Carlingham, an old school-fellow who was spending a few days with
him,--"It is my wish that a new system be adopted on the
plantations in this State. I believe that the sons of Ham should
have the gospel, and I intend that mine shall have it. The gospel
is calculated to make mankind better and none should be without
it."
"What say you," said Carlingham, "about the right of man to his
liberty?"
"Now, Carlingham, you have begun to harp again about men's rights.
I really wish that you could see this matter as I do."'
"I regret that I cannot see eye to eye with you," said Carlingham.
"I am a disciple of Rousseau, and have for years made the rights
of. man my study, and I must confess to you that I see no
difference between white and black, as it regards liberty."
"Now, my dear Carlingham, would you really have the negroes enjoy
the same rights as ourselves?"
"I would most certainly. Look at our great Declaration of
Independence! look even at the Constitution of our own Connecticut
and see what is said in these about liberty."
"I regard all this talk about rights as mere humbug. The Bible is
older than the Declaration of Independence, and there I take my
stand."
A long discussion followed, in which both gentlemen put forth their
peculiar ideas with much warmth of feeling.
During this conversation, there was another person in the room,
seated by the window, who, although at work, embroidering a fine
collar, paid minute attention to what was said.
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