MY FRIEND DOUGLASS:—In your last paper you have opened a new subject that needs some "essayings," from which a "Legal Tender," both in heaven and earth may be coined. Not that you have opened a new "mine," but struck a new vein, in the discussion of a subject-the elevation of the "free people of color" of the North.
I almost rejoice that matters in regard to this class are as you state them and; I think you state the truth, that they are being superseded in their common occupations by the whites; it shows if they have not the ambition and energy to elevate themselves to the standing of whites, the whites can descend to them. That while the Southern people do not hesitate to steal both soul and body, Northern men will steal what they say is the "nigger's" "birth-right" menial employment.
With yourself, you know I feel some interest in the elevation of the colored man. We may talk and write with others, to them, until our work is closed here, and shall effect but little in the way of leading the mass of them to seek for themselves and their children different employment. In the revolution of things they will be, they are to be forced into a difference position. May the friendship of their friends now be manfested.
A new era has arisen; and our discussion and action is to have reference to this new state of things that is being developed. I await with much interest the suggestions of Mrs. Stowe in this matter. Meanwhile, with your permission, I would offer a few crude notions

P. C. S.