Denver, 6/15, '86. My dear Douglass: Your letter in answer to my application for a John Brown Autograph for our mutual old friend, the Hon. E. B. Washburne, and the almost successor of Genl. Grant, came to me yesterday, and I immediately forwarded it to the Hon. E. B. W. at 365, Dearborn Avenue, Chicago, Ill., in company with a letter of mine, telling him that the accompanying letter was a purely Autograph letter from you. I also told him that your natal year was 1817, being the following year to his and to my natal year, 1816, thus making you slightly our junior, as a Septagenerian. Now, by the way, Can you give me the address of John Brown, Jr., or any other person whom you think may possibly have such an Autograph? Mr E. B W. is engaged in writing his memoirs, and is very anxious to get the autograph of the old hero. I had forgotten that your successor was not yet confirmed by the Senate, although I did know that the incumbent hold his office until his successor is confirmed; thus, you see, the decay of memory has begun. Always yours, H. O. Wagner [*248*] N. SPRAGUE, Real Estate, Loan & Insurance Ag't. Room 8: 524 10th Street, N. W. Corner of F Washington, D. C. June 16th 1886 This is to certify, that on or about four or five years ago, I sold to Mr. Frederick Douglas sr. the following articles, Two sofas - Two easy chairs - Four chairs - for which I received payment in full. Nathan SpragueN. SPRAGUE Real Estate, Loan & Insurance Ag't Room 8: 524 10th Street, N.W. Corner of F Washington, D.C., June 16th, 1886 Articles that were not sold. 1 Bedstead, Springs and mattress. 1 Cloth tofe table (scarlet.) 1 Large chair, Brown refi, with green frufffing. Oval glass, and marble slab.STAR LYCEUM BUREAU, A. FOSTER, Manager. 130 Calyer Street, Brooklyn, N. Y. LECTURERS. LECTURERS. LECTURERS. READERS. ENTERTAINMENTS. Rev. Lyman Abbott, D.D. Hon, Fred Douglass. Thos. Nast. A. P. Burbank. Frank Lincoln’s Monologues. Miss Susan B. Anthony. Hon, Dan’l Dougherty. Eli Perkins. Alfred Beauclerk. Von Boyle's Monologues. Col. Geo. W. Bain. Miss Kate Field. Rev. E. P. Roe Mrs, Alice A. Draper. J. S, Burdett—Humorist, Mrs. E. T. Barrett. Hon. John R. French. Chaplain J. P. Roe. Miss Ida K, Hinds. Marshall P. Wilder—Humorist, Hon. B. K. Bruce. Dr. Dio Lewis. Prof. Nathan Sheppard. Miss Mabel Jenness, Robert H. Munro—Humorist, Geo. W. Bungay. Chaplain McCabe. Gen. Daniel E. Sickles. Anna M, Marshall. New York Philharmonic Club Will Carleton. Rev. Duncan McGregor. Rev. J. Hyatt Smith. Prof. W. A. Putnam. Meigs Sisters Vocal Quartette, Anthony Comstock. Prof. William I. Marshall. Prof. S. M. Spedon. Miss Olive Thompson, Dudley Buck Quartet Club. Col, L. F. Copeland. Mrs. Annie Jenness Miller. Hon. Thos. M. Taylor. Geo. Riddle. Star Lyceum Concert Co. Hon, Will Cumback. Prof. J. W. Moore. Dr. J. Jay Villers—Humorist. Prof, Thos, F, Wilford, Imperial Banjo Quartette, R, J. DeCordova. Hon. John Oakey. Rev. W.C. Weaver. H. A. Williams. Young Apollo Club, Brooklyn N.Y. June 16 1886. Hon. Frederick Douglass, Washington D.C. Dear Sir: Most of the lecturing engagements will be made during the summer while you are in Europe. Can you not set aside some dates for us to fill for you say late in the season while you are away? The best lecture courses such as could afford to engage you will all be completed before Sept so far as the business part is concerned. If possible, please give us some dates in Dec. or Jan. Respectfully A. Foster Manager [*249*]N. SPRAGUE, Real Estate, Loan & Insurance Ag't. Room 8: 524 10th Street, N. W. Corner of F Washington, D. C. June 22nd 1886 This is to certify, that I, Nathan Sprague, have received all furniture from Frederick Douglass, belonging to me, from his house and further that I have no claim whatever upon any furniture in his possession. Nathan Sprague [*250*]The Western Union Telegraph Company. This Company TRANSMITS and DELIVERS messages only on conditions limiting its liability, which have been assented to by the sender of the following message. Errors can be guarded against only by repeating a message back to the sending station for comparison, and the company will not hold itself liable for errors or delays in transmission or delivery of Unrepeated Messages, beyond the amount of tolls paid thereon, nor in any case where the claim is not presented in writing within sixty days after sending the message. This is an UNREPEATED MESSAGE, and is delivered by request of the sender, under the conditions named above. THOS. T. ECKERT, General Manager. NORVIN GREEN, President. NUMBER 166 C SENT BY R REC'D BY Dr CHECK 20 paid 8P Received at Corcoran Building, S.E. Cor. 15th & "F" Sts., Washington, D.C. June 24 1886 Dated Ripley O 24 To Hon John Sherman Washington DC Have you seen Douglass about coming to Ripley, please do so & urge him to answer at once. With price Chambers Baird [*460 *] [*8P *]Senate Chamber Washington June 25, 1886 Hon. Fred Douglas, Dear Sir : I send you a telegram from Ripley, from which it appears they will not give you up. So remarkable demand under the circumstances may make you change your mind. Very truly yours. John Sherman 25/Home of Destitute Colored Women & Children. Washington, D.C., June 28, 1886 We the undersigned, Miss Heacock & Miss Julia M. Bartlett [the] were requested according to our best recollection, in the spring of 1882, by Mrs. Sanga to sign her will as witnesses. Mrs. Sanga said that she had desired Dr. Chas. B. Pervis to attend to the matter, and that he would come soon and bring the will, Dr. Pervis came, and presented the will which we both signed. This took place on a Sunday morning. Mrs. Sanga told us that Dr. Pervis had written the will. Eliza Heacock Julia M. Bartlett [*253*]OFFICE OF THE BOARD OF PROMOTION. PERMANENT EXPOSITION OF THE THREE AMERICAS- To be located at the capital of The United States. CONSTITUTIONAL CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION IN 1889- By the 16 American Republics in honor of the 100th anniversary of the Constitution of the Parent Republic- The United States. WORLD'S EXPOSITION IN 1892- In honor of the 400th anniversary of the discovery of America by Columbus. Willard's Hotel, Washington D.C. June 28th. 1886 Hon. Frederick Douglas, Dear Sir:- The bearer Mr. E. B. Fox is authorized by me to collect the recent subscriptions to the Exposition promoting fund. Please make your check payable to the order of E. Kurtz Johnson, Treasurer. Very Respectfully, John H. Magruder Chairman Finance Committee. [*Recd #8000 balance of subscription [?]*] 252Freedmen’s Hospital Washington, D.C. July 1st 1886 Hon Fred Douglass Dear Friend I take time to write for a quotation from a letter I received this morning from my father - “You may say to Mr. D, I will meet him cordially and rub out from memory all of the unpleasantness of the past.” This message from my father is gratifying to me & I thought would also be to you. Yours truly C. B. Purvis [*254*]OFFICE OF THE RECORDER OF DEEDS, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. WASHINGTON, D.C., July 3d, 1886 My dear Doctor Purvis: I am obliged by your note of the 1st instant, I did not reach my office yesterday on account of ill health and the storm. What you said to me a few days ago prepared me for the kind message of your respected father. I have long wished your father could know my real feeling toward him. Resentment on account of differences have been but momentary with me. I have known his life and his works, his high and stainless character. For fifty years and more, and during all the period that tried the soul's of the friends of freedom as by fire, his was the march of inflexible outspoken fidelity to the cause of the slave and for this I have never ceased to respect and honor him. His rebuke of the impudent upstart who dared in his presence to appeal to popular prejudices against the negro at the woman suffrage convention in this city each winter showed that [*1841*]He had parted with no job of his hatred of injustice nor his ability to deal with it. Hearing him on that occasion with admiration I could have gladly spoken to him words of sincere approval. When I read that he had come to Washington for the purpose of having me removed from office, I thought it an ungenerous act, especially the ground upon which his action his action purported to be basedE. G. July 4th, 1886 My dear Friend Your note and Pamphlets, were duly rec'd and but that I have been absorbed by company ever since, you would before this, have received my sincere thanks. I am glad Ms. Day could visit you; and should be well pleased if she could call on me. I do not understand what it can be that has chilled Emma towards me. It is however safe to be assumed that friendship that can be chilled is not very trust worthy and I am 255Constrained to believe there is not much in the world that cannot; and yet, that there is possible, just such a reality, that "neither time, nor change, can [scarcely] ever shock", I am glad & proud to find evidence in the fact, that though a little strained perhaps sometimes the friendship between us has lived through well nigh a half century - and as I believe would never even have been "strained" had our faith in it alone, have been as true as it should have been. We are having our first really hot weather. This is the second day the ther. in the shade standing at 84. I am expecting Gertie and her two boys on Thursday, to stay a week with me. I do so long to see her & her children of ten, that it is not easy for me to endure the injustice which Will has manifested towards me, ever since he trapped his game. Winter fashion. Yes, it is as you say, in this quality men & women average about the same. Perhaps it is because I "understand principles" as you say, that I have happily been enabled to hold myself above any such pursuit, and equally unfortunately perhaps have not understood principles deeply enough in their application to expect results that must come as natural consequences. However as you say again, "The winter will soon be spent" and there is enoughI should like to read to you, the oration of Judge Durfee at the 250th Anniversary of the settlement of R. I. His vindication of Roger Williams, reminds one of yr John Brown lecture - R.I. is being thoroughly stirred up over Political matters, Prohibition Amendment death of Mayor Doyle etc etc etcof the Christian still left in me to be glad to suffer wrong, rather than to inflict it on another - I had not seen any action of the Senate in regard to the Matthews. Pres. Cleveland will have done his best any way, to reward an old friend, and no doubt feels kindly enough to you, to be well satisfied in retaining you. Amen. Perhaps it is me of those changes that discovers as is said, the "Hand of Providence," after a time, though grevious at the time to bear - A note from Sarah, wishes to be remembered very kindly to you. She invites me to come to Bar Harbor but I do not quite think I can go. before Sept. and that will be rather late I fear -- I hope you will dispose of that hard, outhed horse. It would be too bad to be disabled in that way for life. Why wait for any such dilemma? --- very truly Martha S GreerAnacostia DC July 14 Mr. F Douglass /86 To Wm Howard June 3 Buggie $200 July 7 Carriage $200 $400 Received Payment Wm Howard. 2811Washington, D.C. July 16, 1886 W.H. Thomas Esqr Dear Sir: I am obliged by the receipt of a copy of the "Negro." Please accept my best thanks. I wish you success in your publishing Enterprize. I am sorry I cannot promise to write for the Negro." The multitude of papers showered upon me with requests for contribution from my pen and pocket stagger me. I do the best I can for all of them and that falls far below my wishes.. Of these papers, judging from the sample before me, yours promises to be among the most able and useful. But that I expect soon to leave the country I would subscribe for it at once. To me what you call the negro problem is a misnomer. It were better called a white man's problem. Here as elsewhere, the greater includes the less. The negro problem is swallowed up in the cacasian problem and the question is whether the whiteman can and will yet rise to that height of justice, humanity and Christian civilization as will permit [*1826*][as to per] Indians, Chinamen and Negroes to enjoy an Equal Chance in the race of life among them? The negro is few, the white man is many. The negro is weak the white man is strong. The few will be ruled by the many and the weak by the strong . What the future of the negro shall be, is a problem in which the white man is the Chief factor. The negro holds only a secondary position. He is the clay, the Whiteman is the potter. It is for this potter, to say whether the negro shall become a well rounded symetrical man, or cramped deformed and dwarfed. A plant deprived of moisture and sunlight will die, and a people deprived of the means of life and progress will wither and die. Give the negro fair play and an equal chance in the race of life, and I have no doubt of a happy future for him.The great mass of the Colored People in this country are now and must continue to be in the South and there if they are ever to rise in the Scale of Civilization, their persons must be protected their rights secured, their minds enlightened and their honest work receive[d] honest wages. It is something to give the negro religion. It is more to give him justice. It is something to give him the Bible. It is more to give him the ballot. It is something to tell him that there is a place for him in the Christian's heaven it is more to let him have a place in this [on] Christian country [Earth] to live upon in peace. Very truly yours Fredk Douglass[*[1886JL30]*] To the Editor of the Pilot While, as a general rule, I do not write letters in answer to news-paper notices or in Explanation of reported interviews with me which find their way to the public, I am willing to allow your comments on sentiments ascribed to me in the Biddiford Journal, to pass without a word of Explanation. The writer in the Biddeford Journal unintentionally no doubt, placed somethings that I said in that interview, a little out of their true connection. I [am] may not be a very bright man, but I never could have been guilty of the stupidity of arguing against home rule for Ireland because I often saw in Ireland forty years ago, Irishmen smoking their pipes while their wives were in the field working. There is such a thing as giving a wrong coloring to a sentence by placing it out of its connection, and this has been done in this present instance. I did say [also] that there are more sides to the Irish question but never in the sense that Home rule for Ireland was the wrong side, and what I said on this subject was rather in Explanation of the tardiness of the English people in coming to a right conclusion [than] from any disposition to cast a doubt upon the wisdom of Mr. Gladstone's measure for Home Rule. My opinion on this subject2 [if it is worth anything] was given many months ago, and published in the London [I]Enquirer. I there expressed my warm sympathy with the Home Rule movement, just as I once expressed, in Conciliation Hall, in the presence of David O'Connell, my sympathy with the cause of repeal. I have never allowed the unfriendly attitude of Irishmen in this Country towards colored people to dim my vision as to the just rights of Irishmen at home. You will allow me to say also that I see no proper analogy between Ireland in its present relation [and I] to the United Kingdom of Great Britain, and the relation of we former slaves to the people and government of the United States. The Irish people, today, under the lead of Mr. Parnell and others, are on top, and are in a position to dictate to the British Parliament what shall be the policy of any administration that shall come into power. It is a part of a great national whole, invested with rights, powers and privileges, in common with all other parts of the United Kingdom. What I said about "going slow" was said I believe, in connection with the necessary growth of all reforms. The negro's liberty in this country was born of two hundred years of moral agitation, and many ever now insist that is has come too soon. I have myself, said repeatedly that their freedom and enfranchisement, especially the latter, while it was absolutely necessary placed them at an attitude for which they were largely unfitted and that it will require much time, toil, and experience, on their part, to vindicate fully the wisdom of their enfranchisement. I shall expect even when home rule has been accorded to Ireland, that the same criticism will be made upon the exercise of power by the Irish people, as is now made upon the use that the freedmen3 of the South now make of the political power accorded to men. What then do I say that freedom has come to either one day too soon? Not-at-all! Men will never learn to swim in advance of going onto the water. Children must [crawl] creep before they walk. France is just now trying what virtue there is in free institutions. Looking upon her Republican effort and observing her attitude toward freedom of speech, liberty of the press and her treatment of princes, how the attitude of our Republican example we find much to criticise, as well as much to commend, and I expect the same state of facts will become manifest when Ireland shall have her home parliament and her home rule. Respecfuly, Frederick Douglass 2 3 [*at Carrolton, who doubts that there would have been found religion, law, and power enough in the country, to bring the murderers to condign punishment?*] 2 3 at Carrolton, who doubts that there would have been found religion, law, and power enough in the country, to bring the murderers to condign punishment? [*3 of the South now make of the political power accorded to men. What then do I say that freedom has come to either one day too soon? Not-at-all! Men will never learn to swim in advance of going onto the water. Children must [crawl] creep before they walk. France is just now trying what virtue there is in free institutions. Looking upon her Republican effort and observing her attitude toward freedom of speech, liberty of the press and her treatment of princes, how the attitude of our Republican example we find much to criticise, as well as much to commend, and I expect the same state of facts will become manifest when Ireland shall have her home parliament and her home rule. Respecfuly, Frederick Douglass*] August 1, 1886 109 E. Street N.W. My dear Sir As Uncle Sam has thought proper to give me an unasked for furlough and at same time a letter testifying to my "industry and honesty" I am according to this miscarriage of 'Civil Service Reform," adrift. In the preceding circumstances permit me to suggest that when you are on the other side you combine pleasure with business, but giving lectures in the principal Cities of Great Britain, but before you did so that you make two or three public appearances just to whet the folks appetite. I feel confident that if you act on this suggestion that your bank account would be materally increased, and I am vain enough to think that as your Agent or avant courier I would prove a valuable aid. Turn this over. [*256*]I can give satisfactory references Both here and on the other side. I am Yours very truly Alex Williamson Fredk. Douglass Esq.Willard's Hotel O.G. Staples, Proprietor, Late of the Thousand Island House. Wm. Mann, 529 Market St., Philadelphia. Washington D.C. Aug 9th 1886 My dear Sir, You have no doubt learned of my appointment to the office of Recorder of Deeds by the President. I have received a Commission to that effect. The usual oath of office was their day taken and is on file in the office of the Secretary of the Interior and thus qualified I am prepared to enter upon the discharge of my duties. If agreeable to you Tuesday (to-morrow) at 10 AM I shall be pleased to assume the duties and responsibilities of the office. May I be permitted in this connection to congratulate you upon a condition of things, under our present administration, which secures the political freedom and practical equality [*257*]Willard's Hotel O.G. Staples, Proprietor, Late of the Thousand Island House. Wm. Mann, 529 Market St., Philadelphia. Washington D.C. ......................................188 of all men and insists upon the right of four American citizens regardless of color, creed or nationality and of whatever political faith to participate in the honors and share in the emoluments of public place. Yours, honored sir, has been a historic life of phenomenal activity - of great and varied achievements of protracted public service. And with the hope that you may live to ejoy the blessing of many years of quiet and repose and awaiting your reply, I am with respect, Very truly yours, Jas C. Matthews To Hon Fred'k Douglass Office of Recorder of Deeds, Washington D.C.Department of the Interior. Pension Office. Washington D.C. Aug. 10, 1886. Hon. Frederick Douglass, Washington D.C. Sir: I read your speeches with great interest and have heard you deliver two of them. Coming as I do from the West I assure you that you are highly appreciated there. I am very anxious to know more of the Freedmans Bank, and from your connection therewith I presume you could give better information than any one else. I have the honor, therefore, of requesting you to send me a brief history of that bank Very respectfully, G. W. Tanner "Direct to Pension Office" [*258*]Denver, Aug’t 19, 1986. My Dear Douglass: Thanks for your letter of the 17th inst, and for the continued kindly regards of yourself and dear Mrs. Douglass. Your letter is especially valued for its having been written almost the eve of your departure for Europe. I wish you a bon voyage. Your letter to me, in reference to John Brown's autograph I sent to Hon. E. B. Wasburne, and he is inclined to keep it as a valued prize. He says you are one of the most remarkable of the age, and he highly esteems you. I presume you will extend your visit to France, possibly to Lyons, where my dear boy keeps the sleep that knows no waking. When i think of Lyons — French: Cela serre le Coeur. English: That grieves the heart. Ever and truly, H. O. Wagoner.N. B. This map may be connected with the Wagoner letter, although the 2 documents were filed separately. S H Lewis 3-10-65 [*Could Be. E.J.F.*]Houses Houses Rue St. Pothier Entry Main Road Concierge Watchman's House Trees Catholic Graves Road wall of the cemetery +5 +6 [+7] +8 +9 +10 +11 Tree Graves Graves Graves Graves Graves Graves Trees Trees Main Road [*Here is the path to the grave*] "GAPLAND," BURKETTSVILLE, FREDERICK CO. MARYLAND. August 26, 1886 Dear Sir Did you receive "The Entailed Hat,"which I mailed you some time since? Th contains reference to you. I am glad to see that you preach good gospel to all the people. Respectfully, Geo. Alfred Townsend Hon. Fred-K Douglass. [*260*]4 Park St. Boston, Sept. 2, 1886. Dear Mr. Douglas, I learn that you are to be in Boston on the 11th inst. at a dinner to be given in your honor then, and write now to ask if you will also be here on the following Monday & Tuesday 13th & 14th, as I should like to secure the presence of yourself & Mrs. Douglass at an informal gathering which I am proposing to have at my house on the afternoon of one of those days, say between 4 & 7 P.M. Oliver Johnson & his wife & daughter, Mary Grew & her friend Mrs. Margaret J Burleigh, and Rev. S. A. Heinthal of Manchester, England, will be my guests at that time, & I shall bring together all the old "original" anti-slavery friends in this vicinity that are able to come, to meet them & you. I leave it to you to decide which of the above dates will be most convenient to you. Will you kindly [*261*]drop me a line by an early mail, that I may complete my arrangements? Apropos of your visit to England, let me give you the addresses of some of the surviving A.S. friends those which you may or may not have: Mrs. Elizabeth Pease Nichol, Huntly Lodge, 1 Napier Road, Merchiston, Edinburgh. Miss Eliza Wigham & Mrs. Jane Wigham, 5 Gray St., Edinburgh. Mrs. John Lawson, Ashfield, Gateshead-on-Tyne. Joseph Lapton, The Elms, Chapel Alberton, Leeds. Miss Mary A. Estlin, 36 Upper Belgrabe Road, Clifton, near Bristol. Alfred Webb, 74 Abbey St., Dublin. Madame Emilie Ashurst Venturi Carlyle Cottage, 318 King's Road, Chelsea, S.W. London. F.W. Chesson, 3 Broadway Chambers, Westminster, London. Mrs Rebecca Moore Wedderburn House, Hampstead, N.W., London. Arthur Albright Edgbaston, Birmingham. R.F. Martincan (nephew of H. M.) 18 Highfield Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham. W. H. Hills, a charming Quaker gentleman occupies Harriett Martineaux's house, The Knoll at Ambleside.With kind regards to his Douglass, I am Very truly yours, Francis A. GarrisonBae Harbor, Sept. 7th 1886 Dear Mr. Douglass: Having heard that you intend to sail for Europe this month I want to express my good wishes to you before you leave- I hope you will have a most pleasant journey and a satisfactory visit in every way - Papa and Amy [*262*]send their regards to you and Mrs. Douglass. Please also remember me to her. Amy wishes me to give her best wishes, and say she is glad you can go, after looking forward to the visit for so long a time. We are as well as usual, and enjoying our beautiful summer home. I think it has been to me even pleasanter than usual this year - I am finding much to be interested in, and enough to keep me agreeably employed in many directions - Once more, wishing you all that is good both now and always, I am sincerely yours, Sarah J. Eddy.212 Del. Ave. N.E. Washington D. C. 8 Sep 1886 Dear Susy [*(Mrs. Frank Allman)*] Mr & Mrs Frederick Douglass leave this country about the 15th of this month; & intend visiting you at Rath Lee. You & I were both younger when Mr Douglass was in Cork, & yet your pleasure at seeing him now will be certainly as great as it was then; & so would mine be were I able to meet him with you in Cork. [*263*] I need not tellYou of Mr. Douglass' affection for your father & other Cork friends, for he will do that himself. But I beg you or Frank if it be feasible, to introduce him for me to my most valued friend William K. Sullivan, & so let him bring away a fair idea of liberal education in the South of Ireland. With Cheny's love & mine for you & Frank I am Yours truly G W. Osborn212 Del. Ave. N.E. Washington D.C. 8 Sep. 1886. Dear Susan, You will be glad of this introduction from me, of Mr & Mrs Frederick Douglass, who leave New York about the middle of this month for Europe. You must surely remember having seen Mr Douglass at Rath Lee, & he has himself very pleasant recollections of both Cork, & Dublin. I beg you to do what you can, directly & indirectly, to help [*264*]Mr & Mrs Douglass to see & appreciate Dublin. Introduce them to Sigerson, & to Edward Dowden. Your own children will do their part I know. Few men can tell more of American history for the last half century than Mr Douglass can, & no one has been able to see it from the same point of view. With both our love Yours, G. W. Osborn212 Delaware Ave. N.E. Washington D.C. Sep. 9 1886. My dear Justin- This letter- which I hope you will be in London to receive- will introduce to you, Mr. & Mrs. Frederick Douglass. I am sure you will be glad to see these friends of ours, and I beg you to make their stay in London as agreeable as you can. Forty one years ago Mr. Douglass was in Cork; now he intends revisiting the old place [*265*]and seeing those that are left of the friends he holds in such affectionate remembrance. Mr. Douglass knows of your conversance with American politics, and you will appreciate his knowledge of this country's history. There is no need for me to say move, except that I should like to be present and hear you both talk. With love to yourself, J. Huntley and Charlotte from us bot-h ever Your affectionate cousin Charlotte Osborne.Charleston Sept 10 1886 My Dear Whittier, I don't intend writing you a letter as under present circumstances I can hardly find time to do so, I am simply dropping you a note. We have had so much of trouble - I might say of anguish recently that 'tis almost impossible to collect one's thoughts sufficiently to dictate a letter. I suppose you have heard over again our troubles from your folks. Heavens knows they have their full share, and who has not? 'Twas indeed a most fortuitous circumstance which kept Miss Tadie away. [*3083*]I hope you have reached the end of this terrible visitation, With many kind regards I am yours faithfully Richard Birnie We are living with Mrs. Frost for the time. I will possibly return to Liberty, Sr. on Saturday. You would have the blues for a month if you came to Charleston. All beg to be very kindly remembered to you and other friends in Washington. Do give my especial regards to Miss Tadie. Enclosed please find money order for $15 00/100 - $12 00/100 from my wife and $3 00/100 from Mary Helen. How can I express my thanks to you for your kindness and attention to the folks? Well, when you come home the girls will thank you for themselves.5 Gray Street Edinburgh 9. 10. 1886 My dear Friend, It is indeed very interesting to think of thy being in Great Britain once more and in circumstances so widely different to those we have known in times past; we have came to exclaim "Behold what God hath wrought! We shall be very glad to see thee once again, if so permitted - to shake thee by the hand and to confer on the past, the present and the future & to be introduced to thy wife. You surely cannot fail to visit Edinburgh & if you have no superior claims, and circumstances admit of it. We shall have much pleasure in entertaining you as our guests. - My dear sister is still here - she is 81 years of age & rather feeble. but bright & loving - her memory has much failed but she is always kindly & hospitable & would make you welcome. - We had a pleasant little visit from dear Eliza Barlow lately and she kindly sent me thy two letters to read. which gave us [*266*]the information of thy address; - thou wilt find us all much aged, but still able to rejoice in the remarkable victories, in the conflict for which we have been privileged to bear our very small share. - I hope you will enjoy your visit to the continent & return slated with riches of many kinds -- the acquaintance with the great snowy Alps & the good persons of Switzerland and italy can not fail to elevate and delight - Hoping that we may meet on they return - I remain Thy sincere friend E. Wigham Do not mind answering for I know thou hast many letters to write --[Headquarters Union Veteran Corps,] [FIRST COMPANY,] [CORNER SEVENTH AND L STREETS, N. W.,] Office of D. A. 97, K. of L. Washington, D. C., Sept. 11 , 1886. Bro. McKinley: D r Sir & Bro.: You are hereby notified that you have been appointed by the District Master Workman, a member of a committee of five to represent D. A. of 97 in the "Early-closing Convention," under the auspices of Clerks' Assembly, No. 6451, K. of L., to be held in Hilton Hall, northwest corner of 7th and D streets, n. w., Monday evening, 13th inst., at 8 o'clock. The committee consists of Bros. Espey, Washburn, McKinley, Otis, and Clarke (W. W.). Fraternally &c., L. A. Patterson, D.R. S. of D. A. 97. [*3118*] House of Representatives U.S., Washington, D.C., 12 Septembre 1886. Caro e onorevole Signor Cavalloti Mi permetta l’onore e soddisfazione di presentare alla di Lei conoscenza, considerazione e benevolenza, il Mio Vecchia Amico L’onorevole Federico Douglass, une illustrazione Americana. L’onorevole Federico Douglass, è Scrittore oratore e giornalista distintissimo, ed assieme a Abramo Lincoln, Abramo Garfield, Carlo Sumner, Wendell Phillips e Loyd Garrison, fu il Mosé ed il Liberatore dei suoi compagni di Sventura, gli Schiavi neri negli Stati del Sud degli Stati Uniti al tempo della guerra di Secessione 1861-1865, il Douglass fu schiavo lui stesso. [*270*]Il Signor F. Douglass, merita L'Amicizia degli italiani, per aver Lui stesso coi suoi due Figlii per mezzo della Loro influenza personale ed il loro giornale The New National Era aiutato me negli anni 1873-1874 a far passare nel Congresso Americano The Moreno Bill per l'abolizione della Schiavitù degli Schiavi italiani L’ambo i sessi. Dunque raccomando l’onorevole Douglass alla di Lei ben nota cortesia e mi creda sempre rispettoso e devoto amico Celso Cesare MorenoHouse of Representatives U.S., Washington D.C. 12 Settembre 1886. Caro e Onorevole Signor Crispi Mi permetta l’onore e soddisfazione de presentare alla di lei conoscenza considerazione e benevolenza il mio vecchio amico l’onorevole Frederick Douglass Une illustrazione Americana. L’onorevole Federico Douglass, è Scrittore oratore e giornalista distintissimo ed assieme a Abramo Lincoln, Abramo Garfield, Carlo Sumner, Wendell Phillips e Loyd Garrison fu il Mose ed il liberatore dei Suoi compagni di Sventura, gli schiavi neri negli Stati del Sud degli Stati Uniti ad tempo della guerra di Secessione 1861-1865, il Douglass fu schiavo lui stesso. [*271*]Il Signor F. Douglass, merita L'Amicizia degli italiani, per aver Lui stesso coi suoi due Figlii per mezzo della Loro influenza personale ed il loro giornale The New National Era aiutato me negli anni 1873-1874 a far passare nel Congresso Americano The Moreno Bill per l'abolizione della Schiavitù degli Schiavi italiani L’ambo i sessi. Dunque a Lei, ottimo e grande patriota italiano Signor Crispi raccomando Federico Douglass e mi creda sempre rispettoso e buon amico suo Celso Cesare MorenoHouse of Representatives U.S., Washington, D.C., 12 September 1886. Cari e Onorevoli Sig’ri Faldella e Gaselli Mi permettera l’onore e soddisfazione de presentare alla di Loro conoscenza, considerazione e benevolenza il mio vecchio amico Federico Douglass un illustrazione Americana. L’onorevole Frederick Douglass, è Scrittore oratore e giornalista distintissimo ed assieme a Abramo Lincoln, Carlo Sumner, Wendell Phillips e Loyd Garrison fu il Mose e il liberatore dei Suoi compagni di Sventura, gli schiavi neri negli Stati del Sud degli Stati Uniti ad tempo della guerra di Secessione 1861-1865, il Douglass fu schiavo lui stesso. [*269*]Il Signor Fr. Douglass, merita L'amicizia degli italiani, per aver Lui stesso coi suoi due figli per mezzo della Loro influenza personale ed il loro giornale The New National Era aiutato me negli anni 1873-1874 a far passare nel Congresso Americano The Moreno Bill per l'abolizione della Schiavitù degli Schiavi italiani L’ambo i sessi. Dunque raccomando l’onorevole Douglass alla di loro ben nota cortesia e mi credano rispettoso e buon amico Celso Cesare MorenoHouse of Representatives U.S. Washington, D.C., 12 Settembre 1886 Onorevole Signor Giuseppe Giancheri Mi permetta L'honore e la soddisfazione di presentare alla di Lei conoscenza, considerazione e benevolenza il mio vecchio Amico L'onorevole Federico Douglass une illustrazione Americana L'onorevole Federico Douglass è scrittore, oratore e giornalista distintissimo ed assieme al Senatore Carlo Sumner, Abramo Lincoln, Wendell Phillips e Lloyd Garrison fu il Mosè ed il liberatore dei suoi compagni di sventura gli Schiavi neri negli Stati del Sud degli Stati Uniti al tempo della guerra di Secessione 1861 al 1865, il Douglass fu Schiavo esso stesso. Il Signor Douglass merita l'Amicizia degli italiani, per aver Lui Stesso e i suoi due figlii [*272*]per mezzo della Loro influenza personale ed il loro giornale The New National Era aiutato me negli anni 1873-1874 a far passare nel Congresso Americano Il Moreno Bill per l'abolizione della Schiavitù degli Schiavi italiani L’ambo i sessi. Dunque raccomando l’onorevole F. Douglass alla di Lei ben nota cortesia e mi creda sempre rispettoso e buono amico suo Celso Cesare MorenoHouse of Representatives U.S, Washington, D.C 12 Septbre 1886. Caro e Egregio Sigr. E. L. Moneta Mi permetta L'onore e il piacere di presentare alla di Lei conoscenza e considerazione il mio vecchio amico L'onorevole Federico Douglass une illustrazione Americana. Il Signor Federico Douglass è scrittore, oratore e giornalista distintissimo ed assieme a Abramo Lincoln, Abramo Garfield, Carlo Sumner e Wendell Phillips, fu il Mosè ed il liberatore dei suoi compagni di sventura gli Schiavi neri negli Stati del Sud degli Stati Uniti al tempo della guerra di Secessione 1861 al 1865, il Douglass fu schiavo lui stesso. Il Signor F. Douglass merita l'Amicizia [*268*]degli italiani, per aver Lui stesso coi suoi due figlii per mezzo della loro personale Influenza ed il loro giornale The New National Era aiutato me negli anni 1873-1874 a far passare nel Congresso Americano The Moreno Bill per l'abolizione della Schiavitù degli Schiavi italiani L’ambo i sessi. Dunque raccomando l’onorevole F. Douglass alla ben nota Sua cortesia sempre Devotissimo Suo Celso Cesare MorenoSept. 12, 1886 My dear Excellency Mr. E. L. Moneta, I take the great pleasure and honor of & introducing to you and asking all consideration for my good friend Mr. Frederick Douglass an illustrious american. Mr. Douglass is a distinguished writer, orator and journalist and I compare him to Abraham Lincoln, Garfield, Charles Sumner and Wendell Phillips. He was instrumental with them in the freeing of the slaves in the struggle of the Civil War with the South 1861-1865. Mr. Douglas helped all the italian citizenry in helping through his organ the New National Era in the passage of "The Moreno Bill" 1873-78 in favor of liberating the Italians Ambo and Sessi. Whatever you do for Honorable F. Douglass there will be highly appreciated [*267*]as an act of courtesy I am always your true friend Celso Caesar Moreno.Boston Office, 4 Park Street. Houghton, Mifflin & Co., Publishers New York Office, 11 E. 17th St. Boston, Sept. 13, 1886. My dear Mr. Douglass: I have just received a letter from my father's old friend, Mr. Arthur J. Naish of 149 Stratford Road, Birmingham, Eng., in which, alluding to his wife, now deceased, he says: - "I read, every night, one of my precious one's letters to me, & often one of my own to her, in regular order, & I am just now reading our correspondence about your father's visit to me with Douglass & Thompson, exactly forty years ago. The getting-up of that meeting for them delayed my first visit to her as her fiance, for a week, so was always memorable to us both." If you go to Birmingham this time, you will have a hearty welcome from Mr. Naish & other friends there. I did not shy away from the dinner Sat. evening to escape making [*273*]the few remarks which I should have made, in response to your kind allusion & suggestion, but because I saw that my guest Mr. Johnson was becoming weary, & with Mr. [Buffim?] recounting his familiar speech I felt it would be unwise to tarry longer, the hour then being 11:20. The dinner went off very happily, I thought. With all good wishes to yourself + Mrs. Douglass, I am Very truly yours, F.J. Garrison. P.S. I have a delightful letter from Mrs. Eliza Pease Nichol this morning. Certainly age does not wither her. I am so sorry not to have you & Mrs. D. to my house this afternoon! We shall have a rare gathering of old friends..Seven Mile, Ohio Sept. 13, 1886. Mr. Douglas, Dear Sir: Inclosed find card on which please send me your Autograph. Very respectfully W. W. WalterNew England Society Instituted A.D 1805 In the City of New York New York, Sept. 14, 1886 Frederick Douglass, esq. Dear Sir, I send our reports for 1884 and 1885 hoping that you may find time to glance at them while on the ocean. Wishing you + yours with all on the good ship City of Rome a prosperous voyage Very truly yours, L. P. Hubbard SecretaryChicago, Ill. Sept 25, 1886 Hon. F. Douglass, Dear Sir, you would favor me greatly by your worthy autograph to place among my reflection of noted men. Respectfully, William Rose, No. 3241 Wabash Av. Chicago, Ill.130 Rye Hill Newcastle 9 mo 30, 86 My dear friend I must embrace the opportunity while I know your address and ere I lose your identity in the great world of London to send you another greeting of affectionate friendship - I am glad if any words of mine have made you happy - I suppose it must have been that my own happiness was reflected - for I am sure your words made me unseasingly happy - To think that once again see Englands shores embraced "Fred Douglass" - and ask in what a different capacity. Once the the poor panting [*276*]Augustine - exiled from the land of his birth and all he held most dear - with great prospect of return at least in safety yes - well do I remember the intense sympathy, which flowed in our hearts - leading at length to the resolve He must be freed and his ransom shall be purchased if he will - That was the doubt - and that was the fear - but he never knew all the struggles of the occasion They were many and deep - and the heart at least can never forget them - The question of right and that of principle - so strongly contested by oneSo we must roll on - little noted but by their loss sometimes. How often you will experience this as you move along and the question may often arise "But where are those I knew? The answer "Gone from amongst "us, in silence dear Farwell dear friend Tell your wife I love her for your sake Yours unitedly then Ellen Richardson [*so dark I can scarcely see the wordes*]She has a Canadian Niece, named Lucy others staying with her from New [?] a new companion which is a comfort to me. Dear Anna is not a mournful widow - but still deeply feels dear Henrys departure - They were tenderly and closely attached - as you will remember When I talk to people I think all about "Fred - Douglass "oh! I was only 3 or 4 years old in 1841 - I have heard of him" - but never knew him?. "Is it possible?If you could place your hand on her pulse you would I rather think - be ready to conclude it was about to stop altogether - There is a great peculiarity in the circulation and at the time of dear Henrys death - the Dr thought she was the greater [impacted?] of the two. He quite thought the heart seriously affected - She was confined to her bed at that time for many weeks - Thus much for her, and for myself with hemorrage - Then the lungs had water and much chest affects her which the Dr is closely watching - you must when in the contingency," as you sayHappily - we can both look forward with hope hope & trust in the mercy of God - entrust Jesus the Savior & Redeemer - so that I think we are restful though "not by works &c I do hope you will let us hear some times - from the Continent though without taxing you at all. I do think your good wife will gratify us and if it be by joint production as in the last instance - for which I thank you ever so much (Is there an assurance) so much the better My letter is very much pleased you are coming I assure youand now let me express an earnest hope that after all the toilsome life you have had you will thoroughly enjoy the leisure now afforded yes - the well earned leesure - and may the same merciful "Father who has so mercilessly led you through your devine way in the past grant the favour of His smile in pouring thankful joy and gladness into your hearts. I cannot but think He will - Oh I am so glad you are desposed to read His hand in the past periods of your life - and that you have faith in His working stillHe knows the end from the beginning - and we must believe He was leading you through bitter paths - to enable you the better to feel and to suffer with and for your poor people who could have been better prepared to plead for the helpless suffering than yourself in whose soul - the very idea had been to stampt so indelibly - But I am again wandering back instead of forward with you to the "sunny land of Granada' as I had meant as to dear Anna living many years longer - that is more than she or I can think very probablepowerful party in America was a serious stumbling stone with me - and before making any effort I went to Mr James Pringle a scotch presbyterian minister to ask him what he thought - His reply was after grave thought - 'Well -" I think you "might - with a strong protest as to the right of his master to hold "him as a slave - This was enough - the attempt was made and succeeded to admiration , - and ever since, what cause of thankfulness we have had that Frederick Douglas was set free to labour for the benefit of his race and people - [Forgive?]dear Frederck for indulging in these reminescenses - but your coming has called them all up to such vivid remembrance - I feel sure Mrs Douglas at least, will forgive me - and when she comes I can tell her a great deal more Glad indeed dear Frederick shall dear Anna and I be, to hear the much you can tell us - Our interest never dies, - but it is a stretch of patience to wait till "next summer" - [but] we must try to exercise I suppose - in the hope held out that the time will not be so abridged as if you were to come nowThere are many good Lodgings to be got in London now I believe I think there is information to be got at the Escheboke respecting them There is a Inn never hotel at the Friends Meeting House Bp gate St to which you might repose perhaps on just arrival I believe Edmund Strange ( and Shelley) lodges there generally when in LI think Mrs. D will like grand Lodgings rather than Hotels perhapsSept 1886 Washington D.C My dear Mr. Henderson It affords me very great pleasure to introduce to your kind attention my friends, Mr. & Mrs. F. Douglass. It is unnecessary to tell you who Mr. D. is. His name is indissolubly linked with the names of those, long ago departed, who throttled slavery. Mrs. D. is an excellent example of the educated and sprightly American lady. I am Yours ever Alex Williamson Jas Hendereson Esq Glasgow. [*279*]Sept 1886 Washington D.C My dear Mr. Muir I am happy in introducing you to my friends. Mr & Mrs F. Douglass They are making a somewhat lengthy tour, London of course forming the principal City of interest. Mr. D is no stranger to the British people his fame having gone abroad amongst nations, as an soul stirring orator, the fiery denunciator of slavery and the enthusiastic worker for the moral and intellectual advancement of his race. Mrs. D. is an interesting type of the cultured American lady. I am Yours sincerely Alex Williamson H. B. Muir Esq London [*278*]Sept 1886 Washington DC My dear Sir, To you and all the home comforts of your excellent hotel I am happy in introducing my friends Mr. & Mrs. F. Douglass. I do hope that you are now able to stand upon your native heath and [ready?] for any amount of business. Wishing health & prosperity to you & your's I am, as of old, Your's very truly Alex Williamson M Phelps "Cockburn Hotel" Glasgow [*280*]Sept 1886 Washington D.C. My dear Mr. Sinclair I have great pleasure in introducing you to Mr. & Mrs. F. Douglass. Mr. D. revisits Scotland for the first time since the late George Thompson and he very many years ago, so ably championed the anti-slavery cause throughout Great Britain . He is a gentlemen of rare ability and as a speaker second to very few. Mrs. D. makes her first visit to "Grand Old Scotia" She is a highly educated lady, a close observer, and capable "o' takin' notes" and "print them tae" I am yours very sincerely Alex Williamson Alear Sinclair Esq Glasgow [*281*]Sept. 1886 Washington D.C. My Dear Sister, In introducing you to my friends Mr. & Mrs. F. Douglass I perform a very pleasant act. Mr. D. is no stranger to Scottish folks, as many, still alive, you amongst them, will remember his anti-slavery speeches full of fury and eloquent denunciation of the hell born institution. Mrs. D. however makes her first appearance in Scotland. You will find her highly educated, vivacious and excellent type of the American lady. From Your Aff Brother Alex Williamson Miss Williamson Edinburgh 277