Frederick Douglass to Charles Sumner, October 4, 1871
Washington D.C. Oct. 4th 1871
Hon. Charles Sumner:
My dear Sir: I thank you for calling my attention to the disparaging reference to Mr Motley, in the New National Era. Nothing of the sort could have appeared in the paper had I been in the office when it was published. I was at home in Rochester, arranging my affairs preparatory to coming here when the offensive paragraph was inserted. I regret the reflection very much and shall explain in my next number. Not less than the most influential, I have an interest in being just to great men, who have honorably served the country. I know Mr Motley only through his works and through the persecutions to which he was subjected under President Andrew Johnson. My prepossions are all in his favor. The Suspicion has reached me that in his removal, he has received a blow really meant for you. Can this be so? I am obliged by the copy of your speech apon the Johnson Clarendon Treaty and also for that apon one cent postage.
I am, dear Sir, Always yours truly
Frederick Douglass.