Letter from Gerrit Smith, Peterboro, [New York], to William Lloyd Garrison, 1853 June 16
Description:
Gerrit Smith writes to William Lloyd Garrison asking for his help locating a quotation expressing the "noble sentiments of [Marquis de] La Fayette in regard to Am[erican] Slavery." Smith also is looking for Lafayette's statement about not aiding "the American cause had he forseen the continuation & extension of American slavery." He asks Garrison if he cannot find the quotations, "perhaps your friend W. Phillips or E. Quincy can."
Holograph, signed.
Title devised by cataloger.
Boston Public Library (Rare Books Department) manuscript composed in black ink on blue paper with a small checkmark drawn in pencil in the head- spine corner. Along the spine edge of the first page, the number "76" is written in pencil, while on the verso, along the spine edge, the phrase "Gerrit Smith - Peterboro', June 16, 1853." is written vertically in pencil. On the third page is a printed sheet, entitled "Do Not Lose Your Lands!" which explains that parcels of land "which Gerrit Smith has given away to poor and worthy white and colored men, were advertised to be sold for taxes." It advises anyone who bought these parcels from Smith to pay taxes to the state while advertising another land sale Smith is planning for "the latter part of the present year". This printed page is dated "Syracuse, March 1, 1853" and carries the names "Samuel May, Chas. A. Wheaton, [and] Abner Bates."