satisfied, having given Harriet and her family the liberty of
choice, and thus made all the reparation in their power for
having ever held her in slavery.

"The large price paid for the redemption of this family may
surprise thee, especially if thou hast not forgotten that
passage in Worthington's letter where he says, 'I am, to some
extent, opposed to slavery; nor do I object to the efforts of
abolitionists when done in a good spirit.' It is, however, but
justice to say that the description he gave of the family is
strictly correct 'They are all sprightly, remarkable for good
character, and of course most valuable for house servants.' He
said he had repeatedly been offered two thousand dollars for
Sam, and he believed he would command that sum any day from
those who knew his worth; that his old master prised him very
highly, particularly for his moral excellence; and, speaking of
his conduct, described him as a 'gentleman.' Yet he talked as if
he were certain that Sam and his family would be reduced to
beggary if left to themselves at the North! The children, it is
true, have had little preparation in slavery for self reliance;
for the most favored of them cannot spell their own names.

"S. Worthington said many had inquired of him what business
brought me there; and being informed of the object of my
mission, they advised him to have nothing to do with me. 'But,'
said he, 'though I am certain the condition of Sam and his wife
cannot be bettered, I do not think the same with regard to their
children; and as Mr. Smith seems disposed to do a kind action, I
cannot, in conscience, attempt to frustrate it. If I were to
send you home without this family, I should have a troubled
mind.'

"One of Worthington's greatest difficulties in parting with
these slaves was, that it would leave his wife destitute of
servants. I pitied her, and felt it right to express my
sympathy. I told her my compassion was increased, because I
apprehended there was a struggle in her own breast between duty
and interest; and I appealed to her whether she did not know it
was a duty to let them go, though personal interest would induce
her to keep them in her service. I was glad to perceive that
these remarks enabled her to relieve herself of a weight--her
countenance brightened up, and she appeare