The Convention fervently desires that all who have put their hands to this great work may really deserve the epithet of "Saints," which in irony has been reproachfully cast upon them; and by their energy, prudence, and moderation, convince their opponents they have been mistaken in their characters and conduct. And we confidently hope that the blessing of that Almighty Being, who equally regards the bond and the free, will crown your righteous labor with success.[14] _To the various Anti-Slavery Societies in the United States._ The American Convention, for promoting the abolition of slavery, and improving the condition of the African race, feeling desirous to encourage every measure that may have a tendency to aid this deeply injured people, and to relieve our country from the many evils inseparably connected with the system of individual oppression, take the liberty to address you upon the present occasion. And in the performance of this task, we are particularly solicitous to draw your attention to the subject of the abolition of slavery in the District of Columbia--a subject which we view as highly important, especially at the present moment, and deserving your most serious consideration. When we reflect that the government of this District emanates from the Congress of the United States--that the power to regulate its political and municipal concerns is solely vested in that body--that the people of every State must share the honor or opprobium attending the course of conduct pursued by the authorities in the administration of its local government--and that the whole Union must be measurably responsible for the consequence resulting therefrom--when we take this view of the subject, we ought not for a moment to hesitate in appealing to the friends of humanity in every section of the country, and urging them to use all lawful and just means, within their reach, to limit, and finally to eradicate the demoralizing and corrupting system of slavery, which is yet upheld and tolerated there.