That this was actually done is the best of all proofs of the moral depravity of the nation which slavery had wrought.
Garrison's vindication of the free people of color in Exeter Hall, London, on July 13, 1833, from this sort of detraction and villification is of historic value: "Sir," said he, addressing the chair, "it is not possible for the mind to coin, or the tongue to utter baser libels against an injured people.
Their condition is as much superior to that of the slaves as the light of heaven is more cheering than the darkness of the pit.

Many of their number are in the most affluent circumstances, and distinguished for their refinement, enterprise, and talents.

They have flourishing churches, supplied by pastors of their own color, in various parts of the land, embracing a large body of the truly excellent of the earth.
They have public and private libraries.

They have their temperance societies, their debating societies, their moral societies, their literary societies, their benevolent societies, their saving societies, and a multitude of kindred associations.

They have their infant schools, their primary and high schools, their sabbath schools, and their Bible classes.