About this time I heard of their state by an underground railroad passenger, who came from that neighbourhood, and resolved to make an effort to obtain the freedom of my parents, and to relieve myself from liability.

For this purpose, after arranging for the means to purchase, I employed counsel to make a definite offer for my parents and myself.

To his proposal, the following evasive and offensive answer was returned.
_January 12th_, 1846.

J.H----, Esq.
"Sir,--Your letter is before me.

The ungrateful servant in whose behalf you write, merits no clemency from me.