sale of village lots, which commanded high prices. + +In the summer of 1818, I commenced teaching a Sabbath School for the +neglected children of our oppressed race. For a while it was well +attended, and I hoped to be able to benefit in some measure the poor and +despised colored children, but the parents interested themselves very +little in the undertaking, and it shortly came to naught. So strong was +the prejudice then existing against the colored people, that very few of +the negroes seemed to have any courage or ambition to rise from the abject +degradation in which the estimation of the white man had placed him. + +This year, also, I purchased a lot of land, eighteen by fifty feet, +situated on Main street, for which I was to pay five hundred dollars. +Having secured my land, I began making preparations for building, and +soon had a good two story dwelling and store, into which I moved my +effects, and commenced a more extensive business. + +Some disadvantage as well as sport was occasioned on business men, who +resided on the confines of Ontario and Genesee Counties. It was indeed +laughable to witness the races and maneuvering of parties in those days +when men were imprisoned for debt. If a man in Ontario County had a +suspicion that an officer was on his track, he had only to step over the +line into Genesee, to be beyond the power of an officer's precept. + +A great deal of trouble as well as unpleasant feeling was engendered by +the exercise of that law, which allowed the creditor so great advantage +over the debtor. This, together with the fact that very many of the +citizens of Rochester were men of small means, the more wealthy portion +felt called upon to protect their interests, by forming themselves into +what was called a "Shylock Society," the object of which was to obtain a +list of all the names of persons who had been, or were then, on "the +limits" for debt. This list of names was printed, and each member of the +society furnished with a copy, which enabled him to decide whether or not +to trust a man when he came to trade. The formation of this society gave +rise to another, whose members pledged themselves to have no dealing with +a member of the "Shylock Society," and also to publish all defaulters in +"high life," which served to check these oppressive measures and restore +harmony. + +Among others who came to settle in the thriving village of Rochester, was +a colored man named Daniel Furr, who came from the East. He soon became +acquainted with a very respectable young white lady, of good family, who +after a short acquaintance appeared to be perfectly enamored of her dusky +swain; and notwithstanding the existing prejudice, she did not scruple to +avow her affection for him,--a devotion which appeared to be as sincerely +returned by the young "Othello." They resolved to marry; but to this, +serious objections arose, and all that the lady's family and friends could +do to break off the match was done, but without effect. They could, +however, prevail on no one to perform the marriage ceremony in the +village, and finally concluded to go to a magistrate in the town of +Brighton, four miles distant. At this stage of the proceedings I was +appealed to, to accompany them. I took the matter into consideration and +came to the conclusion that I could take no active part in the affair, nor +bear any responsible station in the unpleasant occurrence. Is it no sin in +the sight of the Almighty, for Southern gentlemen(?) to mix blood and +amalgamate the races? And if allowed to them, is it not equally +justifiable when the commerce is prompted by affection rather than that of +lust and force? But I at length consented to accompany them, after +learning that all the mischief was already done that could be feared, and +that the gallant lover desired to marry the lady as the only atonement he +could make for the loss of her reputation. + +We arrived at the house of the magistrate about one o'clock at night, and +all were soundly sleeping. They were, however, aroused, and when our +business was made known, an exciting scene followed. The magistrate +refused at first to marry them; and the lady of the house took aside the +intended bride, spending two hours in endeavoring to dissuade her from the +contemplated union; assuring her that her house should be freely opened to +her, that no attention should be spared during her expected confinement, +&c.; but all to no purpose. They returned to the parlor where the +magistrate again tried his power of persuasion, but with as little success +as his lady had met: and then he reluctantly married them. The newly-made +husband paid a liberal fee, and we took our leave. I returned to my home +to reflect on the scenes of the past night, and Mr. and Mrs. Furr to the +house of a friend of the bride in Penfield. + +The report soon reached the village that the marriage had been +consummated, which produced a great excitement. Threats of an alarming +character were openly made against the "nigger" who had dared to marry a +white woman, although at her own request. And there was also a class of +persons who associated together, professing great friendship for the +persecuted husband, and often drew him into their company, pretending to +defend his cause while they were undoubtedly plotting his destruction. + +One day, after Furr had been drinking rather freely with his pretended +friends, he was taken so violently ill, that a physician was immediately +called. I was with him when the doctor arrived. He gazed upon the +suffering man with an angry expression, and inquired in a tone of command, +"Daniel, what have you been doing?" In vain the poor creature begged for +relief, the doctor merely repeating his question. After looking at him for +some time, he finally administered a potion and hastily left the room, +saying as he did so, "that Furr was as sure to die as though his head had +been cut off." And so it proved, though not so speedily as the medical man +had predicted; nor did he ever visit him again, notwithstanding he +lingered for several days in the most intense agony. It was a strong man +grappling with disease and death, and the strife was a fearful one. But +death at last ended the scene, with none of all his professed friends, +except his faithful but heart-broken wife, to administer to his +necessities. No sound save that of the moaning widow broke the stillness +of his death-chamber. A few friends collected, who prepared the emaciated +body for the grave; enclosing it in a rude board coffin it was conveyed to +its last resting place, followed by three or four men, just as the shades +of evening had fallen upon this sin-cursed world; there in darkness and +silence we lowered his remains, and left the gloomy spot to return to his +disconsolate wife, who had been too ill to join the meager procession. + +It has ever been my conviction that Furr was poisoned, most likely by some +of his false friends who must have mingled some deadly drug with his +drinks or food; nor do I believe that the medicine administered by the +physician was designed to save his life. But to Him who knoweth all +things, we leave the matter. + +His despised, forsaken, and bereaved wife soon followed him to the grave, +where she sleeps quietly with her innocent babe by her side; and where +probably this second Desdemonia finds the only refuge which would have +been granted her by a heartless and persecuting world. + +Oh, when will this nation "cease to do evil and learn to do well?" When +will they judge character in accordance with its moral excellence, instead +of the complexion a man unavoidably bears to the world? + + + + +CHAPTER XIV. + +INCIDENTS IN ROCHESTER AND VICINITY. + +After long petitioning, the inhabitants of that section succeeded in +having the new county of Monroe set off from Genesee and Ontario Counties, +in 1821, which gave a new impulse to the business interests of the already +flourishing town, which had heretofore labored under some disadvantages in +consequence of having all public business done at Canandaigua or Batavia. + +About this time, too, was the Carthage bridge built by a company of +enterprising gentlemen of that village which at that day was considered +one of the wonders of the age; but as its history is well known to all +interested in the enterprises of those days, it is only necessary to say, +that the magnificent structure, so grand in its appearance, such a pattern +of mechanical ingenuity, exhibiting in all its vast proportions, both +strength and beauty, combined with utility and grandeur; and erected at +such an enormous expense of time, labor, and cash, was destined soon to +fall. + +It had cost some ten thousand dollars; and had been warranted by the +builders to stand one year. How great then must have been the loss and +disappointment when in a little more than twenty-four hours after the time +specified, the ruins of that beautiful structure were found floating on +the broad bosom of the Genesee! And yet when we take into consideration +the vast amount of human life which hourly passed over its solid surface, +we can but wonder at the intervention of a kind Providence which prevented +any loss of life at the time of its fall. A child had but just passed over +it, when with one general crash it sank to the waters below; mocking in +its rapid flight, the wisdom of the architect and foresight of frail +humanity. The fall of Carthage bridge was indeed a calamity felt by the +public generally, and sounded the death-knell of all future greatness to +Carthage, or at least for some years to come. + +About this time the village was thrown into a state of excitement by the +arrest of a colored woman named Ellen, who it was charged had escaped from +service due to a Mr. D., south of Mason and Dixon's Line. She had been +arrested in accordance with a law passed by Congress in 1793, which +forbids persons owing service in one State to flee to another; and which +also obliges those receiving such service, to render to the claimant +any fugitive from labor due, &c. Poor Ellen! She had many friends and able +counsel, but nothing short of an open violation of the law of the land, +could prevent her return to the house of bondage. She was tried and given +up to him who claimed dominion over her. Hopeless and heart-broken, she +was escorted from the boasted land and village of freedom, by a company of +the "Light Horse," under the command of Capt. Curtis. One poor, persecuted +slave woman, upon whose heart had fallen a shadow darker than death's; +driving every earthly hope of liberty from her wounded spirit; helpless +and forlorn! She indeed must have required this military parade--this +show of power! And that too, by men who throw up their caps with a shout +for freedom and equal rights! Oh, "consistency, thou art a jewel!" + +As I recollect but one other incident of the kind occurring in Rochester, +I will now name it. + +A colored man named Davis, generally known as "Doctor Davis," with a +reputation unsullied for industry, truth and sobriety, was arrested as a +fugitive from slave labor in Kentucky. Two men came on from that State, +acting in the double capacity of agents for the claimant and witnesses +against the slave. They employed Mr. L. as counsel, and hastened on the +trial of the afflicted African. When it became generally known that Davis +was arrested, and about to be tried, the excitement grew intense among all +classes; but more particularly among the colored people. When the trial +came on, the Court room was crowded to overflowing, and every avenue +leading to it densely thronged with deeply anxious persons, assembled to +witness the result. It became evident, however, that the poor man must be +given up to his grasping master, unless some means were devised to rescue +him from the power of an unjust law. His friends were on the alert, and as +the trial proceeded, the colored men found an opportunity to get him into +a corner of the crowded apartment; where, while the officers stood at the +door, they dressed him in disguise, and otherwise so completely changed +his personal appearance, that he passed out of the Court room, undetected +by the officers, and as all supposed was safely pursuing his way to +Canada. + +The hawk-eyed counsel for the Kentuckians, however, too soon observed +exultation written on every dusky countenance, to keep quiet. Starting to +his feet in great alarm, he cried out "Where is Davis?" And oh, how that +question startled every one present. Every eye gazed hither and thither, +and every ear intently listened for the answer. After a moment of +breathless silence, the excited counselor was assured that the "bird had +flown," which announcement was received with a rapturous shout of joy by +the audience, greatly, however, to the discomfiture of the gentlemen from +Kentucky, who had thought themselves so sure of their prize. Nor would +they be thwarted now. It was not yet too late to overtake their victim, +and slavery required at their hands a sacrifice which they were ready to +make. Hand-bills were in immediate circulation, offering a reward of fifty +dollars for the apprehension of the flying fugitive. Fifty dollars, for +the body and soul of a man to plunge into the degradation of Slavery! +Fifty dollars for the ruin of a fellow being, for whom Christ gave his +precious life! Yes, fifty dollars are offered to any human blood-hound who +will hunt and worry the poor slave, who must fly from this boasted land of +liberty, to seek protection in the dominion of England's Queen! + +Unfortunately for Davis, some of these hand-bills were thrown on board the +very packet on which he had embarked for Buffalo; nor was this all. The +bills would have left him uninjured, but a scoundrel--an apology for a +man--was there also, who, for the consideration of fifty dollars was +willing to compromise all pretensions to manhood and humanity, and drag +from the boat the panting slave, whom he cast beneath the heel of his +oppressor. When Davis was finally retaken, those Kentucky dealers in human +chattels, held him with a grasp that banished all hope of escape by +flight; and then in his sorrow and despair the wretched, hopeless man +cried out "Oh, my God, must I return to the hell of Slavery? Save me, Oh, +dear Lord, save this, thy helpless, friendless servant, from a fate so +dreadful! Oh, Christian friends and neighbors, I appeal to you to rescue +me from a life far more terrible than death in any form! Oh, God, is there +no protection for me in the laws of New York? I claim it, by all that is +sacred in her past history! Give me liberty or death! or death!" he +repeated, with a shudder; then casting one glance of hopeless agony on his +persecutors, he secretly drew from his pocket a razor, and before he could +be prevented he drew it across his throat, and fell gasping in the midst +of his slave-hunting tormentors, while a collection of bystanders cried +"Shame! shame! on the institution of Slavery!" + +Poor Davis was not dead, but supposing he soon would be, these gentlemen +were requested to give security, and indemnify the town for all expenses +it might incur on Davis' account. But instead of giving their bond as +requested, they took a sudden start for Kentucky, where it was very +generally desired they might remain. + +With good treatment, Davis, after a long time, recovered sufficiently to +be removed by his friends to a place of safety; and when so far restored +as to be able he returned to Rochester, where he received assistance which +enabled him to reach Canada. I have often heard from him during his +residence in that country, where no slaves exist and he has done well, +having quite an extensive practice in medicine, and lives in the quiet +enjoyment of that liberty which he struggled so hard to obtain and came so +near losing; yet, to this day he prefers death to Slavery. And who does +not? None, who have breathed the air of freedom after an experience of +unrequited toil to enrich a brutal and selfish master. Truly is it said, +"a contented slave is a degraded being." + + + + +CHAPTER XV. + +SAD REVERSES OF CAPT. HELM. + +I must again introduce to the kind reader my old master, Capt. Helm, who +we left residing in Bath, several years ago. And as I have before +intimated he had now become a very poor man; indeed so reduced was he now +that he lived with one of his slave women, and was supported by public +charity! Learning, too, that I had saved by my industry a few hundred +dollars, it seemed very congenial with his avaricious habits to endeavor +to obtain what I possessed. In accordance with his plan he employed a +lawyer named Lewland to come to my place of business, which he did, and +demanded of me to pay Capt. Helm two hundred dollars. He also left a +notice, forbidding all persons to take or destroy any property in my +possession; and then impudently inquired how I expected to gain my +freedom; if I thought of applying for a writ of _habaeus corpus_; and many +other questions; to which I replied that I should pay no money on the +order of Capt. Helm; apply for no writ; but should continue to maintain my +personal rights and enjoy the freedom which was already mine, and which I +designed to keep, assuring him that the Captain had forfeited his claim, +if he had any, to me or my services, when he hired me to Mr. Tower. + +He hung about me for a day or two, and then left me to pursue my business +--I saw no more of him. Some time afterward Mr. H.E. Rochester informed me +that he had a _subpoena_ for me, which I found was issued by the +direction of Capt. Helm. By Mr. Rochester's counsel, I took it to Mr. A. +Sampson, who assured me that my old master had commenced a suit against me +in the Court of Equity, and the case would be tried before Wm. B. +Rochester, Esq., who was one of the circuit judges. Capt. Helm claimed +every particle of property I possessed; a claim that occasioned me great +anxiety and some cost. + +Mr. Sampson encouraged me to hope, however, that the case would be +dismissed as two other cases of that kind had been. + +I labored to the best of my ability to prepare myself for the trial, which +was to decide whether I had a right to possess myself and command my own +services and earnings, or whether all belonged to Capt. Helm. As I looked +forward with anxious forebodings to the day appointed for the suit to +commence, I was startled by the announcement of my old master's _death_! +Yes, Capt. Helm was dead; and with him died the law suit. He who had so +wronged me, who had occasioned me so much suffering and sorrow had gone to +his account. He who had once been thought to be one of the wealthiest as +well as one of the greatest men in the county, died a pauper--neglected +and despised, and scarcely awarded a decent burial. Like his wife, who +died such a horrid death, he had been reared in affluence and was an +inheritor of vast possessions, but his home was in a slave State; he was +raised on a plantation, and nurtured in the atmosphere of Slavery. + +In his youth he had contracted the habit of drinking to excess, beside +that of gambling, horse-racing and the like, which followed him through +life. Forgotten and scorned in his poverty by many who had partaken of his +abundance, sipped his wine, and rode his fast horses. + +During the last war his princely mansion was ever open to the officers of +the army, and many a wounded soldier has been cheered and comforted by his +hospitality. But now he is regarded as no better than his poorest slave, +and lies as lowly as they, in the narrow house appointed for all the +living. + +My old master had two brothers: the oldest, Thomas Helm, was a Captain in +the United States Army, and had been in many hard-fought battles. His +younger brother, William, was a Captain also; but Thomas was the man to +awaken curiosity. I have lived with him, but never knew of his going +unarmed for an hour, until he left Virginia and came to Steuben County, +where he died. When at the South, I have seen strangers approach him, but +they were invariably commanded to "stand" and to "approach him at their +peril." He finally came to the State of New York, bringing with him his +"woman" with whom he lived, and two children, with whom he settled on a +piece of land given him by my old master, where the old soldier lived, +died, and was buried on one of his small "clearings" under an old apple +tree. He owned a few slaves, but at his death his "woman" collected every +thing she could, and among the rest, two or three slave children, to whom +she had no right or claim whatever, and made her way to Kentucky. About a +year ago I visited the spot where the brave old defender of his country +had been buried, but found very little to mark the resting place of the +brother of my old master. They had passed away. Their wealth, power and +bravery had come to nought; and no tribute was now paid to the memory of +one of "Old Virginia's best families." The _blood_ of which they were wont +to boast, was now no more revered than that which commingled with the +African and circulated in the veins of his despised and downtrodden +slaves. + + + + +CHAPTER XVI. + +BRITISH EMANCIPATION OF SLAVERY. + +As time passed on I found myself progressing in a profitable business. I +had paid for my house and lot, and purchased another adjoining, on which I +had erected a valuable brick building. The Lord prospered all my +undertakings and I felt grateful for my good fortune. I kept all kinds of +groceries and grain, which met a ready sale; and now I began to look about +me for a partner in life, to share my joys and sorrows, and to assist me +on through the tempestuous scenes of a life-long voyage. Such a companion +I found in the intelligent and amiable Miss B----, to whom I was married +on the eleventh of May, 1825. She was the youngest daughter of a +particular friend, who had traveled extensively and was noted for his +honesty and intelligence. + +About this time, too, "Sam Patch" made his last and fatal leap from a +scaffold twenty five feet above the falls of Genesee, which are ninety-six +feet in height. From thence he plunged into the foaming river to rise no +more in life. The following spring the body of the foolish man was found +and buried, after having lain several months in the turbulent waters of +the Genesee. + +This year was also rendered memorable by the efficient labors of Professor +Finney, through whose faithful preaching of the gospel, many were brought +to a saving knowledge of the truth. + +The "Emancipation Act" had now been passed, and the happy time for it to +take effect was drawing nigh. Slavery could no longer exist in the Empire +State nor receive the protection of her laws. Would to God it had so +continued to be what it professed--the refuge of the bondman and the home +of the free. But alas! Now the flying fugitive from Slavery finds no +security within her borders; he must flee onward, to the dominion of +Queen Victoria, ere he rests, lest the exaction of the odious "Fugitive +Slave Law" return him to the house of bondage. + +But the Emancipation Bill had been passed, and the colored people felt it +to be a time fit for rejoicing. They met in different places and +determined to evince their gratitude by a general celebration. In +Rochester they convened in large numbers, and resolved to celebrate the +glorious day of freedom at Johnson's Square, on the _fifth_ day of July. +This arrangement was made so as not to interfere with the white population +who were everywhere celebrating the day of their independence--"the +Glorious Fourth,"--for amid the general and joyous shout of liberty, +prejudice had sneeringly raised the finger of scorn at the poor African, +whose iron bands were loosed, not only from English oppression, but the +more cruel and oppressive power of Slavery. + +They met according to previous appointment, Mr. A. H----, having been +chosen president, Mr. H. E----, marshal, and Mr. H. D----, reader of the +"Act of Emancipation," and "The Declaration of Independence." A large +audience of both white and colored people assembled, and the day which had +been ushered in by the booming cannon, passed by in the joyous realization +that we were indeed free men. To the music of the band the large +procession marched from the square to the hotel, where ample provision was +made for dinner, after listening to the following oration, which I had +been requested to deliver. + +I must not omit to mention that on the morning of that happy day, a +committee of colored men waited upon the Hon. Matthew Brown, and in behalf +of the citizens of Monroe County, presented their thanks for his noble +exertions in the Legislature, in favor of the Act by which thousands were +made free men. + +They were received by that worthy gentleman with grateful and pleasing +assurances of his continued labor in behalf of freedom. + +Now I will lay before the reader my address to the audience on that +eventful day. + + + + +CHAPTER XVII. + +ORATION--TERMINATION OF SLAVERY. + +The age in which we live is characterised in no ordinary degree, by a +certain boldness and rapidity in the march of intellectual and political +improvements. Inventions the most surprising; revolutions the most +extraordinary, are springing forth, and passing in quick succession before +us,--all tending most clearly to the advancement of mankind towards that +state of earthly perfection and happiness, from which they are yet so far +distant, but of which their nature and that of the world they inhabit, +are most certainly capable. It is at all times pleasing and instructive +to look backward by the light of history, and forward by the light of +analogical reasoning, to behold the gradual advancement of man from +barbarism to civilization, from civilization toward the higher perfections +of his nature; and to hope--nay, confidently believe, that the time is not +far distant when liberty and equal rights being everywhere established, +morality and the religion of the gospel everywhere diffused,--man shall +no longer lift his hand for the oppression of his fellow man; but all, +mutually assisting and assisted, shall move onward throughout the journey +of human life, like the peaceful caravan across the burning sands of +Arabia. And never, on this glorious anniversary, so often and so +deservedly celebrated by millions of free men, but which we are to-day for +the first time called to celebrate--never before, has the eye been able to +survey the past with so much satisfaction, or the future with hopes and +expectations so brilliant and so flattering; it is to us a day of two-fold +joy. We are men, though the strong hand of prejudice and oppression is +upon us; we can, and we will rejoice in the advancement of the rapidly +increasing happiness of mankind, and especially of our own race. We can, +and we will rejoice in the growing power and glory of the country we +inhabit. Although Almighty God has not permitted us to remain in the land +of our forefathers and our own, the glories of national independence, and +the sweets of civil and religious liberty, to their full extent; but the +strong hand of the spoiler has borne us into a strange land, yet has He of +His great goodness given us to behold those best and noblest of his gifts +to man, in their fairest and loveliest forms; and not only have we beheld +them, but we have already felt much of their benignant influence. Most +of us have hitherto enjoyed many, very many of the dearest rights of +freemen. Our lives and personal liberties have been held as sacred and +inviolable; the rights of property have been extended to us, in this land +of freedom; our industry has been, and still is, liberally rewarded; and +so long as we live under a free and happy government which denies us not +the protection of its laws, why should we fret and vex ourselves because +we have had no part in framing them, nor anything to do with their +administration. When the fruits of the earth are fully afforded us, we do +not wantonly refuse them, nor ungratefully repine because we have done +nothing towards the cultivation of the tree which produces them. No, we +accept them with lively gratitude; and their sweetness is not embittered +by reflecting upon the manner in which they were obtained. It is the +dictate of sound wisdom, then, to enjoy without repining, the freedom, +privileges, and immunities which wise and equal laws have awarded us--nay, +proudly to rejoice and glory in their production, and stand ready at all +times to defend them at the hazard of our lives, and of all that is most +dear to us. + +But are we alone shut out and excluded from any share in the +administration of government? Are not the clergy, a class of men equally +ineligible to office? A class of men almost idolized by their countrymen, +ineligible to office! And are we alone excluded from what the world +chooses to denominate polite society? And are not a vast majority of the +polar race excluded? I know not why, but mankind of every age, nation, and +complexion have had lower classes; and, as a distinction, they have chosen +to arrange themselves in the grand spectacle of human life, like seats in +a theater--rank above rank, with intervals between them. But if any +suppose that happiness or contentment is confined to any single class, +or that the high or more splendid order possesses any substantial +advantage in those respects over their more lowly brethren, they must be +wholly ignorant of all rational enjoyment. For what though the more humble +orders cannot mingle with the higher on terms of equality. This, if +rightly considered, is not a curse but a blessing. Look around you, my +friends: what rational enjoyment is not within your reach? Your homes are +in the noblest country in the world, and all of that country which your +real happiness requires, may at any time be yours. Your industry can +purchase it; and its righteous laws will secure you in its possession. +But, to what, my friends, do you owe all these blessings? Let not the +truth be concealed. You owe them to that curse, that bitter scourge of +Africa, whose partial abolishment you are this day convened to celebrate. +Slavery has been your curse, but it shall become your rejoicing. Like the +people of God in Egypt, you have been afflicted; but like them too, you +have been redeemed. You are henceforth free as the mountain winds. Why +should we, on this day of congratulation and joy, turn our view upon the +origin of African Slavery? Why should we harrow up our minds by dwelling +on the deceit, the forcible fraud and treachery that have been so long +practised on your hospitable and unsuspecting countrymen? Why speak of +fathers torn from the bosom of their families, wives from the embraces of +their husbands, children from the protection of their parents; in fine, of +all the tender and endearing relations of life dissolved and trampled +under foot, by the accursed traffic in human flesh? Why should we +remember, in joy and exultation, the thousands of our countrymen who are +to-day, in this land of gospel light, this boasted land of civil and +religious liberty, writhing under the lash and groaning beneath the +grinding weight of Slavery's chain? I ask, Almighty God, are they who do +such things thy chosen and favorite people? But, away with such thoughts +as these; we will rejoice, though sobs interrupt the songs of our +rejoicing, and tears mingle in the cup we pledge to Freedom; our harps +though they have long hung neglected upon the willows, shall this day be +strung full high to the notes of gladness. On this day, in one member at +least of this mighty Republic, the Slavery of our race has ceased forever! +No more shall the insolent voice of a master be the main-spring of our +actions, the sole guide of our conduct; no more shall their hands labor in +degrading and profitless servitude. Their toils will henceforth be +voluntary, and be crowned with the never failing reward of industry. +Honors and dignities may perhaps never be ours; but wealth, virtue, and +happiness are all within the compass of our moderate exertions. And how +shall we employ a few moments better than in reflecting upon the means by +which these are to be obtained. For what can be more proper and more +profitable to one who has just gained an invaluable treasure, than to +consider how he may use it to the best possible advantage? And here I +need not tell you that a strict observance to all the precepts of the +gospel ought to be your first and highest aim; for small will be the value +of all that the present world can bestow, if the interests of the world to +come are neglected and despised. None of you can be ignorant of what the +gospel teaches. Bibles may easily be obtained; nor can there be a greater +disgrace, or a more shameful neglect of duty than for a person of mature +age, and much more, for any father of a family to be without that most +precious of all books--the Bible. If, therefore, any of you are destitute +of a Bible, hasten to procure one. Will any of you say that it can be of +no use to you, or that you cannot read it? Look then to that noblest of +all remedies for this evil, the Sunday School--that most useful of all +institutions. There you may learn without loss of time or money, that of +which none should be ignorant--to read. + +Let me exhort you with earnestness to give your most sincere attention to +this matter. It is of the utmost importance to every one of you. Let your +next object be to obtain as soon as may be, a competency of the good +things of this world; immense wealth is not necessary for you, and would +but diminish your real happiness. Abject poverty is and ought to be +regarded as the greatest, most terrible of all possible evils. It should +be shunned as a most deadly and damning sin. What then are the means by +which so dreadful a calamity may be avoided? I will tell you, my friends, +in these simple words--hear and ponder on them; write them upon the +tablets of your memory; they are worthy to be inscribed in letters of gold +upon every door-post--"industry, prudence, and economy." Oh! they are +words of power to guide you to respectability and happiness. Attend, then, +to some of the laws which industry impose, while you have health and +strength. Let not the rising sun behold you sleeping or indolently lying +upon your beds. Rise ever with the morning light; and, till sun-set, give +not an hour to idleness. Say not human nature cannot endure it. It can--it +almost requires it. Sober, diligent, and moderate labor does not diminish +it, but on the contrary, greatly adds to the health, vigor, and duration +of the human frame. Thousands of the human race have died prematurely of +disease engendered by indolence and inactivity. Few, very few indeed, +have suffered by the too long continuance of bodily exertion. As you give +the day to labor, so devote the night to rest; for who that has drunk and +reveled all night at a tippling shop, or wandered about in search of +impious and stolen pleasures, has not by so doing not only committed a +most heinous and damning sin in the sight of Heaven, but rendered himself +wholly unfit for the proper discharge of the duties of the coming day. Nor +think that industry or true happiness do not go hand in hand; and to him +who is engaged in some useful avocation, time flies delightfully and +rapidly away. He does not, like the idle and indolent man, number the slow +hours with sighs--cursing both himself and them for the tardiness of their +flight. Ah, my friends, it is utterly impossible for him who wastes time +in idleness, ever to know anything of true happiness. Indolence, poverty, +wretchedness, are inseparable companions,--fly them, shun idleness, as +from eminent and inevitable destruction. In vain will you labor unless +prudence and economy preside over and direct all your exertions. Remember +at all times that money even in your own hands, is power; with it you may +direct as you will the actions of your pale, proud brethren. Seek after +and amass it then, by just and honorable means; and once in your hand +never part with it but for a full and fair equivalent; nor let that +equivalent be something which you do not want, and for which you cannot +obtain more than it cost you. Be watchful and diligent and let your mind +be fruitful in devises for the honest advancement of your worldly +interest. So shall you continually rise in respectability, in rank and +standing in this so late and so long the land of your captivity. + +Above all things refrain from the excessive use of ardent spirits. There +is no evil whose progress is so imperceptible; and at the same time so +sure and deadly, as that of intemperance; and by slow degrees it +undermines health, wealth, and happiness, till all at length tumble into +one dreadful mass of ruin. If God has given you children, he has in so +doing imposed upon you a most fearful responsibility; believe me, friends, +you will answer to God for every misfortune suffered, and every crime +committed by them which right education and example could have taught them +to avoid. Teach them reverence and obedience to the laws both of God and +man. Teach them sobriety, temperance, justice, and truth. Let their minds +be rightly instructed--imbued with kindness and brotherly love, charity, +and benevolence. Let them possess at least so much learning as is to be +acquired in the common schools of the country. In short, let their +welfare be dearer to you than any earthly enjoyment; so shall they be the +richest of earthly blessings. + +My countrymen, let us henceforth remember that we are men. Let us as one +man, on this day resolve that henceforth, by continual endeavors to do +good to all mankind, we will claim for ourselves the attention and respect +which as men we should possess. So shall every good that can be the +portion of man, be ours--this life shall be happy, and the life to come, +glorious. + + * * * * * + +The opinion of the public regarding the celebration and performances of +that day, together with the behavior of the colored people, will be seen +by the following short extract from the _Rochester Daily Advertiser_, +published soon after the occurrence of those events: + +"ABOLITION OF SLAVERY. + +"The extinction of that curse by the laws of our State, was marked +with appropriate rejoicings on the part of the African race in this +neighborhood. A procession of considerable length and respectable +appearance, preceded by a band of music, moved from Brown's Island through +the principal streets to the public square, yesterday forenoon, where a +stage and seats were erected, for the speakers and audience. The throne of +Grace was addressed by the Rev. Mr. Allen, a colored clergyman. The act +declaring all slaves free in this State, on the fourth day of July, 1827, +was read, which was succeeded by the reading of the Declaration of +Independence and delivery of an oration by Mr. Steward. We have heard but +one opinion from several gentlemen who were present, and that was highly +complimentary to the composition and delivery of the same. + +"The exercises were concluded by a short discourse from the Rev. Mr. +Allen, and the procession moved off to partake of an entertainment +prepared for the occasion. The thing was got up in good order, and passed +off remarkably well. The conduct of the emancipated race was exemplary +throughout, and if their future enjoyment of freedom be tinctured with the +prudence that characterised their celebration of its attainment, the +country will have no reason to mourn the philanthropy that set them free." + + * * * * * + +Thus ended our first public celebration of our own and our country's +freedom. All conducted themselves with the strictest propriety and +decorum, retiring to their homes soberly and in proper season. + + + + +CHAPTER XVIII. + +CONDITION OF FREE COLORED PEOPLE. + +Pursuant to a call given in the summer of 1830, by the colored residents +of Philadelphia, for a National Convention of their race, I started in +company with a friend to attend it; having previously engaged seats inside +Mr. Coe's stage-coach as far as Utica, N.Y., to which place we had paid +our fare the same as other passengers. + +We rode on to Auburn very pleasantly, but when at that place, we with +others moved to resume our seats; we were met by a stern rebuke for +presuming to seat ourselves on the inside, and were ordered to ride on the +outside of the coach. In vain we expostulated; in vain we reminded the +driver of the agreement, and of our having paid for an inside seat; we +were told to take the outside of the coach or remain behind. + +Desiring to attend the convention, we concluded to go on, submitting to +this rank injustice and dishonesty, until our return, when we determined +to sue the proprietor of that line of stages. An opportunity was offered +soon after, when I commenced a suit for damages against Mr. Sherwood, who +was the great stage proprietor of those days. He, however, cleared himself +by declaring that he was in no way responsible for the failures of Mr. +Coe, to whom I must look for remuneration. I never found it convenient to +sue Mr. Coe, and so the matter ended. + +We passed through New York City to the place of our destination, where we +found many of our brethren already assembled. + +Philadelphia, which I now saw for the first time, I thought the most +beautiful and regularly laid out city I ever beheld. Here had lived the +peaceable, just, and merciful William Penn; and here many of his adherents +still reside. Here, too, was the place where the Rt. Rev. Bishop Allen, +the first colored American bishop in the United States, had labored so +successfully. When the Methodists sought to crush by cruel prejudice the +poor African, he stepped boldly forward in defence of their cause, which +he sustained, with a zeal and talent ever to be revered. + +Thousands were brought to a knowledge of the truth, and induced "to seek +first the kingdom of heaven and its righteousness," through his +instrumentality. Through the benign influence of this good man, friends +and means were raised for his poor brethren, to build houses of worship, +where they would no more be dragged from their knees when in prayer, and +told to seat themselves by the door. Oh, how much good can one good and +faithful man do, when devoted to the cause of humanity--following in the +footsteps of the blessed Christ; doing unto others as they would be done +by; and remembering those in bonds as bound with them. What though his +skin be black as ebony, if the heart of a brother beats in his bosom? Oh, +that man could judge of character as does our Heavenly Father; then would +he judge righteous judgment, and cease to look haughtily down upon his +afflicted fellow, because "his skin is colored not like his own." + +We convened at the specified time, and organized by appointing Rev. R. +Allen, president, A. Steward, vice-president, and J.C. Morrell, secretary. +The convention which continued in session three days, was largely attended +by all classes of people, and many interesting subjects were ably +discussed; but the most prominent object was the elevation of our race. +Resolutions were passed calculated to encourage our brethren to take some +action on the subjects of education and mechanism. Agricultural pursuits +were also recommended;--and here allow me to give my opinion in favor of +the latter, as a means of sustenance and real happiness. + +I knew many colored farmers, all of whom are well respected in the +neighborhood of their residence. I wish I could count them by hundreds; +but our people mostly flock to cities where they allow themselves to be +made "hewers of wood and drawers of water;" barbers and waiters,--when, if +they would but retire to the country and purchase a piece of land, +cultivate and improve it, they would be far richer and happier than they +can be in the crowded city. It is a mistaken idea that there is more +prejudice against color in the country. True, it exists everywhere, but I +regard it less potent in the country, where a farmer can live less +dependant on his oppressors. The sun will shine, the rains descend, and +the earth bring forth her increase, just as readily for the colored +agriculturist as for his pale face neighbor. Yes, and our common mother +Earth will, when life is ended, as readily open her bosom to receive your +remains in a last embrace, as that of the haughty scorner of our rights. + +In the city, however, there is no escape from the crushing weight of +prejudice, to ramble over fields of your own cultivation; to forget your +sorrows in the refreshing air that waves the loaded branches of an orchard +of your own planting; nor to solace yourself with a gambol over the green +meadow with your little ones. It is all toil, toil, with a burthened heart +until shadows fall across the hearth-stone, and dismal forebodings darken +the fireside, from whence the weary wife retires to refresh herself in +broken slumber for the renewed toil of another day. Will not my friends +think of these and many other advantages in favor of a country life, and +practice accordingly? + +After the close of the convention, I returned to my business in Rochester. + +Until the discussion, which commenced about this time on the subject of +temperance, I had been engaged, as most other grocers were at that time, +in the sale of spirituous liquors somewhat extensively. My attention had +never before been called especially to the subject, though I had witnessed +some of its direst evils; but now, when I saw the matter in its true +light, I resolved to give it up. I was doing well and making handsome +profits on the sale of alcoholic beverages. I had also experienced a good +deal of trouble with it. My license allowed me to sell any quantity less +than five gallons; but it was a fine of twenty-five dollars if drunk on +the premises,--one half of the sum to go to the complainant. If a vicious +man got out of funds it became both easy and common for him to give some +person a sixpence, half of which was to be spent for whisky, which made +him a witness for the other, who would make immediate complaint, and +collect his share of the fine. Nor could I prevent men who came with +bottles, and purchased whisky, from drinking it where they pleased; +consequently I was often called to answer to such complaints. + +One morning a man entered my store and called for liquor, which the clerk +gave him. After drinking it, he went directly to the office of A. House, +Esq., and entered a complaint against the clerk who had served him; then +stepped out for consultation with his counsel. At that moment I arrived at +the office of the magistrate to whom I immediately made complaint against +myself, relating to him also just how the event happened. In a few minutes +the original complainant returned, to whom 'Squire House explained that he +should have arraigned the proprietor of the store, and not the clerk as he +had done. Determined on making a speculation, however, he demanded a +precept for myself. The 'Squire, laughing most heartily, informed him that +he was too late,--that Mr. Steward had the start of him, having just +entered a complaint against himself, by which he saves one half of the +fine. The man walked out, looking rather "cheap," nor did he or others +annoy me afterwards by making complaints of that kind. + +But now I saw, as never before, the sin of selling that which would make +beasts of men, and only stopped to inquire what was duty in the matter. +All the arguments in favor of its sale were more forcible then than now. +All classes of persons used and drank the article; and it required more +moral courage, to relinquish the business than it does now. Nevertheless, +it appeared plain to my mind, that duty to God and my fellow-men required +it, and I cheerfully gave it up forever. + +I could not conscientiously, nor do I see how any man can, continue to +traffic in this most fruitful source of pauperism and crime. No benefit +whatever arises from its use as a beverage or from its sale. It is a curse +to the drinker, to the seller, and to the community. Those who are +licensed venders take from the government fifty dollars for every one put +into the treasury. The money paid for licenses is a very meager +compensation for the beggary, crime, and bloodshed which rum produces. All +who have any knowledge of the statistics of the State, or of our prison +and police records know, that intemperance has done more to fill the +prisons, work-houses, alms-houses, and asylums of the State than all other +influences combined; and yet men uphold the traffic. Their favors are for +those who love its use and sale, and their anathemas for him, who is +striving to save a nation of drunkards from swift destruction; yea, their +own sires, sons, and brothers from the grave of the inebriate. + +When in Rochester a short time since, soliciting subscribers for this +work, I stepped into a distillery and asked a man to subscribe for it. He +hesitated in his decision until he took a tumbler and filling it with +brandy, invited me to drink. I thanked him, saying I never drink brandy. +"Never drink!" he growled, "then I tell you, sir, that you stand a much +better chance of being struck by lightning than of getting a subscriber +here." Oh, very well; most likely had he agreed to take a copy, he would +have been sorely displeased with my views of the liquor traffic, and +perhaps with the compliment I have here paid him. + +But in the foregoing remarks I have said but a tithe of what my heart +feels, when I think of the sufferings occasioned by drunkenness. + +Even the cup of the burthened slave, writhing in his chains and toiling +under the lash, is not full of bitterness until the demon rum throws in +its dregs and fills it to overflowing. + +How often does it occur that a passionate master, heated with wine,--mad +with himself and all about him, pours out his vengeful ire on the head and +back of some helpless slave, and leaves him weltering in his blood! How +often may be heard the agonized wail of the slave mother, deploring the +departure of some innocent child that has been lost in gambling, while the +master was intoxicated! + +How often do the shrieks of the poor but virtuous slave girl, ring through +the midnight air, as she, pleading for death rather than life, rushes +screaming away from a brutal master, infuriated and drunk! If it is a +fact, and certainly it is, that the master is thus affected by his costly +wine; what, think you, will be the temper and condition of the coarse and +heartless overseer who drinks his miserable whisky or bad brandy? It is +horrible, beyond description. I have often myself seen a drunken overseer, +after pouring down dram after dram, mount his horse and ride furiously +among the slaves, beating, bruising, mangling with his heavy cowhide every +one he chanced to meet, until the ground presented the appearance of a +battlefield. + + + + +CHAPTER XIX. + +PERSECUTION OF THE COLORED PEOPLE. + +While the colored population of New York were rejoicing in the measure of +freedom allowed them by the more wholesome laws of that State, our +brethren in Ohio were being oppressed and maltreated by the unjust and +odious "black laws" of that professedly free State, enacted with special +reference to the disposition of the colored race. + +In Cincinnati, O., within sight of the slave land of Kentucky, a terrible +persecution had commenced, and an effort was made to drive all colored +persons from the place. + +Our people had settled there in large numbers, but now a mob had assembled +in that city with the determination to drive them, not only from their +homes and city, but from the State. A bloody conflict ensued, in which the +white and black man's blood mingled freely. So great had been the loss of +property; and go horrid and fearful had been the scene, that our people +chose to leave, rather than remain under such untoward circumstances. They +lived in constant fear of the mob which had so abused and terrified them. +Families seated at the fireside started at every breath of wind, and +trembled at the sound of every approaching footstep. The father left his +family in fear, lest on his return from his daily labor, he should find +his wife and children butchered, and his house left desolate. + +Meetings were held to devise plans and means for leaving the place where +they had been so cruelly treated. But where should they go? And why +should they be compelled to leave the State of Ohio? The fact is, that the +African race there, as in all parts of this nominally free Republic, was +looked down upon by the white population as being little above the brute +creation; or, as belonging to some separate class of degraded beings, too +deficient in intellect to provide for their own wants, and must therefore +depend on the superior ability of their oppressors, to take care of them. +Indeed, both the time and talents of eminent men have been wasted in +unsuccessful research for the line of demarcation, between the African and +the highest order of animals,--such for instance as the monkey or the +ourang-outang. Some even, have advanced the absurd idea, that wicked Cain +transmitted to them the "mark" which the Almighty set upon him for the +murder of his brother; and that he, (who then must have survived the +deluge), is the progenitor of that despised and inferior race--the negro +slave of the United States of America! + +If it be true, that the natural inferiority of the black man, connects him +so closely with the animal creation, it looks passing strange to me that +he should be made responsible for the violation of laws which he has been +declared too imbecile to aid in framing or of comprehending. Nor is it +less strange to see him enslaved and compelled by his labor to maintain +both his master and himself, after having declared him incapable of doing +either. Why not let him go then? Why hold with an unyielding grasp, so +miserable and useless a piece of property? Is it benevolence that binds +him with his master's chain? Judge ye. Stranger still is the fact of +attaching such vast influence to his presence and so much concern +regarding his movements, when in a state of freedom, if indeed, he is of +so little worth and consequence, and so nearly related to the brutes that +perish. + +Surely, the Legislature of Ohio, or of any other State, would never feel +called upon to sit in grave counsel, for the purpose of framing laws which +would impose fine and imprisonment on a monkey, should one chance to +locate within its jurisdiction; nor would they think it advisable for the +court to assemble, or a jury to be empanelled, to drive from their midst +an ourang-outang. And yet this and more must be done to get rid of the +hated negro, who has been born in that State, or has fled to it for +protection from the manstealer. + +When strangers pass hastily through this country, and after a careless +glance at the colored population, report them to be "an indolent, +improvident, and vicious class of persons," they should consider some of +the many obstacles thrown in the way of the most favored of that race. +Knowing as they do, the rigor of the law, and feeling as they do, the +oppressive power of prejudice, it becomes almost impossible for them +to rise to that station they were designed to fill, and for which their +natural abilities as certainly qualify them, as though they had never +been robbed of their God-given rights. But let us return to our tried +friends in Cincinnati. + +They finally resolved to collect what they could of their possessions and +establish a colony in Canada. In accordance with this resolution, they +agreed to first send an agent to obtain liberty to settle there, and if +successful to select and purchase a large tract of land, making such +arrangements as he thought best for their speedy removal to their new +home. Israel Lewis was their appointed agent, who departed immediately for +Upper Canada to perform his mission; and there for the present we will +leave him and return to Rochester. + +Our more favored brethren in New York felt a deep sympathy for their +outraged countrymen in Cincinnati; a sympathy equaled only by their +indignation at the cause of such demand. + +A meeting expressive of their views and feelings on that subject, was +convened in the city of Rochester during which, the following preamble and +resolutions were read and unanimously adopted: + +_Whereas_, The city of Cincinnati has again become the scene of another +dreadful mob and bloodshed, where nothing but terror and confusion reigned +for a number of hours together. + +_And Whereas_, Our brethren and fellow citizens were left exposed to the +fury of an ungovernable mob, made up of the base, the ignorant, and vile, +the very dregs of society; and probably led on by slaveholders, who of all +men are the most execrable; while boasting of liberty, he tramples on the +dearest rights of men and in the greatest robber of it on earth. + +_Resolved_, That we deprecate an appeal to arms by any class of our fellow +citizens, except in extreme cases, and we think that such a case has been +presented in the late outrage at Cincinnati. + +_Resolved_, That when a class of men so far forget the duty they owe to +God, their fellow men, and their country, as to trample under their feet +the very laws they have made, and are in duty bound to obey and execute, +we believe it to be the duty of our brethren and fellow citizens, to +protect their lives against such lawless mobs; and if in the conflict, +any of the mobocrats perish, every good citizen should say Amen. + +_Resolved_, That we do truly sympathize with the friends of God's poor; +the friends of the oppressed, throughout this boasted land of liberty, in +the losses they have sustained in consequence of the mob. + +_Resolved_, That we believe the time is not far distant, when the _Queen +City of the West_, shall be redeemed from the hateful influence of the +slaveholder; redeemed from that cruel prejudice of caste which, hangs like +a mill-stone around the neck of our people; redeemed from all those +unequal laws, which have a tendency to make the strong stronger and the +weak weaker; redeemed from their falsehearted friends, whose sarcastic +smile is more to be feared than the frowns of an open enemy. + +_Resolved_, That the untiring exertions of our friends, and the +indefatigable industry of our brethren, are sure guarantees that the State +of Ohio will not long be what she now is,--a hissing and by-word on +account of her iniquitous laws; but that she will rise above every narrow +minded prejudice, and raise up her sable sons and daughters and place them +on an equality with the rest of her citizens. + +_Resolved_, That we deeply deplore the loss our friends have sustained in +the destruction of their printing press in Cincinnati. + +_Resolved_, That we as an oppressed people, feel it our duty to give our +undivided support to the press and the laborers in our cause. + + * * * * * + +Mr. Israel Lewis made his way to Canada, and having obtained permission to +establish a colony, he bargained with the Canada Company for one township +of land, for which he agreed to pay the money demanded, in a few days, and +then returned to Cincinnati, by way of Rochester. The poor, persecuted +colored people, had in the mean time made ready for their flight from +their homes, their native land, and from this boasted free Republic, to +seek a residence in the cold and dreary wilds of Canada; to claim that +protection from the English government which had been denied them in the +land of their birth; and like the overtasked Israelites, "they went out +with their wives and their little ones," but with smaller possessions. + +During the stay of Mr. Lewis in Rochester, he reported there and +elsewhere, that eleven hundred persons were then in the dense woods of +Canada in a state of actual starvation, and called upon the humane +everywhere, to assist them in such extreme suffering. + +To me he also told the story of their destitution, which affected me +deeply. I had at that time just made a public profession of my faith in +the Christian religion and my determination to be governed by its holy +precepts, I felt for the distressed and suffering everywhere; but +particularly for those who had fled, poor and destitute, from cruel +task-masters, choosing rather the sufferings of cold and hunger, with +liberty, than the meager necessities of life and Slavery. I concluded to +go to Canada and try to do some good; to be of some little service in the +great cause of humanity. + +As soon as practicable therefore, I left Rochester for Toronto, the +capital of Upper Canada, which I found quite a thriving town, and +containing some fine brick buildings, and some I saw were built of mud, +dried in the sun, wearing rather a poor than pretty appearance. At Toronto +we hired a team to take us on to Ancaster, fifty miles distant. We +traveled now through a new country; the roads were very bad, and the +inhabitants few. We, however, reached Ancaster, a small village, where we +remained one night and next morning pursued our journey to the settlement +of the poor fugitives from Cincinnati. After some hard traveling, we +finally arrived at the place where we found our brethren, it is true, but +in quite destitute circumstances. Our fare was poor indeed, but as good as +they could get. The township was one unbroken wilderness when purchased +for the colony, and of course their lands must be cleared of the heavy +timber before crops could be got in, hence, there was a great deal of +destitution and suffering before their harvest could ripen after the land +was prepared for the seed. + +The day after I arrived at the settlement, which consisted of a few rude +log cabins, a meeting was called to give the township a name. Several were +suggested, but I at length motioned to name it in honor of the great +philanthropist, Wilberforce. This was carried, and the township from that +time has been known by that name. It is situated on what is known as the +Huron Tract, Kent County, London District, and is the next north of the +township of London. Our neighbors on the south, were a company of Irish +people, who owned the township, and on the west side were a township of +Welshmen, a hardy, industrious and enterprising people. + +In Wilberforce there were no white inhabitants; the land appeared level +and handsome, with but one stream of any magnitude running through it; +this was the Oxsable, which was dry during a part of the year. All was one +vast forest of heavy timber, that would compare well with that of Western +New York. Beech, maple, ash, elm, oak, whitewood, bass, balm of gilead, +&c. The soil was good for corn, wheat, rye, oats, and most kinds of the +grain and vegetables raised in New York, and was a superior grazing +country, about fifteen miles from London. This was a village containing +perhaps thirty dwellings, and two hundred inhabitants; a court-house and +jail all under one roof, built of stone and plastered; small doors and +windows in the style of some of the old English castles. London was built +in the forks, or between the east and west branches of the river Thames; +hence, you would hear people speak of "going to the forks," instead of the +village; it is about two hundred miles from Buffalo, and the nearest port +between the two is Port Stanley, thirty miles from London. + +I returned from Canada, where I had seen an oppressed people struggling +with the hardships and privations of a new settlement; I had seen +wretchedness in some places, but by no means sufficient to justify +the report made by Mr. Lewis, and I determined I would remove there with +my family, and do all in my power to assist the colored people in Canada. + +I had witnessed a disposition on the part of some to prevent our brethren +from settling in Wilberforce, while the colonizationists made a grand +argument of it in favor of their wicked policy. All must see that it +became a necessity with those who fled to Canada to save themselves from +constant abuse or from Slavery, and in some instances their lives; and not +because they admitted the justice of one portion of American citizens +driving another from their native land; nor their right to colonize them +anywhere on the habitable globe. + +All these things taken into consideration, determined me to join them in +the enterprize of building up an asylum for the oppressed, where our +colored friends could obtain a home, and where, by their industry they +could obtain a competency for themselves, besides providing a safe retreat +for the weary fugitive from Slavery; guiding by its beacon light of +liberty, the destitute and oppressed everywhere, to home and plenty. + +I felt willing to make any sacrifice in my power to serve my Lord, by +administering to the necessities of my down-trodden countrymen. How far my +desire has been accomplished God only knows, but I do know that the purest +motives influenced me, and an honest purpose directed my steps in removing +to Wilberforce. Not so with all, however. Some there were, Judas-like, who +"cared not for the poor; but because he was a thief and had the bag, and +bore what was put therein," made great exertions for a time in favor of +the settlement. It too soon became apparent that to make money was the +prominent object with by far too great a number of the colonists; hence, +our future difficulties. + + + + +CHAPTER XX. + +REMOVAL TO CANADA. + +In 1830, I closed my business in Rochester, preparatory to leaving for +Canada. Some of my friends thought I had better remain in the States and +direct emigrants to Wilberforce; while others were certain I could benefit +them more by going myself at once,--the latter I had determined to do; but +as the time drew near for me to start, an unaccountable gloominess +and forebodings of evil took possession of my mind. Doubts of the +practicability of the undertaking began to arise, though nothing +unfavorable had occurred. To the throne of grace, I often bore the subject +and besought my Heavenly Father to enlighten my mind, and direct my steps +in duty's path regarding it; but to confess the truth, I never received +any great encouragement from that source, though it occupied my mind +constantly. During the hours of slumber I was continually being startled +by frightful dreams,--sometimes I thought I saw a monstrous serpent as +large as a log stretched across the road between Rochester and the +Genesee River; at another I thought myself in the air so high that I could +have a full view of the shores of Lake Ontario, and they were alive with +snakes; and then I saw a large bird like an eagle, rise up out of the +water and fly toward the south. + +Notwithstanding these omens, I turned my steps toward Wilberforce. In May, +1831, we bid adieu to our friends in Rochester, and taking passage to +Buffalo on a canal boat, we arrived in due time, and from whence we sailed +for Port Stanley, or as it is sometimes called, Kettle Creek. It took a +week to make this trip, which, with favorable wind might have been made in +two days. The mouth of the creek makes a safe harbor at that place, where +there is also a dock, one ware-house and several farm houses. The place +was then very wild and picturesque in its appearance; we did not stop +long, however, to admire its beauty, but engaged a farmer to take us on to +London. + +Ten miles on our way, and we came to a newly laid out village, called St. +Thomas, from whence we pursued our journey through a new country to +London, where we arrived tired and hungry, and put up for the night with a +Mr. Faden. There I purchased a span of horses for one hundred and fifty +dollars, and putting them before a new lumber wagon brought on from +Rochester, we started for our wild and new home in good spirits, at which +we arrived in good time. + +The colony was comprised of some fourteen or fifteen families, and +numbered some over fifty persons in all. The first business done after +my arrival, was to appoint a board of managers, to take the general +oversight of all the public business of the colony. The board consisted of +seven men, chosen by the settlers, and as I was now one of them, they gave +me the office of President. It was also resolved by the board, to send out +two agents for the purpose of soliciting aid for the erection of houses +for worship, and for the maintenance of schools in the colony. + +The Rev. N. Paul was chosen one of their agents, and he received from me a +power of attorney, authorising him to collect funds for the above purposes +in England, Ireland, and Scotland; the other, I. Lewis was empowered to +solicit and collect funds for the same objects in the United States. + +Preparations were immediately made to fit Mr. Paul out for his mission to +England, from whence he was to remit any funds he might receive to Arthur +Tappan, of New York City; first to pay for his outfit, and afterwards to +the treasurer of the board of managers, for the support of schools in +Wilberforce. Mr. Paul, however, still lacked money to proceed to England, +and therefore went to Rochester, where he found my old and tried friend +Everard Peck; who was ever known as the poor man's friend, and the support +of the weak everywhere. To this good man, whose memory is still dear to +thousands, Mr. Paul showed his power of attorney, at the same time +informing him of the condition and wants of the colony; and as was ever +his wont, when help was needed, his purse, (though not one of the +heaviest), was at his service. Through the kind influence of Mr. Peck, and +some of the colored friends in that city, a note for seven hundred dollars +was drawn up, signed by Mr. P. and cashed at the Bank, which enabled the +agent to make the voyage without further delay. He reached England, and +collected quite large sums of money, but entirely failed in the remittance +of any sums, either to Mr. Tappan or myself. When the note of seven +hundred dollars became due, Mr. Peck was obliged to pay, and lose it. It +was out of my power, nor had any of the friends the means to do any thing +towards paying it, inasmuch as they had assisted Paul all they could and +got nothing in return. There was one thing, however, that the reverend +gentleman did do,--he wrote me from time to time, to keep me advised of +the success of his mission, and once informed me that he had then twelve +hundred dollars on hand; but not a farthing could we get. We wrote him +again and again, reminding him of the bank debt, and the uneasiness of his +friends on account of it, but all to no purpose,--the Atlantic was between +us, and he was making money too easily, to like to be interrupted. He +never paid one dollar. + +Let us now look after the other agent, who had likewise been fitted +out, to prosecute his mission in the States. That he collected money +professedly for the assistance of the colony, is too well known to +require proof, but how much, we could not determine; we had reason to +believe, however, that he retained quite a large sum. He would neither pay +it over to the board, nor give any account of his proceedings. Very little +did he ever pay over to the aid of the colony as designed. He was +frequently written to, and every means in our power used, to induce him to +give some account of his mission, but in vain; he would do nothing of the +kind. Things went on in this way for two years, when it became evident +that he had no intention of satisfying the minds of the settlers; and +farther, that he meant to collect what he could, and use it as he pleased. +We learned too, that when abroad, he lived extravagantly,--putting up at +the most expensive hotels, giving parties, and doing many things, not only +beyond his means, but that brought dishonor on the cause and colony. When +he returned to the settlement, he would, if he had funds, make presents to +his particular friends instead of paying it to the treasurer, as he was +pledged to do, until the majority of the colony became thoroughly +disgusted with his heartlessness and dishonesty. It was also perceivable +that Lewis and Paul both, were getting weary of the solicitations of the +board and complaints of the settlers, and were anxious to be rid of them, +and enjoy their ill gotten gains in their own way. + +It was never intended by the managers, to send out agents to beg money to +be divided among the colonists; but to support schools, &c. Most of the +settlers were able to work and did so; and were now getting along quite +pleasantly. + +Finally, after we had tried every means in vain, to get a settlement with +Lewis, and to obtain his papers, there was nothing more we could do, but +to warn the public against him, by publishing the facts in the case; this +we did in various newspapers of Canada and in the States. An article +inserted in the "Rochester Observer," to that effect, was like throwing a +lighted match into a keg of powder. The excitement was intense on the part +of Lewis and his friends, who were joined by the friends of N. Paul, to +destroy, if they could, the board of managers. I, however, being the only +member of that devoted board, who happened to be extensively known in the +States, their anathemas were all poured out on me, and all their energies +brought forward to insure my destruction. They were few in number, it is +true, but they had money, and I had little to spend in litigation; +besides, Lewis was in debt, and his creditors did not like to see his +means of paying them swept away. The Canadians seemed to think there was +no harm done if Lewis did get money out of the "Yankees," as long as it +came into their hands at last, and so, on the whole, they raised a +tremendous storm, designed, however, to sweep nobody away but myself; and +I have continued to this day, notwithstanding all their artful malignity. +Nothing, I am persuaded, could have saved me from imprisonment at that +time, had I not possessed a high reputation for truth and honesty during +my previous sojourn in the colony. + +Lewis had dealt somewhat extensively with Mr. Jones, who was the principal +agent for the Canada Company; but failing to fulfil his agreement, +regarding the payment for a large tract of land, it so exasperated Mr. +Jones, that he declared he would have nothing to do with any of the +colored people; and so when I wanted to buy a lot of land, he would not +sell it to me because he so despised Lewis. + +How much harm can one wicked man do! and yet it cannot be right to judge +the character of a whole class or community by that of one person. + + + + +CHAPTER XXI. + +ROUGHING IT IN THE WILDS OF CANADA. + +The "Canada Company," of which I have so frequently spoken, was an +association of wealthy gentlemen, residing in England; something like the +East India Company, especially regarding the title of lands. They had sent +on their agent and purchased a large tract of land known as the "Huron +Tract," extending from London to Lake Huron, where they laid out a +village, named Goderich, sixty miles distant from Wilberforce. With this +company, Mr. Lewis had contracted for a township of land, as agent for the +Cincinnati refugees; but failing to meet the demand, the company kindly +extended the time of payment; but when that time also passed without +receiving any thing from Lewis, the general agent, Mr. Jones became so +indignant, that he utterly refused to sell a foot of land to any colored +person whatever. This proved to be one of the greatest detriments to the +prosperity of the colony it ever met. + +The Society of Friends at this time, however, with commendable sympathy +for the oppressed and abused colored residents of Cincinnati, and with +their proverbial liberality, raised a sum of money sufficient to purchase +eight hundred acres of land of the Canada Company for the benefit of the +colony. The funds were placed in the hands of one of their number, +Frederick Stover, who went to Canada as their agent, purchased the land, +and settled colored people upon it, which comprised nearly all of the +Wilberforce settlement. This occurred before I settled in Canada, and +the consequence was, when I desired to purchase land, none could be +obtained. At the time, however, of which I am speaking, the Canada Company +were constructing a road through their possessions, some seventy miles in +length, and the principal contractor, Mr. Ingersoll, had agreed to take +land in part payment for his services on the road. In accordance with this +agreement, he accepted one lot of land situated within the Wilberforce +settlement, which he agreed to sell to Mr. Lewis for twenty-five dollars. +Mr. Lewis, knowing that I was anxious to purchase, accepted the offer, +and then came and showed the contract, offering it to me on condition that +I paid him the twenty-five dollars which he had just paid Mr. Ingersoll. +This I was glad to do; I paid the demand; took an assignment on the back +of the receipt, and passed into immediate possession of the land. He at +the same time requested me to take up a note of twenty-five dollars for +him; which I did, on his promising to refund the money in a short time. + +I commenced laboring on the wild land I had purchased; cleared some ten +acres, which in consequence of its being so heavily timbered, cost me at +least twenty-five dollars per acre; built a house and barn--supposing +myself its legal possessor,--until I chanced to meet Mr. Ingersoll, who +informed me that Mr. Jones had refused to sell him the land to be disposed +of to a colored person; that he had duly informed Lewis of the fact, and +had returned to him the twenty-five dollars received. Not a word of this, +had Lewis communicated to me, though he knew I was making expensive +improvements, in the faith that I was its only owner. Instead of atoning +for the wrong already done me, he made it the basis of a deeper injury. + +After one year's residence in Wilberforce, I found it necessary to return +to Rochester to settle some unfinished business; and when on my way +thither I stopped at London, where I found Lewis, who had not only +preceded me but had taken out a _capias_, for forty pounds currency. I was +therefore obliged to get bail for my appearance at court, after which I +pursued my journey. + +On my arrival in Rochester, I found business at a stand; and the community +in a state of excitement and alarm, on account of that fell destroyer, the +cholera. This was its first visit to the United States, and the fearful +havoc it was making, spread terror and consternation throughout the land. +I returned to Canada; but found on my arrival at London, that "the +pestilence that walketh at noon-day," had preceded me, and taken from that +village my friend, Mr. Ingersoll, with several others. So great had been +the alarm, that instead of my appearing at court as I expected to do, I +found it adjourned, and the judge returned to his home. + +I hastened on to Wilberforce, which had fortunately escaped the fearful +scourge, with terrible apprehensions. + +Having a little spare time, I went out with my rifle, in search of deer; +but soon came upon a large wolf, which I wounded with the first shot; he, +however, sprang aside and was gone. On looking about for him I espied +another!--reloading my rifle, I fired, and he fell dead at my feet, while +my dog at the same time I heard barking furiously. Having dispatched this +second intruder, I saw that my dog had the first one, entangled in the +branches of a fallen tree. I searched for my balls, and was vexed to find +that I had left them at home. In this predicament I cut with my knife, a +knot from a beech limb, put it in my rifle, and took deadly aim at the +enraged wolf. The wooden ball struck him between the eyes and killed him +on the spot. + +The two dead animals, with their skins, I sold for nine dollars and a +half,--making pretty good wages for a few hours labor. + +Hunting was very generally pursued by the settlers, with great earnestness +and considerable skill. The forest abounded with deer, wolves, bears, and +other wild animals. Bears were plenty, and very troublesome because so +dangerously tame. One day, our children had built for themselves a +play-house, a few rods from the door, and were enjoying their play when +they were called in to dinner. A moment after, I observed one of the +settlers gazing intently at the play-house; I called to know what so +attracted his attention, and he informed me that an old bear, with three +cubs, had just then taken possession of the playhouse. And sure enough +there they were! knocking about among the dishes, and munching the crumbs +of bread which the children had left. The man was supplied with a loaded +rifle and urged to shoot them, but he begged to be excused from a pitched +battle with so many; and the bears leisurely took their departure for the +woods without molestation. The play-house, however, was soon deserted by +the children after these unbidden guests had made so free with it; and +we were ourselves somewhat alarmed for the safety of our children, who +were accustomed to roam in the edge of the forest, and make swings of the +luxuriant grape vines. + +But such incidents are common in a new country, surrounded as we were by a +dense wilderness. + + + + +CHAPTER XXII. + +NARROW ESCAPE OF A SMUGGLER. + +From the time I first settled in Wilberforce, my house had ever been open +to travelers and strangers; but a conversation I happened to overhear, +led me to take a course different from what I had at first intended. I was +at a public house about twenty miles from home, when I heard the landlord +advising his guest to eat heartily, for, said he, "you will find nothing +more worthy of your attention, until you reach Wilberforce. When you +arrive at that settlement, inquire for A. Steward, from the States, and he +will give you a meal fit for a prince." I began to reflect on the subject +and concluded, inasmuch as people would send company to me, it would be +better to make some preparation for entertaining them. I had plenty of +furniture, and all I needed was a larger supply of food, to commence +keeping a tavern. This was easily obtained, and I opened a public house +which was well patronized. + +One day while I was absent from home, a man drove to the door the finest +span of horses, I think I ever saw,--black as jet, with proudly arched +necks, and glossy tails that nearly swept the ground. The gentleman sprang +from his carriage, bounded through the open door, and in the most excited +manner, began to inquire "who owns this establishment? When will he +return? Can I be accommodated? Can I see your barn?" &c. The stable boy +took him to the barn, from whence he soon returned; his face flushed, and +breathing so heavily as to be heard all through the apartment; trembling +so violently that he could scarcely speak at all,--but made out to +inquire, "if there was not some place besides the barn where he could put +his horses?" He was told that there was a small shelter built for cows, in +bad weather, and the next moment he was examining it. In a very short time +he had his horses and carriage stowed away in the cow-shed. He acted like +a crazy man; but when he had secured his horses, he re-entered the house +and frankly apologized for his conduct. "I may as well tell you the +truth," said he; "I am suspected of smuggling goods; a reward is offered +for my arrest, and the constables are on my track, in pursuit of me. My +name is Cannouse, and I am from M----, in Ontario County." + +But perhaps they can not prove you guilty of smuggling, said I, in an +after conversation. + +"Ah," said he, "there is for me no such hope or probability; I have +been engaged for the last few months in the sale of dress-goods and +broad-cloths, and my exposure and flight is the consequence of my own +folly. While in the village of St. Catharines, I took a young girl out to +ride, after she had engaged to accompany another young fellow, which of +course offended him; and he being too well posted up on my affairs, went +directly to the custom house officer and informed against me. I was +sitting in the parlor, perfectly at ease, when a young man, a relative of +the young lady in question, burst into the room, shouting, 'Fly! fly! for +your life! The officers are upon you!' And I did fly; with barely time to +reach the woods, for as I sprang through the back door, the officers +entered through the front door. My horses were my first consideration; +they had been raised by my father, and should I lose them, I should never +dare to meet him again. In my hasty flight, I engaged the young man to +conceal them till night, and then to drive them to a certain place where I +would meet him. This he did, and I kept on my flight until I came to the +house of a friend, where I halted to make inquiries. The gentleman had +just come from London, and had seen handbills at every conspicuous place, +describing me and my horses. I asked him what I should do? He said, 'you +are not safe a moment; there is no hope but in flight; avoid the main +road, and get to the colony if you can; if you succeed, go to A. Steward; +he is an upright man and will never betray you for money,' And here I +am: if I am arrested, six months imprisonment, three hundred dollars fine, +and the forfeiture of my father's valuable and favorite horses, will be +my portion. I have had no regular meal for the last three days, and my +head aches violently." + +We gave him some refreshment, and conducted him to a room, assuring him +that he should have it to himself. All remained quiet until midnight, when +a man knocked cautiously at our door. I opened it myself, and a gentleman, +looking carefully about the place, inquired, + +"Are you full?" + +"No," said I. + +"Have you any travelers here to night?" + +"Yes." + +"How many?" + +"Two." + +"Where are they?" + +"In this room; walk in, sir." + +He took the light from my hand, and stepping lightly up to a bed, where +two travelers were quietly sleeping, he closely examined their faces. He +soon returned the light, and without further inquiry retired from the +house. When his companions came up, I distinctly heard him tell them that +the smuggler was not there. + +"You may be mistaken," said the other, "and we must search the barn for +his horses." + +This they did thoroughly, after procuring a lantern; but without finding +any thing to reward their diligent search; and they finally drove off. + +When they had gone, Cannouse groaned most bitterly, and trembled from head +to foot at the thought of his narrow escape. The next day an officer rode +up to where the children were playing, with a handbill which he read, and +inquired if they had seen a person bearing that description, pass _that +day?_ They answered negatively, and he rode on. The poor frightened +Cannouse stayed with us a week; and nearly every day during the time, the +house and barn were searched for him. The children kept watch, and when +they saw any one coming they would let him know, in time to take himself +and horses into a thicket near by. When he thought pursuit was over, he +started to leave; but when, in a half hour after, a _posse_ of men drove +up to my door, flourishing their handbills, I thought it all over with +Cannouse. I told them that he was not there; but they chose to have +another search, and when they found nothing, the officer sprang into his +carriage, exclaiming, "come on, boys; we'll soon have him now; we have +tracked him here, and he can't be far off." + +Cannouse had left us, feeling quite secure; but he had traveled but a +short distance, when he observed a horse shoe loose, and to get it +fastened he drove down to a blacksmith's shop, which happened to stand +at the foot of a hill; and between it and the highway there had been left +standing a clump of trees which nearly hid it from view. While there, +getting his horse shod, the officers passed him unobserved, and he +finally escaped. + +Some time after, a gentleman called on us who had seen Cannouse in +Michigan, where he was doing well. He had succeeded in reaching Detroit, +from whence he passed safely to his home; but probably learned a lesson +not to be forgotten. He was a talented young man--one who would have felt +deeply the disgrace of imprisonment,--and it was indeed a pleasure to me +to do what I could, to effect his release from an unenviable position. I +would never have betrayed him; but happily I was not asked directly for +him, until he was gone from my house and protection. + + + + +CHAPTER XXIII. + +NARRATIVE OF TWO FUGITIVES FROM VIRGINIA. + +The settlers in Wilberforce, were in general, industrious and thrifty +farmers: they cleared their land, sowed grain, planted orchards, raised +cattle, and in short, showed to the world that they were in no way +inferior to the white population, when given an equal chance with them. In +proof of this let me say, that it was uniformly the practice of persons +traveling from London to Goderich, to remain in our settlement over night, +in preference to going on to find entertainment among their own class of +people. And we believe that the whites are bound to admit, that the +experiment of the Wilberforce colony proves that the colored man can not +only take care of himself, but is capable of improvement; as industrious +and intelligent as themselves, when the yoke is taken from off their +necks, and a chance given them to exercise their abilities. True, many of +them had just escaped from cruel task-masters; ignorant of almost every +thing but the lash,--but the air of freedom so invigorated and put new +life into their weary bodies, that they soon became intelligent and +thrifty. + +Among the settlers might be gathered many a thrilling narrative, of +suffering and hair-breadth escapes from the slave-land,--one of which I +will tell as 'twas told to me. + +In a small rude cabin, belonging to one of the large plantations in +Virginia, sat at a late hour of the night, an afflicted slave-man and his +devoted wife, sad and weeping. At length the husband repeated what he +before had been saying: + +"I tell you, wife, we must flee from this place, without delay. Oh, I +cannot endure the idea of seeing you sold for the Southern market, to say +nothing of myself; and we shall most likely be separated, which I can't +bear! Oh, Rosa, the thought distracts me,--I can't bear it!" + +"Are you sure," said Rosa, "that master thinks of such a frightful doom +for us?" + +"Oh yes, I know it; I heard master to-day making a bargain with the slave +dealer that has been hanging about here so long; and when it was finished, +I heard him reading over the list, and our names, wife, are the first on +it." + +"Oh, dear!" sobbed the wife, "we shall certainly be retaken and whipped +to death; or else we shall starve in the wilderness! Oh, it is very hard +to be compelled to leave all our friends and the old plantation where we +were born!" + +"Yes; it is both hard and unjust," said Joe, and an indignant frown +contracted his brow,--"here is our birth-place, and here, for forty years +have I toiled early and late to enrich my master; and you, my poor wife, a +few years less; and now we are to be sold, separated, and all without a +choice of our own. We must go, Rosa. If we die, let us die together!" + +"It shall be as you say, Joe," she replied, "but it frightens me to think +of the hardships of the way, and the danger of being recaptured." + +"Courage, wife: no fate can be worse than the one designed for us; and we +have no time to lose. Tomorrow night, then, we must make the first effort +to gain our liberty, and leave all that is dear to us except each other!" +And they retired to rest, but not to sleep. + +The following night was very dark; and as soon as all was quiet on the +plantation, they stole out of their cabin and stealthily crept over the +ground until they reached the highway; and then, guided only by the north +star, they made their way to the nearest woods. So fearful had they been +of being suspected, that they took no provision of any kind with them. All +night they plunged forward through the tangled thicket and under-brush, +surrounded by thick darkness, glancing now and then upward to their only +light, + + "Star of the North! though night winds drift the fleecy + drapery of the sky, + + Between thy lamp and thee, I lift, yea, lift with hope + my sleepless eye." + +When day dawned they threw their weary bodies on the ground, famished +and thirsty, and waited for the darkness to again conceal them while they +pursued their journey. The second day of their flight, the pain of hunger +became almost beyond endurance. They found a few roots which relieved them +a little; but frequently they lost their way, and becoming bewildered, +knew not which way to go; they pushed on, however, determined to keep as +far from their pursuers as possible. Their shoes were soon worn out; but +bare-footed, bare-headed, and famishing with hunger, they pressed forward, +until the fourth day, when they found themselves too weak to proceed +farther. Hope, the anchor of the soul, had failed them! They were starving +in a dense forest! No track or path could they find, and even had they +seen a human being, they would have been more terrified than at the sight +of a wild beast! + +Poor Rosa, could go no farther--her strength was all gone--and as her +emaciated husband laid her on the cold earth, he exclaimed, "Oh, dear God! +_must_ we, after all our efforts, starve in this dark wilderness! Beside +his fainting wife, he finally stretched himself, sheltered only by a few +bushes, and tried to compose himself to die! but resting a few moments +revived him, and he aroused himself, to make one more effort for life! +Stay you here, wife, and I will try once more to find the highway; it +cannot be far from here; and if I am taken, I will submit to my fate +without a struggle; we can but die." So saying, he left her, and began to +reconnoitre the country around them. Much sooner than he expected +he emerged from the wood, and not far distant he saw a house in the +direction from whence he came; being, however, as most of the slaves are, +superstitious, he thought it would be a bad omen to turn backward, and so +continued to look about him. It seemed, he said, that some unseen power +held him, for though starving as he was, he could not take a step in that +direction; and at last as he turned around, to his great joy, he saw +another dwelling a little way off, and toward that he hastened his now +lightened footsteps. With a palpitating heart, he approached the door and +knocked cautiously. The man of the house opened it, and as soon as he saw +him, he said, "You are a fugitive slave, but be not alarmed, come in; no +harm shall befall you here; I shall not inquire from whence you came; it +is enough for me to know that you are a human being in distress; consider +me your friend, and let me know your wants." + +"Bread! Oh, for a morsel of bread!" said the famished creature, while his +hitherto wild and sunken eyes, began to distil grateful tears. The "good +Samaritan" stepped to another apartment and brought him a piece of bread, +which he expected to see him devour at once, but instead, he looked at +it wistfully, literally devouring it with his eyes; turned it over and +over, and at last stammered out, "my good master, without a piece of bread +for my poor starving wife, I can never swallow this, tempting as it is." + +"Poor man," said his benefactor, "can it be that you have a wife with you, +wretched as yourself?" He brought out a loaf of bread, some cheese and +meat, and while the fugitive was preparing to return, the kind gentleman +said, "I am glad you came to me; had you called at the house you first +saw, you would have been betrayed, and immediately arrested. You must +remember," he continued, "that you are young and valuable slaves, and that +your master will make every effort in his power to find you, especially +since he has made a sale of you. To-day and to-night, remain in the woods, +and the next morning you may come to me, if all is quiet; should I see +danger approaching you, I will warn you of it by the crack my rifle. Go +now, to your poor wife, and listen for the signal of danger; if you hear +none, come to me at the appointed time." He returned, and after feeding +his helpless Rosa, she revived, and soon felt quite comfortable and +grateful. + +When the morning came for them to leave their retreat, they listened +intently, but hearing nothing, Joe started for the residence of his +friend. He had been gone but a short time, when his wife, who lay in +the bushes, thought she heard the tramp of horses,--she crept nearer +the highway, and peeping through the bush--Oh, horror! what was her +consternation and sickening fear, to find herself gazing upon the +well-known features of her old master, and two of his neighbors, all armed +to the teeth! Her heart seemed to stand still, and the blood to chill in +her veins. Had she been discovered she would have been an easy prey, for +she declared that she could not move a step. In the meantime her husband +had got about half way to the residence of his preserver, when his quick +ear detected the sound made by the feet of horses, and as he stopped to +listen more intently, the sharp crack of a rifle sent him bounding back to +his concealment in the forest. + +The party of horsemen rode on to the dwelling of the kind hearted +gentleman, and inquired whether he had seen any fugitive slaves pass that +way. + +"I saw," said he, "a man and woman passing rapidly along the road, but do +not know whether they were fugitives, as I did not see their faces." The +human blood-hound, thanked the gentleman for the information, and +immediately set out in pursuit; but, just as the informant had intended, +in a direction _opposite_ to that the slaves had taken. That night, Joe +and Rosa visited the house of their benefactor, where they were supplied +with clothing and as much food as they could carry; and next day they went +on their way rejoicing. They settled in Cincinnati, where they lived +happily, until the mob drove them with others, to the Wilberforce +settlement, where they are in no danger of the auction block, or of a +Southern market; and are as much devoted to each other as ever. + + + + +CHAPTER XXIV. + +PLEASANT RE-UNION OF OLD AND TRIED FRIENDS. + +It is well known to those who have assisted in clearing land in a new +country, that bears, who are not Jews, are very troublesome, and levy a +heavy tax on the settlers, to supply themselves with pork-their favorite +food. One old bear in particular, had for a long time annoyed the +colonists, by robbing their hog-stys almost every night. We failed in all +our plans to destroy his life, until a woman saw him one day, walking at +ease through the settlement. A half dozen of us gave chase immediately, +and came up with him after traveling two miles. So anxious was I to kill +him, that I fired at first sight and missed him, which gave us another +two miles chase. When, however, we came up, he was seated on a branch of a +tree, leisurely surveying us and the dogs, with great complacency. The +contents of my rifle brought him to the ground, and stirred his blood for +battle. One blow from his powerful paw, sent my fine greyhound some yards +distant, sprawling upon the ground, and when he renewed the attack, Bruin +met him with extended jaws, taking and munching his head in his mouth. My +rifle was now reloaded, and the second shot killed him on the spot. We +tied his legs together, and lifting him on a pole, marched in triumph into +the settlement, where guns were discharged and cheers given, in +approbation of our success. + +One winter's evening we had drawn closely around the blazing fire, for the +air was piercing cold without, and the snow four feet deep on a level. Now +and then, a traveler might be seen on snow-shoes; but though our cabin was +situated on the king's highway, we seldom saw company on such a night as +this. While the wind whistled, and the snow drifted about our dwelling, we +piled the wood higher in our ample fire-place, and seated ourselves again, +to resume the conversation, when I was startled by a loud and furious +knocking at the door. I opened it to what I supposed to be three Indians. +Their costume was that of the red man; but the voice of him who addressed +me was not that of an Indian. "Can you keep three poor devils here +to-night?" said he, and when I made farther inquiry, he repeated the same +question; "we can sleep," he continued, "on the soft side of a board; only +give us poor devils a shelter." + +I told him we were not accustomed to turn away any one on such a night; +that they were welcome to come in; and they were soon seated around our +large and cheerful fire. + +They had laid aside their snow-shoes and knapsacks, and the heat of the +fire soon made their blankets uncomfortable; but as one of them made a +move to throw it off, another was heard to whisper, "wait a little; we are +among strangers, you know; so do not make a display of yourself." The +fellow drew his blanket about him; but we had heard and seen enough to +awaken curiosity, if not suspicion. In passing out of the room soon after, +I heard one of these pretended Indians say to his companion, "I know these +folks are from the States, for I smell coffee." When they finally sat down +to table, and saw silver upon it, they cast surprised and knowing glances +at each other, all of which we closely observed, and were convinced, that +they were not red men of the forest, but belonged to that race who had so +long looked haughtily down upon the colored people; that the least +exhibition of comfort, or show of refinement astonished them beyond +measure. + +In the meantime, my wife had whispered to me that she was sure that the +principal speaker was no other than the aristocratic Mr. G----, of +Canandaigua. I could not believe it; I could not recognize in that +savage costume, one who had been bred in affluence, and "the star" of +genteel society. But my wife soon developed the affair to our mutual +satisfaction: G----, on taking from her a cup of coffee, remarked, "this +looks good; and I have had no good coffee since I left my mother's house." + +"Does your mother still reside in C----?" asked Mrs. Steward. + +"My mother! my mother! what do you know of my mother!" said he, looking +sharply at her; but observing that they were recognized, they began to +laugh, and we had a hearty congratulation all round; while G----, +starting-up from table, exclaimed, + +"Come, boys, off with this disguise; we are among friends now." + +Our Indian guests, now appeared in costume more like "Broadway dandies," +than savages. Dressed in the finest cloth, with gold chains and repeaters; +and all that constituted the toilet of a gentleman. After tea they +requested to dry some costly furs, which they took from their knapsacks +and hung around the fire. The following day they took their leave, with +many apologies and explanations, regarding their appearance and conduct. +They were in the wilderness, they said, trading for very valuable furs; +they had money, jewelry and rich goods, which they had taken that method +to conceal. + +During all this time, there had been another visitor in the house, who was +sitting in a corner, absorbed in writing. Our mock Indians had noticed him, +and not knowing who he was, expressed a determination "to quiz that deaf +old devil," after supper. We all seated ourselves around the fire, and +our Canandaigua friends, though no longer savages, had not forgotten the +silent man in the corner; they began to question him, and he aroused +himself for conversation; nor was it long before they forgot their design +to quiz him, and found themselves charmed listeners to the brilliant +conversation, of that world-renowned champion of humanity, Benjamin Lundy, +for he it was. + +On this particular evening, he gave us a sketch of his journey to Hayti; +to accompany there and settle some emancipated slaves; which I thought +very interesting, and as I have never seen it in print I will here relate +it, as near as I can, in his own words: + +In the State of Maryland, there lived a slaveholder the proprietor of some +sixty slaves, and being somewhat advanced in years, he determined to free +them, in accordance with the laws of that State, which required that they +be sent out of it. + +He had thought the matter over, but being undecided where to send them, he +sent for Mr. Lundy to assist him in his proposed plan; who was only too +glad to comply with a request calculated to carry out his own plans of +philanthropy and equal rights. + +When he had listened to the suggestions and expressed desires of the +planter, he offered his arguments in favor of the West India Islands; and +it was decided to send them to Hayti, as their future place of residence. + +Six weeks were allowed for preparations; then Mr. Lundy was to return and +take charge of them on the voyage, and see them settled in their new +homes. + +When the appointed time arrived, Mr. Lundy was there to accompany them on +board a vessel bound for Hayti; on which was furnished as comfortable +quarters, as the kindness of their conscientious master and his own +benevolent heart could suggest. When all was ready, the Christian master +came on board, to take leave of those faithful servants,--many of whom +had served him from their childhood, and all of whom he had bound to his +heart by kindness and Christian benevolence. It was a sad parting; not +because the slaves did not love liberty, but because they appreciated +their master's kind forbearance, and solicitude for their future welfare. +He had ever been a humane and indulgent master; one who lightened the +burthen of the poor slave, all in his power. A moment's reflection will +show, that it is invariably this conscientious kind of slaveholders, who +are induced to emancipate their slaves; and not the avaricious, cruel +tyrant, who neither fears God nor regards his fellow man. + +The master of the slaves had kindly informed them of his intentions,--of +the probable length of the voyage, and the unavoidable sickness they would +experience, &c.; but now, they were gazing up into his kind face for the +last time, as he knelt in prayer, commending that numerous flock--raised +on his own plantation--to the care and protection of Almighty God, +beseeching Him to protect them in the storm and dangers of the ocean; to +guide them through this life, and save them in the world to come; until +the sobs and cries of the poor slaves drowned his utterance. He at length +took his final leave of them, and of Mr. Lundy; and the ship sailed +immediately. They, however, met storms and adverse winds, which detained +them; and then the poor, ignorant slaves began to believe what they had +before suspected: that this was only some wicked plan of Mr. Lundy's, laid +to entice them away from a kind master, and to plunge them into some +dreadful degradation and suffering. "Master" had not told them of the +adverse winds, and they were certain that some mischief was intended; they +grew sullen and disobedient; and notwithstanding the kindness of Mr. +Lundy, they murmured and complained, until his kind heart sank within +him; still he pursued the even tenor of his way, trusting in God for +deliverance. He watched over them in sickness, and administered to all +their wants; but his tender solicitude for their health and comfort, only +excited suspicion, and increased their ungrateful ill humor. + +One pleasant evening, Mr. Lundy paced the deck in deep thought. He was +sad, and well nigh hopeless. He had seen enough in the fierce look and +sullen scowl; and had heard enough of the bitterness, and threatening +anger of the negroes, to know that a storm was gathering, which must soon +burst in all its wild fury over his devoted head. He was a small, feeble +man, compared with those who watched his every movement, and gnashed their +teeth upon him so fiercely. None but the Almighty could save him now; and +to Him who "rides upon the wings of the wind, and maketh the clouds His +chariot," he drew near in fervent prayer; after which he retired in peace +and confidence to his berth. During the night, a fine breeze sprang up; +and when he went on deck the next morning, they were in sight of the +luxuriant shore of Hayti! The officers of the island boarded the ship; but +their language was unintelligible to the negroes, who still looked daggers +at every one who spoke. They landed; but the fearful, and ungrateful +slaves continued sullen and forbidding. Mr. Lundy left them, however, and +went into the country, where he selected their future residence; and made +every preparation for their comfort and convenience in his power; saw them +conveyed to their neat, pleasant homes, and all happily settled. This work +was accomplished; and he merely called to bid adieu to his ungrateful +charge, when he found that one of the slaves had been appointed to speak +to him, in behalf of the whole number, and confess how deeply they had +wronged him. While they were conversing, the others gathered around, with +tears and prayers for forgiveness; and finally fell at his feet, imploring +pardon for themselves, and blessings on the kind, patient and humane +Benjamin Lundy. He hurried from the affecting scene, and soon after +returned to America. + +Thus that cold evening passed more pleasantly away in our rude cabin; and +our Canandaigua gentlemen, after an agreeable acquaintance, and pleasant +chat with Mr. Lundy, retired for the night--not like savages, but like +gentlemen as they were; and I doubt not, with a more exalted opinion of +"the deaf old devil in the corner" + + + + +CHAPTER XXV. + +PRIVATE LOSSES AND PRIVATE DIFFICULTIES. + +Soon after settling in Wilberforce, I found that the rumor I had heard in +the States, concerning the refusal to sell land to colored persons, was +literally correct, and my farm being too small to yield a support for my +family, and knowing it would be useless to apply for more land, I engaged +to carry packages for different merchants in the adjoining villages, as +well as to and from the settlement. Possessing a pair of excellent horses +and a good wagon, I found it a profitable business, and the only one I +could well do, to eke out the proceeds of my farm, and meet my expenses. + +One day as I was returning from the village, one of my horses was taken +suddenly ill. I took him to a tavern near by, and as I could discover no +cause for his illness, I concluded to leave him a few days, supposing rest +would soon restore him. I accordingly hired another horse, and returned to +the colony. In a day or two after, I collected my packages as usual, and +started on my route, designing to leave the hired horse and take my own; +but when I arrived at the tavern, I found some Indians engaged in taking +off the hide and shoes of my poor, dead horse. This was indeed, a great +loss to me; but I consoled myself with the thought that I had one good +horse left, yet he would hardly be sufficient to accomplish alone, the +labor I had engaged to perform; nor had I the means to spare, to purchase +another. I therefore hired one, and commenced business again, with the +determination to make up my loss by renewed diligence and perseverance. + +I started in good spirits; but had proceeded but a few miles, when my +remaining horse, which I had supposed perfectly sound, reeled and fell in +the harness! And before I could relieve him of it, my noble animal and +faithful servant, had breathed his last! Without a struggle or a movement +he lay lifeless on the cold earth. I was sad. I deplored the loss of my +good, and valuable team; but more the mystery and suspicion that hung over +the event. I returned home and sat down to devise some plan of procedure. +What could I do? Half the means of our support had been suddenly +and mysteriously snatched from us. What could I do next? While thus +ruminating, I arose to answer a summons at the door, and who should enter +but Mr. B. Paul, a brother to our foreign agent, who had so long absented +himself from our house, that I was indeed surprised to see him at this +time. He, however, seated himself, with great apparent concern for my +recent loss, which he soon made the subject of conversation and the +object of his visit. + +"There has been," said he, "a great deal of unpleasant feeling, and +injudicious speaking on both sides, for which I am heartily sorry. The +colony is too weak to sustain a division of feelings; and now, that your +recent losses have left you in a far less favorable condition to sustain +yourself and family, I have called to make a settlement of our former +difficulties, and to offer you two hundred and fifty dollars out of the +collections for the colony." + +I saw through the plan at once, and considered it only a bribe, to prevent +my exposing the iniquity of others. Should I consent to take a part of the +ill-gotten spoils, with what confidence could I attempt to stay the hand +of the spoiler. I wanted money very much, it is true; but after a moment's +reflection, not enough to sanction the manner in which it had been +obtained; and though I confess, the offer presented to me a strong +temptation, I am thankful that I was enabled to resist it. I refused to +accept the money; and after sending away the tempter and his offered gain, +I felt my heart lighter, and my conscience more peaceful than is often the +lot of sinful, erring man in this world of trial and conflict; and yet I +could but feel that the mystery in which the death of my horses was +involved, was partially at least, explained. + + + + +CHAPTER XXVI. + +INCIDENTS AND PECULIARITIES OF THE INDIANS. + +During our residence in Canada, we were often visited by the Indians, +which gave us an opportunity to learn their character, habits and +disposition; and some incidents illustrative of the peculiarities of that +abused people, I will here mention. + +I recollect one bitter cold night, about eleven o'clock, I happened to +awake, and looking out toward the fire, I was surprised to see standing +there, erect and quiet, a tall, brawny Indian, wrapped in his blanket; +his long hunting knife and tomahawk dangling from his belt; and his rifle +in his hand. Had he been in his own wigwam, he could not have looked +about him with more satisfaction and independence. I instantly sprang to +my feet, and demanded his errand. + +"Me lost in the woods, and me come to stay all night," was his grave +reply. + +"Then," said I, "give me your weapons, and I will make no objection." + +He disarmed himself, and gave his weapons to me, with an air of haughty +disdain for my fears. I put them in a place of safety and then prepared +his bed, which was nothing more than the floor, where they choose to +sleep, with their head to the fire. My offer of anything different from +this he proudly resented as an insult to his powers of endurance, and +would say, "beds for pale faces and women; hard board for Indians." He +threw himself down, drew his blanket about him, and was soon sleeping +soundly. As soon as the day began to dawn, he was up, called for his arms, +and after thanking me in the brief Indian style of politeness, departed +for the forest. He had found our doors all fastened, save a low back door, +through which he entered, passing through a back room so full of +miscellaneous articles, that it was difficult to go through it in the day +time without upsetting something; but the Indian understood all this, he +made no noise, nor would he have spoken at all, had I not awakened; and +yet, he would have scorned to injure any one beneath the roof that gave +him shelter, unless he had been intoxicated. + +One sabbath afternoon, one of my children was sitting in the door, when a +tall, emaciated Indian came up and said, "Will my little lady please to +give me a drink of water?" While she went for it, I invited him to a seat +within. There was something dignified and commanding in his appearance, +and something in his voice and countenance, that won my confidence and +respect at once. He remained in the place some time, and I learned his +history. + +In his younger days he had been a great warrior; and even now, when +recounting, as he often did, the scenes of the battle field, his eye would +burn with savage fire, lighting up his whole countenance with the fiercest +kind of bravery, and often with a hideous yell that would startle our very +souls, he would burst from the room and bound over the fields and forest, +with the fleetness of a deer--making the woods ring with his frightful +war-cry, until the blood seemed ready to curdle in our veins. He had also +been one of the famous Tecumseh's braves; and had stood by him when he +fell on the fifth of October, 1813. This old brave, whenever he called the +name of Tecumseh, bowed his head reverently; and would often try to tell +us how very deeply they mourned when it could no longer be doubted that +the brave heart of Tecumseh, brother of the celebrated Wabash prophet, +had ceased to beat. + +"Had an arrow pierced the sun and brought it to my feet," said the old +warrior, "I could not have been more astounded than at the fall of +Tecumseh." Then he told us that once, after a great and victorious battle, +Tecumseh, in his war paint and feathers, stood in the midst of his braves, +when a little pale faced girl made her way weeping to him and said, "My +mother is very ill, and your men are abusing her, and refuse to go away." +"Never," said the Indian, "did I see a frown so terrible on the face of +Tecumseh, as at that moment; when he with one hand clutched his tomahawk, +and with the other led the little girl to the scene of riot. He approached +the unruly savages with uplifted tomahawk, its edge glittering like +silver, and with one shout of 'begone!' they scattered as though a +thunderbolt had fallen in their midst." + +But the old warrior at Wilberforce fought no more battles, except in +imagination those of the past. After peace was declared he bought a +valuable piece of land, with the intention of spending the remainder of +his life more quietly; but unfortunately there lived not far from him a +man who had once been the possessor of that farm, and had lost it in some +way, and was now in reduced circumstances. + +He was both envious and vicious; and because he could not himself buy the +land, he was determined that the old Indian should not have it. After +having tried many ways to get it from him, he finally complained of him, +for fighting for the British and against the country where he now resided. +This was successful; he was arrested and thrown into prison, and without +a trial, removed from one prison to another, until he, with several +others, was sent South to be tried as traitors. While on the way, the +keeper of this Indian wished to call on his mother, who lived in a +little cottage by the roadside, to bid her farewell. She was an aged +woman, and when her son left her to join his companions, she followed him +to the door weeping, wringing her hands in great distress, and imploring +the widow's God to protect her only son. She had had four; all of whom +went forth, with an American mother's blessing, to fight in defence of +their country; and this one alone, returned alive from the field of +battle. Now as he took his final departure for the South, she clasped her +hands, raised her tearful eyes to heaven, and while large drops rolled +over her wrinkled cheeks, she cried, "Oh, God, protect my only one, and +return him to me in safety, ere I die." This scene, the imprisoned, and as +some supposed, heartless Indian, watched with interest; no part of it +escaped his attention; but they passed on, and safely reached Detroit. +The prisoners were conducted to a hotel and secured for the night; our +Indian hero being consigned to an attic, which they supposed a safe place +for him. There happened to be on that night, a company of showmen +stopping at that hotel, and exhibiting wax-work; among the rest, was a +figure of General Brock, who fell at Queenston Heights, and a costly cloak +of fur, worn by the General previous to his death. Nothing of this escaped +the eagle-eye and quick ear of the Indian. When all was quiet in the +hotel, he commenced operations, for he had made up his mind to leave, +which with the red man is paramount to an accomplishment of his design. He +found no great difficulty in removing the window of his lofty apartment, +out of which he clambered, and with the agility of a squirrel and the +caution of a cat, he sprang for the conductor and on it he slid to the +ground. He was now free to go where he pleased; but he had heard +something about the cloak of Gen. Brock; he knew too, that the friends of +the General had offered fifty guineas for it, and now he would just convey +it to them. + +With the sagacity of his race, he surveyed the hotel, and determined the +exact location of the show-room. Stealthily and noiselessly, he entered +it; found the cloak--took it and departed, chuckling at his good fortune. +As he was creeping out of the apartment with his booty, a thought struck +him, which not only arrested his footsteps, but nearly paralized his whole +being. Would not his keeper be made to answer, and perhaps to suffer for +his escape and theft? Of course he would. "Then in the darkness I saw +again," said the old brave, "that old pale-faced mother, weeping for the +loss of her only son," when he immediately returned the cloak to its +place, and with far more difficulty than in his descent, he succeeded in +reaching his attic prison, where he laid himself down, muttering to +himself, "not yet,--poor old pale-face got but one." + +They took him to Virginia, where, instead of a trial, they gave him about +the same liberty they do their slaves. He staid one winter; but when the +spring opened, the fire of the red man took possession of him, and when +sent to the forest to chop wood, he took a bee-line for his former +residence. But what was he to do for food? With a rifle, he could live +happily in the woods, but he had none; so after considering the matter, he +said to himself, "Me _must_ get a rifle," and instantly started for the +highway. The first cabin he saw, he entered in great apparent excitement, +and told the woman of the house, that he had seen a "big deer in the +woods, and wanted a rifle to shoot it. When you hear my gun," he said, +"then you come and get big deer." She gave him her husband's excellent +rifle and a few bullets; he looked at them, and said he must have more, +for "it was a big deer;" so she gave him the bullet-mould and a piece of +lead, with which he departed, after repeating his former injunction, to +come when she heard the rifle; but, said he, "she no hear it yet." + +He at length arrived at his own farm, from which he had been so cruelly +driven, and concealed himself behind a log in sight of his own house, to +watch the inmates. He soon learned that it was occupied by the man who had +persecuted him in order to obtain it, his wife and one child. All day +until midnight, he watched them from his hiding place, then assuming all +the savage ferocity of his nature, and giving himself the most frightful +appearance possible, he entered the house, and noiselessly passed to their +sleeping room, where he placed himself before them with a long knife in +his hand. Having assumed this frightful attitude, he commanded them in a +voice of thunder, to get up and give him some supper. They were awake now. +Oh, horror! what a sight for a guilty man, and a timid woman! "Me come to +kill you!" said the Indian, as he watched their blanched cheeks and +quivering lips. They tottered about on their trembling limbs to get +everything he asked for, imploring him for God's sake to take all, but +spare their lives. "Me will have scalps," he answered fiercely; but when +he had eaten all he desired, he adjusted his blanket, and putting on a +savage look, he remarked as if to himself, "Me go now get my men and kill +him, kill he wife, and kill he baby!" and left the house for his post of +observation. + +The frightened inmates lost no time, but hastily collecting some +provisions, fled to the frontier, and were never heard of afterwards. + +The Indian immediately took possession of his own and quite an addition +left by the former tenants. + +While the kind-hearted old Indian repeated to me the story of his wrongs, +it reminded me of the injustice practised on myself, and the colored race +generally. Does a colored man by hard labor and patient industry, acquire +a good location, a fine farm, and comfortable dwelling, he is almost sure +to be looked upon by the white man, as an usurper of _his_ rights and +territory; a robber of what he himself should possess, and too often does +wrong the colored man out of,--yet, I am happy to acknowledge many +honorable exceptions. + +I have often wondered, when looking at the remnant of that once powerful +race, whether the black man would become extinct and his race die out, as +have the red men of the forest; whether they would wither in the presence +of the enterprising Anglo-Saxon as have the natives of this country. But +now I have no such wondering inquiries to make; being persuaded that the +colored man has yet a prominent part to act in this highly-favored +Republic,--of what description the future must determine. + + + + +CHAPTER XXVII. + +OUR DIFFICULTIES WITH ISRAEL LEWIS. + +Being under the necessity of referring again to the difficulties existing +in the Wilberforce colony, I shall here introduce a circular, published in +New York city, which will give the reader an understanding of the real +cause of our embarrassments, and the character of our agent, Israel Lewis. + + +CIRCULAR + + +_New York, May 9th_, 1836. + +The committee of colored citizens of the city of New York, as servants of +the public, sincerely regret the necessity of bringing the within subject +before the public. Their duty to God, to society, and to themselves, only +actuates them in this matter. + +The fact that many individuals in different sections of the country, have +long suspected the integrity of Israel Lewis, but possessing no authentic +documentary evidence, they have been prevented from making an effort, +to counteract his too successful attempts and those of his agents, in the +collection of funds from the public, has induced us to transmit this +circular. + +THEODORE S. WRIGHT, +PETER OGDEN, +THOMAS DOWNING, +GEORGE POTTS, +CHARLES B. RAY, +DAVID RUGGLES, +JOHN STANS, +WILLIAM P. JOHNSON, +WILLIAM HAMILTON, +SAMUEL E. CORNISH. + + + * * * * * + +ISRAEL LEWIS. + +_Wilberforce, U.C., March 28th, 1836._ + + +The board of managers of the Wilberforce settlement, met and passed +unanimously the following resolutions--Present, Austin Steward, Philip +Harris, Peter Butler, William Bell, John Whitehead, Samuel Peters. + +_Resolved_, 1st. That we deeply regret the manner in which our friends in +the States have been imposed upon by Israel Lewis; and that we hereby +inform them, as a board of managers or otherwise, that we have received +less than one hundred dollars of all the money borrowed and collected in +the States. + +_Resolved_, 2d. That although we have not received one hundred dollars +from said Lewis, yet, when we shall have received the funds collected by +our agent, the Rev. Nathan Paul, in England, we will refund as far as our +abilities will allow and our friends may require, the money contributed +for our supposed benefit, by them in the States. + +_Resolved_, 3d. That we tender our sincere thanks to our beloved friends, +Arthur Tappan and others, who have taken such deep interest in the +welfare of our little colony. + +_Resolved_, 4th. That the foregoing resolutions be signed by the whole +board, and sent to the States to be published in the _New York Observer_ +and other papers. + +AUSTIN STEWARD, _President_, +PETER BUTLER, _Treasurer_, +JOHN HALMES, _Secretary_. + +PHILIP HARRIS, } +WILLIAM BELL, } +JOHN WHITEHEAD, } _Managers._ +SAMUEL PETERS, } + + * * * * * + +_New York, April 25th, 1836._ + +At a public meeting of the colored citizens of New York city, held in +Phoenix Hall, Thomas L. Jennings in the Chair, and Charles B. Ray, +Secretary, the following resolutions were passed unanimously: + +_Resolved_, That the thanks of this meeting be tendered to the Rev. +Samuel E. Cornish, for the able and satisfactory report of his mission +to Upper Canada, especially to the Wilberforce settlement. + +_Resolved_, That this meeting deem it their imperative duty, to announce +to the public, that in view of facts before them, Israel Lewis [1] has +abused their confidence, wasted their benevolence, and forfeited all claim +to their countenance and respect. + +_Resolved_, That a committee of ten, be appointed to give publicity to the +foregoing resolutions; also, to the communication from the managers of the +Wilberforce settlement, as they may deem necessary in the case. + +THOMAS L. JENNINGS, _Chairman_, +CHARLES B. RAY, _Secretary_. + +[Footnote 1: It necessarily follows that the public should withhold their +money from his subordinate agents.] + +It will now appear that I was not the only unfortunate individual who had +difficulty with Mr. Lewis. Mr. Arthur Tappan made known through the press, +about this time, that Israel Lewis was not a man to be fully relied upon +in his statements regarding the Wilberforce colony; and also, if money +was placed in his hands for the benefit of the sick and destitute among +the settlers, it would be doubtful whether it was faithfully applied +according to the wishes of the donors. + +For this plain statement of facts, Mr. Lewis commenced a suit against Mr. +Tappan, for defamation of character; laying the damages at the round sum +of ten thousand dollars. It appeared that Lewis valued his reputation +highly now that he had elevated himself sufficiently to commence a suit +against one of the best and most respectable gentlemen in New York city; +a whole souled abolitionist withal; one who had suffered his name to be +cast out as evil, on account of his devotion to the colored man's cause-- +both of the enslaved and free; one who has, moreover, seen his own +dwelling entered by an infuriated and pro-slavery mob; his expensive +furniture thrown into the street as fuel for the torch of the black man's +foe; and, amid the crackling flame which consumed it, to hear the vile +vociferations of his base persecutors, whose only accusation was his +defence of the colored man. This noble hearted, Christian philanthropist, +who took "joyfully the spoiling of his goods" for the cause of the +oppressed, was the chosen victim of Lewis' wrath and violent vituperation; +and that too, where he was well known as a most honorable, humane +gentleman; and all for naming facts which were quite generally known +already. + +Lewis returned to Wilberforce, flushed and swaggering with the idea of +making his fortune in this speculation of a law-suit against Mr. Tappan; +and to remove all obstacles, he sent a man to me, to say that if I would +publish nothing, and would abandon the interests of the colonists, he +would give me a handsome sum of money. I soon gave him to understand that +he had applied to the wrong person for anything of that kind; and he then +laid a plan to accomplish by fraud and perjury, what he had failed to do +by bribery. + +I have before mentioned the fact of my having taken up a note of +twenty-five dollars for Mr. Lewis, on condition that he would soon refund +the money. I did it as a favor, and kept the note in my possession, until +about a year afterward, when I sued him to recover my just due on the +note. We had then began to differ in our public business, which led to +other differences in our transaction of both public and private matters +relating to the colony. He of course gave bail for his appearance at +court, and it ran along for some time until he found he could not bribe me +to enter into his interests, and then for the first time, he declared that +I had stolen the note! And finally succeeded in getting me indicted before +the grand jury! + +In this I suppose Lewis and his confederates had two objects: first, to +get rid of me; secondly, that they might have a chance to account for my +continued hostility, by saying that it arose in consequence of a private +quarrel, and not for any true interest I had in their collecting money +deceptively. + +Lewis appeared so bent on my destruction, that he forgot it was in my +power to show how I came by the note. The Court of King's Bench met, but +in consequence of the cholera, was adjourned, and of course, the case +must lie over until another year. + +When the time for the trial drew near, I was, in the midst of my +preparations to attend it, counseled and advised by different persons to +flee from the country, which I had labored so hard and so conscientiously +to benefit, and received in return nothing but detraction and slander. But +conscious of my innocence, I declared I would not leave; I knew I had +committed no crime; I had violated no law of the land,--and I would do +nothing to imply guilt. He who hath formed the heart, knoweth its intent +and purpose, and to Him I felt willing to commit my cause. True, the court +might convict, imprison, and transport me away from my helpless family of +five small children; if so, I was determined they should punish an +innocent man. Nevertheless, it was a dark time; I was not only saddened +and perplexed, but my spirit was grieved, and I felt like one "wounded in +the house of his friends,"--ready to cry out, "had it been an enemy I +could have borne it," but to be arraigned, for the _first_ time in my +life, as a _criminal_, by one of the very people I had spent my substance +to benefit, was extremely trying. Guiltless as I knew myself to be, still, +I was aware that many incidents had transpired, which my enemies could +and would construe to my disadvantage; moreover, Lewis had money, which he +would freely distribute to gain his point right or wrong, and to get me +out of his way. + +In due time the trial came on, and I was to be tried for _theft_! Lewis +had reported all through the settlement that on a certain time I had +called at his house, and from a bundle of papers which his wife showed me, +I had purloined the note, which had caused me so much trouble. To prove +this it was necessary to get his wife to corroborate the statement. This +was not an easy matter. Mrs. Lewis, indignant and distressed by her +husband's unkindness, had left him and taken up her abode in the family of +a hospitable Englishman. After Lewis had been sent out as an agent for the +colony, finding himself possessed of sufficient funds to cut a swell, he +associated and was made a great deal of, by both ladies and gentlemen in +high stations of life; the consequence of which was, he looked now with +disdain upon his faithful, but illiterate wife, who like himself had been +born a slave, and bred on a Southern plantation; and who had with him +escaped from the cruel task-master, enduring with him the hardships and +dangers of the flying fugitive. + +Now her assistance was necessary to carry forward his plans, and he +endeavored in various ways to induce her to return, but in vain. When he +sent messengers to inform her how sorry he felt for his past abuse, she +said she feared it was only some wicked plot to entice her away from the +peaceable home she had found. Lewis saw that he must devise some other +method to obtain her evidence. He therefore called on the brother of the +Englishman in whose family Mrs. Lewis was, and in a threatening manner +told him that he understood his brother was harboring his wife, and that +he intended to make him pay dear for it. The brother, to save trouble, +said he would assist him to get his wife, and that night conducted Lewis +to her residence. No better proof can be given that Mrs. Lewis possessed +the true heart of a woman, than that the moment her husband made humble +concessions, and promised to love and protect her henceforth, she forgave +him all his past infidelity and neglect, and looked with hope to a +brighter future. In return Lewis presented her with a note, telling her to +take it to a certain person and present it, and he would give her twenty +dollars on it. This would, he doubtless thought, leave her in his power. + +As Mrs. Lewis could not read, the unsuspecting wife presented the paper +all in good faith. The gentleman looked at her sharply, suspiciously,--and +then asked her, if she was not aware that she was presenting him a paper +completely worthless! The poor woman was mortified and astonished; and +instead of returning to her husband, fled to Wilberforce, and called at +our house. Knowing how disastrous to me would be her false statement, and +ignorant of her state of mind, I asked her if she had come to assist Mr. +Lewis by swearing against me. I saw at once, that she had not yet been +informed of her husband's design. + +"Swear against you, Mr. Steward!" said she. "I know nothing to swear that +would injure you; I have always known you as an honest, upright man, and +you need not fear my turning against an innocent person, for the benefit +of one I know to be guilty. Nor would I have left my place, had I known +what I now do." So all help and fear was ended in that quarter. + +When at length the appointed morning arrived, I arose early, but with a +saddened heart. I looked upon my wife and helpless family, reflecting that +possibly this might be the last time we should all assemble around the +breakfast table in our hitherto quiet home, and I could scarcely refrain +from weeping. I, however, took my leave, and a lad with me, to bring back +a message of the result, if the court found sufficient cause to detain me +for trial. But when I found that I must be tried, I felt too unhappy to +make others so, and kept out of the lad's way. He returned without a +message; and I took my seat in the prisoner's box. I had just taken a +letter out of the post office, from Rochester, containing recommendations +and attestations from the first men in the city, of my good character, +which relieved my feelings somewhat: nevertheless, my heart was heavy, and +especially when, soon after I took my seat, a trap-door was opened and a +murderer was brought up and seated by my side! + +Chief Justice Robinson, made his appearance in great pomp--dressed in the +English court style-then the crier, in a shrill voice, announced the +opening of the court, and finished by exclaiming, "God save the King!" +His lordship then called the attention of the jury to the law of the land; +particularly to that portion relating to their present duty; and the grand +jury presented me to the court, for feloniously taking a certain +promissory note from the house of Israel Lewis. The King's Attorney had +but one witness, and that was Lewis. He was called to the stand, permitted +to relate his story, and retire without any cross-examination on the part +of my Attorney; but that gentleman called up three respectable white men, +all of whom swore that they would not believe Israel Lewis under oath! +Then submitted the case to the jury without remark or comment, and the +jury, without leaving their seats, brought in a verdict of "NOT GUILTY." +Thus ended my first and last trial for theft! Oh, how my very soul +revolted at the thought of being thus accused; but now that I stood +justified before God and my fellow-men, I felt relieved and grateful; nor +could I feel anything but pity for Lewis, who, like Hainan, had been so +industriously engaged in erecting "a gallows fifty cubits high" for me, +but found himself dangling upon it He raved like a madman, clutched the +arm of the Judge and demanded a new trial, but he shook him off with +contempt and indignation, as though he had been a viper. In his wild fury +and reckless determination to destroy my character, he had cast a foul +stain upon his own, never to be effaced. I had felt bound to preserve my +reputation when unjustly assailed, but it had been to me a painful +necessity to throw a fellow-being into the unenviable and disgraceful +attitude in which Lewis now stood; and yet, he would not, and did not +yield the point, notwithstanding his ignominious defeat. + +He very soon began to gather his forces for another attack upon me, and +followed the same direction for his accusation,--the land purchase. + +The reader will recollect without further repetition, that as I could +purchase no land of the Canada Company, because of their indignation +against Lewis, I was glad to accept of the contract he had made with Mr. +Ingersoll, for lot number four in the colony; that I paid the sum +demanded, and took his assignment on the back of the contract, and as we +then were on good terms, it never occurred to me that a witness was +necessary to attest to the transaction. But after his failure to prove me +a thief; his next effort was to convict me of forgery! It will be +remembered that Lewis after selling out to me, returned the contract to +Mr. Ingersoll, and that I had lost by the means, the land, and at least +five hundred dollars' worth of improvements. Then I brought a suit against +Lewis, to recover the money I had paid him for the contract; and then it +was that he asserted and attempted to prove, that I had forged the +assignment, and therefore, had no just claim on him for the amount paid. +But in this, as in the other case, he met a defeat and made an entire +failure. I recovered all that I claimed, which, was only my just due. One +would suppose that after so many unsuccessful attempts to ruin me, he +would have left me alone,--but not so with Lewis: he had the ambition of a +Bonaparte; and doubtless had he possessed the advantages of an education, +instead of having been born and bred a slave, he might, like an Alexander +or Napoleon, have astonished the world with his deeds of daring. I am, +however, no admirer of what the world call "great men,"--one humble, +self-sacrificing Christian, like Benjamin Lundy, has far greater claim on +my respect and reverence. + +Lewis, failing in his second attack, backed up as he had been in all his +wicked course, by a friend wearing the sacred garb of a minister of the +gospel, cooled off, and it became evident to all, that he was meditating +some different mode of warfare. To this concealed confederate, I must +attach great blame, on account of the influence his station and superior +learning gave him, not only over Mr. Lewis, but the colonists generally, +and which should have been exerted for the good of all, in truth and +honesty. + + + + +CHAPTER XXVIII. + +DESPERATION OF A FUGITIVE SLAVE. + +We had as yet received no funds from our foreign agent, N. Paul, and the +board of managers had resolved to send a man after him. An Englishman and +a white man named Nell, would gladly undertake the mission, leaving his +wife and five children among the settlers. Again was I under the necessity +of returning to New York, to obtain the funds required to send out Mr. +Nell after our agent in England. + +The night before I left home, I had a singular dream which I will briefly +relate. I dreamed of journeying on a boat to Albany, and of stopping at a +house to take tea. Several persons, I thought, were at the table, and as a +cup of tea was handed me, I saw a woman slyly drop something into it. I, +however, drank the tea, and dreamed that it made me very sick. + +I found it difficult to drive from my mind the unpleasant impression this +dream had made upon it, but finally succeeded in doing so, attributing it +to the many and malicious threatenings which had been made by Lewis and +his associates. They had boldly asserted, that "if I went to the States, I +would never return alive," and several other threats equally malignant. +I, however, started with Mr. Nell for Rochester, where we made an effort +to raise money to aid in defraying the expenses of the voyage, and +succeeded in collecting about a hundred dollars. From thence we passed on +to Albany, where we fell in company with a number of Mr. Paul's friends, +who appeared to be terribly indignant, and accused me of coming there to +expose their friends,--Paul and Lewis. We had some warm words and +unpleasant conversation, after which they left me very unceremoniously, +and appeared to be very angry. A short time after, one of them returned, +and in the most friendly manner invited me to his house to tea. I was glad +of an opportunity to show that I harbored no unpleasant feelings toward +them, and immediately accompanied him home. The moment that we were all +seated at the table, an unpleasant suspicion flashed through, my mind. +The table, the company--all seemed familiar to me, and connected with +some unpleasant occurrence which I could not then recall. But when the +lady of the house poured out a cup of tea, and another was about to pass +it, I heard her whisper, "I intended that for Mr. Steward," my dream for +the first time, flashed through my mind, with all the vivid distinctness +of a real incident. I endeavored to drive it from my thoughts, and did so. +Pshaw! I said to myself; I will not be suspicious nor whimsical, and I +swallowed the tea; then took my leave for the steamboat, on our way to +New York city. + +When we had passed a few miles out of Albany, the boat hove to, and there +came on board four men--one of the number a colored man. The white men +repaired to their state-rooms, leaving the colored man on deck, after the +boat had returned to the channel. He attracted my attention, by his +dejected appearance and apparent hopeless despair. He was, I judged, +about forty years of age; his clothing coarse and very ragged; and the +most friendless, sorrowful looking being I ever saw. He spake to no one, +but silently paced the deck; his breast heaving with inaudible sighs; his +brow contracted with a most terrible frown; his eyes dreamily fastened on +the floor, and he appeared to be considering on some hopeless undertaking, +I watched him attentively, as I walked to and fro on the same deck, and +could clearly discover that some fearful conflict was taking place in his +mind; but as I afterwards repassed him he looked up with a happy, patient +smile, that lighted up his whole countenance, which seemed to say plainly, +I see a way of escape, and have decided on my course of action. His whole +appearance was changed; his heart that before had beat so wildly was quiet +now as the broad bosom of the Hudson, and he gazed alter me with a look of +calm deliberation, indicative of a settled, but desperate purpose. I +walked hastily forward and turned around, when, Oh, my God! what a sight +was there! Holding still the dripping knife, with which he had cut his +throat! and while his life-blood oozed from the gaping wound and flowed +over his tattered garments to the deck, the same exultant smile beamed on +his ghastly features! + +[Illustration: "I walked hastily forward and turned around, when, Oh, my +God! what a sight was there! He still held the dripping knife, with which +he had cut his throat."] + +The history of the poor, dejected creature was now revealed: he had +escaped from his cruel task-master in Maryland; but in the midst of his +security and delightful enjoyment, he had been overtaken by the human +blood-hound, and returned to his avaricious and tyrannical master, now +conducting him back to a life of Slavery, to which he rightly thought +death was far preferable. + +The horrors of slave life, which he had so long endured, arose in all +their hideous deformity in his mind, hence the conflict of feeling which I +had observed,--and hence the change in his whole appearance, when he had +resolved to endure a momentary pain, and escape a life-long scene of +unrequited toil and degradation. + +There happened to be on the boat at the time, several companies of citizen +soldiers, who, shocked by the awful spectacle, expressed their decided +abhorrence of the institution of Slavery, declaring that it was not for +such peculiar villainy, that their fathers fought and bled on the battle +field. So determined were they in their indignation; so loudly demanded +they a cessation of such occurrences on board our boats, and the soil of +a free State, that the slaveholders became greatly alarmed, and with all +possible dispatch they hurriedly dragged the poor bleeding slave into a +closet, and securely locked the door; nor have I ever been able to learn +his final doom. Whether the kindly messenger of death released him from +the clutches of the man-stealer, or whether he recovered to serve his +brutal master, I have never been informed. + +After this exciting scene had passed, I began to realize that I was +feeling quite ill; an unusual load seemed to oppress my stomach, and by +the time we had reached New York city, I was exceedingly distressed. I +hastened to a boarding house, kept by a colored woman, who did everything +in her power to relieve me; but I grew worse until I thought in reality, I +must die. The lady supposed I was dying of cholera, sent to Brooklyn after +Mr. Nell; but having previously administered an emetic, I began to feel +better; and when I had finally emptied my stomach of its contents, _tea +and all_, by vomiting, I felt into a profound sleep, from which I awoke +greatly relieved. The kindness of that lady I shall not soon forget. She +had a house full of boarders, who would have fled instantly, had they +known that, as she supposed, I was suffering from cholera; and instead of +sending me to the hospital, as she might have done, she kept all quiet +until it was over, doing all she could for my relief and comfort; yet, it +was a scene of distress which I hope may never be repeated. + +On the following morning, I saw in the city papers, "A Card," inserted by +the owner of the poor slave on board the steamboat, informing the public +that he was returning South with a fugitive slave, who, when arrested, +evinced great willingness to return; who had confessed also, that he had +done very wrong in leaving his master, for which he was sorry,--but he +supposed that the abolitionists had been tampering with him. That was all! +Not a word about his attempt to take his life! Oh no, he merely wished to +allay the excitement, that the horrid deed had produced on the minds of +those present. + +I was indignant at the publication of such a deliberate falsehood, and +immediately wrote and published that I too was on board the same boat with +the fugitive; that I had witnessed an exhibition of his willingness to +return to Slavery, by seeing him cut his throat, and lay on the deck +wallowing in his blood; that the scene had so excited the sympathies of +the soldiers present, that his owner had been obliged to hurry him out of +their sight, &c. + +When this statement appeared in the newspapers, it so exasperated the +friends of the slaveholder, that I was advised to flee from the city, lest +I might be visited with personal violence; but I assured my advisers that +it was only the wicked who "flee when no man pursueth, but the righteous +are bold as a lion." I therefore commenced the business that brought me +to that city. Messrs. Bloss, Nell, and myself, made an effort, and raised +between three and four hundred dollars for the purpose of sending Mr. Nell +after Rev. N. Paul. + +Most of the funds collected, we gave to Mr. Nell, who sailed from New York, +and arrived safely in England, just as N. Paul was boarding a vessel to +return to New York. + +Had Mr. Nell acted honorably, or in accordance with his instructions, he +would have returned with the agent; but he remained in England, and for +aught I know is there yet. He was sent expressly after Mr. Paul, and when +he left that kingdom, Nell's mission was ended. He proved himself less +worthy of confidence than the agent, for he _did_ return when sent for, +and he did account for the money he had collected, though he retained it +all; but Mr. Nell accounted for nothing of the kind; and if he has ever +returned, I have not seen him. Mr. N. Paul arrived in New York in the +fall of 1834, and remained there through the winter, to the great +disappointment and vexation of the colonists. I wrote him concerning our +condition and wants, hoping it would induce him to visit us immediately; +but he had married while in England, an English lady, who had accompanied +aim to New York, where they were now living; nor did he appear to be in +any haste about giving an account of himself to the board of managers who +had employed him. + + + + +CHAPTER XXIX. + +A NARROW ESCAPE FROM MY ENEMIES. + +During my absence in New York city, Lewis and his confederates were +prophesying that I would never trouble them more, and shaking their heads +quite ominously at the happy riddance. One day, our hired man entered the +house and inquired of my wife, when I was expected home. She told him she +did not know, having received no intelligence from me. He assured her that +a letter had been received by some one in the colony; that he had seen it, +and had heard Mr. Lewis speak of conveying it to her,--but as it did not +come, she gave it up, supposing some mistake had been made. I had, +however, written, naming the time when she might expect me; but no letter +of mine reached her, during my long absence, for which she could not +account. A short time before that specified for my return, a woman, whose +husband was an associate of Mr. Lewis, came to my house, and urged my +wife "to leave word at the village of London, to have Mr. Steward detained +there, should he arrive toward evening, and by no means allow him to start +for the colony after dark." My family had so often been alarmed by such +warnings, and had so frequently been annoyed by the violent threatenings +of Lewis, that they ceased to regard them, and paid little attention, to +this one. + +I arrived at London on the day I had appointed for my return, but was +detained there until a late hour; feeling anxious, however, to get home +that night, supposing that I was expected,--I therefore hired a horse to +ride the remaining fifteen miles to the settlement. + +The road from London to Wilberforce led through a swamp, known as +"McConnell's Dismal Swamp," and it was indeed, one of the most dreary +places in all that section of country. I am certain that a hundred men +might conceal themselves within a rod of the highway, without being +discovered. + +The horse I had engaged, was a high spirited animal, and to that fact, I +doubtless owe my life. The moon shone brightly, and nothing broke the +stillness of the night, as I rode onward, but the clatter of my horse's +hoofs, and an occasional "bow-wow" of some faithful watch-dog. + +When I reached the swamp and entered its darkened recesses, the gloom and +stillness was indeed fearful; my horse started at every rustling leaf or +crackling brush, until I attempted to pass a dense thicket, when I was +started by the sharp crack of a rifle, and a bullet whizzed past me, close +to my ear! The frightened horse reared and plunged, and then springing as +if for life, he shot off like an arrow, amid the explosion of fire arms +discharged at me as I rode away. I lost my balance at first, and came near +falling, but recovering it I grasped the rein tightly, while my fiery +steed flew over the ground with lightning speed; nor did I succeed in +controlling him until he had run two miles, which brought me to my own +door. + +I found my family well, and very grateful that I had arrived safely after +so fearful an encounter. + +When morning came I sent a person out to inquire whether any of the +settlers were out the night previous, and the report was, "Israel Lewis +and two other men were out all night; that they had been seen near the +Dismal Swamp;" moreover, Lewis was seen to come in that morning with his +boots covered with swamp mud,--these the Rev. Mr. Paul's boys cleaned for +him, all of which was evidence that he it was, who had way-laid me with +criminal intent. + +I afterwards learned, that those three men left the settlement at dusk, +for the swamp; that they stationed themselves one rod apart, all on one +side of the road, each man with a loaded rifle,--the poorest marksman was +to fire first, and if he did not bring me down, probably the second +would; but Lewis being the best shot of the three, was to reserve his fire +until the last, which they supposed I could not escape. It was quite dark +in the thicket, and my spirited horse plunged in every direction so +furiously, that they could take no aim at me, until he had started to run, +when we were soon beyond their reach. + +We had already had so much difficulty in our little colony that we were +getting heartily sick of it. I was well aware that Lewis was thirsting for +revenge; that he wished to do me a great wrong; and yet I was thankful on +his account, as well as on my own, that he had been prevented from +imbruing his hands in the blood of a fellow being. + +Had he succeeded in taking my life, as he undoubtedly intended to do, he +would have been arrested immediately, and most likely punished as a +murderer. He had boldly threatened my life, and the colonists were +expecting something of the kind to take place. Had I not arrived at the +colony, it was known at London that I had started for the settlement that +night, and an immediate search would have been instituted; nor could the +wicked deed have brought the least peace to the mind of Lewis or his +companions, + + "No peace of mind does that man know, + Who bears a guilty breast; + His conscience drives him to and fro, + And never lets him rest." + + + + +CHAPTER XXX. + +DEATH OF B. PAUL, AND RETURN OF HIS BROTHER. + +The bold and wicked attempt to take my life, recorded in the preceding +chapter, aroused a feeling of indignation in the community against Lewis, +and completely destroyed the little influence he had left; moreover, he +had now been so extensively published as an impostor, that he could +collect no more money on the false pretense of raising it for the benefit +of the colony. As soon as his money was gone and his influence destroyed, +--many who had been his firmest friends, turned against him, and among +this class was the Rev. Benjamin Paul. He had ever professed the greatest +friendship for, and interest in the success of Mr. Lewis. Heretofore, +whenever he went to the States he was commissioned by that gentleman's +family, to purchase a long list of expensive articles, which the poor +colonists were seldom able to buy; and he generally returned to them +richly laden with goods, purchased with, money given to the poor, sick, +and destitute in the colony. + +Mr. B. Paul had ever been a very proud man, but not a very healthy one. He +was inclined to pulmonary diseases; but had kept up pretty well, until +Lewis was effectually put down, and his own character involved in many of +his notorious proceedings, together with the disappointment occasioned by +his brother remaining so long in England, when his health failed, and he +sank rapidly under accumulating disasters, to the grave. + +The Welshmen had partially engaged him to preach for them the ensuing +year, but something they had heard of him changed their minds, and they +were about appointing a meeting to investigate his conduct, when they were +informed of his illness, and concluded to let it pass. His son, with whom +he lived, became deranged, and his oldest daughter on whom he was greatly +dependent, had been dismissed from school, where she had been for some +time engaged in teaching. All these unpleasant circumstances in his sickly +state weighed heavily upon his proud heart; and he not only declined in +health, but sank into a state of melancholy and remorse for his past +course of living. As he lay pining and murmuring on his death bed, I +could but reflect how different the scene from that of an apostle of the +Lord Jesus Christ, who could exclaim, when about to be offered, "I have +fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith; +henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness." + +I called to see him as he lay writhing in agony, his sunken eyes gleaming +wildly, rolling and tossing from side to side, while great drops of +perspiration stood upon his forehead, continually lamenting his misspent +time, and the life he had led! He took my hand in his cold, bony fingers, +thanking me that I did not so despise him, that I could not come to see +him in his sorrow and affliction. Generally, however, when he raved and +talked of his wicked life, his family excluded all persons from his room +except his attendants. + +Pride, which had ever been his besetting sin, displayed itself in his +conduct to the last, for he had a lengthy will made, dispensing some +sixteen hundred dollars to different individuals, when he must have known +that his whole possessions would not amount to half that sum. As I looked +upon him I could but reflect on the mysterious ways of Providence. Before +me lay a man, who had for years arrayed himself against me, using all his +influence as a man and a minister to injure me, by setting Lewis forward +in his wickedness; his family living in extravagance and a style far +beyond their means, while mine had labored hard and were sometimes +destitute, often harassed and perplexed on every side by himself and +party. And for what? Because I would not join hands with iniquity, and +deeds of darkness. Notwithstanding the contrast, when I heard his bitter +lamentations and self-reproaches, I could lift my heart to God, in +gratitude for His protecting goodness, which had preserved me an _honest +man_. I had often erred no doubt, but it had never been designedly; and +never did I value a good conscience more than when standing by the +death-bed of Benjamin Paul, who now had passed the Jordan of death; and it +is enough to know that his future, whether of joy or woe, will be meted +out to him, by a merciful and just God,--nevertheless, his last moments on +earth were such as ought to arouse every professed Christian, to redoubled +diligence in watchfulness and prayer, lest they fall into temptation,-- +lest they determine to become rich, and thereby fall into diverse and +hurtful lusts, and pierce themselves through with many sorrows. + +Soon after the event above narrated, a law was passed in the Province, +allowing each township to elect three commissioners, whose duty it should +be, to transact the public business pertaining to the township. Each +township should also elect one township clerk, whose business it should +be, to hold and keep all moneys, books, and papers belonging to said town; +with power to administer oaths, and in fact, he, with the commissioners, +were to constitute a board, possessing all the power of a court, in +relation to township business. + +In our colony, located in the township of Bidulph, the colored people were +a large majority of the inhabitants, which gave us the power to elect +commissioners from our own settlement, and therefore, three black men +where duly chosen, who entered on the duties of their office, while your +humble servant, A. Steward, was elected township clerk, with all the +responsibility of the office resting upon him and the same power given him +as though he had been born in Her Britannic Majesty's dominion, with a +face as white as the driven snow. I felt the responsibility of my office, +but not more deeply than I did this assurance of entire confidence, and +respect shown me by my townsmen, after all the cruel persecutions I had +met; after all the accusations of theft, forgery, &c., that vicious person +could bring against me. + +The Rev. Nathaniel Paul, with his lady, arrived at Wilberforce in the +spring of 1835, to the great joy of the colonists, to find that his +brother had gone the way of all the earth, and his remains quietly resting +on his own premises, where his afflicted family still resided. + +In the colony there was a great deal of excitement regarding the course +our agent would pursue, and all waited with anxious expectancy to see him +enrich the treasury with his long-promised collections. + +We had agreed, on sending him forth as an agent for the colony, to give +him fifty dollars per month for his services, besides bearing his expenses. + +The reverend gentleman, charged, on his return to the colony, the sum +specified, for four years, three months and twenty days. We spent several +days in auditing his account, with increased fearful forebodings. We found +his receipts to be, in the United Kingdoms of Great Britain, one thousand +six hundred and eighty-three pounds, nineteen shillings; or, eight +thousand and fifteen dollars, eighty cents. His expenditures amounted to +one thousand four hundred and three pounds, nineteen shillings; or, seven +thousand and nineteen dollars, eighty cents. Then his wages for over four +years, at fifty dollars per month, left a balance against the board of +several hundred dollars, which we had no funds to cancel, inasmuch as the +reverend gentleman had paid us nothing of all he had collected in Europe, +nor even paid a farthing toward liquidating the debts incurred for his +outfit and expenses. + +There was also in Mr. Paul's charge against the board of managers, an item +of two hundred dollars, which he had paid to Wm. Loyd Garrison, while that +gentleman was also in England; but by whose authority he had paid or given +it, it was hard to determine. We gave him no orders to make donations of +any kind. To take the liberty to do so, and then to charge it to our poor +and suffering colony, seemed hard to bear; still we allowed the charge. +Had we, in our straitened and almost destitute circumstances, made a +donation of that, to us, large sum of money to Mr. Garrison or any body +else, certainly _we_ should, at least, have had the credit of it; and as +Mr. Garrison had made no acknowledgment of the receipt, I wrote him on +the subject, and his answer will be found, heading our correspondence, in +this volume. + +Not a dollar did the treasurer ever receive of the Rev. N. Paul, unless we +call the donations he had made without our permission, a payment. He did, +it is true, award to the board, the sum of two hundred dollars, paid by +him to Mr. Garrison, and fifty dollars more given by himself to Mr. Nell, +on his departure from England. Not a farthing could we get of him; and in +short, as far as the monied interest of the colony was concerned, his +mission proved an entire failure. How much good the reverend gentleman +may have done in spreading anti-slavery truth, during his stay in Europe, +is not for me to say. The English, at that time held slaves; and report +speaks well of his labors and endeavors to open the eyes of that nation +to the sin of slavery and the injustice of the colonization scheme. It +is said that he continually addressed crowded and deeply interested +audiences, and that many after hearing him, firmly resolved to exert +themselves, until every chain was broken and every bondman freed beneath +the waving banner of the British Lion. Perhaps his arduous labors assisted +in freeing the West India islands of the hateful curse of Slavery; if so, +we shall not so much, regret the losses and severe trials, it was ours to +bear at that time. + +The indignant and disappointed colonists, however, took no such view of +his mission; and knowing as they did, that he had paid not a cent of cash +into the treasury, nor liquidated one debt incurred on his account, they +became excited well nigh to fury,--so much so, that at one time we found +it nearly impossible to restrain them from having recourse to Lynch law. +They thought that the reverend gentleman must have large sums of money at +his command somewhere--judging from his appearance and mode of living, and +that a little wholesome punishment administered to his reverence, by grave +Judge Lynch, enthroned upon a "cotton bale," might possibly bring him to +terms, and induce him to disgorge some of his ill-gotten wealth, which he +so freely lavished upon himself, and was withholding from those to whose +wants it had been kindly contributed. + +Just, as was their dissatisfaction, I was satisfied by the examination of +his accounts, that he had spent nearly all of the money collected for us; +his expenses had been considerable; beside, he had fallen in love, during +his stay in England, with a white woman, and I suppose it must have +required both time and money to woo and win so fine and fair an English +lady, said also to possess quite a little sum of money, that is, several +thousand dollars, all of which our poor, little suffering colony must pay +for,--the reverend gentleman's statement to the contrary notwithstanding. + +We succeeded at last, after a tedious effort, in satisfying the minds of +the settlers to the extent, that a violent outbreak was no longer to be +feared or dreaded. When all was quiet in the colony, I ventured to make my +first call on the wife of N. Paul, who was then stopping with the widow of +the late Rev. B. Paul, residing some three miles from us. + +The houses of the colonists were generally built of logs, hewn on both +sides, the spaces chinked with mortar, and the roof constructed of boards. +The lower part was generally left in one large room, and when another +apartment was desired, it was made by drawing a curtain across it. When +we arrived at the residence of Mrs. Paul, we were immediately ushered into +the presence of Mrs. Nathaniel Paul, whom we found in an inner apartment, +made by drawn curtains, carpeted in an expensive style, where she was +seated like a queen in state,--with a veil floating from her head to the +floor; a gold chain encircling her neck, and attached to a gold watch in +her girdle; her fingers and person sparkling with costly jewelry. Her +manners were stiff and formal nor was she handsome, but a tolerably fair +looking woman, of about thirty years of age: and this was the wife of our +agent for the poor Wilberforce colony! + +N. Paul had now settled his business with the colonists, and being about +to leave for the States, we appealed to his honor as a man and a +Christian, to call at Rochester and pay the seven hundred dollar bank +debt, for which he was justly and legally holden, and relieve honorably, +those kind gentlemen who had raised the money for him. He well knew the +condition of our friend E. Peck, and that the names of some of our colored +friends were also attached to the note; all of whom were relying +implicitly on his or our honor to pay the obligation. That we had no funds +in the treasury he was well aware; also, that all were deeply concerned +about that debt. All this he knew; and in answer to our earnest and +repeated injunction, he promised most faithfully and solemnly that he +would call at Rochester, and take up the note. On those conditions he was +allowed to leave the colony, and when parting with me, no more to meet in +this life, his last assurance was, that he would cancel that obligation. +What then could we think of his word, when we learned soon after that he +passed Rochester, without calling, direct to Albany; nor did he ever +return, or make any explanation of his conduct; nor give any reason why +his promise was not redeemed and the money paid. + +He preached in Albany until his health failed, then he was obliged to live +the best way he could, and at last to depend on charity. + +His disease was dropsy, from which he suffered deeply, being unable to lie +down for some time previous to his death. I have been told that his +domestic life was far from a peaceable or happy one, and that in poverty, +sorrow and affliction, he lingered on a long time, till death at last +closed the scene. + + + + +CHAPTER XXXI. + +MY FAMILY RETURN TO ROCHESTER. + +I was now seriously meditating a return to Rochester. My purpose in going +to Canada, has already been made known to the reader, as well as some of +the disappointments I met, and some of the trials and difficulties I had +to encounter. + +Now, after laboring, and suffering persecution for about five years, my +way was comparatively clear; still I wished to leave the Province and +return to the States, in which prospect my family greatly rejoiced. +Doubtless most persons in the position I then occupied, would have chosen +to remain; but for several reasons, I did not. + +Notwithstanding I had been during my youth, a poor, friendless, and +illiterate slave, I had, through the mercy of God and the kindness of +friends, not only obtained my freedom, but I had by the industry and +perseverance of a few years, acquired a tolerable English education, +established a profitable business, built for myself a good and extensive +business reputation, and had laid the foundation for increasing wealth and +entire independence. + +Indeed, so far as a competency is concerned, I possessed that when I left +Rochester. My house and land was paid for; my store also, and the goods it +contained were free from debt; beside, I had several hundred dollars in +the bank for future use,--nor do I boast, when I say that the comfort and +happiness of myself and family, required no further exertion on my part to +better our worldly condition. We were living in one of the best countries +on the earth, surrounded by friends,--good and intelligent society, and +some of the noblest specimens of Christian philanthropy in the world. My +wife and children, had not only been accustomed to the comforts, if not +the luxuries of life, but also to associate with persons of refinement and +cultivation; and although they had willingly accompanied me to Canada, +where they had experienced little less than care, labor and sorrow, it +cannot be thought very strange that they should desire to return. We were +colored people to be sure, and were too often made to feel the weight of +that cruel prejudice, which small minds with a perverted education, know +so well how to heap upon the best endeavors of our oppressed race. Yet +truth and justice to my friends, compel me to say, that after a short +acquaintance, I have usually been treated with all that kindness and +confidence, which should exist between man and man. + +At my house of entertainment in Canada, it was not uncommon for gentlemen +of my former acquaintances, to stop for a friendly chat; merchants, +journeying through our settlement, after goods, would frequently call, +with their money, watches, and other valuables, carefully concealed about +their persons; but when they learned our name, and had become acquainted +a little, they would not only freely expose their wealth, but often place +all their money and valuables in my hands, for safe keeping; nor was their +confidence ever misplaced to my knowledge. + +Another thing: when I went to Wilberforce, I supposed that the colonists +would purchase the whole township of Bidulph, and pay for it, which might +have been done, had they been fortunate enough to put forward better men. +Then when we had a sufficient number of inhabitants, we could have sent a +member to Parliament, one of our own race, to represent the interests of +our colony. In all this we were disappointed. The Canada Company, in their +unjust judgment of a whole people, by one dishonest man, had stopped the +sale of lands to colored persons, which of course, put an end to the +emigration of respectable and intelligent colored men to that place; nor +was there any prospect of a favorable change. Moreover, the persecutions +which gave rise to the colony, had in a great measure ceased; anti-slavery +truth was taking effect on the minds of the people, and God was raising up +many a friend for the poor slave, to plead with eloquent speech and tears, +the cause of the dumb and down-trodden. + +These, with other considerations, influenced me in my decision to leave +Canada. As soon, however, as my intentions were made known, I was +importuned on all sides, by persons both in and out of the settlement, +to remain awhile longer, at least. This will be seen by a reference to the +appendix. + +After due deliberation, I concluded to send my family to the States, and +remain myself, until my year should terminate, for which I had been +elected township clerk. In accordance with this determination, I made +preparation to take my family to Port Stanley, forty miles distant. But +what a contrast was there between our leaving Rochester, five years +before, and our removing from the colony! Then, we had five two-horse +wagon loads of goods and furniture, and seven in family; now, our +possessions were only a few articles, in _a one-horse wagon_, with an +addition of two members to our household! The settlers collected about us, +to take an affectionate leave of my wife and children; but tears and sobs, +prevented an utterance of more than a "God bless you," and a few like +expressions. The scene was indeed an affecting one: all the weary days +of our labor; all the trials and difficulties we had passed; all the sweet +communion we had enjoyed in our religious and social meetings; all the +acts of neighborly kindness, seemed now to be indelibly impressed on every +memory, and we felt that a mutual regard and friendship had bound us +closer to each other, in the endearing bonds of Christian brotherhood-- +bonds not to be broken by the adverse scenes incident to frail human life. + +Arrived at Port Stanley, we were kindly entertained by a Mr. White, a +fugitive slave from Virginia, who owned a snug little farm on the bank of +Kettle Creek, and who appeared to be in a good and prosperous condition. +Being detained there, waiting for a boat, on which I was anxious to see +my family comfortably situated before I left them, I was aroused at an +early hour on the second morning of our stay, by a loud rapping at the +door; and hearing myself inquired for, I dressed myself immediately, and +followed Mr. White into the sitting room, where I saw two strange men, +armed with bludgeons! I soon learned, however, that one of them was the +under-sheriff, who had come to arrest me for a debt of about forty +dollars, and the other armed man had come to assist him, I assured them +I was ready to accompany them back to London, which I was obliged to do, a +prisoner, leaving my family among comparative strangers. The debt had +become due to a man who had worked for us in the building of a saw-mill. I +arranged the matter without going to jail, but before I could return to +Port Stanley, my family, kindly assisted by Mr. White, had departed for +Buffalo. The weather was cold and the lake very rough, but they safely +arrived in Rochester, after a journey of three days. During their passage +up the lake my oldest daughter took a severe cold, from which she never +recovered. + +I returned to the colony to attend to the duties of my office, and to +close my business with the colony, preparatory to joining my family, who +were now settled in Rochester, but in very different circumstances from +those in which they had left it. I had deposited quite a sum of money in +the Rochester Bank; but our continual expenditures at Wilberforce, in my +journeyings for the benefit of the colony, and in the transacting of +business pertaining to its interests, had left not one dollar for +the support of my family, or to give me another start in business. +Nevertheless, I felt willing to submit the case to Him who had known the +purity of my intentions, and who had hitherto "led me through scenes dark +and drear," believing he would not forsake me now, in this time of need. + +Consoling myself with these reflections, I renewed my endeavors to do my +best, leaving the event with my God. + + + + +CHAPTER XXXII. + +THE LAND AGENT AND THE SQUATTER. + +I have named, I believe, that all the colored people, who purchased lands +of Lewis, could get no deed nor any remuneration for their improvements. +This they thought hard and unfair. Some had built a house and barn, +cleared land, &c.; but when they wished to pay for their farms, they could +get no deed, and were obliged to lose all their labor. + +This raised such a general complaint against the land agents, that they +finally agreed to pay the squatters for their improvements, if they would +leave their farms. An opportunity was soon offered to test their sincerity +in this agreement. A shrewd fellow, who had been many years a sailor, +named William Smith, had made valuable improvements on land, for which he +could get no deed, and then he wished to leave it. His wife, also, died +about this time, leaving him with eight children, which determined him to +leave the colony, and after providing homes for his children, to return to +his former occupation on the high seas; but he also determined not to +leave without receiving the pay which the agents had agreed to give for +his improvements. + +"Oh yes," said they, in answer to his repeated solicitations, "you shall +be paid, certainly, certainly; you shall be paid every farthing." But when +the appointed day came for the pompous land agents to ride through the +settlement, you might see Smith station himself at first one and then +another conspicuous place on the road, hoping they would have the +magnanimity to stop and pay him, especially, as he had informed them of +his destitute and almost desperate condition, with eight young children to +maintain, and no means to do so, after giving up to them the farm. Before +them as usual rode their body servant, of whom Smith would inquire at what +hour the agents might be expected. And most blandly would he be informed +of some particular hour, when perhaps, within the next ten minutes, the +lordly agent would fly past him, on their foaming steeds, with the speed +of a "lightning train." This course they repeated again and again. One +day, when all of the land agents rode through the settlement in this +manner, Smith followed them on foot over fifty miles. He at last +intercepted them, and they promised with the coolest indifference, that on +a certain day, not far distant, they would certainly pay him all he +claimed, if he would meet them at a certain hotel in London. To this he +agreed; and the poor fellow returned to the colony almost exhausted. + +His funds were nearly all spent, and he wished to take his children to New +York; yet his only hope was in the integrity and honor of the land agents. + +On the day appointed, he was at London long before the hour to meet, had +arrived. He entered the village with a determined air, and saw the agents +just riding up to a hotel,--but not the one they had told him to call at. +He, however, waited for no invitation, but entered the hotel and inquired +of the servant for his master. He said his master was not there! + +"I know he is," said Smith, "and I want to see him." + +The servant withdrew, but soon returned to say that his master was engaged +and could not see him that day. Smith followed the servant into the hall, +calling out to him in the most boisterous manner, demanding to be told the +reason _why_ he could not see his master. The noise which Smith purposely +made, soon brought into the hall one of the agents, a Mr. Longworth, a +short, fat man,--weighing in the neighborhood of three hundred pounds! +When he saw Smith, he strutted about, assuring him that this disgraceful +uproar was quite uncalled for, and finally putting on a severe look, told +him that he could not have anything for his improvements; of course not,-- +he really could not expect; certainly not, &c. Smith plainly assured the +agent that his "blarney" would avail him nothing; he had come by their own +appointment to get his pay, and that he certainly should _have_--if not in +the way they themselves agreed upon, he would choose his own method of +getting it! Thus saying, he stepped back, threw down his woolly head, and +goat fashion, let drive into the fat Englishman's "bread basket!" He +sprawled about and soon recovered his standing, but continued to scream +and halloo with rage and mortification, more than with pain, until he had +brought to the spot landlord, boarders, and servants, to witness the +affray; but Smith, nothing daunted, administered two or three more +effectual butts with his hard head into the lordly agent, when the subdued +and now silent English gentleman, drew from his pocket book, and carefully +counted out, every dollar Smith had at first demanded. Smith accepted it +pleasantly, thanked him and withdrew, amid the shouts and jeers of the +spectators, which the agent was more willing to avoid than he. That was +the way the land agent paid the squatter. + +It seemed, however, a little too bad, to make a fine English gentleman, +feel as "flat" as Longworth appeared to feel; yet it was undoubtedly the +only method by which Smith could recover a farthing. The agents, it was +supposed, did not design to pay for any improvements; indeed, some very +hard and unjust incidents occurred in connection with, that matter, and +probably Smith was about the only one, who ever received the full value of +his claim. + +There was committed about this time, a most shocking murder, in the London +district. A farmer who had a respectable family, consisting of a wife and +several children, became so addicted to the use of spirituous liquors, +that he neglected both his family and farm so much, that his friends felt +called upon to request the distiller, who was his near neighbor, to +furnish him with no more intoxicating drink. This, so exasperated the +poor, ruined and besotted wretch, that he raved like a madman--such as he +undoubtedly was--crazed and infuriated, by the contents of the poisoned +cup of liquid damnation, held to his lips by a neighboring distiller; a +fellow-being, who for the consideration of a few shillings, could see his +neighbor made a brute and his family left in destitution and sorrow. +Perhaps, however, he did not anticipate a termination so fearful; yet that +is but a poor excuse for one who lives by the sale of rum. When a +rumseller gives that to a man, which he knows will "steal away his +brains," and make him a maniac, how can he anticipate his future conduct? +And who is responsible? Ah, who? + +When Severin found he could get no more intoxicating beverage, he in his +demoniacal rage, conceived the idea of despatching his whole family, and +set about his purpose by first snatching the young babe and casting it +into the fire! When the poor wife and mother came shrieking to the rescue +of her darling infant, he with one furious blow, laid her a bleeding +corpse at his feet! Two other young children he next murdered, and left +them mingling their blood with that of their mother's, while he ran +furiously after the two older ones, who were endeavoring to escape to a +neighbor's for assistance; and overtaking, killed them both! When the +miserable wretch had completed his hellish design, he started for his +nearest neighbor, named Smith, and told him that there was a black and a +white man at his house, murdering his family, requesting him to go to +their assistance. Mrs. Smith, believing that Severin designed to murder +her husband, insisted on his calling his young men to assist him, which he +did; and on arriving at the scene of slaughter, a most horrid spectacle +was before them: five dead bodies weltering in blood, aside from that of +the innocent babe, whose little form lay roasted and charred, on the fatal +and bloody hearthstone of the drunkard! Victims all, of an intoxicated +husband and father! When the guilty man saw the mangled remains of his +household, he only increased his depravity by trying to make others +responsible for the wicked deed,--exclaiming in feigned anguish, "my dear +wife! my poor children! I was afraid they would murder you! Oh, my lost +family!" &c. Community was soon alarmed; Severin, arrested, tried, +convicted, and sentenced to suffer the extreme penalty of the law. + +It is sufficient for us to say, that the evidence was clear and +conclusive, that he was the only murderer of his family; nor was it +doubted that Mrs. Smith's suspicion was correct; yet, with all the array +of positive testimony brought against him, he denied the commission of the +crime to the last moment of his life! When brought out for execution, he +was placed under the gallows, and the rope with its fatal noose adjusted +around his neck, when one of the attorneys arose, and with great +solemnity, addressed him, in the most impressive manner: "We have done," +said he, "all in our power to save your life; but you are justly +condemned, and in a few minutes more, will enter the presence of the +All-seeing eye of Jehovah; now let me beseech you, in the name of God, to +tell the truth, before you die." Severin declared himself innocent of the +crime, for which he was about to suffer; but was consoled, he said, with +the belief that he should, in a few short moments, meet in blissful +re-union his dear, murdered wife and children in heaven, to part no more! + +Prayers were read; and during the reading of the Lord's prayer, at the +words "Thy will be done," the hardened wretch was launched into eternity. + +No room was left to doubt the fact, that Severin with his own hand +destroyed the life of his unhappy and abused wife, and also that of his +helpless family. Yet in one sense, may we say with the murderer, it was +not he who committed the awful and inhuman deed, but boldly and truthfully +charge it to man's bitterest foe--Rum! What but the maddening effects of +spirituous liquors, could so demoralize, so demonize a man, as to convert +the once loving husband and proud father, into a reckless fiend, a +heartless savage? Oh, Rum! earth contains not another so fell a foe! + +Should any who may read these humble pages, find an effectual warning in +the unhappy end of Severin, one which shall induce them to pause in their +course, or at once and forever abandon the use of alcoholic drinks, I +shall gratefully feel that I have not written this incident in vain. + +Before I left Wilberforce, the Rev. S.E. Cornish, made a visit, and +preached the Word of Life to the colony, greatly to the satisfaction and +comfort of the settlers. After distributing liberally of his abundance, +to his poor brethren, he departed for the States, attended by the prayers +and blessings of the Wilberforce colonists. + + + + +CHAPTER XXXIII. + +CHARACTER AND DEATH OF I. LEWIS. + +I have spoken in the preceding chapter, of a visit from the Rev. S.E. +Cornish, to the colony. He had previously written me, concerning the +object of his proposed visit, which was to obtain the depositions of the +board of managers, relative to all the money received through their agents +for the colony. He was sent to Canada then, and once afterwards, for and +at the expense of A. Tappan, on business pertaining to the law-suit +instituted by I. Lewis against that gentleman, for defamation of +character. The depositions taken in the colony, with the expense of twice +sending an agent to Canada, must have made a round sum for that kind +gentleman to pay, merely for telling a truth already known! + +Mr. Cornish had also been informed of my intention to leave the colony, +and that my family were already gone. He, knowing something concerning the +state of things, urged me to remain at least, until his arrival, as will +be seen by a reference to his letter in the appendix. + +As I look back on those scenes of labor and trial, I find cause for +deep humiliation and gratitude to God, for His goodness and gracious +protection, over my frail life, through unseen dangers of various kinds, +and for his continued favors and unmerited blessings. Many of my fellow +men have fallen in death's cold embrace since that time, while my health +and life has been mercifully preserved. + +Three of the leading characters of the Wilberforce colony are now dead. +Rev. Benjamin Paul, lies in the silent grave-yard in Wilberforce, C.W. His +brother, Rev. Nathaniel Paul, also sleeps the dreamless sleep of death, +and his dust rests in the beautiful cemetery in Albany, N.Y. + +Israel Lewis has also finished his earthly career after robbing the poor +of their just dues, and persecuting those who endeavored to defend them; +after living in extravagance--"faring sumptuously every day,"--he became +reduced in circumstances; despised and dishonored, his proud spirit was at +last broken. His health gave way; when at length, unattended and alone, he +found his way to a hospital in Montreal, where he soon after died, leaving +not enough of all his gains to afford him a decent burial! + +Oh, what a reward "for all his labor under the sun!" His fame, his wealth, +and his law-suits, all have perished with his memory. Poor man! + +Israel Lewis was born a slave, raised on a Southern plantation, and +subjected to all the cruelties and deprivations of a bondman. His natural +abilities were above mediocrity, but having never had the advantages of an +education, or the privileges of a society calculated to cultivate and +refine his natural aspiring intellect, and to direct his indomitable will +in the acquirement of the more imperishable graces of the human heart, he +had come to manhood with a determined, selfish disposition, to accomplish +whatever gratified his vanity or administered to the wants of his animal +nature. + +And may we not, with propriety here inquire, whether our common Father, +who has declared himself to be "no respecter of persons," has endowed men +with enlarged capacities for the attainment of that knowledge and wisdom, +so requisite to the elevation of character,--for the express purpose +of seeing them made beasts of burden, and their superior faculties +prostituted by the sensuality imposed by Slavery, and to be sold as +chattels, with impunity? I tell you, nay. The day when Almighty God will +avenge the work of his own hands, hasteth greatly! Were it not so, we +might rejoice in the ignorance of the poor slaves, and pray that none of +them may ever be endowed with a superior intellect to that of the brutes +they are made to resemble. Then would the proud spirit no longer chafe, +and manhood writhe in the unbroken chain; but, like the ox to the yoke or +the horse to the harness, they might submit, without a conscious violation +of their dearest and God given rights. But we were speaking of Israel +Lewis. + +A natural energy and strength of character, he had inherited; a malicious, +selfish, and consequently a deceptive disposition, his life as a slave had +undoubtedly bestowed upon him. Intellect must have scope, and when nothing +is left within its grasp but vice, can we wonder that the slave possessing +the most talent, should generally prove the greatest villain. + +Uneducated as was Lewis, his quick perception, his ungoverned passions, +and his native independence, not only made him a dangerous slave, but an +unfaithful and overbearing companion. He, however, took a wife--a slave +like himself,--whose devotedness and good sense, cannot be made manifest, +more than in her willingness to leave all that was dear to her on earth, +and flee from their birth-place, she knew not whither; but confiding in +the professed love and protection of her husband, she cheerfully followed +him to the dense forest, in search of that freedom, denied them in their +native country,--submitting herself gladly to all the hardships and +fearful anxieties of a fugitive slave. What to her were horsemen, armed +with dirk and rifle! What though the trained and inhuman blood-hound bayed +upon their track! Was not he who had sworn a life-long allegiance to her +by her side! Should he be killed or retaken, what could she desire, but to +be his companion still! Slavery even, bitter as was the cup, might contain +for her _one sweet drop_, while connubial love lighted up their rude +cabin, and sweetened their daily toil; but the additional anticipation of +LIBERTY, to their domestic happiness--oh blessed hope! How it quickened +their weary footsteps, and, with fixed eyes upon the star of the North, +they pressed forward through every difficulty, until they finally reached +Cincinnati, O. There they lived quietly, and with others, suffered the +terrors of the mob, where also he was chosen agent, to seek a more safe +and quiet home for his afflicted and outcast countrymen. The office was +accepted, and Lewis became the founder of the Wilberforce colony. + +The personal appearance of Israel Lewis was prepossessing; his manner and +address easy and commanding. To those unacquainted with his private life, +his ungoverned passions, and his unprincipled, revengeful disposition, he +could appear the gentleman, the philanthropist, and the Christian. + +His education was limited; yet he had managed to gather a sufficient +knowledge of the sciences to enable him to read and write, together with +quite a fund of general information; and then his shrewdness and tact +accomplished all the rest. To strangers he could appear a ripe scholar, if +left unquestioned. He was a good speaker, and once spake with eloquence +and marked effect before the Legislature, assembled in the Senate Chamber, +at Albany, N.Y. + +Had the childhood of Mr. Lewis been passed under more favorable auspices; +had his intellectual faculties been so cultivated as to predominate over +his animal propensities, and his towering aspirations directed toward the +accomplishment of acts, lofty in their benevolence, noble in their +sacrifice, high in their honorable purpose, and great in their purity; I +can but believe that his powerful intellect would have achieved the fame +of a Lundy, or would have bequeathed to his brethren a memory like that of +a Clarkson. Instead, we have found him devoting his energies to the +gratification of his avarice, pride, and ambition--characteristics +directly opposed to the deportment of the humble Christian, and such as +our Heavenly Father has never promised to prosper. How truly has "the wise +man" said, "He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that +hateth gifts shall live." How strikingly has this passage been verified in +the course of Lewis! For a few paltry sums of gain, could he consent, not +alone to rob the poor, for whom it was kindly given as unto the Lord, but +to turn scornfully away from that poor, illiterate, and humble slave wife, +whom he had, in their mutual adversity, vowed to cherish in _prosperity_ +as well as in all other circumstances through life. That wife, who had +borne with him the sorrows of Slavery--the humble choice of a bondman! +She, who fled with him anticipating additional happiness in a life of +freedom! Poor woman! Disappointment is of an earthly growth, yet God is +merciful; notwithstanding we have the same authority as above, for saying +that "Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord: +though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished." + +In the hands of a righteous Judge we leave him, who, for the wealth that +perisheth,--who, for worldly honor and selfish gratification, could barter +his honesty and integrity, as "Esau, who sold his birth-right for a mess +of pottage." + +To me the lesson is an impressive one, and I am thinking it would be well +for us all to examine the foundation on which we stand. If based upon the +solid and broad foundation of christianity, doing to others in all things +as we would they should do to us, sacrificing on all occasions our own +ease, and worldly honor, for the benefit of our fellow-men, and the +good of our country, then indeed, we need fear no evil; if the winds +of adversity howl about our dwelling, we shall find it will stand, +being founded on a ROCK. But if we build upon "the sands" of fame or +self-aggrandizement, and, like the towering oak, lift our insignificant +heads in proud defiance of the coming storm, we may expect that our +superstruction will fall! "And great will be the fall of it!" + + + + +CHAPTER XXXIV. + +MY RETURN TO ROCHESTER. + +Having closed my business in Wilberforce, I prepared to leave on the +expiration of my term of office as township clerk, which was now near +at hand. Notwithstanding, I ever felt a sensation of relief and pleasure, +when I thought of returning to my old home and friends in the States, yet +as often as I look abroad over the settlement and remember all my glowing +hopes,--all my delightful anticipations of a prosperous future for those +poor, struggling colonists; when I recollected with what zeal and honest +purpose, with what sincerity and sacrifice I had prosecuted my labor among +them,--a dark shadow of disappointment would flit across my mind, however +welcome it might be. That I had firm and tried friends in the colony, I +had never the least reason to doubt, not to suppose their number less +after a five years residence with them; but our expectations had not been +realized. Our hope of settling a township, to be represented in Parliament +by one of our own people, was now forever blasted. I remembered too, that +many of the colonists had been unjustly incited against my course; but in +the retrospect my heart did not condemn me. Errors many, no doubt I had +committed; but I was grateful, when reviewing the whole ground, for a +conscience void of offence toward God and man; and I finally took my leave +of all, craving the choicest blessings of Heaven to rest upon that infant +colony and its interests. + +On the nineteenth day of January, 1837, I left Wilberforce, passing +through Brantford, Hamilton, Queenston, Lewiston, and from thence +to Rochester. During my journey, I could not avoid feeling sad and +despondent, as my mind incessantly returned to the review of my mission, +upon which I could look with no other decision than that of an entire +failure. I had spent my time, wasted my substance for naught, and was now +returning to my dependant family,--that, with myself, had been stripped of +nearly every means of comfort and support. + +What would my Rochester friends think of my conduct? Notwithstanding all +my despondency and evil foreboding at that time, I am now well satisfied +that my labor was not all in vain, but that some good did result from it. + +As I drew near the city, a gloom like thick darkness overshadowed me: I +thought of the unfavorable transactions which had occurred between the +directors of the colony and my friends in Rochester, and fell to +wondering how they would receive me. + +On the twenty-third of January, 1837, I finally re-entered the city +penniless; but as I soon found, not so friendless as my fears would have +it. Among, the first to welcome me back to my old home, was that friend +of "blessed memory," Everard Peck, who had been apprised of some of the +losses I had met and the trials I had passed through. This gentleman was +also one of the first to propose to be one of five men, who should loan me +one hundred dollars each, for five years. Through the disinterested +kindness of this worthy gentleman, I was in a few days after my arrival, +well established in a store of provisions and groceries. The five kind +gentlemen, to whom I was so deeply indebted for the loan, were: Everard +Peck, George A. Avery, Samuel D. Porter, Levi W. Sibley, and Griffith, +Brother & Co. + +This noble act of generosity and kindness, on the part of my friends, to +furnish me with the means to commence business, especially when their +prospect was anything but flattering, regarding my ever being able to +refund their well-timed and gracious liberality,--affected me more deeply +than all the censure and persecution I had elsewhere received. Their frown +and displeasure, I was better prepared to meet than this considerate act +of Christian sympathy, which I am not ashamed to say melted me to tears, +and I resolved to show my appreciation of their kindness by an industry +and diligence in business hitherto unsurpassed. + +E. Bardwell, then a merchant on Exchange Street, next laid me under a +lasting obligation by offering to sell me goods on credit; others +proffered assistance by promising their continual patronage, which was to +me the same as cash,--and soon the store I had opened on Main Street, was +doing an extensive business. My profits were small to be sure, and I had +a heavy rent to pay for my store and dwelling, yet I was making a +comfortable living for my family, and laying by something to reimburse the +kind friends who had helped me in the time of need, when I found that the +health of my family required more of my time and assistance than ever +before. My oldest daughter, who, I have before mentioned, having taken a +violent cold on Lake Erie, was now confined to her bed. All that could be +done to save the life of a darling child--our first born--was done; and if +we sometimes went beyond our means, it was a satisfaction to us to see her +enjoy some of the comforts of life of which my mission to Canada had +deprived her. One physician after another was employed to stay the +approach of the destroyer: some said they could cure her, if paid in +advance; to all of which I cheerfully acceded, but only to see our beloved +sink lower, and patiently pine away. + +No one but a parent who has watched the rapid decline of a darling child, +and marked with a bursting heart the approaching footsteps of the spoiler, +can imagine how powerless we felt at that time. The wealth of the Indias, +had we possessed it, would have been freely given, although it would have +been unavailing, to shield that loved and gentle form from pain, and we +were obliged to look hopelessly on, while our little patient, suffering +daughter sank lower and lower every day. In vain were our parental arms +outstretched for her protection; from death we could not save her. She had +long since ceased to glide about the house, and soothe with her silvery +tones all the childish fears of the little ones. Helpless she now lay, +burning with fever, and wasting from our sight, "till soft as the dew on +the twilight descending," the cold damps of death gathered on her youthful +brow. One pleasant morning after passing a restless night, I observed her +to gaze earnestly upward, and a moment after I called her name but +received no answer. + + "Her languishing head was at rest; + Its thinkings and achings were o'er; + Her quiet, immoveable breast, + Was heaved by affliction no more." + +On the fifteenth day of April, 1837, she sweetly fell asleep, aged eleven +years. Sorrowfully we followed her remains to Mount Hope, where we laid +her down to rest until the resurrection morning. Death had now made its +first inroad in our family circle, and since then we have laid two other +loved ones by her side. We sorrowed, but not without hope. + +My business continued to prosper, and I concluded to buy a small variety +store, containing some three or four hundred dollars worth of goods on the +corner of Main and North Streets, formerly owned by Mr. Snow, but, having +two stores on my hands, I did not make much by the trade. + +The first summer after I returned to Rochester, the friends of temperance +made a fine celebration, and gave me the privilege of providing the +dinner. + +I considered it not only a privilege, but an honor, and felt very grateful +to the committee who conferred the favor upon me. + +The celebration came off on the Fourth of July, and was indeed a splendid +affair. The multitude were addressed on the public square, by some of the +best speakers in the country. I laid in a large quantity of provisions of +every available kind, built a bower, hired waiters, and prepared seats for +five hundred to dine; but when the oration was over, and the multitude +came to the table, I found that as many more seats were wanted. We, +however, accommodated as many as we could, at one dollar each, and all +passed off well, to the great satisfaction of all concerned. + +When all was over, and the friends learned that I had on hand a large +amount of cooked provision, they continued their kindness by purchasing +it, thus preventing any loss on my part. + +My store on the corner of Main and North Streets, was at the head of the +market, and I was enabled to supply both of my stores with country produce +on the best possible terms. I kept two clerks at each store, and all +seemed prosperous for a time, when from some cause, which I could never +understand, my business began to fail. My family had ever lived prudently, +and I knew that was not the cause. I thought to better my circumstances by +taking a store in the Rochester House, but that proved to be a bad stand +for my business, and after one year, I removed to Buffalo Street, opposite +the Court House. I ought to say, that as soon as I found that my income +was getting less than my expenses, I went to the gentlemen who had loaned +me the five hundred dollars, and showed them the true state of my affairs, +and they kindly agreed to take fifty per cent., which I paid them. + +After locating on Buffalo Street, I took in a partner, named John Lee, a +young man, active and industrious, who paid into the firm three hundred +dollars, with which we bought goods. With what I had on hand, this raised +the joint stock to about a thousand dollars, on which we were making +frequent additions, and on which we had an insurance of six hundred +dollars. Our business was now more prosperous than at any previous time, +and we began to look up with hope and confidence in our final success. +One night I returned to my home as usual, leaving Lee in the store. About +twelve o'clock, Mr. Morris awoke me with a few loud raps, and the +announcement that my store was on fire and a part of my goods in the +street! I hastened to the place, where I found, as he had said, what was +saved from the fire piled up in the street and the fire extinguished. The +building was greatly damaged and the goods they rescued were nearly +ruined. Now we were thrown out of business, and the firm was dissolved. +With the assistance of W.S. Bishop, a lawyer, we made out the amount of +damage, which was readily paid by the agent for the insurance company. + +When the Fourth of July came round again, the temperance men resolved on +having another demonstration, and as before, I was requested to supply the +dinner, which I did, after the same manner as the year previous. + +Having been thrown out of business by the fire, I began to examine my +pecuniary matters, and found that I was some three or four hundred +dollars in debt, which I had no means of paying. True, I had met with a +great misfortune, but I felt that to be an honest man I must meet all +obligations, whether legally bound to do so or not; yet it was beyond my +power at that time, and I finally concluded to leave the city, and try to +better my condition by some other business, or at least to clear myself +from debt. + + + + +CHAPTER XXXV. + +BISHOP BROWN--DEATH OF MY DAUGHTER. + +I removed with my family to the village of Canandaigua, where I commenced +teaching a school for colored children, assisted by my daughter. The +school was sustained partly by the liberality of the citizens of the +village, and partly by donations from abroad. It was continued two years, +and the children made rapid progress while they were under our tuition. + +Soon after I left Rochester, I visited New York city, and while there, I +joined "The African Methodist Episcopal Conference." Bishop Brown, of +Philadelphia, presided over the deliberations of that body, and appeared +to be a man of deep piety, as well as apt in business, and was a native of +one of the Carolinas. I found a pleasing acquaintance also, with Bishop +Walters of Baltimore, Md. He was small in stature; but a powerful speaker, +and discharged every duty with "an eye single to the glory of God." He has +now gone to give an account of his stewardship, and I pray that "his +mantle may fall" upon one as capable of leading our people as he. The +conference consisted of some sixty or seventy ministers of the gospel, +with these two Bishops at their head. The conference continued its session +ten days. When it was closed, Bishop Brown, with several others, started +on a visit to the West. They called at Rochester, and then passed over to +Canada, where a conference was to be holden. We arrived, after a pleasant +journey, at Hamilton, where the English government have a regiment of +black soldiers stationed. It was common, in passing through the streets of +Hamilton, to meet every few rods, a colored man in uniform, with a sword +at his side, marching about in all the military pomp allowed only to white +men in this _free republic_. + +All being in readiness, Bishop Brown opened the conference under the +authority of Her Britannic Majesty, with great solemnity, which seemed +to be felt by the whole assembly. This meeting appeared to me far +more interesting than the one we had attended in New York city. The +colored people were much more numerous in Hamilton, and in far better +circumstances than in New York. It is a hard case to be poor in any large +city, but to be both poor and black, as was the condition of the majority +of our friends in New York, was indeed a terrible calamity. Every class, +no matter how worthless they might be, would be allowed to rent a house in +preference to a colored man. The consequence was, our people were crowded +back into the most unhealthy alleys, in old dilapidated tenements unfit +for human beings to dwell in, and such as could not be disposed of to any +other class of people. I am happy to say, however, that a favorable change +has taken place in New York, since the time of which I am speaking. +Capitalists have noted the good reputation of the colored people as +tenants, and have of late erected good dwellings for their accommodation. +In Hamilton there was none of that wretchedness and squalid poverty, nor +any of that drunken rowdyism so common in Eastern cities, perceivable +among the colored people. + +Our conference was largely attended by all classes, both black and white, +--many of the latter invited the Bishop with his associates to their +dwellings to dine, indeed we seldom took a meal at our lodgings, so +constantly were we solicited by friends to accompany them home. + +We also found many fugitive slaves in that city, many of whom were +intelligent mechanics. Some of them took us about the place, showing us +the different buildings they were engaged in erecting; quite a number +were employed in building a church which appeared to be done in a +workman-like manner. + +In the meantime our meeting was progressing in a very interesting +manner, and when the closing services were commenced, the house was filled +to overflowing; still many could not be accommodated. The preaching was +solemn and impressive, and it really seemed to me that the glory of God +filled the house in which we worshipped; saints rejoiced and shouted +"glory to God, in the highest," while sinners trembled and cried out, +"what must we do to be saved from the wrath to come." There were several +hopeful conversions during the session of conference; and after its close +we spent one day in making social calls, and viewing the city and its +surroundings. + +Burlington Bay makes an excellent harbor for shipping, while Burlington +Heights loom up on the north in all their wild and terrific grandeur. Near +the bay resides Mr. McNab, so notorious in the history of the Canadian +revolution. We went in a large company to look at his beautiful grounds +and residence, over which we were politely conducted by his amiable lady. + +It was indeed a lordly mansion, with its surroundings laid out in the +English style of princely magnificence. + +On our return to the city at evening, we were invited to attend a grand +soiree, got up in honor of the Bishop's first visit to that place. Several +families of colored people combined to provide the splendid entertainment, +while one lady presided at the board. She was very beautiful and very +dark; but a complete model of grace and elegance, conversing with perfect +ease and intelligence with all, both black and white ministers, who +surrounded the festive board, as well as our Irish friends, not a few of +whom were present. One honest son of the Emerald Isle entered, and not +understanding the matter, inquired of his brother "Pat," in rather a loud +whisper, "What's all them nagurs setting to that table for?" He, however, +soon satisfied himself, and all passed off quietly and in excellent order. +At a late hour the company, after a benediction, withdrew and dispersed. + +We left Hamilton the following morning, feeling grateful and pleased with +our meeting and visit. + +It was a beautiful morning; the lake was still, no sound was heard but the +rushing waves, as our boat moved on through its placid waters, toward our +destination, then called Fort George, now Niagara, where we took stage for +the Falls. + +At that place of resort, we stopped to view the stupendous work of +Almighty God, and listen to the ceaseless thundering of the cataract. How +tame appear the works of art, and how insignificant the bearing of proud, +puny man, compared with the awful grandeur of that natural curiosity. Yet +there, the rich from all parts of the world, do congregate! There you will +find the idle, swaggering slaveholder, blustering about in lordly style; +boasting of his wealth; betting and gambling; ready to fight, if his +slightest wish is not granted, and lavishing his cash on all who have the +least claim upon him. Ah, well can he afford to be liberal,--well can he +afford to spend thousands yearly at our Northern watering places; he has +plenty of human chattels at home, toiling year after year for his benefit. +The little hoe-cake he gives them, takes but a mill of the wealth with +which they fill his purse; and should his extravagance lighten it +somewhat, he has only to order his brutal overseer to sell--soul and body +--some poor creature; perchance a husband, or a wife, or a child, and +forward to him the proceeds of the sale. While the wretched slave marches +South with a gang, under the lash, he lavishes his funds in extravagant +living,--funds gathered from the tears and blood of a helpless human +being. Have you, dear reader, ever watched the slaveholder at such places +as I have, gliding through the shady groves, or riding in his splendid +carriage, dressed in the richest attire, and with no wish ungratified that +gold can purchase; and have you ever been guilty of envying him, or of +wishing yourself in his condition? If so, think of the curse which rests +on him who grinds the face of the poor. Think of his doom in the day of +final retribution, when he shall receive at the bar of a righteous Judge, +"according to the deeds done in the body," and not according to his wealth +and power. Think you, that the prayers, cries, and pleadings of the +down-trodden slave that for years have been ascending to the throne of a +just God, will never be avenged? Yea, verily, the day of reckoning hastens +on apace, and though, "He bear long with them; He will surely avenge them +of their adversaries; and that speedily!" + +As we pursued our journey to Buffalo, we passed Grand Island, from whence +Mordecai Emanuel Noah, some years ago issued a proclamation, calling on +the Jews to come and build on that island the "City of Refuge," but which +I believe was not responded to, as I saw it remained in its native +wildness. He had also a monument erected there at the time, which might be +seen from the highway and canal, consisting of a white marble slab, six +feet in height, with a suitable inscription upon it, to direct the poor +Jew to the City of Refuge. + +It was quite conspicuous, but not so magnificent as Gen. Brock's at +Queenston Heights. + +Arrived at Buffalo, we held several meetings which were very interesting. +The colored people were then numerous in that city, and owned one of the +largest churches in Western New York. We found a large and prosperous +society under the superintendence of Elder Weir, who was a good and +talented man, setting a godly example for his flock to imitate. At Buffalo +I parted with my pleasant and instructive traveling companion, Bishop +Brown, never to meet again on the shores of time. Soon after that pleasant +journey he died, and passed from his labor to reward. + +Buffalo was then, as now a great place for business. Vessels from all +parts of the country crowded the docks, and I then thought that it must in +time become one of the largest cities in the Union. After a pleasant visit +with our people there, I returned to my home in Canandaigua, where I now +began to feel quite settled. + +I had been requested to act as agent for the "Anti-Slavery Standard," with +which I complied, and leaving my daughter to teach the school, I spent the +most of my time in traveling through the country to advance the interests +of that paper. + +When I returned from Buffalo, she was complaining of poor health, nor was +it long before we saw that she was rapidly declining. + +This beloved daughter, I had spared no pains nor money to educate and +qualify for teaching. I had encountered all the trials and difficulties +that every colored man meets, in his exertions to educate his family. I +had experienced enough to make me fear that I should not always be able to +get my children, into good schools, and therefore determined at whatever +cost, to educate this child thoroughly, that she might be able, not only +to provide for her own wants, but to teach her younger brothers and +sisters, should they be deprived of the advantages of a good school. +Well had she rewarded my labor; well had she realized all my fondest hopes +and expectations,--but alas! for human foresight and worldly wisdom! The +accomplishments and qualifications of a teacher were attained; and proudly +we looked for the achievement of our long-contemplated design. How hard to +believe that the fell destroyer was upon her track! Her education had +qualified her for teaching the sciences; but now I saw, that her faith in +the religion of the blessed Christ, was assisting her to teach her own +heart a lesson of patience, and quiet submission to the will of Him who +holds the issues of life,--and Oh, how difficult for us to learn the +solemn lesson, that her wasting form, her gradual sinking away, was +hourly setting before us. + +Slowly her strength failed; she, however, saw our sorrowful anxiety, and +would try to relieve it with a cheerful appearance. One day perhaps she +would be able to walk about, which would revive our wavering hope; the +next she was prostrate and suffering; then hope died and we were sad! All +the spring time she languished; the summer came, the roses bloomed, and +the grain began to ripen, but she was wasting away. The orchard yielded +its golden harvest; the birds sang merrily on the trees, but a dark shadow +had fallen on our hearthstone, and a gloom, like the pall of death, rested +on our household. Her place at table was already vacant; no longer she +called the little ones about her to hear them repeat their tasks,--all of +which admonished us, that soon the bed where we could now see her, would +be vacated; and we should no longer witness her patient smile, and know +that she was still with us. The pastor of the Baptist church often called +to pray with, and for, the quiet sufferer, which she appreciated very +highly, for she was a Christian in every sense of the word. + +On the thirtieth day of August, at about eleven o'clock, A.M., without a +struggle or a groan, her spirit returned to God who gave it. "Sweetly as +babes sleep," she sank into the embrace of death. Happily, triumphantly, +had she seen the grim messenger approach; but she knew whom she had +believed, and that He was able to keep that which she had committed to +Him, unto the resurrection of the just. + +She had previously made a confession of her faith in Christ, and had been +buried with Him in baptism. A few days after her demise, a long, sad train +wound its way to the village church yard, where we deposited the remains +of our beloved,--Patience Jane Steward, in the eighteenth year of her age; +and then returned to our desolate house, to realize that she had left a +world of pain and sorrow, where the fairest rose conceals a thorn, the +sweetest cup a bitter drop, for a home where the flowers would never fade, +and where pain, sorrow and death will never come. We all felt the solemn +and impressive warning, "Be ye also ready, for in such an hour as ye think +not, the Son of Man cometh." + +As often as I recalled her triumphant, peaceful death, her firm reliance +on God, and sweet submission to His will, I could not forbear contrasting +her departure with that of Mrs. Helm, whose death I have elsewhere +described; and could fervently pray, that I might live the life of the +righteous, that my last end might be like hers. + + "Behold the Western evening light, + It melts in deep'ning gloom; + So calmly Christians sink away, + Descending to the tomb. + + The winds breathe low, the withering leaf + Scarce whispers from the tree,-- + So gently flows the parting breath, + When good folks cease to be. + + How beautiful on all the hills, + The crimson light is shed; + 'Tis like the peace the Christian gives, + To mourners round his bed. + + How mildly on the wandering cloud, + The sunset beam is cast,-- + 'Tis like the mem'ry left behind, + When loved ones breathe their last. + + And now above the dews of night, + The yellow star appears; + So faith springs in the breast of those, + Whose eyes are bathed in tears. + + But soon the morning's happier light, + Its glory shall restore; + And eyelids that are sealed in death, + Shall wake to close no more." + + + + +CHAPTER XXXVI. + +CELEBRATION OF THE FIRST OF AUGUST. + +The anti-slavery friends in Canandaigua, had resolved to celebrate the +anniversary of the West India emancipation, in suitable manner in that +village, for which funds had been unsparingly collected, to defray the +expenses of the coming demonstration. The first of August, 1847, fell on +Sunday, and our people concluded to devote that day to religious meetings, +and the second to their proposed celebration. + +Frederick Douglass and Mr. Van Loon, from Poughkeepsie, addressed the +people on the Sabbath; and also, on the same evening, a large concourse at +the Court House. The day following, there were not less than ten thousand +people assembled on the beautiful grounds, belonging to the village +Academy-attentive listeners all to the eloquent speeches delivered, and +interested spectators of the imposing exercises. + +When the vast multitude had convened, the exercises were commenced by the +Rev. S.R. Ward, who addressed the throne of grace, after which, Mr. +Frederick Douglass delivered an oration, in a style of eloquence which +only Mr. Douglass himself can equal, followed by a song from the Geneva +choir, and music by Barring's band. Rev. H.H. Garnet, editor of "The +National Watchman," next spake, and with marked effect, followed by +Messrs. Ward and Douglass; after which, the assemblage formed a +procession, and marching to the Canandaigua Hotel, partook of a sumptuous +dinner, provided by the proprietor of that house. At six P.M., they again +assembled on the square, and were most eloquently addressed by both Ward +and Garnet; at the close, they repaired to the ladies' fair, where they +found everything in a condition which spake well for the enterprise and +industry of our colored sisters. Their articles for sale, were of a choice +and considerate selection, and such as sold rapidly and at fair prices. +When all was pleasantly over, the ladies contributed twenty dollars +toward paying the speakers present. + +A most beautiful ode was composed by a warm and generous friend of the +cause, which was sung in the grove, in a spirit which produced a thrilling +interest. Gladly would I give the reader the whole composition, but its +length makes it objectionable for this place, but should they happen to +hear a soul-stirring and sublime ode, commencing with, + + "Hail! to this day returning; + Let all to Heaven aspire," &c., + +they may know it is the one to which I refer. + +It was indeed, a glorious day for the colored population generally; and +many were the indications of a diminution of that prejudice so prevalent +everywhere. Some, who had supposed the colored man so inferior to +themselves as to be incapable of making an interesting speech, were +convinced of their error, after hearing Messrs. Douglass, Ward and Garnet. +Mr. Van Loon was a white clergyman, but a brother indeed; his soul +illumined by the pure light of the gospel of peace; his heart full of +sympathy for the oppressed; his tongue pleading eloquently for equal +rights; and his hands busily engaged in breaking every yoke, resting on +the necks of poor humanity. So vigorously, so zealously did he unfold the +horrors of the slave system; so truthfully and faithfully did he expose +the treachery of northern politicians, and so pathetically did he appeal +to the humanity of every professed Christian to speak out boldly for the +dumb; to shield, by the holy principles of their religion, the poor, +bound, illiterate slave, from Southern cruelty and bondage,--that some of +our aristocratic citizens, some of our white savans, repaid his truthful +eloquence, by visiting upon him the bitterest maledictions. From the +negro, said they, we will accept these statements as true,--from him, they +are pertinent and forcible; but when such unpalatable truths are uttered +by a white clergyman, we cannot abide, nor will we listen to them! + +Let consistency blush, and justice hang down its head! Is not truth the +same, whether proclaimed by black or white,--bond or free? Is a falsehood +to be pardoned because uttered by a negro? If indeed, as was admitted, the +sentiments expressed by our eloquent colored speakers, were _true_, could +they be false, when enforced by our intellectual friend, Van Loon? +Certainly not; nor would the case have been so decided by these Solons, in +any other case: or where the prejudice against color had not warped and +blinded their otherwise good judgments. Our speaker, however, performed +his duty faithfully, and with great satisfaction to the colored people and +their true friends present. + +The remains of this fearless champion of liberty; this humble disciple of +the despised Nazarene, now sleeps in death, beside the placid waters +of the Hudson, while his cherished memory lives in the affections of +thousands, who "are ready to perish," and is honored by the pure in heart, +wherever his name has been known throughout the land. In the day of final +reckoning, think you, he will regret having plead the cause of the +bondman? Ah, no; nor can we doubt that to him will be rendered the +welcome plaudits: "Well done, good and faithful servant; enter thou into +the joy of thy Lord. Thou hast been faithful over a few things; I will +make thee a ruler over many things." What then are the few light +afflictions endured in this life, when compared with "an eternal weight +of glory," awarded to the faithful in that which is to come? + +Pleasant, happy, and beneficial, as had been the reunion of old and tried +friends, to celebrate a glorious event, yet, like all earthly enjoyments, +it was brought to a termination, reluctant as were the friends to +separate. Since that day, many have been the demonstrations of grateful +joy and gladness on the glorious anniversary of the emancipation of slaves +on the West India Islands; and yet, in this boasted "land of the free, and +home of the brave;" this famous and declared _free_ Republic,--the +American slave still clanks his heavy chain, and wears the galling yoke +of the bondman! + + + + +CHAPTER XXXVII. + +CONCLUSION. + +For several years past, anti-slavery truth has been spreading, and in +proportion as light has shone upon the "peculiar institution," exposing to +the world its crimes and blood,--enstamping upon its frontlet, "THE SUM OF +ALL VILLAINIES,"--has the wrath of the impious slaveholder been kindled, +and his arm outstretched to strengthen the chain, and press closer the +yoke upon the helpless slave, proving conclusively that he loves darkness +because his deeds are evil. Nor is this all; he and his apologists will +insolently tell you, that _you_ are the guilty ones who have tightened the +bonds of the slave, increased his hardships, and blighted his prospect of +freedom, by your mistaken kindness, in showing the slaveholder the +enormity of his sin! Can this be so? Have we any direct influence over his +human chattels? None. Then who is it that rivets the chain and increases +the already heavy burden of the crushed slave, but he who has the power to +do with him as he wills? He it is, who has been thrust, unwillingly +perhaps, into sufficient light to show him his moral corruption, and the +character of the sin he is daily committing; he it is, whose avarice and +idleness induces to hold fast that which is to him a source of wealth,-- +and by no means to allow the same light to fall in upon the darkened +intellect of his slave property, lest his riches "take to themselves +wings;" or, as may be more properly said, _take to themselves legs and run +away_. + +What stronger proof can we ask in favor of our position, than the +intolerant spirit of the South? If the system and practice of Slavery is a +righteous one, instituted by an All-wise God, certainly no human power-- +especially one so impotent and futile as the abolition power is said to be +--can ever overthrow it. Why then are the mails so closely examined, and +fines imposed on prohibited anti-slavery documents? Is it beyond their +power to confute the arguments adduced, or are they fearful that a ray of +Northern light may fall on the mind of some listening slave, and direct +him to the depot of an under-ground railroad? Judge ye! + +What but this same fearful and intolerant spirit,--this over-bearing, +boasting spirit, was it, that cowardly attacked a Christian Senator, while +seated unsuspectingly at his desk, and felled him to the floor, bleeding +and senseless? Was not the villainous blow which fell upon the honored +head of CHARLES SUMNER, dealt by the infamous Brooks of South Carolina, +aimed at the free speech of the entire North? Was it, think you, a +personal enmity that the cowardly scoundrel had toward our worthy Northern +Senator, which induced the attack? No, no. Brooks spake for the South, and +boldly has it responded--Amen! + +It has said through its representatives, that you Northerners are becoming +too bold in speaking of our sin, and we will use brute force to repel it-- +an argument with which we are familiar. You have told us that we ought not +to hold slaves, nor extend slave territory, which will in a measure +destroy our slave market, and prove injurious to our slave-breeding +population. You have told us we have no right to usurp Kansas,--no right +to murder "Free State men," and no right to sustain there, a set of +"ruffians" to make Kansas a slave State. You have told us, that we have +no right to live on the unrequited toil of our slaves; nor to sell +them to the highest bidder; nor spend the proceeds of the sale in idle +extravagance. Now know, all ye Northerners, by this cowardly blow on the +devoted head of your honored and respected Senator, that we shall no +longer permit you to tell us such unpalatable truths, nor allow you the +privilege of free speech! We have too long held the balance of power in +the government to yield it now; and we give you to know, that whatever we +ask of this government, we expect to obtain; nor will we hear any of your +objections. When we desire you to turn blood-hound, and hunt for us our +fugitive slaves, we expect you to do it, and to see them returned to their +masters, without a murmur on your part. Should you object or dare refuse, +we shall certainly _cane somebody_, or else do what we have threatened for +the last quarter of a century,--"DISSOLVE THE UNION!" Bah! + +My house has ever been open to the fugitive slaves; but more particularly +when I resided in Rochester, did I have occasion to see and feel the +distresses of that class of persons; and it appears to me, that the heart +must be of adamant, that can turn coldly away from the pleadings of the +poor, frightened, flying fugitive from Southern bondage. + +For many years past, I have been a close and interested observer of my +race, both free and enslaved. I have observed with great pleasure, the +gradual improvement in intelligence and condition of the free colored +people of the North. In proportion as prejudice has diminished, they have +gradually advanced; nor can I believe that there is any other great +impediment in the way to a higher state of improvement. That prejudice +against color is not destroyed, we very well know. Its effects may be +seen in our down-cast, discouraged, and groveling countrymen, if no where +else. Notwithstanding the late diminution, it exists in many of our +hotels: some of them would as soon admit the dog from his kennel, at +table, as the colored man; nevertheless, he is sought as a waiter; +allowed to prepare their choicest dishes, and permitted to serve the white +man, who would sneer and scorn to eat beside him. Prejudice is found also, +in many of our schools,--even in those to which colored children are +admitted; there is so much distinction made by prejudice, that the poor, +timid colored children might about as well stay at home, as go to a school +where they feel that they are looked upon as inferior, however much they +may try to excel. + +Nor is that hateful prejudice--so injurious to the soul, and all the best +interests of the negro--excluded from the professed church of Christ. Oh, +no; we often find it in the house of worship, in all its cruel rigor. +Where people assemble to worship a pure and holy God, who can look upon no +sin with allowance--the creator of all, both white and black,--and where +people professing to walk in the footsteps of the meek and quiet Jesus, +who has taught us to esteem others better than ourselves; we often see the +lip of some professed saint, curled in scorn at a dusky face, or a scowl +of disapprobation if a colored person sits elsewhere than by the door or +on the stairs. How long, O Lord, must these things be! + +Of my enslaved brethren, nothing so gratifies me, as to hear of their +escape from bondage; and since the passage of that iniquitous "Fugitive +Slave Bill," I have watched with renewed interest the movements of the +fugitives, not only from Slavery direct, but those who have been compelled +to flee from the nominally free States, and ask the protection of a +monarchial government, to save them from their owners in a land of boasted +liberty! + +The knowledge I have of the colored men in Canada, their strength and +condition, would cause me to tremble for these United States, should a war +ever ensue between the English and American governments, which I pray may +never occur. These fugitives may be thought to be a class of poor, +thriftless, illiterate creatures, like the Southern slaves, but it is not +so. They are no longer slaves; many of whom have been many years free men, +and a large number were never slaves. They are a hardy, robust class of +men; very many of them, men of superior intellect; and men who feel deeply +the wrongs they have endured. Driven as they have been from their native +land; unprotected by the government under which they were born, and would +gladly have died,--they would in all probability, in case of a rupture, +take up arms in defense of the government which has protected them and the +country of their adoption. England could this day, very readily collect a +regiment of stalwart colored men, who, having felt the oppression of our +laws, would fight with a will not inferior to that which actuated our +revolutionary forefathers. + +And what inducement, I ask, have colored men to defend with their lives +the United States in any case; and what is there to incite them to deeds +of bravery? + +Wherever men are called upon to take up arms in defense of a country, +there is always a consciousness of approaching wrong and oppression, which +arouses their patriotism and incites to deeds of daring. They look abroad +over fields of their own cultivation; they behold too, churches, schools, +and various institutions, provided by their labor, for generations yet to +come; they see their homes, their cherished hearthstone, about to be +desecrated, and their wives and little ones, with their aged sires, +exposed to the oppression of a ruthless foe. Then, with what cheerful +and thrilling enthusiasm, steps forward the husband, the father, the +brother, and bares his bosom to the sword,--his head to the storm of the +battle-field, in defence of his country's freedom, and the God-given +rights of himself and family! But what sees the oppressed negro? He sees a +proud and haughty nation, whose Congressmen yearly meet to plot his ruin +and perpetuate his bondage! He beholds, it is true, a few Christ-like +champions, who rise up with bleeding hearts to defend his cause; but while +his eye kindles with grateful emotion, he sees the bludgeon of the South-- +already reeking in the blood of freemen--raised and ready to fall with +murderous intent upon the head of any one, who, like the illustrious +Sumner, dare open his mouth in defence of Freedom, or speak of the wrongs +of the poor negro, and the sins of the Southern autocrat! + +What inducement then, has the slave to shoulder his musket, when the +American drum beats the call, "To Arms! To Arms!" Does he not remember +that the wife of his bosom; the children,--"bone of his bone, and flesh of +his flesh,"--and the rude hearth-stone they for a time are allowed to +surround, belong not to himself, but to the tyrannical master, who claims +dominion over all he possesses. As his property then, let the slave owner +go forth in defence of his own, and lay down his life if he please; but +the poor slave has no home, no family to protect; no country to defend; +nor does he care to assist in sustaining a government that instead of +offering him protection, drives him from the soil which has been +cultivated by his own labor,--to beg at the hand of England's Queen, +"life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." + +Humiliating as it is for an American citizen to name these things, they +are nevertheless true; and I would to God that America would arise in her +native majesty, and divest herself of the foul stain, which Slavery has +cast upon her otherwise pure drapery! Then would she be no longer a +hissing and by-word among the nations; but indeed what she professes to +be, "the land of the free, and the home of the brave;" an asylum for the +oppressed of every clime. + +But should the monarchial government of England call for the services of +the colored man, freely would his heart's blood be poured out in her +defence,--not because he has a particular preference for that form of +government; not because he has ceased to love his native country,--but +because she has acknowledged his manhood, and given him a home to defend. +Beneath the floating banner of the British Lion, he finds inducements to +lay down his life, if need be, in defence of his own broad acres, his +family and fireside,--all of which were denied him under the Stars and +Stripes of his fatherland. But a short time ago, the colored men of +Cincinnati, O., were promptly denied the privilege they had solicited, to +join with other citizens, in celebrating the anniversary of WASHINGTON'S +Birth Day! Oh, no; there must be no colored man in the company, met to +honor him who still lives in the heart of every American citizen,--"the +father of his country,"--and yet, who scorned not to sleep beside his +faithful negro! Nor did the nephew of the illustrious General, despise the +command of the black regiment, which Gen. Jackson so proudly commended for +their bravery, and bestowed upon it his personal thanks, for their +services on the field of battle. + +Do the Northern or Free States of the Union think to clear their skirts of +the abomination of Slavery, by saying that they own no slaves? Very true. +But is the poor, flying fugitive from the house of bondage, safe one +moment within your borders? Will he be welcomed to your homes, your +tables, your firesides? Will your clergymen bid you clothe and feed him, +or give him a cup of cold water, in the name of a disciple of that holy +Christ, who has said,--"inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least +of these little ones, ye have done it unto me?"--Or will your own +miserable Fugitive Slave Law, close the mouth of your clergy; crush down +the rising benevolence of your heart; and convert you into a human +blood-hound, to hunt down the panting fugitive, and return him to the +hell of Slavery? Oh, my God!--the fact is too horrible to acknowledge, +and yet it is a stubborn one. Not on one foot of land under the broad +folds of Columbia's banner, can the slave say, "I am free!" Hungry, naked, +and forlorn, he must flee onward; nor stop short of the outstretched arms +of an English Queen. Yet, thanks be to our Heavenly Father, that all have +not bowed the knee to the Southern autocrat or slave power. A few noble +souls, thank God, remain, who, in defiance of iniquitous laws, throw open +wide their doors to the trembling, fleeing bondman, whose purses are +freely emptied to supply his wants, and help him on in his flight to the +British dominion. But can these out-gushings of a benevolent heart--the +purest impulses of a noble nature--be permitted to flow out spontaneously, +in open daylight? Alas, no! You must be quiet; make no noise, lest an +United States' Marshal wrest from you the object of your Christian +sympathy, and impose on you a heavy fine, for your daring to do to another +as you would he should do to you. + +Is not the necessity of an "_under ground railroad_," a disgrace to the +laws of any country? Certainly it is; yet I thank God, that it does afford +a means of escape to many, and I pray that the blessings of Heaven may +ever rest upon those who willingly superintend its interests. Oh, my +country! When will thy laws, just and equal, supersede this humiliating +necessity! + +Is my reader about to throw the blame of our nation's wrong on England, +and accuse her of first tolerating Slavery? We admit it; but did she not +repent of the evil she had done, and speedily break every yoke, and let +the oppressed go free? Certainly; no slave now breathes in England's +atmosphere. But, say you, her white poor are slaves to the aristocracy, +from which sentiment I beg leave to differ. Oppressed they may be, and +doubtless are, as the poor are apt to be in any and every country; but +they are not sold in the market, to the highest bidder, like beasts of +burden, as are the American slaves. No Englishman, however poor, +destitute, or degraded he may be, but owns himself, his wife and children; +nor does he fear that they be sold and torn from his embrace, while he is +laboring for their support. Poverty, my friend, does not comprise the +bitterness of Slavery, no more than "one swallow makes a summer,"--nor +does it consist solely in ignorance and degradation. Its bitterness arises +from a consciousness of wrong; a sense of the violation of every right God +has given to man, and the uncertainty of his future, over which he has no +control. + +If the American people flatter themselves with the idea of getting rid of +the hated negro race, by colonizing them on the sickly soil of Liberia, +or any other country, they will surely find themselves mistaken. They +are Americans; allied to this country by birth and by misfortune; and here +will they remain,--not always as now, oppressed and degraded,--for all who +have any interest in the matter, well know that the free colored people, +are rapidly advancing in intelligence, and improving their condition in +every respect. Men of learning and genius, are now found among those with +fleecy locks, and good mechanics with dusky complexion. + +This marked improvement in the condition and rapid advancement in +intelligence among our people, seems to have alarmed the colonizationists, +and made them fearful that those very down-trodden slaves, who have for +years labored for nought; whose blood and tears have fertilized the +Southern soil, may, perchance, become their equals in intelligence, and +take vengeance on their oppressors for the wrongs done them; and lest +they should do so, they would gladly remove them to some far-off country. + +Yet here, in North America, will the colored race remain, and ere long in +my opinion, become a great people, equal with the proud Anglo-Saxon in all +things. The African has once been a powerful nation, before Christian +Englishmen invaded her coasts with rum, and incited her chiefs to war, by +purchasing with gaudy, but worthless trinkets, her conquered captives; and +we have every reason to believe, that though her glory as a nation has +departed, that her sons will yet be acknowledged free men by the white +population of this country. + +There have been black generals in the world before Napoleon was born, and +there may be again; and to-day, notwithstanding all the prejudice against +color, that everywhere exists in this guilty nation, there are men of +talent among us, inferior to none on the earth; nor are their numbers few, +though rapidly increasing. + +Well may the South arouse herself, form societies, replenish its treasury +with a tax imposed on the free colored people, to defray the expense of +sending manumitted slaves to Liberia! + +Listen a moment to the cant of the colonizationist. Hear him talk of the +duty he owes to Africa, and how happy, how intelligent, how prosperous +everything is in Liberia. But when that delightful country asks to be +taken into fellowship with the United States, and to have her independence +recognized--ah, then he lifts his hands in horror and begs to be excused +from so close a relation. + +This is all cant, in my humble opinion; and when I see men so anxious to +send the negro out of their sight, I feel quite certain that they are +conscious of having deeply wronged him, and think to remove him, to atone +for their guilty consciences. Would they refuse to acknowledge the +independence of Liberia, if their interest in the colored people was +genuine, especially when several other nations had done so? Oh, no. But +that is not "_the rub_." How could one of our lordly nabobs of the South, +sit in Congress with perhaps one of his own manumitted slaves as a +representative from Liberia or Hayti! He would die of mortification. Very +well then; but let him talk no more of sending colored men to that country +to make them free men. + +The colored people generally, I am happy to say, have a right conception +of the colonization plan, and will never be induced to go to Africa, +unless they go as missionaries to the heathen tribes, who certainly +should have the gospel preached to them. Some, from a sense of duty, may +go as teachers,--which is all well enough,--but certain it is, that no +amount of prejudice or abuse, will ever induce the colored race to leave +this country. Long have they been oppressed; but they are rising-coming +up to an elevated standard, and are fast gathering strength and courage, +for the great and coming conflict with their haughty oppressors. + +That there must be ere long, a sharp contest between the friends of +Freedom and the Southern oligarchy, I can no longer doubt. + +When our worthy ministers of the gospel, are sent back to us from the +South, clothed with a coat of tar and feathers; when our best and most +sacrificing philanthropists are thrown into Southern dungeons; when our +laboring men are shot down by haughty and idle Southern aristocrats, in +the hotels of their employers, and under the very eye of Congress; when +the press is muzzled, and every editor, who has the manliness to speak +in defence of Freedom, and the wickedness of the slaveholder, is caned or +otherwise insulted by some insignificant Southern bully; and when at last, +our Mr. SUMNER is attacked from behind, by a Southern, cowardly scoundrel, +and felled senseless on the floor of the Senate chamber, for his defence +of Liberty,--then, indeed, may Northern men look about them! Well may they +be aroused by the insolence and tyranny of the South! + +And for what _is_ all this? Do not our Southern men know, that if light +and truth are permitted to reach the minds of the people, that Kansas will +be lost to them as slave territory, wherein the Southern slave-breeder can +dispose of his own flesh to the highest bidder! Hear them talk as they do, +in their pious moments, with upturned faces, in solemn mockery, of +returning the negro to his _native_ Africa! How many pure Africans, think +you, can be found in the whole slave population of the South, to say +nothing of their nativity? Native Africa, indeed! Who does not know, that +in three-fourths of the colored race, there runs the blood of the white +master,--the breeder of his own chattels! Think you, that a righteous God +will fail to judge a nation for such flagrant sins? Nay, verily. If the +All-wise God, who has created of one blood all nations of the earth, has +designed their blood to commingle until that of the African is absorbed in +that of the European,--then is it right, and amalgamation of all the +different races should be universally practiced and approved. If it be +right for the Southern slaveholder, to cruelly enforce the mixture of the +races, to gratify his lust, and swell the enormity of his gains, certainly +it cannot be wrong to amalgamate from choice and affection. Let us ask +then, why did our Omnipotent Creator make the marked distinction? +Certainly not for the purpose that one race might enslave and triumph +over another; but evidently, that each in his own proper sphere might +glorify God, to whom their respective bodies and spirits belong. Why, +indeed, was the black man created, if not to fulfil his destiny _as a +negro_, to the glory of God? + +Suffer me then to exhort you, my countrymen, to cease looking to the white +man for example and imitation. Stand boldly up in your own national +characteristics, and show by your perseverance and industry, your honor +and purity, that you are men, colored men, but of no inferior quality. The +greatest lack I see among you, is unity of action, pardonable, to be sure, +in the eyes of those who have seen your oppression and limited advantages; +but now that many of you have resolved to gain your rights or die in +the struggle, let me entreat you to band yourselves together in one +indissoluble bond of brotherhood, to stand shoulder to shoulder in the +coming conflict, and let every blow of yours tell for Freedom and the +elevation of your race throughout the land. Speak boldly out, for the dumb +and enslaved of your unfortunate countrymen, regardless of the frowns and +sneers of the haughty tyrants, who may dare lift their puny arm, to +frustrate the design of the Almighty, in preserving you an unmixed and +powerful race on the earth. + +While I would not that you depend on any human agency, save your own +unyielding exertion, in the elevation of our race; still, I would not have +you unmindful of, nor ungrateful for, the noble exertions of those kind +white friends, who have plead the cause of the bondman, and have done all +in their power to aid you, for which, may the God of the oppressed +abundantly bless them. + +Let your attention be given to the careful training and education of the +rising generation, that they may be useful, and justly command the respect +of their fellow-men. Labor for a competency, but give not your whole +attention to amassing the wealth that perishes; but seek to lay up for +yourselves "treasures where moth doth not corrupt, nor thieves break +through and steal." + +Suppose not, my brethren, that your task is a light one, or one that can +be performed without years of patient toil and unyielding perseverance. +Our oppressors are not very ready to credit our exertion,--too often +forgetting the effects of our long degradation, and vainly expecting to +see us arise at once, to the highest standard of elevation, able to cope +successfully with those who have known no such discouragements or +disadvantages, as has been our lot to bear. + +These and many other obstacles must be bravely met, and assiduously +removed,--remembering that Slavery has robbed some of us, and prejudice +many others, of that perseverance so necessary to the accomplishment of +any enterprize; but in the elevation of ourselves and race, let us never +falter and grow weary, until we have reached the elevated station God +designed us to occupy, and have fitted the rising generation to fill and +improve it after our earthly course is finished and we leave to them the +stage of action. + +Allow me, however, to entreat, that no success which may attend your +determined efforts; no position which you may attain,--may ever so occupy +your mind, as to cause you to forget for one moment, the afflictions of +your countrymen, or to cease to remember the groaning millions in bonds, +until every slave shall triumphantly chant the song of deliverance from +Slavery's dark prison house. + +Bear with me, my dear brethren, while I claim a friend's license, to say, +that I would not that you place implicit confidence in any of the +political organizations of the present time; but remember that the +majority of those parties are diligently laboring for their own interest. +Look you then to yours; are you less capable of securing your rights than +they? Never was there a time when indolence and supineness among us, would +be so unpardonable as now, nor when so much depended on our active and +judicious exertions. + +Let us not forget, that in the past, we could and did truthfully complain, +that we had no helper,--bound and crushed beneath an overwhelming weight +of prejudice and ignorance, we lay helpless at the feet of our political +spoilers. A favorable change has since been effected in the public +sentiment; and now that we see thousands who are willing to aid us, and +as many more who will not hinder our labor,--shall we fold our hands in +idleness?--or shall we renew our energies, in the cause of freedom and of +our own advancement? Although we may not implicitly rely upon the +political exertion of others, let us not fear to co-operate with the +friends of liberty everywhere, as far as a good conscience will permit, +and our limited privileges will allow, by our determined zeal for the +right, make our influence felt in the nation. See what wrong and +oppression our white brethren have met in Kansas, from the slave power; +and let their noble deeds of patriotism; their liberal sacrifices for +freedom, be not only our example, but an incentive to do our duty. Have +they more at stake in that mighty struggle than we, that they should leave +their homes of refinement and comfort, take their lives in their hands and +bravely contend for their rights, surrounded by scenes of blood and +carnage? Certainly not. No people on the earth can have greater incentives +to arouse them to action, than the colored people of this country now +have; I trust therefore, that our future independence and prosperity, will +suffer nothing from the inactivity of our race. + +Some may entertain the belief that the African slave trade is entirely +abandoned. I think not. Often are seen strange, suspicious looking +vessels, lying along the African coast, for no other purpose than that +of kidnapping the poor, ignorant natives. Stealthily the slave-trader +lands his wicked crew, in the vicinity of some negro village or cluster of +huts, and when a favorable opportunity occurs, he and his men rush upon +the frightened African, burn their huts, and amid the shrieks of the +captives, and the groans of the helpless and aged, who have been trampled +down in their rude haste to secure the young and able-bodied natives, bear +them to the vessel, where they are stowed away in the hold of the ship, +which bears them to Christian (?) America, where they are sold as slaves. + +Some years ago, a woman engaged in washing clothes, near the sea coast, +had a lad with her to take care of her two younger children--one a young +babe--while she was at work. They wandered away a short distance, and +while amusing themselves under some bushes, four men, to them strange +looking creatures, with white faces, surrounded them; and when the lad +attempted to run away, they threw the infant he held in his arms, on the +ground, and seizing the other two children, bore them screaming with fear, +to the ship. Frantic and inconsolable, they were borne to the American +slave market, where they were sold to a Virginia planter, for whom they +labored sorrowfully and in tears, until old age deprived them of farther +exertion, when they were turned out, like an old horse, to die; and did +die destitute and uncared for, in their aged infirmity, after a long life +of unrequited toil. That lad, stolen from Africa's coast, was my +grand-father. + +It is not, however, necessary for us to look beyond our own country, to +find all the horrors of the slave traffic! A tour through the Southern +States will prove sufficient to satisfy any one of that fact; nor will +they travel over one of them, before--if they have a heart of flesh--they +will feel oppressed by the cruel outrage, daily inflicted on their +fellow-beings. The tourist need not turn aside to seek evidences: he will +very readily observe the red flag of the auctioneer floating over the +slave pen, on which he may read in large letters, waving in the pure +air of heaven, "SLAVES, HORSES, AND OTHER CATTLE, _in lots to suit +purchasers!_" He may halt a moment, and look at the multitude, collecting +under the folds of that infamous banner, where will be found a few +gentlemanly appearing slave holding planters, superbly mounted, and +perhaps with their servants in waiting; but the larger number he will find +to be drunken, coarse, brutal looking men, swaggering about in the +capacity of slave-traders. + +Let him enter the low, dingy, filthy building, occupied by human +merchandize, and he will there behold husbands and wives, parents and +children, about to be sold, and perhaps separated forever! See the trader, +as he examines with inhuman indifference the bones and sinews, the teeth +and joints of the _articles_ on hand, even of females, and hear him make +inquiries concerning her capabilities, that would make a savage blush! And +see the miserable woman lift her red and swollen eyes to the face of the +heartless trader, and the next moment cast a despairing glance over the +motley crowd, in search of a compassionate look--a pitying eye. Should she +see one countenance wearing a kind, humane expression, it will most likely +bring her frantically to his feet, where, kneeling, with uplifted hands, +she pleads: "Oh, Massa, do buy me! Do buy me and little Sam! He be all of +the chil'ens I got left! O, Lord! O, Lord! Do, Massa, buy me, and this one +baby! Oh, do Massa!" But the weight of the cow-hide drives her to the +auction block, where in mock solemnity she is represented as "an article +of excellent breed, a good cook, a good seamstress, and withal a good +Christian, a ra'al genewine lamb of the flock!"--and then she is struck +off to the highest bidder, who declares that he "won't have the young'un +any how, 'cause he's gwine to drive her down to Lousianny." + +He may see, too, the wild, despairing look of some frightened young slave +girl, passing under the lustful gaze of some lordly libertine, who +declares himself "in search of a fancy article for his own use!" + +One after another is taken from the block, until all are disposed of, amid +the agonized wail of heartbroken wives and mothers, husbands and fathers, +and the piercing screams of helpless children, torn from a parent's +embrace, to be consigned to the care of strangers. + +Nor need I inform our traveler of the inhuman method generally approved, +in hunting with trained blood-hounds, kept and advertised for the purpose +of recapturing any poor slave who may attempt to escape from this cruel +bondage. He may perchance, come across the mangled and lifeless body of +some fugitive, which has just been run down and torn in pieces by the dogs +of the hunter! Should he stop a few moments, he will soon see a hole dug +in the ground, and the remains of the slave pitched into it, covered +sufficiently to hide the unsightly mass from view, and there will be an +end of the whole matter! "Shall I not visit for these things? saith the +Lord; and shall not my soul be avenged on such a nation as this?" + +In giving to the public this unvarnished, but truthful narrative, of some +of the occurrences of my humble and uneventful life, I have not been +influenced by a vain desire for notoriety, but by a willingness to gratify +a just and honorable request, repeatedly made by numerous and respected +friends, to learn the truth concerning my connection with the Wilberforce +colony; the events which there transpired during my stay, and the cause of +my losing a hard-earned property. Regarding the affairs of the colony, I +have, therefore, endeavored to be particular,--believing that duty to +myself and brethren, required me to give them the within information; but +nothing have I set down in malice. Much more might have been said relative +to some of the leading characters in that settlement, had I not been +fearful of its assuming the character of a personal enmity or retaliation. +He who knows and will judge the actions of men, will bear me witness, that +I have cherished no such feelings toward any of those who then lived, but +now sleep in death. + +In justification, however, of my statements regarding the character of Mr. +Lewis, I will call the attention of the reader to some of the many letters +received from good and eminent men, to show that I was not alone in the +low estimate of his virtues. Gladly I leave that unpleasant subject, +hoping that nothing in our past history will serve to becloud the bright +future beginning to dawn on the prospects of our disfranchised and +oppressed countrymen. + + + + +CORRESPONDENCE. + +LETTER FROM A. STEWARD TO WM. L. GARRISON. + +MR. GARRISON, + +Dear Sir:--In a recent examination of the business transactions between +the Board of Managers of the Wilberforce Colony, and their agent Rev. N. +Paul, I find a charge made by him, and allowed by the board, of the sum of +two hundred dollars, which he paid to yourself. Finding no receipt or +acknowledgment from you, I write to ask you to favor me with one, or an +explanation of the facts in the case, either of which will greatly oblige +me, as I design to make it public. Truly Yours, &c., + +A. STEWARD. + +Canandaigua, N.Y., May, 1856. + + * * * * * + +MR. GARRISON'S REPLY TO A. STEWARD. + +DEAR SIR: + +You state that Rev. N. Paul, as agent for the Wilberforce Settlement, +U.C., in rendering his accounts on his return from England, charged the +Board of Managers with the sum of two hundred dollars, paid by him to me +while in England; that said sum was allowed by the board; adding that you +do not recollect of my acknowledging or giving credit to the Settlement +for it. + +In reply, I can only assure you that there must be a mistake in regard to +this item. I borrowed no money, nor had I any occasion to ask a loan of my +friend Paul, my expenses being defrayed by funds contributed by friends in +this country; nor could I with propriety receive, nor he give me any part +of the money contributed for the benefit of the Wilberforce Settlement; +hence, a loan or gift from him, could have been nothing more than a +personal matter between ourselves. Moreover, had he at that time or +any other, given me in good faith the sum named as belonging to the +Settlement, (believing that as we were laboring together, for the interest +of one common cause, the board would not hesitate to allow it,) he would +certainly have demanded a receipt, which it would have pleased me to give, +of course, that he might satisfy the board that their liberality had been +disbursed according to their wishes, or his judgment. But receiving no +money from your agent, will be a sufficient reason for not acknowledging +it, or giving due credit to the Settlement. + +I can account for this charge on his part, in no way, except that as he +was with me a part of the time I was in London, and we traveled together +a part of the time, during which, he ably and effectively assisted me in +exposing that most iniquitous combination, "The American Colonization +Society,"--he charged to me, (that is, to my mission) sundry items of +expense which he undoubtedly believed justly incurred by his helping me +to open the eyes of British philanthropists to the real design of that +society; and I shall ever remember with gratitude, his heartiness and zeal +in the cause and in my behalf. I owe much to the success that so signally +crowned my mission, to his presence, testimony, and eloquent denunciation +of the colonization scheme. I, however, received no money from him, and +can but think that the above explanation was the occasion of his making +the charge, and which I trust will leave on his memory, no intentional +[final word missing from text]. + + + * * * * * + +FROM MR. BAKER TO A. STEWARD. + +MR. A. STEWARD, + +Dear Sir:--Israel Lewis, the former agent of your Settlement, last spring +represented to me the suffering condition of your poor, and requested that +I should forward some goods, for which I should be paid; I did so, +and sent goods to the amount of one hundred thirty-six dollars and +ninety-eight cents. The goods were sold at cost. + +I am also endorsed on a note for two hundred thirteen dollars and ten +cents, which falls due 24th of this month, and which I shall have to pay. +This note was given by Lewis for the purpose of raising money to fit out +Mr. Paul, on his mission to England. I was promised that the money should +be here to meet it. + +I have heard nothing from Lewis or this business since, and as I +understand you are the agent, I must look to you to make provision to meet +the note, and pay for the goods. Good faith requires that all contracts by +your agency be fulfilled. + +Yours, Respectfully, + +CORNAL BAKER. + +New York City, Dec., 1833. + + * * * * * + + +FROM MR. L.A. SPALDING TO A. STEWARD + +DEAR FRIEND: + +In August last, Israel Lewis, accompanied by Rev. Nathaniel Paul called +upon me and exhibited a power of attorney, signed by you as president of +the trustees of the colony, authorizing Lewis to take loans, &c., for the +benefit of the colony. + +Feeling a deep interest in the progress of the colony, I agreed to become +security with E. Peck, at the Bank of Rochester, for the payment of seven +hundred dollars, which soon was raised by Lewis on the note, for the +benefit of the colony. I was in hopes to have seen you. E. Peck and +myself, both are willing to aid you in your noble enterprise,--and may +others feel the same disposition. But as we have families and friends, who +look to us for support and protection, it is proper that we should have +your personal pledge to save us from embarrassment. + +We know your character _well_, and we have also great confidence in Israel +Lewis, and the others engaged with you,--but none of them are so +thoroughly known to us as yourself. + +Our asking for your personal pledge, does not arise from any fears that +the note will not be paid; but as it was signed to aid you, we think it +proper that you should respond by guaranteeing that we shall not be +injured. + +I accordingly copy the note in question, and write a guarantee which I +wish you to sign and hand to my brother. + +I feel much anxiety in regard to your progress; in your forming schools; +religious and temperance societies; and in your taking every measure to +elevate the unfortunate colored man who may go to your colony for +protection and improvement. + +Very Respectfully Yours, + +LYMAN A. SPALDING. + +AUSTIN STEWARD. + +Lockport, N.Y. 1831. + + * * * * * + +FROM THE CONVENTIONAL BOARD, PHILADELPHIA, PA., TO A. STEWARD. + +MR. AUSTIN STEWARD, Wilberforce, U.C., + +Esteemed Friend:--I am charged by the conventional board, to inform you +that at the last session of the general convention, you was duly elected +their _General Corresponding Agent_, for the Wilberforce Settlement and +parts adjacent. Respectfully and in an official capacity, would I ask you +to accept the appointment. + +And in pursuance of the said appointment, the board would be happy to have +at least a monthly correspondence from you, on all such matters as may, in +your opinion, be thought conducive to the prosperity of the settlement, +the elevation and future happiness of the free people of color. + +In particular, we would wish you to give as accurate an account as +possible, of the number of settlers; the number of acres as purchased; at +what price; what number are improved and under culture; what number of +houses or tenements are in the Settlement, &c., &c. + +What are your present prospects in regard to crops; your political +advantages or disadvantages. + +We would also respectfully ask you to inform us, what number of settlers +might emigrate there each year, without injuring the Settlement. Also, +what kind of machines you most need; also, what are the terms for which +laborers are contracted for and how paid. + +The board have been thus particular, because they rely with full +confidence on your _patriotism_ and capability, which have been +unanimously assigned to you. + +You will perceive our object is, to contribute, as far as lays in our +power, pecuniary_ aid, and assist in securing you such _agricultural_ and +_mechanical_ emigrants as, in your opinion, the Settlement may need; and +in all our recommendations to you, we shall endeavor to have an eye to +character, knowing full well that by that alone you must _stand_ or +_fall_. + +We have been informed here by a letter (purporting to be written by a Mr. +Stover), that the Canada Company actually refuses to sell land to colored +persons; and that they are anxious to buy out the colored settlers at +Wilberforce. + +Be pleased to inform me if that be a fact, with its particulars; and if +there be any disadvantages in purchasing land by colored emigrants. + +The board would be happy to know if you have had any news from your agent +in England. If any, what are his prospects? + +You will please be particular and candid in stating your wants (as well as +disadvantages) to us, as we will do our utmost to satisfy them, as well +as promote the happiness of the settlers, and the prosperity of the +Settlement. + +Be pleased to answer as soon as possible, for we as brothers in common, +feel deeply interested. + +With sentiments of sincere friendship, + +I remain, yours, + +JUNIUS C. MORRELL. + +A true copy from the record. + + * * * * * + +RESOLUTIONS PASSED BY THE BOARD OF MANAGERS OF THE WILBERFORCE COLONY. + +At a meeting of the Board of Managers, held September 30th, 1831, to call +the Agents to an account: + +Resolved, That the Report of N. Paul be accepted, and unanimously agreed +to. + +At a meeting of the Board of Directors, all the members present, March +18th, 1832: + +Resolved, That we disapprove of the conduct of Israel Lewis, in his being +absent so long, and also his not communicating with the Board of +Directors, and not informing them from time to time, how he is prosecuting +his agency. + +Resolved, That the chairman of this board be instructed to write to said +Lewis, to return home, and lay before this board his doings. + +At a meeting of the Board, held April 1st, 1832, all the members and +Israel Lewis present with them, he made the following Report, and resigned +his office as agent, which was accepted: + +Lewis said that seven hundred dollars was all that he had collected. That +he paid one hundred and fifty dollars for board in New York, thirty-five +dollars for clothes, and two hundred dollars to N. Paul, as an out-fit for +England. + + * * * * * + +CIRCULAR. + +THE BOARD OF MANAGERS FOR THE COLONY, + +_To the Christians and Philanthropists in the United States:_ + +We, the undersigned inhabitants and Board of Managers for the Colony of +Wilberforce, beg leave to state that the frost cut off the crops in this +part of the country last year, and some of the colonists are in great +need of assistance. And we flatter ourselves that when the peculiar +circumstances of this infant Settlement are duly considered, this appeal, +to a generous and discriminating public, will not be made in vain. + +The board are sensible from the cause above stated, that the inhabitants +of Wilberforce will be _compelled_ to ask _aid_ from the friends of +humanity in the States, or they must _suffer_. + +Under these circumstances they commissioned the Rev. James Sharp, as +their agent, and sent him to the States; but owing to the opposition of +Israel Lewis,--who had been formerly employed as agent, but was removed +from the agency--his labors were almost wholly lost to the board. + +We would simply say, that Lewis was acting for a _certain_ company here; +but we have made inquiries, and find but _one man_ in Wilberforce that +belongs to said company, and he is an old man, in his dotage. That man is +_Simon Wyatt_. We might say _more_, but we think there has been enough +written to satisfy the public. + +In consequence of the unfaithfulness of Israel Lewis, and the numerous +agents that may be looking around the country after him, the board have +come to the conclusion to dispense with a traveling agent for the present. + +And we would humbly request Lyman A. Spalding, Esq., of Lockport; E. Peck, +Esq., of Rochester; Rev. Dr. Budd, of Auburn; Charles Davis, Esq., of +Ludlowville, Tompkins County, N.Y.; Arthur Tappan, Esq., city of New +York; to act as receivers for the Colony. The above named gentlemen, will +see that the funds which they may receive, be faithfully applied according +to the wishes of the donors. + +All money placed in each of the banks at Rochester and a duplicate sent on +to the Colony, may be cashed here without any discount. + +To Christians we appeal: by the brotherhood of Christ, and by their own +hopes of being united in him, to extend to us the means of obtaining +bread; give us, in the name of Jesus, of your abundance; give us, as God +has blessed you, for the poor among us want bread and clothing. + +It is to be hoped that every clergyman in the States, will lay this +circular before their respective congregations, and give every person an +opportunity to throw in their mite into the treasury of the Lord! + +AUSTIN STEWARD, _Pres't_ +JOSEPH TAYLOR, _Sec'y._ +PHILIP HARRIS, + +JOHN WHITEHEAD, +PETER BUTLER, +SAMUEL PETERSON, +WILLIAM BROWN. + + * * * * * + +FROM REV. J. BUDD TO A. STEWARD AND OTHERS. + +MESSRS. PAUL AND STEWARD: + +I have ever taken a great degree of interest in the welfare of your +colony, and have in various ways, brought it before the public. + +It has pained me deeply to learn that there are divisions among you. The +whole deportment and manner of Lewis, who has been here, has evidently +impressed the public in his favor. Although I do not wish to take ground +as his advocate, to the extinction of others, I am not inclined to think +him dishonest from the testimony now before me. + +But, apart from him, my present impression is that the most effectual way +for you to promote the cause of the Colony, is not, at this stage of the +business, to appear before the public in a hostile attitude to Lewis. + +I know some excellent and prominent gentlemen in this quarter, who think +he is unkindly treated; at any rate, while the investigation, lately +commenced at Albany, is going on, it appears to me not wise in you to put +forth any further publication reflecting upon Lewis. He may have acted +imprudently; but he has excited himself very much, and should the idea +prevail that you and he are in a state of collision, it would be very bad +for you. + +I consider your Colony as a very important matter, and will do all in my +power to promote your welfare, but it is very material not to prejudice +the public against you. + +Before I move in the matter, I wish to know the real state of the matter +between Lewis and the Colony. As soon as I can know that he has defrauded +you and deceived the public, I will not hesitate to give my views on the +subject, and put forth any efforts in my power for your advancement. + +There should no sectarian or party feeling be allowed to creep into your +institution. + +I thank you for naming me as a receiver for your Colony, and should +anything come to me, I shall hand it over to James S. Seymour, Esq., +Cashier of the Bank of Auburn, who should have been named instead of me. I +hope you will put his name in my place, or at any rate, name him with me, +for he has been from the first, much interested in your behalf. + +If you will allow me, I will briefly say, that my opinion is, your best +way to relieve your immediate wants, would be to issue a brief circular, +stating the failure of your crops, your newness of settlement, &c., &c.; +and call upon the public for help, without naming Lewis or alluding to +your difficulty with him; let your papers be properly authorized, and say +that the agent you employ is not engaged in getting funds to pay for land, +found schools, &c., but to get _immediate_ provisions for the Colony. + +If you will send an agent here and prepare your circular in this way--let +it be short--and I will print it and give copies of it to him for +circulation, free of charge. + +With many prayers for the prosperity of your Colony, + +I am your Friend, + +JOHN BUDD. + +Auburn, N.Y., May, 1833. + + * * * * * + +REPLY TO J. BUDD BY A. STEWARD. + +To THE REV. J. BUDD, + +Sir:--We feel under renewed obligation to you, for you friendly advice; +but we have already sent out several copies of our circular to different +places, and probably some of them have been printed before this time. + +We have no object in view, but truth, justice,--the greatest good of the +Settlement, and of our brethren in general. Israel Lewis has, however, +collected large sums of money, for our relief, of which we have not had +the benefit. Nearly two years ago, he was appointed agent for the Colony, +to collect funds to build a meeting-house, to endow schools, &c. In less +than one year he received more than two thousand dollars, which he +squandered; and we have neither _meeting-house_ nor _schools_, nor never +_will have_, so long as the money goes into the hands of Lewis. All that +we would have forgiven him gladly, if he would consent to be _still_ and +not _usurp_ the agency _against_ the wishes of the people. + +Sir, is it not expected that he would appear well; as you say, that "the +whole deportment and manner of Lewis, who has been in this place, +evidently have impressed the people in his favor,"--while collecting +money with the eye of the public upon him. But follow him home into +another kingdom, and there see the man in his true character; stripped +of his borrowed plumage,--and we will guarantee that you would agree with +us, in believing that he _is_ an _arch hypocrite_. + +We should be sorry to prejudice the public against our Settlement, more +especially when we are actuated by the purest motives,--that of preventing +the Christian public from being imposed upon, by drawing large sums from +them for us, as they suppose, when in _truth_ such sums _never_ reach us +at all. + +Sir, we know that you are actuated by the purest motives, but you are +deceived in the character of the man, (Lewis). When I was living in +the States and only saw him there, collecting money for the poor, I +thought him honest as you now do; but two or three years' residence in +Wilberforce Colony, has abundantly satisfied me that his object is to +get money, that he may live in a princely style, and not for the benefit +of the poor as he pretends. + +Such are the true facts in the case. We should be glad to have the name of +James S. Seymour, Esq., added to the list, and any other prominent citizen +you may think would help the cause. + +In regard to the investigation at Albany, we do not see how the public are +to arrive at the facts in the case from any statement Lewis may make; for +all his statements that I have seen in print, are positively void of +truth, in the most essential part, so that they are of little or no +importance at all unless substantiated by other testimony. + +The circular contains no testimony that has not been heretofore laid +before the public. Mr. Benjamin Paul recently wrote a letter to the +editors of "The Baptist Register," in which he stated that Lewis had fed +and clothed the colonists like a father, which is not true; and so +sensible was Paul of the fact, that when the letter reached here, together +with the surprise it created wherever Lewis was known, that Paul +cheerfully contradicted it, confessed that he was mistaken, and thus made +it known to the public. + +We certainly have no sectional feelings in the matter, though Lewis has +labored hard to impress the public with a contrary belief; and he has even +brought false charges of the basest kind against our more respectable +citizens, all to draw the attention of the public from the true facts in +the case. + +It is a general time of health here in the Colony. The season is very +favorable; our crops look well, and with the blessings of God we shall +raise enough to supply our wants this year. + +Yours, with due respect, + +In behalf of the Colonists, + +A. STEWARD. + +Wilberforce, June, 1833. + + * * * * * + +FROM A. STEWARD TO G. BANKS AND OTHERS. + +MESSRS. BANKS, WILBER, BROCKENBERG & HARRIS: + +I have received a communication through your corresponding secretary, Mr. +James C. Brown, and I hasten to answer it. The last communication I have +received from Mr. N. Paul, was in December, 1833, at which time he was +vigorously prosecuting his mission, as will more fully appear by the +annexed copy of said letter, which I cheerfully send you. His return is +expected daily. + +[Copy OF N. PAUL'S LETTER.] + +MY DEAR BROTHER STEWARD: + +When I last addressed you, I informed you that I expected to leave this +country before a return letter from you could be expected. I therefore +stated, if I remember correctly, that you need not write. + +I now find that I shall be detained much longer than I then calculated; +and this detention is owing to the Slavery question. The friends of the +cause, advised me to forego my object, until that question was settled; +and then they would turn their attention to my cause, and render me what +assistance they could. + +All their united strength was needed now, while that question was +pending. But thanks be to God, that is now settled. On the first day of +August next, will be the proudest day that ever Britain knew; for from +that time henceforth, there will not remain a single slave throughout His +Majesty's dominions. + +The friends of the cause are now turning their attention to Slavery in the +United States, and are about to form a society for the abolition of +Slavery throughout the world. They all think highly of our Settlement, and +will give it their cordial support. + +The leading abolitionists have given me letters of recommendation +throughout the Kingdom, and have appointed one of their most effective men +to travel with me,--his name is John Scoble, a very ready, intelligent, +earnest, and an eloquent speaker. I think I can do more now in one month, +than I could in three before the question was settled in regard to their +own slaves. + +You will at once see that although the people concluded my object to be an +important one, yet, they generally thought that they ought to lend all +their aid in removing the stain from their own land first This stain is +now effectually effaced, and my meetings are exceedingly crowded. I +addressed an audience at Norwich of from three to four thousand persons, +week before last, when about five hundred dollars was collected. So you +see I am getting on. I start, the Lord willing, next week for Scotland, +and shall spend the winter there and in the North of England. In the +spring I shall return and take passage for Canada. I doubt not, that you +are anxiously looking for my return; yet, you cannot want to see me more +than I want to return; but I tell you now as I have told you before, that +I shall not return until I have done all that can be done by my labor. + +Yours, + +N. PAUL. + +SIRS: + +The above copy will give you all the recent information we have received +concerning the mission of our foreign agent. + +Please accept my kindest regards, with my acknowledgments of your +distinguished consideration, while I remain, + +Yours truly, + +AUSTIN STEWARD. + +Wilberforce, U.C. + + * * * * * + +FROM A. STEWARD TO MR. NELL. + +DEAR SIR: + +We are glad to acknowledge your favor of October last, and to hear of your +safe arrival in England, your health and fair prospects. + +Since my removal to Wilberforce, I have opened a school, which Mrs. +Steward has engaged to teach for one year; while I shall probably devote +my time to traveling through the States, for the benefit of the Colony, +which is indeed poor, and in want of some assistance; and yet, not a +dollar have we in the treasury to help them with. + +Mr. Paul has not returned, though we are daily expecting him. Our friends +in New York, still have confidence in his pledge to do right; and we are +anxiously expecting its fulfilment. + +Your wife, Mrs. Nell, and the children are well, and we are still doing +all in our power for their comfort; but my means, in consequence of having +been so much abroad the past season, are limited; by which you will see, +my dear Sir, the necessity of remitting funds to me, that I may make your +family more comfortable in all things, without distressing my own. + +The settlers are well, and are looking with hopeful expectancy for you to +do something handsome for them, in which I do hope they may not be +disappointed. Lewis is still in New York. We have appointed another agent, +named Scott, but who is doing nothing for the Colony now. + +May the blessings of God rest upon you, and your endeavors; your good +deportment put to silence your enemies; may they who foresee that you will +cheat the poor colored children, be sadly mistaken, and your good deeds +finally enrol your name on the proud list of philanthropists, headed by a +Wilberforce and a Clarkson. + +Yours, in great haste, + +AUSTIN STEWARD. + +Wilberforce, Dec., 1835. + + * * * * * + +FROM L.A. SPALDING TO A. STEWARD AND OTHERS. + +DEAR FRIENDS: + +I have received a letter from Israel Lewis, New York, requesting me to +forward fifty dollars to the treasurer of the Wilberforce Colony, which +I will do at the first convenience. I sent fifty dollars some time since, +which I presume was received. + +I have also received a letter from B. Lundy, who speaks very flatteringly +of the Settlement; but gives me some information relating to Lewis, which +will injure you, unless you act wisely. + +Now I suggest for your consideration, whether it would not be best to keep +perfectly quiet relative to him, until after he returns and settles with +the directors. If he cannot then satisfy you, he will no doubt surrender +up his documents and agency like a man, and leave you to appoint another. + +By all means you must agree among yourselves, not suffering any difference +of opinion to become public. Your enemies will seize upon this, and injure +your prospects; besides, you gain nothing by it. Your friends too, could +then say that you acted imprudently. I hope to have a good account of the +settlement of your difficulties if any should exist. + +Respectfully your Friend, + +LYMAN A. SPALDING. + +AUSTIN STEWARD & BENJ. PAUL. + +Lockport, N.Y., 2d Mo., 4th, 1832. + + * * * * * + +FROM REV. S.E. CORNISH TO A. STEWARD. + +DEAR STEWARD: + +I have this day received your letter, and God willing, I will be with you +in the course of ten or twelve days. Please to keep your people together, +until I come. I will see that they be not oppressed by that notorious +Israel Lewis. I believe him to be one of the worst men living, whose deeds +will yet come to light. Do stay in the Colony and keep all things as they +are until I come. + +Yours, with high esteem, + +SAMUEL E. CORNISH. + +P.S.--I am glad that Mrs. Steward is in Rochester; your Colony is by no +means suited to her talents and refined mind. She never could be happy +there. My love to all the Colonists; I will do every thing for them in my +power. S.E.C. + + * * * * * + +FROM B. LUNDY TO A. STEWARD AND OTHERS. + +ESTEEMED FRIENDS: + + +Again I take this method of communicating some private information to my +personal friends, relative to my proceedings in Mexico. My last visit to +that country, (like the one preceding), having been prolonged far beyond +the time which I had anticipated, I feel it incumbent on me to explain the +causes thereof especially to such as take an interest in the enterprize in +which I have engaged, and those who have kindly assisted me with, means to +defray the expenses of my journey, &c. + +Soon after the date of my last printed letter, which was issued from this +place, I went to New Orleans, with the intention of taking a passage by +sea, to some port in Mexico; but after waiting in that city about two +weeks, and finding no opportunity to obtain one, I proceeded up the Red +River, and journeyed through Texas again by land. My health continued very +good for some length of time; but when I reached the middle part of the +Texas country, it was my misfortune to come again in contact with the +direful "cholera," and again I was the subject of its virulent attacks. My +detention was great, and affliction severe; though I finally expelled the +disorder as I had done before. My sufferings were somewhat aggravated in +several instances, by the fearful prejudices of the people among whom I +traveled. I was very anxious to get through my journey, and often assayed +to travel before I was in fact well enough. The consequence was, that I +frequently took relapses, and sometimes had to lie out under trees, even +in time of rain, within sight of houses, the people being unwilling to +give me shelter therein, fearing that my disorder was contagious. + +At length I reached the Mexican town of San Antonio de Bexar, and there I +tarried, until I had got pretty well rid of the cholera. I then pursued my +journey to Monclova, the seat of government for the State of Coahuila and +Texas, in company with several Mexican gentlemen and foreigners. Previous +to this time, I had traveled several hundred miles entirely alone, and +generally encamped in the woods or plains at night. On my arrival at +Monclova, I was doomed to encounter "misfortune" of a very different +character. Here I found that the Englishman, (mentioned in my other +letter), with whom I had contracted to petition for two grants of land, +_had totally failed in his application_. The petition had been laid before +the Governor, and he was about issuing the grants, when he received a +_decree_ from the Legislature--which was then in session--forbidding him +to grant any more land, under any pretext. This measure was taken to +prevent the great land speculators from carrying on their swindling +operations in Texas. An act was soon after passed by that body, repealing +all their Colonization laws; and thus every hope that I had so fondly +entertained, and each fair prospect, seemingly so near its realization, +_was instantly blasted and utterly destroyed_! If ever the fortitude +of man was tried, mine was then. If ever stoic philosophy might be +successfully called to the aid of human courage, I felt the necessity +of invoking it upon that occasion. Nearly two years of toil, privation and +peril, have been wasted. My sufferings had been great, though my spirit +soared on the bouyancy of hope. Now the fair superstructure of an +important enterprise, whose ideal magnitude had employed my mind, to the +exclusion of many hardships endured, suddenly vanished from my sight, and +left before me a hideous and gloomy void with no other encouragement than +total disappointment, conscious poverty and remediless despair! What +_should_ I then have done? My health was restored, but my detention and +consequent expenses had been so great that my funds were nearly exhausted. +I came to the country for an important purpose; and I reasoned with +myself thus; although my way is closed in this State, cannot something be +done _elsewhere_? I will not boast of the stoutest heart among men, but +mine _must not quail_. Something further _must_ be done if possible, and +I will try. + +In the course of my travels, I had seen a part of the adjoining State of +Tamaulipas, and had been informed that the colonization laws thereof were +liberal. I was even aware that some parts of it are more suitable for the +culture of the sugar cane, than any tract I could have obtained in +Coahuila and Texas. And upon a little reflection, I determined to make +further investigations in Tamaulipas, and had been informed of the State. +As soon as my horse was a little rested, I set out, _alone_, on a journey +of between four and five hundred miles, part of the way through an awfully +mountainous region, and much of it an uninhabited wilderness. I encamped +out almost every night, during the whole journey; very seldom near any +human habitation. I had no fire-arms nor anything to defend myself +against the ferocious beasts of the forest, which I had evidence to +convince me were frequently numerous, and not far distant. In two weeks I +reached the city of Matamoras, in the State of Tamaulipas, quite destitute +of funds, after parting with almost every disposable article belonging to +my wardrobe, &c. The people of this place being all perfect strangers to +me, I did not for a while unfold to them the real object of my visit; but +instead thereof, I opened a shop, and commenced working at my old trade-- +the saddling business. I soon got as much work as I could do--supported +myself, replenished my pocket, made some acquaintance with a number of +people, and obtained more information respecting the Colonization laws of +the State. A few weeks elapsed, while I was employed in this way. I then +mounted my horse again, and proceeded to the capital of the State; and +after negotiating for some time with the Governor and Council of the +State, I succeeded in obtaining a grant of land, upon advantageous terms. +I then performed another journey of almost two hundred and fifty miles, +"alone," to Matamoras again; and soon thereafter embarked for the United +States. + +My friends will thus perceive that I have not been idle; though much time +has been occupied in my last expedition. I shall not attempt to excite +their sympathy by exhibiting the twentieth part of what I have suffered. I +do not even like to look back upon some of the scenes through which I have +passed. But thanks to a kind and all-sustaining Providence, complete +success has at last crowned my exertions. I strove hard to command it; and +I leave it to others to say whether I have _deserved_ it or not. + +The terms upon which I have obtained my grant of land will be noticed in a +public address, which I shall forward with this letter. + +Since my arrival in this place, I have been confined by sickness; but am +now convalescent, and shall visit my friends to the eastward, as soon as +circumstances will permit. I cannot close this communication without an +expression of my sincere thanks to those kind friends who rendered me +assistance in defraying the expenses of my last Mexican tour. Their favors +will be most gratefully remembered, and I shall feel myself under +additional obligations to labor for the melioration of the condition of +the poor and suffering _slave_. + +In the next number of the "Genius of Universal Emancipation," I shall +insert the names of those who contributed to aid me in the prosecution of +my enterprise; and correct information relative to all proceedings +therein, will be given in the pages of that work, as the business +connected with it progresses. + +I am, most respectfully, your Friend, + +B. LUNDY. + +N. & B. PAUL, +AUSTIN STEWARD, +REV. J. SHARP. + +Nashville, 5th Mo., 1835. + + +THE END. + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Twenty-Two Years a Slave, and Forty +Years a Freeman, by Austin Steward + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK TWENTY-TWO YEARS A SLAVE *** + +***** This file should be named 11137.txt or 11137.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + https://www.gutenberg.org/1/1/1/3/11137/ + +Produced by William A. Pifer-Foote and PG Distributed Proofreaders + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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