Can we not read an aptitude for this species of civilization I refer to, in that singular light-heartedness which distinguishes the whole race,--in their natural want of solicitude about the future, in them a vice at present, but yet the natural basis of a virtue,--and especially in that natural talent for music with which they are pre-eminently endowed, to say nothing of their willingness _to serve_, the most beautiful trait of humanity, which we, from our own innate love of dominion, and in defiance of the Christian religion, brand with the name of _servility_, and abuse not less to our own dishonor than their injury. But even amid these untoward circumstances there burst forth occasionally the indications of that better destiny, to which nature herself will at last conduct them, and from which they are at present withheld, not less by the mistaken kindness of their friends, than the injustice of their oppressors: for so jealous is nature of her freedom, that she repels all interference, even of the most benevolent kind, and will suffer only that peculiar _good_ or intelligence to be elicited, of which she has herself deposited the seeds or rudiments in the human bosom.” I have in another place alluded to the consideration that the residence of a portion of the negro race in this country may be, under the overruling dispensation of Providence, the means of great good to the whole race. It may be that the civilization of Africa will receive its first quickening elements by the return of her sons from a servitude which proved to them a school of useful acquirements. Some touch of Caucasian energy thus infused into the African mind may be the awakening impulse that shall arouse a whole people from the torpor of ages. At all events, leaving these speculations, one thing is certain, viz. that MARYLAND is doing a good thing in promoting the work of colonization in Africa. She is providing a home for the bondsmen of her fields, where they may enjoy in reality the blessings of freedom which can never be their heritage here. To what extent soever this work is done, to such extent will positive good be done. We can not now foresee the circumstances which may, in time, give aspect and character to colonization; but of this we may be assured, that in proportion as the home of the emancipated African is more and more enlarged in Africa, and made more and more attractive, in such proportion will the way be opened for the deliverance of Maryland from one of her most serious embarrassments. FOOTNOTES: [1] This subject of “Rights,” in connection with servitude, I have considered more fully in a little treatise entitled “Some Thoughts concerning Domestic Slavery,” published a few years ago. [2] See Table, Appendix. LETTER III.