Do not conclude from my earnestness, that I believe the Abolitionists as yet, form either a numerous or powerful party--but the contrary.--Still, I wish, as much as lies in my humble self, to warn the good and intelligent to repress in its birth, by their strong reprobation, a visionary spirit, which, unchecked, will menace the Union of these United States, while it consigns to a severer bondage the unfortunate objects of their crusading folly. Especially do not conclude that I am hostile to emancipation in every form, and ready to give over the African race to perpetual, hopeless bondage. No. But in this matter the South must take the lead; there exists among us on this point, a jealousy--shall I not add, well grounded? _The Colonization Society is operating a great change in public opinion here--it is gaining the confidence of the whole South._ I rejoice that the Abolitionists are running tilt against it; and if not discredited by the mad zeal of misguided philanthropists, it will lead, I am sure, to the adoption of judicious measures on a much larger scale to rescue from servitude and degradation the unfortunate Africans amongst us. I greatly desire to learn from you the extent of any disposition that may exist in your section to attempt directly the abolition of slavery in the south, and whatever else of interest, you may have to communicate on this subject. Could you furnish me any information calculated to remove the suspicions and quiet the apprehensions of the South, (for I hope and still believe that right feelings concerning slavery prevail at the North,) its publication in our newspapers here, I feel confident would be productive of great good. Hoping to hear from you at your earliest leisure, I am, very truly, your friend and humble servant. ---- ---- [Transcriber’s Note: Page 10, “Mr. Rusworm” changed to read “Mr. Russwurm”. Page 11, “In New York 1 out of 2191” changed to read “In Pennsylvania 1 out of 2191.” Page 14, “The name of Lot Carey” changed to read “The name of Lott Carey”. Page 16, “Montserado be made again” changed to read “Montserrado be made again”. Obvious printer errors corrected silently. Inconsistent spelling and hyphenation are as in the original.] End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Condition of the American Colored Population, and of the Colony at , by American Colonization Society