I had ample opportunities at that time, for doing good, by preaching to my fellow men, both in town and country.
Several other colored brethren, about this time, gave evidence of having been called of God, to the work of preaching the gospel.

Among these was a dear brother, named Alexander Daniel.

He was a bright and shining light, among our people, and everything considered, I think he was the best preacher of color I ever heard.

But alas, he is no more! He was esteemed as a christian minister, and his friends, both white and colored, united in erecting a monument over his grave.
In my attempts to preach the gospel to my fellow sinners, I often felt embarrassed, not knowing how to read a chapter in the Bible correctly.
My desires now increased for such a knowledge of the sacred Scriptures, as would enable me to read a chapter publicly to my hearers.

I thought that if I had all my time at my own command, I would devote it all to divine things.