MINUTES.Hall of the Atheneum,Baltimore, Nov. 3d, 1828.10 o'clock, A.M.

Pursuant to adjournment, Convention met. Present 17 delegates, viz: From New York,Israel Corse,Mahlon Day,Edmund Haviland.Eastern Pennsylvania.Thomas Shipley,E. P. Atlee.Maryland.Wm. E. Coale, Wm. R. Jones,David Brown, Wm. E. Barlett,B. Lundy,Samuel Wilson,John Needles, Joseph Davenport,Abraham Silver,Ephraim Gardner.District of Columbia.Thomas Levering,F. Burke.

The Secretary E.P. AtLee having given information of the absence of the President and Vice President; on motion, the Convention proceeded to elect by ballot a President pro tempore--Thomas Shipley and Wm. R. Jones being appointed Tellers--reported Thomas Shipley duly elected President pro tempore.

Communications were received and read, viz: From New York Manumission Society; from the Maryland Anti-Slavery Convention; from Baltimore Society for the Protection of Free People of Color; from the Washington D.C. Abolition Society; from the National Anti-Slavery Tract Society; from the general Association of the Manumission Society of North Carolina; and from the Manumission Society of Tennessee.

From which communications, together with certificates presented, it appears that the following are the Delegates appointed by the several Societies to represent them at this Session, viz:

New York Manumission Society.Evan Lewis, Israel Corse,Mahlon Day, Edmund Haviland,Aaron Leggett.Pennsylvania Society for promoting the Abolition of Slavery, &c. Wm. Rawle,D. P. Brown,Jonas Preston,J. P. Norris, Jr.J. M. Paul, Edwin P. AtLee,Thomas Shipley,Isaac Barton,James Mott, Benjamin Tucker.Maryland.Anti-Slavery Society Convention.Daniel Raymond,D. Harryman,Wm. Kesley,D. Brown,Wm. E. Coale,S. H. Matthews,Henry Mankin,E. J. Markland,John S. Reese,David Preston.Baltimore Society for the Protection of Free People of Color. Thomas Matthews,Samuel Wilson,Wm. E. Bartlett,Joseph Davenport,Ephraim Gardner.National Anti-Slavery Tract Society of Maryland.Benjamin Lundy,Abraham Sliver,John Needles,Wm. R. Jones.Washington Abolition Society, D.C.Francis Burke,Samuel Meyers,Thomas Levering.Satisfactory excuses were offered for the absence of the Vice President D. Raymond, Esq. and Evan Lewis, of New York.

The following resolution presented by B. Lundy was read and adopted:

Resolved, That the present Session of this Convention be held with open doors, and that spectators be freely admitted during its sittings.

On motion of W.E. Coale, the following persons were appointed the Committee of Arrangement, viz.W.E. Coale, Thomas Levering,Mahlon Day, Wm. E. Bartlett,David Brown, Wm. R. Jones.John Needles,Mahlon Day having presented an address to the Convention from George R. Allen on behalf of the New York African Free School, it was read, as well as specimens of poetry from two scholars of the same school.

On motion, the address and specimens above alluded to were ordered to be noticed in the general address of this Convention, to the different Abolition, Manumission, and Anti-Slavery Societies throughout the United States.

Several other specimens of composition and drawing being presented, were

On motion, referred to the Committee of Arrangement. Then adjourned to 7 a' clock this evening.

7 o'clock, P. M.Convention met. Present, T. Shipley President pro tem. in the chair.Messrs. Corse, Bartlett,Lundy,Haviland,Gardner,Sliver,Day,Coale, Jones,AtLee, Brown, Burke,Levering,Holmes.H. Mankin, from the Anti-Slavery Society of Maryland, took his seat.

A communication was received and read from the Virginia Convention. The delegates appointed by that Convention, are Daniel Janney, Samuel Brown, Josiah Fawcett, David Smith, 00066Christian Holmes, Robert Bond, William Holmes, Isaac Pidgeon, Joseph Hackney and Thomas Wright;

Of whom William Holmes alone attended.

The communication was referred to the Committee of Arrangement.

The minutes of the Acting Committee were read and approved.

An Address from the Benevolent Society of Alexandria, was received, read, and referred to the Committee of Arrangement.

Also, one from the National Anti-Slavery Tract Society, which being read, was referred to the same Committee.

A Report in part, was presented by the Committee of Arrangement, and being read, was considered and adopted as follows:

The Committee of Arrangement appointed by the American Convention, &c. beg leave to report in part, the adoption of the following Resolutions, viz.

1. Resolved, That the several Addresses from Anti-Slavery, Manumission, Protection Societies, &c. be printed in the Minutes of the Convention.

2. Resolved, That the following amendments to the Constitution, proposed at the last session, viz. That Section 1st of Article 2nd, be amended by striking out "Philadelphia," and introducing in place thereof, Washington, D.C. and striking out "first," and introducing second; and making "October," read December, so that the article will read thus:--The Convention shall meet biennially, in the City of Washington, D.C. on the second Tuesday in December. It may adjourn from time to time, to such place as it may deem proper, and may be specially convened, as is hereinafter provided,--be now considered.

3. Resolved, That this Convention, memorialise Congress, respecting Slavery in the District of Columbia.

4. Resolved, That a Committee be appointed to prepare an address to the several Abolition and Manumission Societies in the United States, requesting them to have memorials signed 00077by as many of the citizens of their vicinity as practicable, and forwarded to Congress, praying the Abolition of Slavery in the District of Columbia.

5. Resolved, That the Committee appointed to make enquiry and report to this session, what experiments have been heretofore made, and are now making, on the American Continent and Islands, in relation to the cultivation of the products of Cotton, Rice, Sugar, Tobacco, &c. by free labor; or by Slaves, whose condition has been so meliorated as to approach the condition of freemen, shewing what are the relative advantages between free and slave labor:--be now called on to report.

6. Resolved, That the subject of preparing and proposing a plan for the gradual Abolition of Slavery, be considered by the Convention in Committee of the whole.WILLIAM ELLIS COALE, Chairman.

On motion, the 1st item was adopted.The 2nd item was also adopted.The 3d item was also adopted.The 4th item was adopted.The Chairman of the Committee appointed at the last session on the subject contained in the 5th item, reported the fulfilment of that duty at a subsequent sitting. The Committee were therefore continued.

The 6th item was also adopted.

The following Resolution offered by Thomas Levering, was read and adopted, viz.

Resolved, That a Committee be appointed to take into consideration the Laws of the several States relative to Slaves and free people of Color, and report whether any and what steps it may be proper for the Convention to take in relation thereto. The Committee are Thomas Shipley, Thomas Levering, David Brown and Francis Burke.

The subjoined Resolutions offered by J. Needles, were read and ordered to be laid on the table.

Resolved, That the following articles be added to the Bye Laws of the Convention; and that at every session of the Convention, 00088the following Standing Committees shall be appointed by the Convention and continued during its recess.1st. A Committee on the African Slave Trade.2nd. A Committee on Internal Slave Trade.3rd. A Committee on the state of Slavery in the United States. 4th. A Committee on the Laws of the United States, in relation to Slaves and free people of Color.5th. A Committee to prepare an Address to the several Societies composing the Convention, on the state of Slavery in the United States.Adjourned to 10 o'clock to-morrow morning.

November 4th, 10 o'clock, A.M.Convention met. Present, Thomas Shipley, President pro tem. in the chair; Messrs. Corse, Haviland, Day, AtLee, Bartlett, Wilson, Davenport, Gardner, Brown, Lundy, Jones, Burke, Levering, Holmes, S.H. Matthews, Parker.

Joseph Parker from the Free Produce Society of Pennsylvania, and S.H. Matthews, from the Anti-Slavery Society of Maryland, appeared, and as above noticed took their seats.

The following resolutions presented by M. Day, were read and adopted, viz.

Whereas Joseph Watson, Esq. late Mayor of the city of Philadelphia, and Samuel P. Garrigues, one of the chief Police Officers of that city, by their unwearied efforts have restored to their friends and homes, a number of Free People of Color, kidnapped from the State of Pennsylvania, and have brought to condign punishment several of the criminals engaged in that nefarious business:

Therefore Resolved, That this Convention has viewed with the most lively emotions of pleasure the conduct of those gentlemen, and does hereby tender them its hearty thanks for their praiseworthy and successful exertions.

Resolved, That a copy of this resolution, signed by 00099the President and Secretary, be presented by the Secretary to each of those gentlemen.

The second Report of the Committee of Arrangement as follows, was read, &c.

To the American Convention.The Committee of Arrangement beg leave to make a further report of subjects claiming your attention:

1st. Resolved. That the Papers No. 9 and 10, be published in the proceedings of the Convention.

2. Resolved, That the Convention has observed with great satisfaction the efforts of the Editor of the "Journal of the Times," a Weekly Paper published in Bennington, Vermont, to aid the cause of liberty; and recommends that the acting committee be directed to subscribe for 5 copies of said paper.

3. Resolved, That this Convention recommends to the several Societies for the Abolition of Slavery, &c. to give encouragement to such Editors of Periodical Works, as may evince their determination to assist in abolishing Slavery.

4. Resolved, That a committee be appointed to take into consideration the Domestic Slave Trade, and report what measures will be proper for this Convention to take in relation to it: also such particulars as they can collect, and judge expedient to be made public.

5. Resolved, That a committee be appointed to prepare an Address to the several Anti-Slavery and Manumission Societies in the United States.

6. Resolved, That the Constitution be so amended that the 1st sec. of Art. 2d, read as follows, "meet biennially on the 2d Monday in January."MAHLON DAY, Chairman pro tem.

The above report and resolutions were severally adopted.

To fulfil the duties of the Committee recommended in the 4th resolution of the Report, the following persons were appointed:

Francis Burke, E. Haviland, H. Mankin, and Joseph Davenport.

On motion, T. Shipley was chosen chairman of the committee.

The Committee appointed to attend to the duties of the 5th resolution, are as follows:E. Haviland, S.H. Matthews,W.R. Jones,andJoseph Parker.The following resolution presented by M. Day, was read and adopted, viz.

Resolved, That the acting committee be directed to have 1000 copies of the minutes of the present session of the Convention printed, and distributed to the several Anti-Slavery Societies, and to such persons and Societies as they may think proper.

The subjoined resolution offered also by M. Day, was read and ordered to lay over till next session:

Resolved, That the sum of dollars be appropriated to defray the expense of publishing Books, Pamphlets and Tracts, that may have a tendency to enlighten and correct public opinion on the subject of Slavery in the United States, and that the acting committee of this Convention be requested to select, publish, and distribute them as they may judge expedient.

The subjoined extract from the Treasurer's account was read:--

THE AMERICAN CONVENTION, IN ACCOUNT WITH JONAS PRESTON, TREASURER. DR. CR.1827. 1828. By balance from lastaccount, $53 7010th Mo.30th.To cashpaid JohnLetchworth,$102dMo.11th Mo. 25th. By cash of Anti-10th.Do. E.P.Slavery SocietyAtlee,3 15of Maryland,2512th Mo.3dMo.7th.Do. Enoch10 22d. Do. Abolition50Lewis,Society of11th.Do. Geo. M.50 Pennsylvania,50 Stroud,1828.10th Mo.1st. Mo.25th.Do. Freedom's523d. Do.New YorkJournal,Manumission Society,50 2dMo.25thDo. Benjamin81 98Lundy,3dMo.27th.Do. Joseph4 50Marot,5th Mo.17th.Do. Benjamin5Lundy,10th Mo.24th.Balance9 07in theTreasury,------- ------$178 70$178 70Errors excepted.Philadelphia, Mo. 24th, 1828. J. PRESTON.

M. Day offered the following resolution:

Resolved, That a committee be now appointed to examine the Treasurer's account, and report what sums may be necessary to be raised for the current expenses of the Convention, and to apportion it on the respective societies in connexion with the Convention.

The committee are Israel Corse, T. Shipley, Joseph Parker, John Needles, Joseph Davenport, William Holmes, and T. Levering.

On motion, Joseph Parker was added to the committee of Arrangement.

On motion T. Levering was added to the acting committee for Washington, D.C. and William Holmes, for Virginia.

The following resolution offered by M. Day, was read and laid over to be acted on next session:

Resolved, That so much of the Constitution in Art. 3d, Sec. 4th, asreads thus "one of them shall reside in Philadelphia and have charge of the records," be stricken out.

As agents to distribute the minutes of the Convention, the following persons were appointed, viz.For New York -Thomas Hale.Maryland -Benjamin Lundy.District of Columbia -Thomas Levering.Alexandria ---S.M. Janney.South Carolina, Georgia & Alabama --E. Haviland, 306 Pearl street, N.Y.North Carolina --B. Swaim.Tennessee --J. Jones.On motion, to give time for Committees--adjourned to 7 o'clock, P.M.

7 o'clock, P.M.Convention met--T. Shipley, President pro tem. in the chair

Present, Messrs. Corse, Haviland, Day, AtLee, Bartlett, Davenport, Gardner, Coale, Reese, Brown, Preston, Lundy, Needles, Silver, Jones, Burke, Levering, Holmes, Parker, and S.H. Matthews.

The following report was presented by the committee on the Treasurer's account, and adopted:To the American Convention.The committee appointed to examine the Treasurer's account and report what sums may be necessary to be raised for the current expenses of the Convention,

Respectfully Report--That they have taken into consideration the expense incurred by the Convention in printing their minutes, and defraying the expense of Newspapers, &c. circulated among the Societies, and believe the sum of $150 will be necessary to be raised, and have apportioned that sum on the several Societies in the following manner:

New York Manumission Society,$30 00Pennsylvania Society for Promoting the Abolition ofSlavery, &c.30 00Delaware Society,10 00Baltimore Protection Society,10 00Anti-Slavery Society of Maryland, 30 00Virginia Convention,15 00Washington D.C. 10 00Alexandria,10 00North Carolina, 5 00----- $150 00

Which with the sum now in the Treasury, and the dividend from the stock in the Philadelphia Bank, they believe will be sufficient for the expenses of the present session.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the committee,ISRAEL CORSE, Chairman.

The resolutions presented yesterday by J. Needless, and laid on the table, being, on motion of Wm. Holmes, again called up, were, on consideration, adopted.

On motion of Wm. E. Coale, an additional committee, to be termed A Committee on Kidnapping, was ordered to be attached to the other Standing Committees of the Convention.

The following are the several committees appointed:African Slave Trade.Evan Lewis, New York.Isaac Barton, Philadelphia.David Harryman, Baltimore.Internal Slave Trade.William E. Coale, Benjamin Lundy, Baltimore.Thomas Levering, Washington.State of Slavery in the United States.William Kelsey, Samuel Myers, William E. Coale,Baltimore.Laws of the United States in relation to Slaves, and Free People of Color.Thomas Shipley, Isaac Barton, Philadelphia.John Needles, Baltimore.Kidnapping.Joseph Davenport, Baltimore. Francis Burke, Washington.William Holmes, Virginia.W. E. Coale having presented the following resolution, it was read, discussed, and adopted:

Resolved, That the Committee on the Internal Slave Trade be directed to enquire into the expediency of petitioning Congress to pass a law, prohibiting the transportation of slaves for sale from and to the several States and Territories of the United States, by sea.

Fr. Burke presented the subjoined resolution, which being read, was adopted, viz.

Resolved, That it be recommended to each Society represented in the Convention, to acquaint the Secretary with the residence of their several presiding Officers, at as early a period as practicable.

On motion, adjourned to 10 o' clock to-morrow morning.

November 5th, 10 o' clock, A. M. Convention met--T. Shipley, Pres't. pro tem. in the chair.

Present, Messrs. Corse, Haviland, Day, AtLee, Wilson, Davenport, Gardner, Kesley, Coale, D. Brown, Preston, Lundy, Needles, Sliver, Jones, Burke, Levering, Holmes, and Parker.

Information being given that 40 copies of Clarkson's History of the Slave Trade, as well as some Minutes of former sessions, were ready for the disposal of the Convention;

On motion, the Acting Committee were directed to distribute them in such manner as they may think best.

F. Burke presented the subjoined resolution, which being read, was adopted, viz.

Resolved, that this Convention recommend as general a diffusion of a knowledge of the views of Abolitionists as practicable, and would respectfully suggest to the various Societies, the propriety from time to time, of having such publications on the subject of slavery, as they may deem advisable to promote that object, inserted in the newspapers.

On motion, the following committee was appointed to take into consideration the specimens of writing, composition, &c. of the pupils of the African Free School of New York, forwarded by the the Manumission Society to the Convention,-Thomas Levering, Joseph Parker, and Abraham Sliver.

The following concluding report of the committee of arrangement was read and adopted:

To the American Convention.The committee of arrangement, report in conclusion, that they recommend the following resolutions:

1. Resolved,, That a committee be appointed to prepare an Address to the citizens of the United States on the subject of slavery in the United States.

2. Resolved, That a committee be appointed to consider the expediency of memorializing Congress, praying them to prohibit slavery in the territories of the United States, as well as the District of Columbia.

3. Resolved, That the catalogue of exercises of the scholars, 001616of the New York African Free School be published in the minutes of the Convention.

MAHLON DAY,Chairman pro tem.

B. Lundy presented the following resolution, which being read, was adopted, viz.

Resolved, That a committee be now appointed, to draught an address to the citizens of the United States relative to the Abolition of slavery in the District of Colombia, and report as soon as may be practicable.

The committee are B. Lundy, W. E. Coale and Edmund Haviland.

The Convention resolved itself into a committee of the whole to consider the resolution presented in the 1st. Report of the committee of arrangement, on the subject of preparing and proposing a plan for the gradual abolition of slavery--

WILLIAM KESLEY, being called to the chair--

The committee having risen, the chairman reported an examination of the subject, and asked leave to be discharged from the further consideration thereof.

On motion the committee was discharged.

An address from the Anti-Slavery Convention of Maryland was read, and ordered to be put upon the minutes.

On motion, adjourned to 7 o'clock this evening.

November 5th, 7 o'clock, P. M. Convention met--T. Shipley, President pro tem. in the chair.

Present, Messrs. Corse, Haviland, Day, AtLee, Bartlett, Davenport, Gardner, Kesley, Coale, Mankin, Harryman, D. Brown, Preston, Lundy, Needles, Sliver, Jones, Burke, Levering, Holmes, and Parker.

The Address to the citizens of the United States, on the subject of the Abolition of Slavery in the District of Columbia, 001717being read and considered by paragraphs, was, with some alterations, adopted as follows:

To the Citizens of the United States.The American Convention for Promoting the Abolition of Slavery, and improving the condition of the African race, now convened in the city of Baltimore, most respectfully takes the liberty of addressing you on the important subject of the gradual extinction of Slavery in the District of Columbia.

It is doubtless well understood, by our fellow citizens generally, that this District is the property of the nation --that the laws for the government thereof emanate from the representatives of the people, in Congress assembled, and that all who are entitled to the elective franchise in every State of the Union, have an equal right to express their sentiments, and urge the adoption of measures, relative to the abolition of the system of Slavery therein.

We are well aware that some will contend for the legality of Slavery, as tolerated in some parts of the United States, and insist that the question of its abolition should be left to the decision of the peop le of the District, themselves. When we consider that slaves are, generally, viewed as property, this kind of reasoning assumes a specious appearance: yet it must be borne in mind, that the inhabitants of the District of Columbia are not represented in any legislative body; but that the sovereignty over that particular section of the country is vested in the people of the States--And when we reflect, that the question has long since been settled whether a legislative body possesses the right to enact laws for the prohibition or extinction of Slavery--that it has indeed been acted on, by several of the State Legislatures, and alsoby Congress--we think that no reasonable doubt can be entertained as to the expediency of the measure in the present case. It is well known that a very large proportion of the citizens of the United States are inimical to the system of Slavery; and it is believed by many intelligent persons who are themselves residents of the District of 001818Columbia, that a great majority of the inhabitants thereof are desirous for its total abolition. Viewing the subject in this light, we cannot, for a moment, hesitate in urging your attention to it.

The friends of Universal Emancipation, in several of the States, viz. North Carolina, Tennessee, Maryland, &c. have for several years memorialised Congress upon this important subject; but as a few, comparatively speaking, were thus heard to express their sentiments, little notice has yet been taken of their petitions. At the last session, a memorial, against the perpetuation of the cruel system, was presented to that body, by the people of the District, themselves. This memorial was signed by about one thousand of the most respectable portion of the inhabitants, among whom were several of the Judges of the District Courts, and even some holders of slaves. Whatever may have been the doubts or scruples entertained by some of our citizens heretofore, respecting the propriety of urging this subject upon the attention of the National Legislature, we conceive that there is no longer cause for hesitation, since a very respectable number of the people of the District have themselves raised their voice in its favour; and, as we have before stated, it is also believed that by far the greater number are favourably disposed towards it.

That the discussion of this question may excite a lively interest, both in and out of Congress, and that whatever measures may be proposed, for promoting the object in view, will meet with violent opposition, from the advocates of Slavery, we are well aware. All past experience teaches us that this is to be expected. Not only the opponents of emancipation in the south may be expected to throw impediments in our way, but the prejudice against the unfortunate and degraded Africans, and the self-interest of many others will also be arrayed against us. Yet we would calmly and dispassionately appeal to the good sense of the people of this nation--to those who exercise the sovereign authority in this great republic--this boasted land of freedom and equal rights--and recommend the serious consideration of 001919this very important subject. We most earnestly beseech them to weigh well the consequences of tolerating within the limits of this District, a system that has uniformly proved destructive to every nation that long permitted its continuance. But most especially, we would appeal to them as Christians and Philanthropists; and urge them by all the feelings of humanity and benevolence--by all the ties of social affection that binds man to his fellow man--by a due regard to the immutable principles of justice, mercy, and consistency--and by every desire for the perpetuation of our free institutions and the peace and happiness of our posterity,--to come forth in their might, and exert every moral energy to arrest the march of this gigantic evil, ere it overwhelms us, and precipitates us into the vortex of corruption and despotism.

Not only do we consider the honour of the nation as implicated by the toleration of Slavery in the District of Columbia; but the example has a most deleterious and pernicious effect even upon those whose education and habits have opposed it, when they come within the range of its influence. As a proof of the correctness of this opinion, we need only advert to the conduct of sundry persons who have acted in the capacity of representatives to Congress from non-slave holding states. We have reason to believe that they have thus in some instances become so insensible of the evils of the anti-christian practice as to disregard the will of their constituents, and join with its advocates in the adoption of measures for its extension and perpetuation. And we fear that this state of things cannot be remedied until the people of the United States in general turn their attention to the subject, and adopt measures for the extinction of the odious system, wheresoever it can be done, consistently with the Constitution of the Republic.

From statements submitted to this Convention, we are glad to find that this subject has already arrested the attention of a respectable portion of our fellow citizens, in different parts of the Union. Petitions and memorials, we learn, are preparing 002020in many places for signatures, which will, in due season, be laid before Congress. It is also understood that efforts will soon be made by some of the members of that body, to effect the great and desirable Let, then, all who are sincerely desirous to wipe from our moral escutcheon this crimson stain, come forward at this interesting crisis, and raise their voice in favour of the great principle of universal liberty, and the inalienable rights of man.

Signed by order, and on behalf of the Convention.

On motion, Resolved, That 3,000 copies of the Address to the citizens of the United States, be printed in pamphlet form, for general distribution, and that the Committee who prepared it, endeavour to have it published in at least one Newspaper in each of the States and Territories.

The Report of the Committee on the specimens of improvement of the scholars of the African Free School of New York, being read was adopted as follows:

The committee to whom was referred the specimens of ingenuity and talents of the youth in the African Free school of New York taught by Charles C. Andrews beg leave to report;

That the essays presented to this Convention exhibit a precocity of talent rarely met with in youth of their age; that the map of Turkey and the chart are correct and finished productions that would do great credit to the pupils of any school in the United States; that the drawings are very creditable to their authors, and the Journal of a voyage from Boston to Madeira the exercise of James M. Smith, a pupil of the navigation class is a specimen of unusual attainment in that branch for a boy of his years.

In short the committee have derived the most cordial satisfaction in examining such powerful proofs of intellect and talent in these children and rejoice to have it in their power to call the attention of the public to this striking evidence of 002121the effects of education on the descendants of the despised Africans.

The committee would respectfully recommend to the Convention, that a copy of Cowper's poems be presented to George Allen and Thomas Sidney. To Patrick Reason,)James M. Smith,)George W. Moore, )Eliver Reason,) each a copy of Johnson's Rasselas.Josiah G. Degrass,)Timothy Seamen,)

And tothe author of the likeness of Benjamin Franklin, the life of Franklin:--with a copy of this notice, accompanied by the earnest desire of the Convention that they may persevere in the acquisition of knowledge and virtue, which will tend more to raise them in the estimation of all good men, than the possession of either wealth of power, and may contribute in a high degree to raise those of their color to a more elevated rank in society.

Your committee cannot close this report without expressing their high respect and regard for Charles C. Andrews, the skilful and enlightened Preceptor, under whose assiduous care these lately obscure children have been brought forward to so extraordinary a degree of proficiency, and recommend that a copy of this notice be presented to him, and the Trustees of the school, with the thanks of this Convention.

Respectfully submitted,THOMAS LEVERING Chairman.

The Committee to take into consideration the subject of the Domestic Slave Trade, reported the following:

To the American Convention for promoting the Abolition of Slavery, and improving the condition of the African Race.

The Committee appointed to take into consideration the subject of the Internal Slave Trade, and report such facts as they may deem suitable for publication, in relation to it,

Respectfully Report--That they consider the subject as one of 002222the greatest magnitude and importance that can gain the attention of this Convention. That such a trade should be permitted to be practised by the Laws of the United States of America, is a matter of the deepest regret, and can only be reconciled by a consideration of the frailty of all human institutions. From the short time afforded the Committee they have been unable as fully to consider the subject as they desired, but from the enquiry they have been able to make, the following appears to be at present the principal markets for the sale of human beings in the United States, viz. the Territories of Florida and Arkansas, the state of Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana; these states and territories are supplied with their victims of oppression and cruelty, from the states of Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, Eastern and Northern parts of Virginia, Kentucky and Tennessee. The principal depots where men, women, and children are collected, frequently kept in irons and exhibited for sale are--Patty Cannon's house, situated on the confines of Delaware and Maryland; a large establishment in the city of Baltimore; the Jail of Baltimore County; one at Saddler's Cross Roads, and the Jail in the city of Washington; a public tavern in the same place, and several places in the town of Alexandria; and in most of the towns of Virginia, and in the city of Charleston, S.C. In addition to the evils of legalized Slavery, we may add, as growing out of the trade, acts of kidnapping not less cruel than those committed on the Coast of Africa. Individuals are well known, who have made a business of decoying free people of Color on board their vessels, and of selling them for Slaves; two instances came particularly under observation in one of our principal sea ports, (and we believe they are numerous in other places,) one a boy of about 12 years of age, was decoyed on board a vessel and taken to one of the above places of deposite, from thence sent in their chain of communication to the home of the purchaser. Another instance occurred by the next trip of the vessel, of a woman being taken in the same manner, who on attempting to leave the cabin was 002323knocked down, gagged, and severely whipped, to intimidate, and make her acknowledge herself a slave. She was taken to the same place of deposite, but apprehending it was to be searched, they removed her with two others, free persons, (one of them stolen within twelve miles of the place,) to the woods, where they were chained, with but little cloathing, and exposed day and night in the open air; one of the persons so confined released himself from the tree to which he was attached and with an axe extricated the others. The woman above alluded to has since arrived and gave the above information, and in addition says, they have pits to conceal their captives when close pursuit is apprehended, which they cover with earth and leaves. It may be asked, as the persons are known, why not bring them to justice? We may reply, that notwithstanding we could bring some of the persons last alluded to, to identify their kidnappers, yet their evidence, on account of their color, is not allowed to be received in the Courts of Slave-holding States. Many other instances have occurred: and many instances of persons who were entitled to their freedom after serving a limited time, being sold into irredeemable Slavery in other states are deplorably numerous; the covert manner of doing which is generally such as to elude detection. It is suggested whether Legislative enactments requiring that persons so situated, should be required to be registered every time they change masters would not obviate in some measure this evil--humane persons could then trace individuals so circumstanced, and bring offenders to justice:--all which is respectfully submitted.

Some of your Committee have been the unwilling witnesses of gangs of men, women and children, being driven off in chains from some of the above places to be sold like cattle. The shrieks and groans of the wretched victims, would have melted any heart but that of the Slave Trader, steeled by avarice or petrified by cruelty: and as if in utter defiance of the laws of God and man:--the Sabbath is the day generally chosen for 002424receiving and sending off the unfortunate objects of their cupidity; and so blunted has public opinion become from the long existence of this unhallowed traffic, that individuals in the city of Alexandria, publicly advertise their having prepared their prisons and furnished themselves with every accommodation for selling men, women, and innocent children, to any purchaser.

The number transported by sea from the single port of Baltimore by a noted trader of that place is believed to exceed several hundreds per annum. How long, may we ask, is our land to be polluted with such abominations? Is there no fear of the awful vengeance of him who has declared, "Is not this the fast that I have chosen, to loose the bonds of wickedness, and that ye let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke?" If the righteous judgments of God fell on the Egyptians for their cruelty to the Israelites, (and their acts of oppression was mildness, in comparison with ours,) what may we not expect, we who have received the blessings of divine revelation, who proclaim the goodness of God, in having freed us from the political bondage of Great Britain.

Respectfully submitted, on behalf of the Committee,THOMAS SHIPLEY, Chairman.

On motion, adjourned to 9 o'clock to-morrow morning.

November 6th, 9 o'clock, A. M. Convention met--T. Shipley, President pro tem. in the chair.

Present, Messrs. Corse, Haviland, Day, Atlee, Kesley, Coale, Harryman, Lundy, Needles, Sliver, Jones, Burke, Levering, Holmes and Parker.

The following amendment to the 1st Section of Article 3d, of the Constitution, being offered by M. Day, was read, and laid over for the consideration of the next session.

Resolved, That after the word "President," Article 3rd, Section 1st, in the Constitution, the word three be added, so as to read three Vice Presidents, &.c

D. Harryman, offered the following Resolution, which being read, was adopted, viz.

Whereas, By a dispensation of Divine Providence this Convention has been deprived of the attendance of their Vice President, at this session;--

Resolved, That the Delegates now assembled feel much sympathy with their Vice President, Daniel Raymond, Esq. on the afflictive event has deprived them of his company and services.

Resolved, That the Secretary present to him a copy of these resolutions.

The following report of the Committee on the subject of Free and slave labor on the American Continent and Islands, was read and adopted, and the Committee continued to prepare further information thereon:

To the American Convention, &c.The Committee appointed at the last Convention to procure information of the cultivation of Sugar, Cotton, &c. by free labor, &c.

Respectfully Report--That they have given some attention to the subject of their appointment, but have not been as successful as could have been desired. They have been enabled to procure some general information, relative to the production of sugar and cotton by the labor of emancipated slaves, and other free persons of color, in the West Indian Islands and on the American Continent; but have not had it in their power to obtain such particulars concerning it as will shew the extent of the pecuniary advantages which this mode of proceeding undoubtedly possesses over that of cultivating the land by slave labor.

We are credibly informed that the article of sugar is now produced by free labor, in two or more of the West Indian Islands, of a quality fully equal to that of any other, and is, also, brought into the market upon quite as favorable terms. Coffee is also produced in abundance in the island of Hayti, and some 002626parts of South America, by free labor. These productions, unstained by slavery, may now be had in the cities of New York and Philadelphia, and likewise at Wilmington in Delaware.

In the Territory of Florida, we learn, that a company, composed principally of citizens of the United States, have purchased a large tract of land, with the view of cultivating the sugar cane and other tropical production, by the labor of free men. Samples of the sugar made by this company have been shewn to some of the members of your committee, and have been pronounced to be of a good quality. In Louisiana, likewise, we are informed that sundry persons are engaged in producing sugar in the same way, but we have not ascertained to what extent they have carried their experiments.

Sundry cotton planters in the states of North Carolina and Alabama, have, for several years cultivated their lands by free hands. They have disposed of considerable quantities of cotton in New York and New England, and we are informed appear well satisfied to continue the practice of employing free laborers to the total exclusion of that of slaves.

A gentleman in Rhode Island has manufactured some of this cotton separately into coarse muslins, which may also be had as above stated. A few of the citizens of Pennsylvania and Delaware, have likewise purchased some of this cotton, and manufactured it into calicoes and other fabrics. We presume, however, that this has not been done to any considerable extent; neither have we ascertained the degree of encouragement held out to those engaged in the enterprise.

The article of tobacco has, for some years, been successfully cultivated in the state of Ohio, where it is known that slavery does not exist; and we learn that it can be afforded in the Baltimore market at a lower price than that produced in the state of Maryland, by the labor of Slaves, after defraying the expenses of transportation some hundreds of miles further than the latter. But we are informed that even the Province of Upper Canada, sundry colored persons from Kentucky, have made a settlements, 002727and have raised large quantities of this article which has been disposed of to advantage in some of our Atlantic ports.

But the most particular account your committee have obtained respecting the experiment of free, contrasted with slave labor, has been obtained from Ward's Mexico, a work lately published in London. The author was an Envoy of the British Government, and the most entire reliance may be placed on his statement, which, as in every other fair experiment, completely proves the advantage of cultivation by freemen. It appears, from his account, that the experiment was tried in consequence of the difficulty of procuring slaves during the war, and the great mortality which always took place on the first introduction of the slaves, from a change of climate. Being desirous to produce a race of free laborers, a large number of slaves were manumitted and encouraged to intermarry with the native Indians, which they soon did to a great extent, and so beneficial was the plan found to the master's interest, that in the year 1808 on most of the largest estates, there was not a slave to be found. From a personal inspection the author above alluded to declares that their tasks were performed with great precision and rapidity, (vol. 1. p. 67,68). A most important improvement appears also to have taken place; the whip being banished from the field and the females released from the field labor. From 364 to 450 tons of sugar are produced by 150 free laborers, while in Cuba, where the soil is superior in fertility the same number produce but 180 tons.

Should the Convention think proper the committee are willing to continue the further investigation of the subject.

Respectfully submitted,B. LUNDY, Chairman.

The Committee to prepare an Address to the several Anti-Slavery &c. Societies, in the United States, reported the following:

To the Abolition, Manumission, and Anti-Slavery Societies in the United States of America.Fellow Laborers.--In reviewing the labors of the several Anti-Slavery Societies in the United States, there is much to cheer and gratify us. In looking over the different sections of our extended country, we find the cause of truth and humanity has slowly, but regularly advanced, in the minds of our fellow citizens generally. And we think nothing remains but perseverance in presenting the subject of slavery in its native deformity and its hideous aspect, to convince its advocates of their error, and to overcome all the opposition which can be arrayed against us. We are satisfied that to the perseverance of its advocates alone, we are indebted in a considerable degree for the change of opinion in the Northern, Middle, and some of the Western States: and we sincerely hope that a similar change will be ultimately made in the southern sections of our country. Let us never relax in our exertions to promote the emancipation, and meliorate the condition of slaves, till every human being in these United States shall equally enjoy, all the blessings of our free Institutions. How can we feel apathy or indifference while we can almost see from the windows of the room in which we are now deliberating, a receptacle for slaves, in which they are thrust, manacled and bound, all ready to ship by their avaricious owner in the first vessel whose master or owners are as hard hearted and unprincipled as himself! Yes! A dungeon, the horrors of which has called forth deep emotions of regret from all who are permitted so see the misery and wretchedness of its inmates, and particularly the tears and great agitation of a benevolent aged stranger, who, in visiting this country, which has always professed "That all men are by nature, and of right ought to be free," was surprised and shocked to find in the precincts of one of the most professedly enlightened and patriotic cities in the Union, a storehouse of human flesh!

Slavery in whatever point of light considered, is a revolting 002929subject, repugnant to the best feelings of our nature, and inconsistent with the rights and happiness of man. We therefore urge the respective Societies to renewed exertions, in behalf of our colored population, and to petition Congress to abolish Slavery in the District of Columbia, and also to prevent its further extension in the territories of the United States.

Deeply injured as they have been by the whites, the colored people certainly claim from us some degree of retributive justice; we would, therefore, at this time particularly and earnestly recommend to the renewed attention of all the Abolition, Manumission and Anti-Slavery Societies in this country, the all-important subject of giving the colored children literary instruction, and placing them as apprentices to useful trades.

For, unquestionably, the most efficient means of promoting the moral improvement of this degraded portion of the human family is the institution of schools. And it must be obvious to every thinking mind, that a portion of education will be absolutely necessary to prepare the slave for the enjoyment of freedom; and such has been the happy influence of it on the scholars in the New York African Free School, that the Trustees in the city, state, that no scholar who has been regularly educated in their school, has ever been convicted of crime in any of their courts of justice. We have no doubt that if similar means were used in other places, the like happy result would be obtained. And it is equally certain, that facts like these do more to obliterate idle prejudices than all abstract reasoning on the subject.

The Convention have been highly pleased at this time by the exhibition of some handsome specimens of the skill and talent of some of the boys in the African school under the charge of Charles C. Andrews , in New York; creditable alike to the Teacher and the scholar. For a more particular description of these articles, we refer to page 20 of the minutes of this Convention.

We again call your attention to the following extract from 003030our Address last year, particularly applicable to the present subject.

"As an incipient step to the Abolition of Slavery, we earnestly recommend, that immediate application be made to the Legislatures of States where Slavery exists, to prohibit the sale of slaves out of the state. The traffic which is thus carried on from state to state, is fruitful of evil consequences, not only depraving the minds of those engaged in it, but producing the most cruel separation of near connexions, and depriving its victims of almost every incentive to conjugal fidelity or correctness of conduct. Perhaps next in importance in meliorating the condition of slaves, is the adoption of regulations for their religious instruction, and the education of their children."

"And while the members of the several Societies are laboring in the good work of universal emancipation, the Convention would particularly urge them to use all suitable endeavours, mildly yet earnestly, to prevail upon slave holders to consider the injustice and impolicy of tolerating Slavery; and prevail, if possible, upon such individuals, to fall into some plan for its gradual and entire abolition in our otherwise free and favoured country."

We conclude with exhorting all those who are engaged with us in this important cause, to persevere, with the hope and confidence, that although our progress may be apparently slow, and our prospects sometimes appear discouraging, conformably to the dispensations of a Gracious Providence, truth and justice must, and will ultimately prevail.

All of which is respectfully submitted.EDMUND HAVILAND, Chairman.

The following Resolution, presented by B. Lundy, was read and adopted:

Whereas. This Convention having been informed, that a disposition appears to be increasing among the holders of Slaves in some parts of the United States, (where public opinion and the Laws will not as yet sanction general emancipation,) to liberate 003131their Slaves by removing them with their own consent, to other lands, where they may enjoy the rights and privileges of freemen.

Therefore, Resolved, That this Convention views with pleasure these indications of a reformation in public sentiment, and a desire to promote the cause of justice in those sections of the country to which we have just alluded; and we recommend to the Anti-Slavery Societies in the different states, to aid such humane and benevolent individuals in carrying into effect their wishes upon the principles of Equity, without infringing the Laws.

Abraham Silver presented the following, which was read and adopted:

Resolved, That the Acting Committee be directed to prepare an Address to the free people of Color in the United States, in relation to their moral conduct, and the importance of properly educating their children, and that they publish and distribute it in such form as they may judge expedient.

The following are the Committee on the second Resolution of the concluding report of the Committee of Arrangement, and are instructed to prepare a Memorial on the subject of the District of Columbia.--William E. Coale, David Harryman, William R. Jones.

On motion of A. Silver,

Resolved, That the Acting Committee be instructed to furnish to each of the Editors of Newspapers in the United States friendly to the cause of Freedom, a copy of the Minutes of this Session, with the request that they would publish such parts of them in their respective papers, as they may judge useful.

Joseph Parker presented the following, which being read, was adopted:

Whereas, It is incumbent on those who belong to Anti-slavery Societies to manifest by all their actions their sincerity and consistency;

Therefore, Resolved, That this Convention again recommend 003232to the member of the several Societies who compose it, to give every encouragement in their power to the labor of Freemen in preference to that of Slaves, particularly in the consumption of the products of free labor.

To the American Convention.The Committee on the Laws of the several statesREPORT:They have not been able to give such attention to the subject as its importance required, and would respectfully recommend that it be referred to the attention of the Standing Committee on that subject, to report to the next session.

On behalf of the Committee,THOMAS SHIPLEY, Chairman.

On motion, adjourned to 7 o'clock this evening.

November 6th, 7 o'clock, P.M. Convention met. Thomas Shipley, President pro tem. in the chair.President,Messrs. Corse,Davenport, Jones, Haviland,Coale,Lundy, Day,Brown,Burke, AtLee, Needles,Levering, Bartlett,Sliver,Holmes, Parker.

Thomas Levering offered the following which was read and adopted:

Resolved, That the Trustees of the New York African Free School, be respectfully requested to permit the specimens of ingenuity and talent of the pupils of their school, to be exhibited for a time in the rotunda of the capitol at the city of Washington, under the care of members of the Washingon Abolition Society, as evidence of the intellectual improvement of the African race.

On motion the secretary is directed to apply to the Trustees of said school, in accordance with the above resolution.

The Committee to prepare a memorial to Congress on the 003333subject of slavery in the District of Columbia, reported the following--not deeming it expedient at the present time to prepare any thing respecting the territories.

To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States in Congress assembled.--The memorial of the American Convention for promoting the Abolition of Slavery, and improving the condition of the African Race,

Respectfully Represents,That your memorialists being citizens of this free republic, and feeling in a high degree thankful for the favours and protection of its benign government, are solicitous, in common with all the advocates of true liberty, that its benefits should be extended to the whole human family--that all mankind might be permitted to enjoy peaceably, the full fruition of national rights, and the great blessings of heaven, while here on earth, the right to "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness."

Your memorialists, without presuming to question the dignity, superior wisdom, and qualifications of your honourable body, would ask leave most respectfully to urge, as a sentiment, every day gaining a wider spread, and a deeper root, in the best feelings of freemen, that slavery is alike derogatory to the present enlightened condition of man, and a solecism in the institutions of our country: without, in any degree, wishing to appeal to the prejudices, either sectarian or geographical, of any portion of your honourable body, your memorialists cannot consent to withhold themselves from the influence of the irresistible current, manifest in the march of mind, towards perfection, and are therefore free to acknowledge, that they cannot, as consistent republicans, omit to raise their voices, in a respectful petition to their government on behalf of the sufferings, the privations, and the unmerited degradation of their fellow men--the colored people of America.

That the several states in this confederation are, to a certain 003434constitutional extent, sovereign and independent, is readily admitted; but that their independence is qualified by the federal constitution, is equally certain. No state has a right to injure or destroy the fair fame of the republic: and no state has a right, unnecessarily to jeopardize the peace or prosperity of any other state. And that all the states, and all the people of each and every state in the union, are indissolubly bound to submit to the majority, is a fundamental principle of the union.

With these preliminary remarks, your memorialists will ask your paternal and special attention to the subject of slavery in the District of Columbia. This district, the seat of the national councils, and the common property of the whole republic, is by the constitution of the country, under your immediate care, and exclusive government--and to the combined wisdom, patriotism and prudence of your honourable body, is the common mind turned, with intense anxiety, knowing that nothing can exempt any portion of us from the shame and mortification that may attach to the character of its public laws and institutions; while nothing can prevent their participation in the splendor and renown of its wisdom, prosperity, and happiness. The District of Columbia, then, being the common property of the nation, the nation has an indubitable right, and it is consistent with the fitness of things, to have the institutions and the laws of the District, conformably to the aggregate sentiment of the whole people. The clearly expressed public opinion is against the continuance of slavery--and, by every rule of right, slavery should cease, as soon as practicable, within the national domain.

Under a full conviction of the truth of this doctrine, and the justice of their cause, your memorialists ask of your honourable body, the immediate enactment of such laws as will ensure the abolition of slavery within the District of Columbia, at the earliest period that may be deemed safe and expedient, according to the wisdom of Congress. They ask this, conscientiously 003535believing that this is the sentiment and expectation of the nation: and believing furthermore that the example will be gradually followed by many of the southern States, as the evils, impolicy, and injustice of slavery are more and more developed.

Commending you and themselves, with the best interests of humanity, to the mercies of a just God, your memorialists very respectfully and earnestly entreat your prompt attention to the subject.Signed by direction of the Convention.

On motion of Wm. E. Coale,

Resolved, That the thanks of this Convention be awarded to Thomas Shipley, Esq. for the able and dignified discharge of the duties of President pro tempore, of the Convention, during the present session.

On motion adjourned Sine Die.Published by order of the Convention,EDWIN P ATLEE,Secretary.

From the New York Manumission Society.To the American Convention, to meet in Baltimore, by adjournment, on the 3d of eleventh month, (November,) 1828.The New York Manumission Society, in their address to the Convention at this time, have but few important facts to communicate, in relation to the cause in which they are engaged. Slavery having become extinct in the State of New York, by the gradual operation of laws from time to time enacted by the Legislature, in consequence chiefly, of the exertions of this Society, the great original object of our association has been obtained, and our labors have been materially lessened. Indeed, upon the subject of emancipation, we have nothing left for us to do at home, except to attend to the occasional cases of transient slaves, or free persons of color, who come among us from the south; and who are sometimes claimed as slaves by the rapacious white man. These, when presented to our view, are never neglected.

But, although we have the satisfaction of seeing the main purpose of our institution accomplished, we feel no disposition to relax our exertions in the great cause of emancipation, so far forth as we can render assistance. And our friends in the Middle and Southern States, may rely upon our zealous and hearty co-operation, in every legal and practicable effort to break the chains, and improve the moral condition of those of the unhappy race of Africa who are yet held in bondage.

Unquestionably, the most efficient means of promoting the moral improvement of this degraded portion of the human family, is the institution of schools. To this object our attention is now mainly directed; and we feel a pleasure in being able to state, that the number of pupils in the schools under our care, has increased by the addition of more than a hundred 003737scholars since the last meeting of the Convention. We have now upwards of six hundred, (including males and females,) taught by able and experienced teachers. The present average of daily attendance is about three hundred and sixty. Two hundred and fifty of our scholars are able to read the scriptures, and about the same number write, and practice arithmetic. English grammar, composition, geography, astronomy, the use of the globes, map and linear drawing, are also pursued with interest and advantage by several of the male pupils. The girls, under well-qualified female teachers, are instructed in reading, writing, arithmetic, the elements of English grammar and geography, plain sewing, knitting, marking, &c.

The progress of the pupils is such as to warrant the conclusion, that they are as susceptible of mental cultivation as the children of white parents. A class of eight or ten of the senior youths in the boys' school, have been taught navigation; which they acquired with a facility and rapidity exceeding our expectations. We are convinced that the instruction and right education of the children of the African race, will do more to advance the cause of universal emancipation than all other means put together. Whatever is achieved in this way, strikes at the root of the evils against which we are contending. It counteracts, and in a measure abolishes, that prejudice against the color, which is the greatest barrier to emancipation.

However unjust we may acknowledge this prejudice to be, yet we know it exists; and that there are few, if any among us, even among those who are the most sincere and zealous in reprobating slavery in general, who are not more or less tinctured with it. We believe it is not the color, abstractly considered, which causes this prejudice; but the condition in which we have been accustomed to view the unfortunate subjects of a degrading thraldom. And hence, by a natural association, the mind connects with the color of the skin the idea of that debasement of character which is inseparable from their condition.

We are doubly unjust to the sons of Africa. We drag them 003838from their native shores with brutal violence; deprive them of the unalienable birth-right of every being which bears the stamp of humanity; deprive them of every motive and means of honourable competition with ourselves; deprive them of every opportunity and inducement to exert the mental faculties which nature has given them; and then look down upon them as an inferior order of beings. We adopt a system towards them, which is directly calculated to debase and brutalize the human characters; and then condemn them for the moral and intellectual desolation which this system has produced. But a system of instruction adapted to the situation and capacities of the objects of our solicitude, will, we are assured, convince the most sceptical, that a black skin is not necessarily associated with moral worthlessness, or mental imbecility. It will foster and bring to maturity many a germ of native talent, which for what of proper cultivation to promote its development, is now concealed from observation, and lost to its possessor and the community.

It has been remarked by civil historians, that crimes diminish in every community, in exact proportion to the mental culture of the common people; that ignorance and vice, by an immutable law of our nature seem inseparably connected. These facts are corroborated by the records of the criminal courts both in this country and in the British islands. And it is not irrelevant to the point to add, that such has been the happy influence of the system pursued in our African schools, that the trustees have never known any scholar regularly educated in them, to have been convicted of crime, in any of our courts of justice. It then becomes an object of vital importance, in our endeavours to meliorate the condition of the African race, to promote by all practicable means, in every section of our country, schools for the instruction of the colored children.

We have dwelt the longer on this subject because we conceive it to be the most efficient means for the attainment of the great objects which we, in common with other similar societies, 003939have in view. If we were asked, What is the first and most important requisite in paving the way for the total abolition of slavery? we should answer, education. What the second? and the third?--our answer would still be as before-- education. It is the philosopher's stone, which will turn the baser metals into gold. If generally diffused, it will change the whole moral and intellectual character of the race.

Within the last year we have appointed a visiting agent, to examine into the condition of every colored family in this city. His services have been of essential use, in stimulating the parents to send their children to school, and in furnishing more minute information relative to our colored population. The accounts received, have tended to convince us of the expediency of establishing for them a House of Refuge, in which colored juvenile delinquents, and children of dissolute parents, may be placed, and instructed in the useful arts; and we have appointed a committee on the subject.

As a large number of our colored people are very poor, and unable to provide for their children suitable clothing to attend school, several benevolent colored females, have recently formed themselves into a society, under the name of "The African Dorcas Association," for the purpose of procuring and of making up garments for the destitute. The labors of this Society have already been productive of much good; and it is highly gratifying to find a feeling existing among these people, so honourable and praise-worthy.

In an apartment of the Boys' School, there has been recently commenced a cabinet of minerals and natural curiosities, to which the attention of the more advanced pupils is occasionally called. To this collection, several individuals have made donations of minerals, reptiles, shells, and works of art; and hopes are entertained that, at no distant period, this part of the establishment will be respectable and useful. It will not only afford opportunity of imparting information to the pupils, but will also serve as an attraction which may induce the parents 004040more frequently to visit the institution. Any additions to this collection from gentlemen at a distance will be thankfully received.

We have instructed our delegates to the Convention, to move an alteration in the Constitution, so that the future meetings of that body, may be held at the city of Washington, in the winter season, during the session of Congress. We think the cause would be promoted by holding our meetings in the capital of the Union, at the time when the representatives from the slave-holding states are assembled in Congress. And it will also be a more convenient season for delegates in general to leave their business and their homes to attend the Convention. By the present arrangement, it is only with great difficulty that delegates from this part of the country can be induced to attend the meetings of that body. But should the time of meeting be changed as proposed, we anticipate that the difficulty of which we speak, would in a great measure be obviated.

We have appointed as delegates, to represent us in the Convention at this time, Evan Lewis, Mahlon Day, Israel Corse, Edmund Haviland, and Aaron Legget.

GEORGE NEWBOLD, 1 st. V.P.Thomas Hale, Secretary.

It having been deemed advisable to establish a Cabinet of Minerals and Natural Curiosities in the New York African Free School in Mulberry street, the Trustees of this institution hereby respectfully solicit the aid of the benevolent, who may find it convenient to contribute towards the promotion of this object, by donations in Minerals, Shells or other Natural Curiosities.

Captains of vessels and other gentlemen travelling in our own, 004141or in foreign countries, would confer a public benefit by assisting in this useful design.

Several very interesting specimens of Minerals, Shells, Reptiles, Curious Works of Art, &c. from various parts of the world, have already been presented, which, with the School itself, are always open to the inspection of the public.

All donations will be thankfully received at the School, No. 137 Mulberry street; by Mahlon Day, No. 376, or Peter S. Titus, No. 457 Pearl street, New York.

By direction of the Board of Trustees. MICHAEL M. TITUS, Chairman.Richard Field, Secretary.New York, July 15th, 1828.

The following members were named to receive and forward Donations, agreeably to the above notice.--Dr. AtLee, Jun. 139 Vine street, Philadelphia--William E. Coale, Sharp street, Baltimore--Thomas Levering, Seventh street, West, near the Post-Office, Washington City.

From the Anti-Slavery Society of Maryland.To the American Convention for promoting the Abolition of Slavery, and improving the condition of the African Race.The Maryland Anti-Slavery Convention, congratulates the friends of human rights, on the reassembling of that body, which for so many years, has labored with so much disinterested zeal, in behalf of suffering humanity. While we have to deplore the continued existence of the great evil of slavery, in our beloved country, and the great increase of the unhappy victims of human cupidity, we rejoice with you that your labor has not been altogether in vain. Although you have not been able to procure the abolition of slavery, the condition of the African Race has been greatly improved since the organization of your association. And this is not all, for an impetus 004242has been given to this great work of improvement, which all the efforts of pride and avarice shall not be able to arrest. They may impede and retard its completion, but they cannot prevent the final abolition of slavery.

Since our last communication to the American Convention there have been two new societies recognized, as members of the Anti-Slavery Convention of Maryland. We believe the public mind is gradually improving in this state on the subject of slavery; but we have to regret that for some time past, the attention of our citizens, has been so intently directed to the contest on the approaching election of President, that they have been unwilling to look this subject in the face: and indeed several of the most zealous friends of emancipation have thought it best to remit our efforts to obtain the election to our state legislature, of persons professedly in favor of abolition: we have not however lost sight of this vastly important object.

The friends of gradual emancipation in this state presented memorials to Congress at its last session, praying the passage of a law for the gradual and safe abolition of slavery in the District of Columbia; and we hope the friends of suffering humanity in all parts of the union will continue to press this question upon the consideration of the National Legislature, until that foul blot at least, shall be washed from our national escutcheon.

The holders of slaves, although not the most numerous class even of white citizens in this state, yet being generally wealthy, possess an influence in our legislature, which has hitherto been too powerful to be controlled; this together with the extreme sensibility manifested, by that interest, whenever the subject is even named, sufficiently indicate the great difficulties which must be overcome before the good cause can completely triumph in Maryland. Add to this that in all slave states, the laws are necessarily made by the slave holder, and consequently intended to promote his interest and security alone; the comfort and protection of the slave being only secondary considerations, 004343and only consulted, so far as they are supposed to be tributary to the master's interests; and we need not wonder that our labor progresses slowly; the greater wonder is, that any progress is made at all.

The internal slave trade we fear has not diminished since your last meeting. This melancholy exhibition of human depravity is often greatly aggravated by furnishing the unprincipled with an opportunity of selling into perpetual bondage those unhappy beings who happen to be legally in their possession for a term of years. As these servants are by law entitled to their liberty at the expiration of a specified period, the laws ought to ensure to them the enjoyment of their freedom. But the fears which naturally arise in the mind when we have despoiled a brother of his rights, prevent a liberal legislation on the subject. If every man who purchases a slave for a term of years, were bound under suitable penalties, to produce the person of the slave, if living, to the country court, at the expiration of said term, with suitable provisions to enforce the fulfilment of the law, something like an approximation to equity might be expected. But alas! there is little to be hoped for from this quarter, until the public mind shall have been so enlightened as to perceive that on this, as on every other concern, "there exists an inseparable connexion between our interest and our duty."**See Washington's Farewell Address.

We therefore trust that the friends of liberty and justice will persevere in their endeavours to diffuse the light of truth on this important subject.

We acknowledge the receipt of 12 copies of the sketch of the slave laws by Stroud:--we hope that the exposition of these cruel laws will bring many to think on slavery, who never thought on it before; and we hope too, that consideration will induce feeling, and feeling prompt to action.

Let every member of the Convention remember the sacred precept "what thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might:" 004444at the same time confidently expecting HIS blessing on our labors, who "hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the Earth," for in due season we shall reap if we faint not.

We now appoint Daniel Raymond, William Kesley, William E. Coale, Henry Mankin, John S. Reese, David Brown, S.H. Matthews, E.I. Markland, and David Preston, our delegates to the American Convention for the present year.

The names of our officers at this time are as follows: David Harryman, PresidentE.I. Markland, Vice President.Henry Mankin, Rec. Secretary.Benjamin Lundy, Cor. Secretary.William R. Jones, Treasurer.Signed by order of the Convention, held in Baltimore, Oct. 28th 1828. D. HARRYMAN, President.Henry Mankin, Secretary.

From the National Anti-Slavery Tract Society.To the American Convention for Promoting the Abolition of Slavery, and improving the condition of the African race.The efforts that have been made by nations and individuals professing Christianity, within the space of a few years, to abolish the barbarous system of African Slavery, have inspired the liveliest emotions of hope in the bosom of philanthropy.--Although the long night of superstition and despotism, which succeeded the bright era of primitive Christianity, left the human mind enshrouded in ignorance; although a vast moral waste was thus presented to the view, where once the principles of civil liberty were cherished, and when pure religion reigned in the hearts of men; and notwithstanding we yet witness the effects of this great apostacy, in the continuance of a system of wrong and outrage, wherein power has usurped the place of right, and 004545selfishness and sophistry have been substituted for justice and reason; still we view, with pleasure, the advancement of moral light, and cheerfully look forward to the happy period when a brighter day shall dawn upon the Christian world--when avarice shall no longer trample on nature's universal prerogative, and man shall occupy the station assigned him by the Allwise Creator.

It is, indeed, peculiarly gratifying to perceive, that on this Continent--the grand theatre of African oppression--the voice of reformation has gone forth; that the light of liberty is progressing, and the thick cloud of ecclesiastical and political darkness are vanishing before it. If we look to the period when the first settlement of America, by the Europeans, gave rise to the horrible traffic in the natives of ill-fated Africa; if we trace the spirit of avarice along the dark mazes of superstition and grinding oppression, by the blood of the victims that encrimsoned its pathway; and if we contrast the state of things, at that day, with the philanthropic exertions of the present--truly we have cause for a well founded hope that the moral and political condition of this hemisphere is undergoing a rapid and happy change, and that they will eventually, blot out from their statute books the unrighteous enactments that gave man the legal power to enslave his fellow man.

But a few years have elapsed since the slave trade between the continents of Africa and America, was openly tolerated by all the nations of professing Christendom. Nearly every European Province in America then afforded a market for the souls and bodies of men. What is the state of things now? The Powers of both Europe and America, have generally denounced the horrid traffic, as piracy. Eight of the newly organized American nations, viz. Buenos Ayres, (or the Argentine Republic,) Chile, Peru, Bolivia, Columbia, Central America, Mexico, and Hayti, have totally abolished, not only the "Slave Trade," but even the system of Slavery, within the limits of their jurisdiction. Seven of the original States of this Union, 004646in which Slavery was once tolerated, viz. New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, have also enacted laws for its extinction: While Vermont, Maine, Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois, it is believed, have never permitted unconditional Slavery to have a legal existence within their borders. And, further, it is now totally interdicted in the whole territory of the United States, north of the line of 36 degrees and 30 minutes of north latitude.

Here we see that a wonderful change has taken place in the public mind, and in the circumstances of the African race, throughout a great portion of America; and it is peculiarly gratifying to know, that this change has been mostly effected within a quarter of a century. Indeed, it is but little more than half a century since the first visible efforts were made to turn the public attention to the subject. And it must be more gratifying still to perceive that the spirit of philanthropy is roused both in America and Europe, and that its votaries are now resolved to exterminate this unparalleled system of cruelty and oppression from the Western world. They do not expect to accomplish it by physical power, but by the influence of moral power. More than one hundred and forty Societies have been organized in the United States, (the most of them within the short period of five years,) with the view of effecting this great and desirable object. Many individuals are also laboring in the holy cause, with a zeal and perseverance worthy of all praise. These are making the most powerful appeals to the wisdom and justice of the sovereign people, and constituted authorities, to rid our country of the danger and disgrace that follow in the train, and are inseparably connected with hereditary oppression.

In England, also, a great moral revolution is going on.--Thousands are actively and zealously engaged in the good cause. All classes of the people, without distinction of age or sex, are labouring to pourtray the evils of colonial slavery and to devise plans for its extinction. The potent 004747voice of the nation has been heard in the halls of Parliament, and the champions of philanthropy have uttered their denunciations of the unholy system there. In short, the doom of British West Indian Slavery is sealed. The time is, doubtless, near at hand, when it will cease to exist, unconditionally, in all the colonies of that wide extended empire.

A knowledge of these facts and circumstances cannot fail to encourage the true philanthropist to press forward in the great and glorious work. From the history of the past, we have a sure presage of future success, provided we resolutely persevere. Nothing but this is wanting to secure the triumph of moral virtue over vice and corruption--the victory personal and political liberty over slavery and oppression.

But the people of the United States have yet much to do; and without the exertion of every genuine patriot and philanthropist, the work must drag heavily on. The evil, also, is hourly increasing, and the difficulty in counteracting it augments in an equal ratio therewith. The attention of all must be drawn to the important subject. Their feelings must be enlisted; and the moral energies of the nation must be put in requisition. We must not wait for the great and the influential to espouse our cause; neither must we calculate upon the sufficiency of any one plan, for the attainment of our object. Every feasible measure must be adopted that will have the least tendency to promote the benevolent and glorious undertaking.

It is with these views and feelings, that the National Anti-Slavery Tract Society approaches the American Convention for the Abolition of Slavery, &c. and requests permission to participate in its deliberations. We wish to be considered as humble coadjutors in the great work of philanthropy, which has so long engaged the attention of kindred associations, in America. Our object is, we believe, essentially the same that they have so zealously and successfully pursued, though we have not adopted, precisely, the same course of proceeding. While others take cognizance of things in general, connected with the abolition of slavery, this association confines itself to one branch 004848of the subject--to collecting and disseminating information relative thereto, that light and knowledge, respecting it, may be increased. In short, the principal point to which we have directed our attention, has been to facilitate, by means of the Press, a correspondence and communication between the friends of the cause in every section of the United States, and to give the most extensive circulation to arguments and the narration of facts connected therewith, that the means afforded will permit. We believe that much must yet be done towards preparing the public mind, before efficient measures can be adopted for the legal abolition of slavery, in many parts of the Union. The Press is admitted to be the most potent engine of the present age, for the spread of knowledge and the reformation of the corrupted state of Society. Let then its energies be directed to the promotion of this great, this holy undertaking.

Our Society was organized about eighteen months since.--The Constitution will be laid before the Convention, and will, more particularly, explain our object, &c. We have, as yet, done little more than attend to the publication of our periodical work; though for a few months past, we have employed an agent to travel in various parts of the United States, partly with the view of acquainting the public with our proceedings, and partly to urge the propriety of petitioning Congress, for the abolition of Slavery in the District of Columbia. What successes will result from our efforts, in this respect, will be more particularly manifest at a future period; but we are happy to state, that many who have heretofore stood aloof, and refrained from participating in our labors, have thus been induced to express a willingness to engage in promoting our cause.

This being the first time that we have asked a representation in the American Convention, it would, perhaps, be unbecoming the duty of our station, to urge the adoption of any particular measure: but we trust that we shall be excused for inviting your attention to two prominent points in the system of measures now pursued by the friends of universal emancipation in some parts of our country:--we allude to the Abolition of Slavery in 004949the District of Columbia, and the suppression of the Internal Slave Trade. With respect to the first, we shall say nothing, further than to express our belief that this is the proper period to press the subject upon the attention of Congress, by every legitimate means in our power, and to assure the Convention that we are disposed to co-operate therein to the extent of our ability. As to the second point, viz. The Abolition of the Internal Slave Trade, we beg the indulgence of the Convention, while we briefly state our views, and the course which we think might with propriety be pursued, in relation to it. It is to be presumed that the great body of the American people have not reflected sufficiently upon the nature of this outrageous traffic, or taken pains to inform themselves as to the principle upon which it is conducted. Had they done so, we conceive that they would have felt some conscientious scruples while silently passing it under review, and denouncing the same thing as "piracy " in another quarter of the globe! Where, we would ask, is the difference, in principle, between trafficing in human flesh and blood, on the African or American Continents?--or, to be more explicit, why shall the purchasing and kidnapping of slaves, in Africa, be stamped as a heinous offence, subject to the highest penalties that human power can inflict, while the very same business, carried on in the United States, is tolerated-nay, even sanctioned and protected by our laws? Are practices that are considered the most flagrant and criminal in a civilized community, transmuted to venial, or even virtuous acts, by a mere change of clime? Is the character of the most wicked and piratical deeds that were ever perpetrated, thus radically changed by being transacted within the limits of the United States! But shall we be told, that in the one case, the victims of this traffic are legal slaves, and not in the other? This doctrine may very well suit our opponents, yet it is wholly untrue. Slavery is, strictly as "legal" in Africa, as in America; for the inhabitants of that continent have the same right to enslave their fellow-men that we have ourselves:--the "right," in both 005050cases, rests on no other foundation than the power to oppress, and the will to exercise it. And, further, the Slave Trade is very generally conducted much in the same manner in both countries. Numerous Slave Factories, or depots, for their temporary incarceration, are established; the most hardened and depraved men are engaged in the business; the same cruel separation of the nearest and dearest connexions in life, and the same heart-rending family affliction is witnessed, in either case. Some are purchased with money, and some are kidnapped; some are inhumanly beaten and deprived of life; while some have maimed themselves, destroyed their own lives, or those of their oppressors, rather than submit to their cruel fate. These horrors are frequently witnessed alike, in Africa and America; and in both they are permitted, by the powers that exercise the sovereign authority. We might extend the comparison much further, but this must suffice for the present. Let us, then, repeat the interrogation, in the most emphatical manner: What is the difference in principle, between the prosecution of this disgraceful, anti-christian traffic in our own, or a foreign land? We believe thereis, in reality, none. That their may be some difference in the amount of cruelty practised, we readily admit; but this is chiefly owing to the different circumstances in which those engaged in it are placed by laws. In the one case, they are protected by them, and in the other, condemned to death, if convicted.

We regret that we have it not in our power to state to what extent the internal American Slave Trade is carried. Our information respecting it is far short of what would be requisite to furnish an adequate idea of its magnitude, as well as its enormity. But we can gather something from the few facts that have come to our knowledge, which may present data for reasonable conjecture, and be of use in prosecuting further inquiry.

There are now, it is believed, three or four depots, or Slave-Jails, in the single District of Columbia, where the victims of this inhuman traffic are collected, chained, hand-cuffed, and 005151incarcerated, in loathsome dungeons, garrets, and cellars, until a sufficient number are procured to form a drove for the Southern market. There are also establishments of the same kind, in other sections of the country, one or more of which are located in the city of Baltimore. Many persons make it their regular business thus to trade in the souls and bodies of men, women, and children, from the Northern slave-holding states to the South, both by sea and land.--It is believed that hundreds are thus constantly employed. Nearly four hundred slaves have recently been transported by sea, from the port of Baltimore, in the short space of five or six weeks. Two hundred and twenty of them were confirmed in a single vessel. In addition to these, large droves,chained andmanacled, have been taken through the country, in various directions.

These facts, though they furnish but a partial view of the true state of things, speak in tones of thunder, shewing the necessity of putting an end to this diabolical business. Can it be possible that American Republicans, that professing Christians, will much longer sit with folded arms, and look upon such a horrible state of things without emotion? Whither have flown the spirits of the departed Lay, Woolman, Be nezet, Franklin, and Rush? Are there none left who have imbibed the fire of patriotism and philanthropy which actuated those champions in the cause of justice and liberty? Shall the people who make the highest profession of religion and justice, and the loudest boast of freedom of any in the known world, at the same time tolerate the worst practices of pagan nations and uphold the most outrageous system of oppression (the very thing they condemn in others) that has ever been recorded in the annals of mankind! We hope, for the sake of humanity and virtue--for the honor and future safety of our beloved country--for the success of our otherwise excellent system of government--for the peace and happiness of ourselves, and for the welfare of posterity, that this will not be the case. We hope that those who are 005252convinced of the impolicy, the inhumanity, and the extremely evil tendency of this cruel traffic, will sound the tocsin of alarm, and rouse the nation to a sense of the wonderful inconsistency thus manifested in its profession and practice. We think it must be evident to every well informed and unbiassed mind, that the Foreign and Domestic Slave Trade is the same in principle; therefore the nation has equally the right to enact and enforce the execution of laws for the prohibition of the one, as well as the other; and that it would be consistent with the wisest policy of government to do it, cannot, in our opinion, for a moment be doubted.

Our Society consists at present of about fifty members, all of whom are residents of slave-holding states.

We have appointed the following members to represent us in the American Convention, for the ensuing session, viz. Benj. Lundy, William R. Jones, John Needles, Abraham Sliver, and Joseph C. Dawes.

The names of our President and Board of Managers are as follows: William R. Jones, President.Benjamin Lundy, Corresponding Secretary.W.H. Morgan, Recording Secretary and Treasurer.John Needles, )Daniel Raymond,)David Brown,) Managers.Amos West,)John S. Reese, )William Kesley,)

Wishing you the most cordial fellowship and unanimity in your deliberations, and complete success in your philanthropic undertakings, we close this communication.

Signed on behalf of the National Anti-Slavery Tract Society, byWILLIAM R. JONES, President.November 3d, 1828.

From the Baltimore Society for the Protection of Free People of Color.To the American Convention for promoting the Abolition of Slavery and improving the condition of the African race.In consequence of the frequent recurrence in our city and state, of the kidnapping of persons of color who were actually free, as well as of those who were prospectively entitled to their freedom, contrary alike to the laws of the land and the dictates of humanity--a number of persons associated together to extend such assistance and protection as might be found practicable, to any portion of that unfortunate race whose cases should come to their knowledge.

Our Society was instituted in the summer of 1827, since which time we flatter ourselves, we have been instrumental in rescuing a number of persons, who would otherwise have been doomed to a state of bondage for life; and although our number is comparatively small, we believe the necessary degree of zeal in the cause we have embarked in, is maintained amongst us; and we continue disposed to hold out a helping hand to those of our fellow beings whose circumstances require it. Being under the impression that the object and views of our Society are intimately connected with those of yours, we have at a special meeting held 10th month, 17th 1828, appointed the following named persons to represent our Society in your Convention, viz. Thomas Matthews, William E. Bartlett, Samuel Wilson, Joseph Davenport, and Ephraim Gardner.

The number of members constituting our Society is about thirty. Our officers for the present are,Thomas Matthews, President.William E. Bartlett, Vice President.Joseph Davenport, treasurer.Joshua Matthews, Secretary.005454John Needles,)George Gillingham,)John Q. Hewlett,)Ephraim Gardner,) Managers.Benjamin P. Moore,)William Dallam,)William R. Jones,)Samuel Wilson, )

Signed on behalf of the Baltimore Society for the protection of Free People of Color.W.M.E. BARTLETT, V.P.Joshua Matthews, Secretary.From the Virginia Convention.To the American Convention to be held in Baltimore.When we reflect that many of the most enlightened men of America, have employed their time and talents for the laudable and magnanimous purpose of devising means, by which African slavery might be ultimately abolished, we fear that our exertions (comparatively speaking) will be abortive and unavailing. However we feel it our duty to contribute all that we possibly can to that great and noble cause, which ought to arrest the attention of every true philanthropist; and which so materially affects the vital interest and prosperity of our country. Never was there a subject which has more manifest claims on our comparison, benevolence, and humanity, than that of African degradation; for, in this case, we behold human nature stripped of every consoling prospect, and man put upon a par with the brute Creation. That such deprivation is incompatible with the designs of an overruling providence, is not only evident in itself, but convicting to every rational and reflecting mind, we trust will be admitted by all who have any claims to virtue, morality, and religion. Then why should we loiter, and not at once engage in a cause, based on such noble and exalted principles? To alleviate the miseries and calamities 005555of our oppressed fellow creatures, is a christian duty of the greatest magnitude, and to engage in it with an unremitting zeal is the only way to ensure success; these, we think, are hints which ought to be forcibly impressed on every mind.--We believe that there are many in this ancient domain (Virginia,) who would earnestly engage in the task of restoring the fallen and degraded sons of Africa to their long lost freedom and happiness, were it not for the scoffings of those prejudiced and interested persons, whose avarice obscures the sunshine of reason and benevolence; and whose nicest sensibilities are checked by a mere shadow--the fear of loosing their popularity.

But notwithstanding the impediments we are destined to meet, we hope to pursue the path of duty with a steady and determined step, till the cause in which we have engaged, shall have ripened into maturity; and gathered the scattered sons of oppression into the folds of happiness and security.--Then indeed, and not until then, will these United States attain to that dignity and elevation, which ought to characterize every republic. And more particularly one whose greatest boast is the liberty which all are permitted to enjoy: but so long as slavery is tolerated, there will be a stain on that flag of Independence which is ever exultingly displayed as an emblem of freedom and protection.

We have appointed the following members to attend the American Convention, viz.Daniel Janney,Samuel Brown,Josiah Fawcett,Daniel Smith,Christian Holmes, Robert Bond,William Holmes,Isaac Pidgeon,Joseph Hackney,Thomas Wright.

Signed by direction of the Virginia Convention for the abolition of slavery--held at Winchester the 20th, 21st, and 22d, of August 1828.JOSEPH HACKNEY, President.Thomas Wright, Secretary.

From the General Association of North Carolina.To the American Convention for the Abolition of Slavery, to be held in Baltimore, on the first Monday in November next.Fellow Laborers:

The General Association of the Manumission Society of North Carolina, vested its Board of Managers with a discretionary power, either of sending on a Delegate to your body, or of forwarding a written communication, as should seem most practicable;--since which, a brief has been received from your Secretary, informing us of your adjourned meeting to be held in Baltimore. The Board, after due deliberation, appointed the undersigned committee to forward a written communication.

We would that it were in our power to speak more encouragingly on the momentous subject of emancipation; which, however, we have not in our power,--or to say that we have made much progress for the past twelve months. And although, some degree of torpor is manifest in some of our branches, yet, we entertain a fervent hope, that our labors are not in vain as the subject has made its way, and our sentiments gradually gained ground in some unexpected sections of our state; and we are convinced that a latent sentiment favourable to our cause, exists in many breasts, which only needs being roused into action. And in order to that end, the Board of Managers have had recourse to publications for general distribution; the effects of which are discoverable, as it becomes more and more a subject of conversation; and subjects, which, a few years ago, would produce high irritation, are becoming the familiar topics of the day. So that, when we take a view of the indefatigable labors of philanthropists, who have heretofore been engaged in the cause, and the length of time their talents were occupied, with but seemingly little progress, and yet were ultimately successful, we think we are warranted in believing we have ground to hope, and encouragement to press forward: yet we must acknowledge there is much to do,--many long-inured prejudices 005757to remove. These, we believe, are gradually becoming weakened and measurably removed in many; and we have in our cause, the assistance and co-operation of some of those who are entangled in that general curse, which prevails over a great portion of this state.

It is with due deference, we address your Body, who have been so long engaged in this just cause, (and who have been to many of us, until of latter time, in a manner, unknown,) and devoutly hope for the blessing of success on the united labors of all who are engaged for the promotion of the same great end.

Signed on behalf of the Board,RICHARD MENDENHALL,) Committee.ZIMRI STUART,)

10th mo. 8th, 1828. To the American Abolition Convention for promoting the rights of oppressed man.Friends and Fellow Advocates in the cause of suffering humanity:--I received on the 16th of last month, by Isaac Barton, Secretary of your acting Committee, a few lines giving notice of the time and place of holding your ensuing Convention, with a request to send a Delegate or Delegates from the Manumission Society of Tennessee, to your said Convention. The Convention of our Manumission Societies was in session in 8th mo. last. The propriety of sending representatives from this to the American Convention was brought up, and considered, but the distance and scarcity of money, appeared to render it impracticable to represent our Convention at this time. We appointed a corresponding committee and instructed them to communicate with religious, humane and benevolent societies as far as practicable, and to report their progress to our next Convention. The members of that Committee live between 55 and 60 miles from me. The notice above alluded to from Isaac Barton, was the first knowledge which we had in these 005858parts, of the time or place of your Convention's meeting. I have sent on the notice to our Corresponding Committee, requesting them to reply promptly so as to reach the Convention at Baltimore, on the 3d of next month.

I am very anxious that the friends of freedom may be firm, and encouraged to persevere with christian fortitude, in promoting the great cause of justice, as the power of this republican government, is where it ought to be, that's with the people: It appears strange that they do not more seriously consider the interest of themselves and posterity. I wish that the several Religious and Benevolent Societies could be prevailed upon throughout this union, to consider the propriety of petitioning the several Legislative Authorities on the all-important subject of negro emancipation, but more particularly to load the tables of Congress with such Memorials, not only referring that august body, to the (little spot of ten miles square) District of Columbia over which Congress hold entire control. If Congress have power to regulate commerce between the several states, &c. let all the friends of man solicit the Congress to pass laws to prohibit that species of commerce, to wit: the Internal Slave Trade that's carried on to a very great (and shameful) extent between several of these states. Many men in several of the slave states, drive droves of horses, cattle and hogs, into slave states, and barter them for human beings, men, women and children; drive back the negro booty, and dispose of them as slaves, frequently to make payment for the live stock, they drove to human market; all this professors of religion practice, and government winks at it, with complacency. It's time for the people to be roused to their duty, and their rulers to abolish such things in plain explicit terms.JAMES JONES, President of the Manumission Society of Tennessee.

From the Benevolent Society of Alexandria for Improving the Condition of People of Colon.To the American Convention for Promoting the Abolition of Slavery and improving the condition of the African race, to be held in Baltimore, on the 3d of the 11th month next.

Respected Friends,We have appointed two of our members, Job Guest and William Veitch to attend the approaching Convention--in the objects of which we feel a deep interest, and we trust that its deliberations will be attended with the most beneficial consequences.

During the past year our society has continued to pursue the objects of its institution; and although nothing great or striking has been performed, we believe our labors have been useful to some individual sufferers, and that a patient continuance of them will in time produce a good effect upon the community. We believe that we can safely say, the sentiments of many of the most influential citizens of this District, as well as the adjoining States of Maryland and Virginia, are every year becoming more and more impressed with the important truth, that slavery is not only inconsistent with Christianity and republicanism, but likewise injurious to the pecuniary interests of the master.

We have lately had an application from a gentleman of Virginia on behalf of a pious lady, who is now educating her slaves to prepare them for freedom, to find places for two of her negro boys, who will be manumitted when they become of age. This is not the first application of the kind that we have had from Virginia, and it is probable that others will occur. In communities where slavery exists, it is extremely difficult to find suitable places for such children, and the law of Virginia, which in existence here, will not allow them a residence after they become free. Under these circumstances we have thought it expedient to communicate this information to the Convention, 006060and to suggest the propriety of some of the Abolition Societies in the non-slaveholding States, endeavoring to provide situations for such children, where they may be moderately educated and put out to trades. We shall be glad to open a correspondence with any Society that will undertake this duty.

During the last session of Congress, we endeavoured to obtain the passage of some laws for the protection of the free people of color, and to prevent the slave traders from carrying away those who will be entitled to freedom after a term of years--we were not successful, however, except in obtaining a law to prevent free negroes from being sold for the payment of their jail fees when taken up as runaways.

We co-operated with our sister Society of Washington City in drawing up and obtaining signatures to a petition to Congress for the gradual abolition of slavery within this District. It was signed by about two hundred respectable citizens in this town, and about eight hundred in Washington and Georgetown, and was presented to Congress last session but not called up for discussion.

Our society at this time consists of twenty-two members.

With desires that your proceedings may be conducted in the meek and humble spirit of Christ, which can alone render them useful, we remainYour Friends.

Signed on behalf of the society, byS.M. JANNEY, Cor. Sec'y.Alexandria, 10th Mo. 30th, 1828.P.S. Since writing the foregoing we are sorry to find that our representatives cannot attend the Convention.

Washington, October 31, 1828.This is to certify that at a stated meeting of the Washington Abolition Society, held on the second Monday in October, 1828, 006161Francis Burke, Samuel Myers, and Thomas Levering, were appointed Delegates from this Society to attend the American Convention for promoting the Abolition of Slavery and improving the condition of the African race, to be held at Baltimore on the first Monday in November next.JOHN SCRIVENER, Sec'ry.The Officers of this Society for the present year are as follows: John Chalmers, President.Jacob Janney, Vice President.R.P. Anderson, Corresponding Secretary.John Scrivener, Recording Secretary.Josiah Bosworth, Treasurer.