COLONIZATION

Castile, N. Y., Feb. 3rd, 1857.

MR. DOUGLASS: DEAR SIR:—I have been much surprised to notice how extensively the people's minds, in this section, are engrossed by the subject of Colonization. What a glorious future is in store for us poor colored people, should we only follow out the plans laid by the whites! If I had the least spark of ambition, I should ere this have been on my way to take that tide in my affairs "which would lead me to the Presidential chair, or some other post of honor in the great (future) Republic."

How grateful we ought to be for the regard manifested for our welfare though it's a little strange that the same amount of interest is not taken in things that tend to our own benefit in this country. Now, I do not wish to suggest any thing that will conflict with the "true interests" of the people of color; but I think that there are "prospects" sufficiently extensive in this country for a more ambitious people than we are. Look at the lands in the West, that are enticing emigrants from all quarters of the world—rich lands, that can be purchased for a song, and which require but a "tickling with the hoe to laugh you a harvest" If you do not wish to go there to "take off your coat, and roll up your sleeves," why, just ave some of the money spent for shanghie coats, tight pants, late suppers, &c.—get up a stock company, and invest it in western lands.

They say we are in a imitative people; then let us imitate the whites in this, and all other laudable ways— ourselves into a tower of strength that will break every puny colonization lever that undertakes to remove us from this, There is "position" and "glory" enough in store for us here, if we only take advantage of every means to acquire it, that presents itself.

They give us credit for elements—tools which are not confined to any particular sphere—but which effect more, if not subject to the detriment that a change of climate would produce.

Then let us away! to the glorious West!

Leave Africa to those who like it the best,

Leave cities, towns, and menial employments,

For the life of a farmer, and attendant enjoyments.

Yours, anon,

A. A. LUCA.