The following is an extract of a letter from one of the most distinguished reformers of the age. It contains some hints to ministers of the gospel, which ought to be given publicly for their benefit:
The cause in which you are engaged will certainly prevail, and so will mine;[*] but when? It is not for us to ask. God will accomplish it in his own time: and perhaps by our means. We ought to be content to be His instruments, without aspiring to direct him. Slavery and war will be abolished throughout all Christendom, and the abolition of them depends on public opinion; and public opinion is directed by the pulpit and the press—by speaking and writing; and there is no other way. Unfortunately, many of our ministers are too much under
the fear of man which bringeth a snare,and they thereforeshun to declare the whole counsel of God.Many who entertain correct sentiments about war and slavery, have not the moral courage to declare them. How they will answer it at the bar of God, I know not. Many seem to fear to examine these subjects, lest they should bring upon themselves greater responsibilities than they rae willing to bear; not reflecting that duties neglected bring as great condemnation as crime committed. But all ministers are not so: there are noble examples to the contrary; and when the pulpit shall unite with the press, war and slavery will cease to pollute the Lord’s vineyard.
[*] The cause of Peace.
Extract of a letter from a gentleman in Vermont.
Dear Sir—One of my neighbors has just had the reading of your proposals for the Liberator, &c. He says it is professedly the very thing that is wanted. If you steadfastly pursue your object, you will in the end by crowned with the honors of the greatest victory ever won by mortal power. He would assure you, that you need fear no overthrow in the contest—for the moral power of the nation is on your side;(1) and if you fail, you lose nothing—as, in that case, it will be evidenced that but little will have been left worth preserving.
You will please forward me a copy of your paper, which will be paid for when received. And believe me a friend to Liberty, Peace, Temperance and Christian Morality; yet purified from licentiousness, violence, enthusiasm, (2) and fanaticism.
(1) It may be; but at present it has no efficacy, being struck with a fearful paralysis. Still we confidently rely upon its awakened energy to redeem the land from the curse and crime of slavery.
(2) Enthusiasm?
In all great reformations, a generous and ever blazing enthusiasm is necessary to quicken the dormant, and to inspirit the heart of the reformer. But licentiousness, and violence, and fanaticism — these are traits which do not belong to truth or justice.
Extract of a letter from a gentleman in Mount-Vernon, N. H.
Dear Sir:—I have recently read your proposals for publishing the Liberator, and I think that no American, who makes any pretensions to philanthropy, patriotism, morality or christianity, can do less than wish you
God speed.You will please to add my name to your list of subscribers.
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