We were stung by scorpions--chased by wild beasts--bitten by snakes; and, worst of all, after having succeeded in swimming rivers--encountering wild beasts--sleeping in the woods--suffering hunger, cold, heat and nakedness--we supposed ourselves to be overtaken by hired kidnappers, who, in the name of the law, and for their thrice accursed reward, would, perchance, fire upon us--kill some, wound others, and capture all.

This dark picture,{219} drawn by ignorance and fear, at times greatly shook our determination, and not unfrequently caused us to _Rather bear those ills we had Than fly to others which we knew not of_.
I am not disposed to magnify this circumstance in my experience, and yet I think I shall seem to be so disposed, to the reader.

No man can tell the intense agony which is felt by the slave, when wavering on the point of making his escape.

All that he has is at stake; and even that which he has not, is at stake, also.

The life which he has, may be lost, and the liberty which he seeks, may not be gained.
Patrick Henry, to a listening senate, thrilled by his magic eloquence, and ready to stand by him in his boldest flights, could say, GIVE ME LIBERTY OR GIVE ME DEATH, and this saying was a sublime one, even for a freeman; but, incomparably more sublime, is the same sentiment, when _practically_ asserted by men accustomed to the lash and chain--men whose sensibilities must have become more or less deadened by their bondage.