After learning my wishes fully, he consented, and told me, when I got ready to start, he would give me a pass, to go where I pleased.
I thanked him sincerely for this privilege, and after making arrangements, in the way of obtaining suitable letters of recommendation, I left Fredericksburg, in June, 1845, for Philadelphia, New York, Boston, &c.
After spending nearly four months in visiting the northern cities, I returned home, with about one hundred and fifty dollars, greatly disheartened.
Previous to going north, I had raised about a hundred and fifty dollars, which I had already paid on my debt.
The cause of my failure to raise all the money, I believe, was that I was unaccustomed to addressing large congregations of strangers; and often, when I was favored with an opportunity of presenting my case to the people, I would feel such embarrassment that I could scarcely say anything.

And I met another obstacle, which discouraged me very much; which was, that some persons would tell me they sympathized with me, in my efforts to get free; but they said it was against their principles to give money, to buy slaves.

I confess, this was new to me, and would cut me down much in my spirits--still I found generous and noble-hearted friends, who treated me with every mark of kindness.
I began to wonder to myself, whether God was in this matter, or not; and if so, why I had not succeeded.

However, having returned home, I went to work at my trade, for the purpose of earning the remainder of the money.

Having paid what I was able, toward my debt, and reserving enough to open a shop, upon my own account, my old boss, Mr.Wright, my true and constant friend, became my protector, so that I might carry on my business lawfully.