But books on England are abundant, and the public may, therefore, dismiss any fear that I am meditating another infliction in that line;{290} though, in truth, I should like much to write a book on those countries, if for nothing else, to make grateful mention of the many dear friends, whose benevolent actions toward me are ineffaceably stamped upon my memory, and warmly treasured in my heart.

To these friends I owe my freedom in the United States.

On their own motion, without any solicitation from me (Mrs.Henry Richardson, a clever lady, remarkable for her devotion to every good work, taking the lead), they raised a fund sufficient to purchase my freedom, and actually paid it over, and placed the papers [8] of my manumission in my hands, before {291} they would tolerate the idea of my returning to this, my native country.

To this commercial transaction I owe my exemption from the democratic operation of the Fugitive Slave Bill of 1850.

But for this, I might at any time become a victim of this most cruel and scandalous enactment, and be doomed to end my life, as I began it, a slave.