Frederick Douglass Richard D. Webb, December 14, 1845
Brown's Hotel, Liverpool 14th. Dec. [1845]
Dear friend.
I arrived here last night from Belfast in the 'Sea Ring'—Had an excellent passage—being out only 13 hours—very good for this season.
On my arrival I learned that the H ---- family were in Town. I at once resolved to make them a call. I have done so—I was met at the Door by Jesse. It was a somewhat difficult meeting—on both sides. He was disposed to talk the matter of our difference over at the door, his exceedingly warm and friendly manner—as well as I understand him induced in me, a pang of regret
for the course I had seen fit to pursue toward him. This was the more so—when I saw the sorrow of heart which it had given the younger brothers and Sister. They stood when I entered with tears in thier Eyes. It was indeed painful—It was too much for me—altogether too much. I could have wished I had for their sakes past the whole matter over in Silence.
Jesse and I concluded to say nothing about the matter—but wait till James could be present with us. I spent but a few minutes with them. Poor Judson—was quite sick I left them in the act of puting him in the wet Sheet. I think he will soon revive—as he suffers from fever. For that, the wet sheet is everything.
My two last meetings in Belfast created great sensation and I hope did much good. I dealt most intirely with the free Church and Dr. Chalmers. Both are in high repute in Belfast. It was going direc[t]ly against the prejudices of a majority of my Audience. They however paid every attention, and when I put the question as to whether the free Church had done right in receiving the Slave holders money & fellowshipping them as Christians—Their Decision was unanimous against the free Church, Thus you see the tide is turning.
I shall leave this tomorrow morning for Bermingham and shall leave there for Belfast on friday that I may reach Belfast on Saturday. I have given Friend Smeal to understand that after my meetings in Belfast—I will at once proceed to Glasgow. If you get any copies of the engraving—you will do me kindness to send me one at Bermingham.
I had prepared letters for America—but find that the mail dose not go before January. My warm regards to Mrs. Webb.
truly Yours
F Douglass