I recently came across a copy of your manuscript detailing
your and your wife’s escape from slavery. Sir, may I commend the bravery of
your wife and your own cunning. How ingenious to overcome the difficulties of
the journey by having your wife disguise herself as a man – a white man at
that! However, it saddens me that any woman should ever be forced to take such
action, so unnatural for a female, to reach freedom. Alas, my heart cries out
at the injustice faced by the many that still remain enslaved. Not all will be
able to escape. Not all have the courage, the opportunity, or the advantage of
a fair complexion.
I have always been sympathetic to the plight of the slave in
this, our great nation. It saddens me to no end to know that in the southern
part of our country such an evil institution is allowed to persist.
Unfortunately, I have, until now, done nothing to end this immorality. Your
astounding story has awakened my sense of moral duty and has roused my desire
to act. In the future, I would like to be able to help runaways in the manner
that Mr. Barkley Ivens helped you.
Every part of your story touched my very soul. The evils of
slavery were made so much clearer to me as you recounted the separation of
brother from sister, the tearing of mother from child, and the sinful actions
of those supposedly Christian southerners against the men and women they hold
in human bondage. These stories are seared onto my heart and mind. I cannot
rest knowing I am doing nothing! I was particularly struck by the short quote
you included from Thomas Campbell:
United
States, your banner wears,
Two emblems, - one of fame;
Alas,
the other that it bears
Reminds us of your shame!
The
white man’s liberty in types
Stands blazoned by your stars;
But
what’s the meaning of your stripes?
They mean your Negro-scars.
Because of these words, and your amazing story, I have
joined an abolitionist group. I am working hard, distributing pamphlets,
helping runaways, and doing anything within my power to help as many men,
women, and children reach freedom as I possibly can. Just last month we were
able to help reunite a brother and sister who had been separated for several
years. May we bring about the end of slavery soon!
Finally, sir, may I compliment you on your persistence in
learning to read and write. Your account is eloquent and compelling. You are an
inspiration to your race. Thank you for sharing this account with us. It has
deeply affected me.
Sincerely,
Frank Thomas of Philadelphia
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