You are fully aware, also, that the question, whether the Bible sanctions slavery, has distinctly divided this nation in sentiment.

On the side of Biblical Anti-slavery, we have many of the most learned, wise and holy men in the land.

If the Bible affords no sanction to slavery, (and I claim that it cannot,) then it must be a sin of the deepest dye; and can you, sir, think to go to God in hope with a sin of such magnitude upon your soul?
But admitting that the question is yet doubtful, (which I do only for the sake of argument,) still, sir, you will have the critical hazard of this doubt pressing, in no very doubtful way, upon your declining years, as you descend the long and tedious hill of life.
Would it not seem to be exceedingly undesirable to close an eventful probation of seventy or eighty years, and leave your reputation among posterity suspended upon so doubtful an issue?
But what, my dear sir, is a reputation among posterity, who are but worms, compared with a destiny in the world of spirits?
And it is in light of that destiny that I would now have you look at this subject.

You and I, and all that you claim as your slaves, are in a state of probation; our great business is to serve God under His righteous moral government.

Master and slave are the subjects of that government, bound by its immutable requirements, and liable to its sanctions in the next world, though enjoying its forbearance in this.