My sorrow has been that I know you are not in possession of those hallowed means of grace.

I am thankful to you for those mild and gentle traits of character which you took such care to enforce upon me in my youthful days.

As an evidence that I prize both you and them, I may say that at the age of thirty-seven, I find them as valuable as any lessons I have learned, nor am I ashamed to let it be known to the world, that I am the son of a bond man and a bond woman.
Let me urge upon you the fundamental truths of the Gospel of the Son of God.

Let repentance towards God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ have their perfect work in you, I beseech you.

Do not be prejudiced against the gospel because it may be seemingly twisted into a support of slavery.