with infinite interest the case of the _Amistad_;
but understand, from Mrs. Charles Sedgwick, that there is to be an
appeal upon the matter. As, however, the result will, I presume, be the
same, the more publicity the affair obtains, the more it and all kindred
subjects are discussed, spoken of, thought on, and written about, the
better for us unfortunate slaveholders.

I am very much obliged to you for sending me that article on Mr. Jay's
book. You know how earnestly I look to every sign of the approaching
termination of this national disgrace and individual misfortune; and
when men of ability and character conscientiously raise their voices
against it, who can be so faint-hearted as not to have faith in its
ultimate downfall?

Your very name pledges you in some sort to this cause, and, among your
other important duties, let me (who am now involuntarily implicated in
this terrible abuse) beg you to remember that this one is an
inheritance; and for the sake of those, justly honored, who have
bequeathed it to you, discharge it with the ability nature has so
bountifully endowed you with, and you cannot fail to accomplish great
good.

In reading your article, I was much reminded of Legget, whose place, it
seems to me, there is none but you to fill.

I have just been interrupted by a letter from Elizabeth, confirming the
news of your sister's return from Europe. I congratulate you heartily
upon the termination of your anxieties about her. Remember me most
kindly to her, and to your mother, if my message can be made acceptable
to her in her present affliction, and believe me

Ever yours most truly,
F. A. B.

[The _Amistad_ was a low raking schooner, conveying between fifty
and sixty negroes, fresh from Africa, from Havannah to Guamapah,
Port Principe, to the plantation of one of the passengers. The
captain and three of the crew were murdered by the negroes. Two
planters were spared to navigate the vessel back to Africa. Forced
to steer east all day, these white men steered west and north all
night; and after two months, coming near New London, the schooner
was captured by the United States schooner _Washington_, and carried
into port, where a trial was held by the Circuit Court at Hertford,
transferred to the District Court, and sent by appeal to the United
States Supreme Court. The