Columbia,
Aug. 13, 1848.
Friends Douglass & Delany:ー
Having for some years past been situated so distant from the active theatre of the Anti-Slavery movements, I have felt that the effusions of my pen would scarcely be felt among a list of contributors, who are perhaps unequalled in any enterprise for the advancement of the great interests of the human family. But as there are circumstances and occasions that call into active being those thoughts and feelings which have become a corporate part of our moral nature, and ought to regard any argument that apologizes for their introduction, as being at war with the true spirit of liberty, the dictates of conscience and the voice of God.
The circumstance that calls me into the field at this time, is as follows. On Friday evening last, on our return from Norristown, after the close of the Annual Meeting of the Eastern Penn. A. S. Society, our friends W. W. Brown and C. L. Remond were, by a previous invitation, to address our people in the Philadelphia Institute, Lombard st. The committee appointed to obtain a suitable building, where a larger portion of our people could be accommodated, have applied for some of the larger churches, but they were refused.
The meeting in the Institute was very eloquently addressed by the above-named speakers, in connection with Robert Purvis, Esq., and as the Report of the Committees and the position of the colored churches in relation to the Anti-Slavery movements, formed more than an incidental portion of their remarks, it would be useless for me to attempt to portray the effect on the audience.
The challenge to defend their position was accepted by the Rev. Daniel Scott, of the Baptist Church, who, in my opinion, only needed the weapons and a cause worthy his zeal to have given a vigorous resistance, even if he had been slain in the encounter. The Rev. S. H. Gloucester, already distinguished for his zealous opposition to the Anti-Slavery movement, having loudly responded to a sentiment uttered by his friend Scott, was called to the speaker's stand by C. L. Remond, and challenged to vindicate his position before the same tribunal which he had been arraigned. This he refused to do, but offered to meet Messrs. Remond and Brown on Monday evening, the 4th inst., in company with another friend, and pledged himself to prove that there is not a colored pro-slavery church in Philadelphia. The challenge was immediately accepted; but to Mr. Remond's inquiry whether they should have his church for the discussion, he quickly responded, No. Thus closed a scene of thrilling interest, laying the foundation of a meeting for Monday night, which, I trust, will be rendered immortal. I deeply regret that I cannot be present as a spectator. As a matter of personal gratification, I submit to the deprivation, but if my poor personal services were required, nothing should deter me. I know that the cause of freedom can at all times be safely entrusted to the parental care of Messrs. Remond and Brown, therefore I feel no concern for that side of the question. My greatest solicitude is, that Mr. Gloucester and friend may come up to the work manfully, that they may make at least a "Buena Vista" resistance, so that, if they should fall in defence of the church by the keen-edged swords of their invaders, they may at least be able to manifest their spirit of martyrdom, by exhibiting in their sacred altars the blood, scars and wounds they have received in defence of the myriads of devotees who worship at them.
The battle now having begun, it ought to be continued on until its termination, until the church shall be able to vindicate the purity of her motives in regard to her position with the Anti-Slavery movement, her freedom from the venom of pro-slavery, and put her accusers forever at rest, or failing to do this, her accusers may be able to arrest her withering influence, and say to her, Hitherto hast thou domineered over the hearts and consciences of men, but no furtherーhere let thy proud waves be stayed, so that we may see her, with all her lofty pretensions, recoil in obedience to the high behest of truth. Let no quarter be given to those whom truth slayeth. Let them fall unwept, unhonored, and unmourned. While the oral discussion is going on, let the press speak out with the earthquake voice of resolution. In this cause there should be no neutrals, and though distant from the scene of action, I shall at least take my portion in the struggle.
W. W.
P.S. To the person or persons who keep my North Star three, four and five weeks, and then send it homeーI am satisfied with your honesty, but you do subject me to much inconvenience. If you will give me your name and residence, I will have a copy sent to you. As you now have the last three numbers on hand, please return them.
W. W.