Frederick Douglass Samuel J. May, December 29, 1847
My Dear Friend May: I owe you an apology for not achnowledging a former kind note of yours sent me enclosed with one to Miss Owin.—That old excuse of editors "pressing engagements"—must be my excuse for this seeming neglect. I feel grateful to you for the kind words of The Star, and hope it is not unmerited.
I shall be most happy to stop in your good City on my way from the Annual meeting of the Massachusitts Antislavery Society in January—and you shall have notice of it due season.
I was more than sorry for your absence from our Annual meeting, held here last week. The cause had need of you. If you could have known the strength of our desire to have you among us on that occasion you would have found it hard to
have stayed away. We shall however hold you engaged to lecture on the subject of slavery at least two Evenings, when you come to Rochester. A line to Issac Post—or Amy Post informing them of the time you may be expected, and preparation will be made.
I am somewhat encouraged with the prospect of the North Star—Though a few weeks will be necessary to make up a decision as to the future success of the enterprise. It was an attempt and if successful it will be a source of good to the cause—and not a little satisfaction to me.
I am not aware that you are at all indebted to me—and am willing if you are, to consider ourselves square. I have doubtless been paid for as many of the Narratives—as you
have—and not unlikely a few more. So we will let it stand at that.
Please make my kindest regards to Mrs. May—and the Dear children, and
Believe me yours Sincerely & gratefully
Frederick Douglass
Samuel J. May.
Rochester, 29th. Dec.