Xvii.
In a letter to Colored citizens, on Harmony between the Races, he wrote:Thus far, in constant efforts for the Colored Race, I have sincerely sought the good of all; which I was convinced would be best obtained in fulfilling the promises of the Declaration of Indepedence, making all equal in rights. The spirit in which I acted appears in an early speech, when I said: ‘Nothing in hate, nothing in vengeance.’ Never have I asked for punishment. Most anxiously I have looked for the time, which seems now at hand, when there shall be reconciliation; not only between the North and South, but between the two races; so that the two races and the two sections may be lifted from the ruts and grooves in which they are now fastened; and, instead of irritating antagonism without end, there shall be sympathetic cooperation. The existing differences ought to be ended. There is a time for all things, and we are admonished by a widespread popular uprising bursting the bonds of party, that the time has come for estrangement to cease between people who by the ordinance of God must live together. Gladly do I welcome these happy signs; nor can I observe without regret the colored people in organized masses resisting the friendly overtures, even to the extent of intimidating those who are the other way. It is for them to consider carefully whether they should not take advantage of the unexpected opening, and recognize the bail bond given at Baltimore as the assurance of peace, holding the parties to the full performance of its conditions, provided always that their rights are fixed. I am sure it cannot be best for the colored people to band together in a hostile camp, provoking antagonism and keeping alive the separation of races. Above all there must be no intimidation, but every voter must act freely, without constraint from league or lodge. Much better will it be when two political parties compete for your vote, each anxious for your support. Only then will that citizenship by which you are entitled to the equal rights of all, have its full fruits. Only then will there be that harmony which is essential to a true civilization.
