state. The traffic which is thus carried on from state
to state, is fruitful of evil consequences, not only depraving
the minds of those engaged in it, but producing the most cruel
separations of near connexions, and depriving its victims of
almost every incentive to conjugal fidelity or correctness of
conduct. Perhaps next in importance in meliorating the condition
of the slaves, is the adoption of regulations for their religious
instruction, and the education of their children.

The condition of the free people of color in the United States
has claimed our attention, and we earnestly recommend to the
several societies, not only to use their endeavors to protect
them in their just rights, but to use every means in their power
to elevate them in the scale of society, by affording them and
their children the means of literary instruction. And as the
first day of the week is too frequently spent by them in
dissipation, we would suggest the formation of associations
wherever practicable, for the establishment of first day or
Sunday schools for their benefit, as well as schools on the other
days of the week. The degraded condition of this class of men
ought to call forth our regret and sympathy; being precluded from
pursuing the lucrative employments of life, it is much to be
desired that more of them than have heretofore been permitted may
be instructed in handicraft trades, and employed in manufactures.

You will observe, by our minutes, that the Convention has again
addressed Congress, on the important subject of the abolition of
slavery in the District of Columbia, and the restriction of the
further introduction of slaves into the Territory of Florida; and
we hope our application will be supported by addresses from other
bodies of our constituents. The Convention believes that if the
advocates of freedom persevere in endeavoring to enlighten the
public mind on this all important subject, that the time is not
far distant when a triumph will be obtained over the strong
prejudice and delusion which has so long continued, and the cause
of justice and humanity will finally prevail.

The Convention fervently desires that all who have put their
hands to this great work may really deserve the epithet of
"Saints," which in irony has been reproachful