nt to our feelings. And already we hear
disputed the binding effect of the ordinance--the power of
Congress to restrict a State, etc., etc., from which I fear, if
the introduction of Slavery should be tolerated here, the
discussions on the expediency and unconstitutionality of the
measure will not in all probability be confined to the citizens
of this State. But this is a part of the question too painful for
me to dwell on. I trust the good sense and virtue of the citizens
of Illinois will never sanction a measure so well calculated to
disturb the harmony of the Union and so injurious to its own
prosperity and happiness, as well as so directly opposite to the
progress of those enlightened and liberal principles which do
honor to the age. But to insure this it is necessary that the
public mind should be enlightened on the moral and political
effects of Slavery. You will confer a particular favor on me and
promote the virtuous cause in which I am enlisted, by giving me
information, or referring me to the sources from whence I can
draw it, calculated to elucidate the general character and
effects of Slavery--its moral, political and social
effects--facts showing its effects on the price of lands, and
general improvement and appearance of a country--of labor both as
it respects agriculture and manufactures, etc., etc. The State of
Pennsylvania having been long distinguished for its attachment to
free principles, there is no doubt but what you can procure in
Philadelphia many valuable pamphlets and publications which would
throw light on this question. Any which you may have it in your
power to procure and forward, will be most thankfully received,
and the amount of the expense repaid as soon as it is known. Your
old and truly sincere friend,

EDWARD COLES.

TO NICHOLAS BIDDLE, ESQ.,
PRESIDENT OF THE BANK OF THE UNITED STATES,
PHILADELPHIA.

MR. BIDDLE TO GOVERNOR COLES

PHILADELPHIA, May 20, 1823.

_Dear Sir:_ I have just received your friendly letter of the 22nd
ult., to which I shall take the first moment of leisure to give a
more detailed answer. In the meantime I can only say that I feel
most sincerely the embarrassment of your situation, and hope th