Regent st, Roxbury Mass March 12 1894 My dear Friend, Do you know this is my 74th Birthday? So old am I grown! But since as a man thinketh so is he! I am as Dr Holmes I think it was, said of some body so I shall say of myself, 74 years young. I say this for it always troubles me, when you speak of having grown so old. I was very glad to see your name, as present at the W. J. Memorial Meeting, for so long is it since you have written, I greatly feared but the cold and cough have been too much for you. This blessed Spring day has been so bright and beautiful, I want to think of it as a harbinger [*1600*]of happiness in many ways. It would be lovely in Washington. I wonder if I shall ever again being in the spot, recall the happy hours I knew and the pleasant friends of those happy days. Dear Mrs. Taylor comes first to my mind. How hard she strove to bring her husband to our place - and also how down he could be, as tho' she had never been - I must not reminisce tho' one evening spent there, when you read your James Brown lecture, in a part. It comes very plainly to mind. My friend we have had many pleasant hours together. This Birthday night brings them very forcibly to mind. Why may there not be more true friendships in this life? I think because there is so much self seeking. I know well my "seeking" was for your happiness. It is still no less so. And whatever Heaven hereafter maybe, I am sure heaven here is found only in proportion as we desire the happiness - the welfare of others- The trouble pf the Woodlands had just begun, when I wrote you of the death of Arthur Lance eight days or so passed after the funeral services had been held, where it was found that he was alive. We had so arranged affairs when he left home that he could leave certain articles on the Boat such as his ticket in his seat pocket, one shoe in which he had bought another ticket, which he could give up, as he passed from the Boat - he was taken sick at the hotel; obliged to have Physician and nurse, was out of money and sent to Boston to a Miss Jones, a friend of the family & formerly his type writer - for money enjoining secresy, then he sent a check to one of the Banks, forging the name of a man whom heknew as transacting business at this Bank - the teller knew the hand writing of the man whose name was signed and that this signiture was a forgery so it was not cashed - and the whole thing came out - the wife and mother have seen no one, so far as I can learn - I have written to them, asking permission to do any thing possible & to come to them if they will like to see me, but I get no reply, and hear that they deny themselves to every one - and where Arthur is now, no one seems to know. Our old friend Dorcas still lives, tho she looks very frail - She must live as long as her old man does she says. Now with love for all who [desire?] and hoping to hear from you soon, I am as ever, Your affectionate Friend MarthaFlorida Baptist Academy Jacksonville, Fla., Mar 4, 1894 Dear Grandpa, I rec'd your letter containing the check for fifteen dollars ($15.00) Friday morning while on my way to the train for St. Augustine with our school, they rendered the Cantata of Queen Esther over there Friday night. This prevented my making an immediate reply to your letter thanking you for your kindness, as I wanted to do and as you asked me to do. I am nevertheless, extremely grateful to you for your prompt response to my appeal and as soon as the Board of Trustees decide to pay me some of the money they owe me, I will return it. I regretted very much being forced to borrow money to return South when I was [*1585*]2. home because I feel that the school owed me too much money not to have sent me my R.R. fare, and if there had been the least possible chance for me to have secured a position at home I would not have returned under any such circumstances but there is nothing for me in Washington and I consider a "half loaf letter than no loaf," borrowed sufficient money to bring both Herbert and myself here and could easily have paid it promptly from my promised salary had I secured it regularly, but the financial condition of the country, so they say, has prevented us from receiving the customary assistance, therefore we are compelled to wait and receive our money the best way that we can. Now the reason I did not borrow the money from uncle Lewis is, that- both Estelle and Fredericka had borrowed some from him and I was coming such a distance and required so much and Uncle Lewis is so good that [it] heFlorida Baptist Academy Jacksonville, Fla 189__ is too lenient with us when we borrow, that is he will never accept any interest and only require the principal returned, this is of course kind in him, yet it is not business-like and I feel that if I was not a relative of his that I would not be so favored. This is the only reason I had for not asking him for I do not believe in calling upon anyone for favors when I can work so well and make a living for myself. I have, however been several times placed in positions where I have been compelled to ask for assistance but I always like to return such kindness [and] as promptly as4. possible and when I deal with my relatives I like to be as business-like with them as I would be with strangers and neither Uncle Lewis or yourself will permit this. I do not [feel] want you not to expect pay when I ask you to lend me money for I will certainly return it if I keep health, strength and position long enough and if I lost any one of these while owing you I would be miserable, and I would like you to charge me something for the use of your money also, suiting yourself as to whether it be much or little, but make it sufficient for me to feel that I am paying for the use of it. I am nervous to-night that it is difficult for me to write legibly so I must close. Love to Uncle Lewis and with much for yourself I am Your aff. grand-daughter, Hattie.1112 1/2 PRESTON AVENUE OPPOSITE COURT HOUSE. J.H. BALLOU ATTORNEY AND COUNSELLOR AT LAW, Houston Texas, March 5th 1894. Hon. Frederick Douglas, Dear sir: I have undertaken to gather data and sketches for a book which I now have in process of preparation touching the triumphs and achievements of the most prominent colored lawyers of this and other countries. In our own country, battling in the midst of obstacles, contending with the incredulity of our race on one hand and the prejudice of the dominant class of our citizens on the other many colored - lawyers have made an excellent record - a record which gives evidence of the possibility of Negroes to master the intricate principles of the law and apply them. In other countries free from the environments and blighting influences which operate [*1586*]against us here a very respectable proportion of Negro lawyers are numbered among the most learned jurists, I feel that much good can be done by the publication of my book. I am puzzled in the matter of selecting a title for it. I write to ask your aid in the selection of one. The book from present calculations will contain about 350 pages. I shall be under many obligations to you if you will assist me in the matter referred to. You will doubtless remember having met me a number of times thirteen or fourteen years ago at my native home in Providence R. I. and in Jacksonville Fla. on the occasion of your visit there in 1889. Hoping to hear from you at your earliest convenience, I am, Very respectfully yours, John H. BallouEstablished April 1865 Incorporated June 3 1885 OFFICE OF THE S.F. Elevator. 622 Clay Street Room 9 J.B. Wilson Editor & Manager. San Francisco March 7th 1894 Hon. Frederick Douglass Dear Sir I sent you a letter some weeks ago asking you would be willing to visit the Pacific Coast and the midwinter Fair. provided we secured free transportation for you both ways. I directed the letter in care of Mr. J.E. Bruce as I did not know your address. and he informs me that he forwarded the same to you. May 2d has been a day selected by the citizens of the Pacific Coast states as the Colored Americans day at the fair and the Executive Committee Conference of the leading Colored men of the state desire if feasible to have you to deliver the oration on that occasion. As the Committee is working hard in every detail connected with the affair they are anxious to hear from you before it is too late to procure other talent if it is impossible for you to come to the coast. We also wish you to state what conditions you would come on and all details connected with your visit. As the time is now very short I would [*1587*]be pleased to have you answer by return mail. as we desire to make up our programme and have it advertised in the daily papers very extensively. Please send all particulars so if we accept them we need not wait to notify you of your acceptance before we commence to advertise Trusting to hear from you at once. I am yours Very Truly J.B. Wilson Chairman Executive CommitteePortland March 8th- 1894 Mr. Douglass Dear Sir, I am a stranger to you. but you will pardon one for thus addressing you. when I make known my reasons. I am a member of the Milliston (Congregational) Church in this city, and have been for some years a teacher. S. S. in the colored church here and one Sabbath as I looked over upon my class. I noticed a stranger. and supposed of course, I had a new scholar asked his name etc. and found her was only there for the day. that he was soliciting funds to enable him to enter a theological school. He had left his native [*1588*][*How to Douglass*] [*March 8, 1894*] [*1 of 2*] country, Africa, and come to this country and in some way, if possible fit himself to preach the Gospel to his benighted and darkened countrymen. He has a mind of no mean order and has taught in the South and other places to help himself along, has also written for periodicals &c and in all ways practicable done all in his power to earn enough to take care of himself while seeking the means to enter the Seminary. He had fixed upon Yale Divinity School as the place to pursue his studies and brought a certificate from the Dean of the Faculty there, that he was ready to enter. also that any help he might be able to get from any quarter he was worthy to receive. I found him so fired with zeal for his work and love for his Master. I became at once intensely interested in him and determined so far2 [*How to Douglass*] [*March 8, 1894] [*2 of 2*] as possible in assist him. But I am not blest with this world's goods. my husband living on a small salary, with no bank stock or other investments to draw upon. So I have taken it upon myself to call upon both friends and strangers is help me by contributions and the like. not a very enviable task I assure you. I have succeeded for two years in helping him quite a bite. but this the third and last year of his course. I am having a hard time. partly on account of the general financial depression, and partly because my own health does not permit of exposure in going about on my soliciting tours. In my emergency I have been moved to write to some ofthe men. who have been prospered in business and whose generosity and deeds of benevolence are known to the world. Among them yourself, to whom I have now explained my need. I enclose a letter from the Dean of the Faculty at Yale. that you may learn more of the history of my colored friend. and see that he is worthy to receive anything that kind friends may feel disposed to do for him. The present seminary year closes in May. and he is at this time, very needy. Now my dear Sir, I hope and pray that you will be moved to respond to my appeal. Any sum of money. small or large. will be most gratefully received by myself for his benefit. Most respectfully, Mrs. W. G. How-Chicago World Book Co. 400 Years of History Progress Room 10 Grand-Pacific Chicago, Mar. 9, '94. Hon. Frederick A Douglass, Annapolis, Md. Dear Sir: - We send you to-day with our compliments a copy of the Illinois volume of "THE WHITE CITY" which fairly represents one of a series of thirty comprising the entire United States and Territories to one given period. You will notice that the same is dedicated to Hon. John P. Reynolds, a worthy representative man of our State. Each State is favored with the same compliment, viz.: Indiana, Hon. Benj. Harrison; Ohio, Hon. John Sherman; Vermont, Hon. Geo. F. Edmunds; Massachusetts, Oliver Wendell Holmes; Michigan, Hon. R. A. Alger, etc. We would ask your permission to dedicate the Maryland volume to yourself, believing the State has no worthier representative. Awaiting with much interest your reply, we beg, dear sir, to subscribe ourselves, Most respectfully yours, Chicago World Book Co. BY _____[?]_______ [?] [*1590*]The GLOUCESTER AGRICULTURAL AND INDUSTRIAL SCHOOL, Cappahosic, Gloucester Co., Va. W. B. Weaver, Principal. H. W. Hubbard, Treasurer. J. W. Booth, Sub. Treasurer. Mrs. W. B. Weaver, Assistant Principal. Cappahosic, Va.., Mar. 9th 1894 Hon. Frederick Douglass Anacostia, D.C. Dear Sir: I am sorry to have to say that only one meeting could finaly be arranged for in Phila. I do not just see through it, yet I feel that it is all well, for I did my very best to secure the church & make the arrangements. When I have done my utmost & then fail in a matter I just feel that it was not God's will for me to carry out my plans at that tim in that way. I feel sure that there is some disadvantage in this case which I do not now see, but God sees it & is saving us from that trouble or whatever it may be. When I first went to Rev. Dr. Pelz, the assistant pastor of the Baptist Temple he [*1589*]2 was delighted to know that we wanted you to speak there; I said that you were one of the men left whom he had learned to love & honor & one that he wanted to hear speak in that church. He said that he saw nothing in the way that he would present the matter to the trustees. He told me to see the other pastors of that part of the city & get their cooperation. I saw the chairman of the board twice & he assured me that it would be alright. I felt so sure, I had seen Mr. R. C. Ogden of the firm of Wanamaker to preside & other prominent men to be present. A sad occurence here at school call me home before the trustees met, & when I received the objection, I could not go directly back to make other arrangements, I wrote, however, to Rev. M. Anderson whom I knew would arrange if convenient to secure a place. He is of the opinion it will be bestB The Gloucester Agricultural and Industrial School Cappahosic, Gloucester Co., Va. W.B. Weaver, Principal. H.W. Hubbard, Treasurer. J.W. Booth, Sub Treasurer. Mrs. W. B. Weaver, Assistant Principal. Cappahosic, VA.,...............................................189 to put all of our force in the one meeting at the A.M.E. Churc & defer another meeting later. Therefore I hope you will not feel disappointed, but feel as I feel, that it is as God would have it. Enclosed you will see notice or an advertising circular of the meeting which is to take place on the 22 inst, & which is now being worked. I shall return to Phila. early next week & push it to success. You see how I have worked & proceeded so far & if you have any criticisms to make or suggestions to offer please feel free to do so, for I want to go in the best way always. Miss Wilmer & our club there are arranging to give a parlor supper in honor to you on Wednesday night Mar. 21stthinking that you would be there that night. Since there is no appointment for the 20th you may not wish to leave home until the 22nd, Mr. J. Wears wants you t stop with him & he will meet you if well enough at the depot. Now will you please inform as t the following. When would be the most convenient time for you t go t N.Y.? I think I can arrange the meeting there & one in Brooklyn. Any time in the Sp. after the 10 will suit me. Could you just as well be in Phila. on the evening of the 21st? We have commenced work on the building & I can assure you my hands are full. Miss Sprague is well. Address me as below as I shall go to Phila early next week. Yours truly, W. B. Weaver 855 -N- 13th St. Phila. Pa.Anacostia, D. C., U. States, March 11. 1894. To His Excellency, Florvil Hypolite, President of Haiti: Sir: May I have the honor, for such I esteem it, to acknowledge with every grateful sentiment, your very gracious note assuring me that in compliance with my request borne to you by Mr. Mumford, your Excellency will most cordially welcome our American Jubilee Singers to the Capital of the Republic of Haiti. Observing as I did, during my residence near your Government, your broad and generous spirit and your constant desire to promote, not only the peace, prosperity and welfare of your people, but their pleasure and happiness as well. I hardly needed the assurance of your valued letter that you would welcome our sweet singers to the Capital of your beautiful country. In further acknowledgement of your friendly letter, I must not omit to say to you, as the head of the nation, that I still have the Republic of Haiti very much at heart. I am deeply interested in all events by which she is effected for good or ill. I am especially happy to observe your success amidst all the difficulties that surround you, in curbing ambition, controlling factions and maintaining law and order in your country. Successful government in Haiti is a great help to the people of color in the United States. I may be permitted to remark in closing this note to your [*1110*]Excellency, that I shall never cease to appreciate the honor conferred upon me by making me a Commissioner to the World's Columbian Exposition, and while I have to confess that Haiti's participation in that demonstration of civilization was at great cost, far greater than I would have had it, could I have controlled the business of the Commission, I still think that Haiti did by no means, present insignificant figure among the nations there assembled. I have no regrets that the settlement of the affairs of the Commission, was placed in the able and careful hands of Mr. Haentjens, the Haitian Minister. With great respect and esteem I dare to subscribe myself, Your sincere and constant friend. Boston, Mass. Mch. 12,94 Hon. Frederick Douglass, Dear sir:- We are making preparations to celebrate the 29th annual of the death of President Lincoln, together with the emancipation of the slaves in the District of Columbia, which events occur practically at the same time. The management of the affair will be in the hands of The John Brown Lecture Bureau, an association formed for the purpose of commemorating the great lives in our National history, which are of special interest to the Negro. We have secured for the occasion the People's Church, one of the largest in the City. Bishop Potter has come here to Boston and told the people in the Old South Church that the Negro ought to leave the country, and was followed by J.T Graves with practically the same [a] notion. It occurred to us that they ought to be answered in a fitting manner. After conferring, we concluded that no better answer could be made than your famous address, which you delivered not long since [there] in Washington. Add too, that the people of New England have not heard you for some time, a and we think it nothing more than right that you should visit our section at this juncture. Please write and let us know what your terms will be to deliver a lecture on that date. Hoping you will by all means return a favorable reply as early as possible, I am dear sir, Yours, G.W. Forbes Editor of Boston Courant. [*3045*]Liverpool Eng. March 18, 1894. Dear Mr. Douglass: I arrived safely Friday of last week and have already addressed an audience of 1500 persons. I find quite to my surprise that Mrs. Mayo is hostile because I will not consent to a denunciation of of poor Miss Impey and will therefore have no part in the work. As Miss Impey is practically retired because of what I told you, I am compelled to depend on myself somewhat, as there are many places where the Brotherhood is not organized. I have come abroad to give 3 months of my time to the work and I am going to do [*1591*]will write the letter at once for me and more than oblige me. It is the second personal favor I ever asked of you, and I would not ask it but that I hope the race will benefit thereby. Please also, do not mention the facts herein mentioned in the disagreement between Miss Impey and Mrs. Mayo and how it leaves me. You know persons are always more apt to draw wrong than right conclusions about any thing, so I hope it will remain between us two. Trusting to hear from you soon I remain, Yours affectionately, Ida B. Wells 53 Bedford St. N Liverpool Eng Mr. C. F. Aked is the name of my host, and his address is the same. it. I shall make a special effort to interview the great London editors. I am visiting at the home of Rev. C. F. Aked, the most popular pastor in Liverpool with the largest congregation. It was at his church I spoke. He thinks that I should have a letter of introduction from you. Please write one as soon as you get this and forward to me immediately. You know about my work and can the better commend me to their forces than I can speak for myself. Indeed I should be most glad if you will write Mr. Aked himself and thank him in the race's name for the help he has already given the cause. I know you [*Inclosed in 1893 Sept 12*] [*Wells*] P.S. Mr. Aked says he had a letter of introduction to you in the states but found you not at home when he called at Anacostia en route home from the Fair. no one told him you were in Chicago until it was too late. He wished very much that if you do come to England, you will let him know so he may call on you. I enclose his 'Personal notes' so you may see what he says about his trip last summer. He says further that it is very important not only to send me a letter of introduction but if you wish for the splendid success of the work to write letters to all your friends in Great Britain commending me to them. This I know my dear sir you will do and at once as it will take the letters nearly a month to reach here[*Please keep for me. I am in Manchester now with Mr. Axon*] 1', Albyn Place, Aberdeen. 12. Sept. 1893. My dear Miss Wells, Following the "dissension" (!) in our Free Press.. Mr. Edwards has come down to Aberdeen & held three meetings,. all very hearty and enthusiastic. He has requested me to write to you to ask if you can make any arrangement for a systematic sending to him of certain papers? "Fraternity" has probably shown you the good use to which we have put all we have had. But [*1591-A*]we often feel as if something was left out - & they often come visit too late for the issue of "Fraternity", which makes them seem much behind-hand in the next no. ! We do not, regularly, get the "Inter-Ocean' - but I can always see it through a friend in Aberdeen. Mr. Fortune always sends me "the New York Age." up to date. Mr. Edwards says if you will do what you can in this matter of promptitude & regularity, he will send you monthly 100 "Fraternities," which you can sell or "place" in any way you think best for the cause. You are to send direct to 18. Patermoster Row, as this saves money and time. I will continue to get the New York Age (to keep me in touch) and you can, perhaps, kindly send me anything special as an extra. Mr. Edwards also bids me ask if you think you could possibly come back to this country - leaving the U. S. A. so as to be here for February, March, April, and May? He says he could arrange a perfect tour through the country, by his business agent & his local secretaries. Your expenses would, of course, be paid, andyou would not be asked to work for absolutely nothing. only it is useless to go into details till we know if you can entertain the idea. Of course, I wish you would come back: because I fully believe Mr. Edwards' arrangements would do you justice,- and you would work unblighted !! When you reply to this letter, send me such an answer as I can send on to him directly. This saves all possible misunderstandings. If you write anything on other subjects (not intended for him), just mark that sheet as "private," and I will not send it on. Mr. Edwards is working hard,House of Representatives U.S., Washington, D.C. 14 March, 1894 307 M. Street N.W. Honorable Fredrick Douglas Washington D.C. My dear good friend You the Moses of your race which wisely you prepared for and led to the request of her political and civil rights with the personal liberty in the United States; Why do not rise your powerful voice in defense of the good and primitive hawaiian race which had much affinity with yours and since the middle of january 1893, is threatened to be deprived of her rights Liberty and political independence of her country through the intrigues treason and mala fide of an oligarchy of ill bred and greedy missionaries sons supported by a mob of mercenary soldiers composed of the dregs of all nations: [*1592*]Never a more fit crowd for producing demoralization terror and anarchy was collected before in Hawaii or in any other country on earth. The missionaries themselves are now alarmed at such a prospect. President Cleveland is right in his hawaiian policy for restoring the status quo [?with?] the unparalleled outrage perpetuated by H. L. Minister Stevens in complicity with the turbulent Missionaries on the Hawaiian Queen and people and deserves the hearthy support of all the well thinking men at home and abroad - The hawaiians have crowned President Cleveland The Just I always with gratitude remember the efficacious support that you personally your sons, John I. Downing and your journal The New National Era gave me in my Struggle for passing through Congress my Bill for the Abolition of the nefarious Traffic in italian slaves of both sexes and of all ages in the years 1873 - 1874 against the will and the interests of the cruel italian padroni the Ministers and Consuls of the King of Italy in this country and of their accomplices here in Washington, New York, Philadelphia, Chicago, BaltimoreHouse of Representatives U. S., Washington, D. C., , 189 . [*3*] and other cities, towns villages and rural districts. By post I send you a copy of my book on the hawaiian question, please read it carefully With respect and affections Your faithfully Celso Caesar MorenoNorfolk Neb March 15 1894 Mr. Frederick Douglass My Dear Friend & Brother I can tell you that your welcome letter was a great & pleasing surprise to me as I had not thought of sending a paper to you as I could not get answer a answer le[tter] from any of the letters I had written to you now I am so glad that my Daughter & her husband sent a[f] to you as it brought pleasant news of your family. what pleasure it would give me to see you all again. I thank you very much indeed. for the kind offer you maid me to make my house under your roof so long as we both shall live. this is like the one you offer me - fifty years ago. it would give me so much pleasure to be with you all. yes we could think & th talk of many things. but my dear Friend [*1593*]that is too much happiness for me to expect now in this life for I too am growing old I have had a great deal of sickness, my Septs are feble my Eyes not so good. but my hair is almost as black as it was the last time I saw you & that was 16 years ago I think, we saw by the papers that you was in omaha. that was very kind in you to try to find me. it tells me I am not forgotten We saw by the papers of the Death of your Son & we heard that you lost a grand Son last fall just be you went to omaha. I Shall be very glad to hear from Mrs. Rosetta & Mr. Lewiss & Charles. I hope they will all write to me & Send all of your Pictures to me this would add to my happiness. I have. Douglass Monthly August 1862. in one of my letters to you I asked you please Send me one of your books my Bondage & Freedom with your Pictures this would be a great treat to me to have my grandChildren to read it to me now my Eyes are dim I have told them So much about you I I want them to read your book for me. I have 4 grandChildren. Anna oldest 14 P F A [??] 11. William E. & Ruth youngest 6 all doing well in School. they are a great Comfort to me. Dear Friend I hope you will write again soon & when you are touring I hope you will come this way as I do not think I shall ever be able to go to see you all but I hope we shall meet again. I [remains?] your Friend & Sister. All Send love Mrs. Ruth [Aileen?] please Addresse as before In care of Rev. Wm H. Vendergee Norfolk Nebr.Office of the [Collector of Customs], "Quarterly" Port of Wilmington, N.C., Mch. 15, 1894 My Dear Mr. Douglass: - I have been out of the city for [more] about two weeks on important business, hence failure to reply to your interesting letter of some days ago. I will try to arrange to get the Opera House at once, and will report to you the result of my effort. All are anxious to see you and hear you. $100 includes every thing does it, outside of cost of hall &c here? Yours sin cerely Jno. C. Dane [*1594*]2154, Arapahoe st, Denver, March 15/94. My dear Douglass: Thanks for your good letter and for your grand Address, as by the way, all your addresses are. That address will rank with your many strong, peculiar, and telling ones. It, and many others of your speeches, will live in the future, long after you shall have gone to "the Silent Continent of the eternal future." Though I failed to detail my present feelings so nicely, and so naturally as you have done, I must that yours tally much the same as mine. I do not sleep quite as well as I used to, and I dream much more than formerly. Every night I am busy in dream about something. Since I received your letter, I have [*1584*](2) taken a cold and am now troubled with a Cough, mostly at night. It is, however, slowly lessening. I am really very glad that you Can "enjoy good corn-cakes and butter." Indeed, my old friend, I could join with you in their benefits. I can even now pleasantly imagine their combination with good, fresh butter- good old "Cow butter." O, wouldn't it be a pleasant coincident, if our lives should be prolonged to reach four-score years of age, and then meet together to congratulate each other on the eventful scenes we had passed through. Let us hope that it may come to pass. The similarities of your preface to the passing away of Ward, Garnett, Remond, Smith, Wells Brown, Bibb and others you have mentioned, touches me deeply. These were men like yourself who had the courage of their convictions.(3) I, too, lay awake a good deal, and ruminate over old things, old scenes and old places and persons. I dream of many places and scenes new to me. Strange thoughts fleet across the mind, while in dreams. Oh! who can answer the question satisfactorily and conclusively: "If a man die shall he live again." It is a potent fact that all humanity desire to live in the future. And all human experience demonstrates the fact that many, very many sincere desires are never realized in this life. But enough. As ever and always, H.O. Wagoner.Wilmington Del Mar 16th 1894 Honered Sir I see by the Press of this City that you will deliver an address at the Century Club House on 21st inst and will be introduced to the audience by Chief Justice Charles B. Lore You will pardon me for asking you to plead the cause of the Colored people of this State with the judges if the opportunity will permit The greviance I believe if brought to the Judges notice by you will have the desired effect as He is considered to be quite a liberal man And I do not believe what I ask you to do has ever been brought to his official notice The Greviance is thus Several years ago under Chief Justice Comegers a wire was ordered (or so the public report goes by the Chief Justice Comegers to be stretched across the Southerly [*1603*]to be stretched across the southerly half of the seats in the County Court House in this City and that portion on the lower side of the court room as wired to be set for the colored people thus they are denied the right to a seat in any other part of the court room as the court room is ruled by the rulering of the judges I ask you as an American citizen to aid us in regaining this much of our rights in the Halls of Justice of this State that the wire be removed and that the colored people be permitted to take a seat where ever there is vacant seat without any perscription yours AB McPherson Johnson 18th and Market StsW. E. MOLLISON, LAWYER, PRACTICES IN STATE AND FEDERAL COURTS. REAL ESTATE BOUGHT AND SOLD. __ vs. __ Vicksburg, Miss., March 16th 1894. Hon. Frederick Douglass, Anacostia, Washington D. C., Honored Sir:- There is a movement on foot, which a number of our people feel to be sufficient import to demand the attention of our friends in the House and Senate. We refer to the effort now being put forth to create another Federal Judgeship in this State, when as a matter of fact there is no need for it whatever. The section is designed simply to secure a Democrat in an important life position. The consumation of this project may eventually prove more far reaching in its consequencesto us and also the party, with which we are identified, than can now be foreseen. Therefore we have deemed it wise to address you, requesting your assistance in getting the matter[s] properly before our friends in Congress, Hon. Thomas B. Reed particularly. Very Respectfully and Sincerely yours, Isaiah T. Montgomery James Hill [*1595*]Coneggar Villa, March 18 Bridport My dear Mr. Douglass, I enclose a paper wch Mr. Granger of this Bank here got for me and I asked him as to the best way of sending £100 to America - this paper is an equivalent to £100 I believe. - I have a duplicate of it wh I shall send in a few days, so that if anything happens to the first and it is lost, you can get the money for the second. I shall be glad to hear that it reaches you safely. By all means divide it as you propose between [*1596*] had enjoyed a carriage drive with her sister in law Mrs Henry Williams of Sheffield who was visiting her the very day before. I may [?d] another time in a few days with the duplicate paper With kind regards to Mrs Douglass - Ever sincerely yours Mary Carpenterthe Tuskegee & Cappeholic Schools. I am glad to think of a grand daughter of yours being one of the teachers in the latter school, & am much obliged to you for the trouble you will take in the matter. I hope you will be able to spare me 2 or 3 more copies of your very admirable address Lesson of the Hour - for I think I can make good use of them. I have read it to two friends who were staying with me lately. Mrs. Esther Carpenter & Mrs. Barin, - both of them were deeply interested in it and amazed at the terrible cruelty & injustice therein described - I want to send a copy to my nephew Estlin Carpenter, who is one of the Professors at our theological college at Oxford. especially I want him to read it as he & his wife will probably visit the U.S. this summer. He has been asked to give a course of lectures at the Harvard College - these will occupy six weeks - & they have many friends to visit, & of course much to see & do. - I shall be much disappointed if they don't see you while they are there. Last week Countess Alice Kearney came to Bridport to address a liberal meeting on current politics. I was asked to reserve her for the two nights she was to be here - and found her avery pleasant guest, - & that we had many subjects of mutual interest; - she looked at your pamphlet, & asked to take it with her to show to a Miss Connybeare, another clever lady lecturer - this I was glad to let her do - she promised to return it - but until she does I cannot lend it to any one for a review. I heard from Miss Amez-Draz about three weeks ago - she begged me if I wrote to you to remember her very vividly to you - she was in trouble at the lap of a very dear friend, Miss Gertrude Wilson, who died on the 15th Feby at Ventura Isle of Wight -. Miss Wilson had been an invalid for many months, but was no worse than usual just before her death; indeedJOHN S DURHAM REAL ESTATE AND GENERAL AGENT WITH HARVEY & HOFFMAN, 135 S. 13TH STREET. PHILADELPHIA, March 18, 1894 Honorable Fred'k Douglass, Anacostia, Washington, D.C. My dear Mr. Douglass:- An invitation to be one of an honorary committee to be present the evening of your lecture apprised me of your intended visit to Philadelphia. I write to ask whether I and my family may have the pleasure of your company during your stay here. If you will only consent to make our humble home yours, we will be delighted. Whether your arrangements will permit you to accept or not, I shall be glad to know the time of your intended arrival in order to meet you. The Citizen's Republican Club of the 7th ward desire to have you spend a half hour at their house after your lecture. They have entertained Bassett and myself and I can vouch for the respectability of the organization. My uncle, Andrew Stevens, whom you doubtless know is its President. Hoping that this finds you well and [*1597*]with most respectful salutations to Mrs. Douglass, I am most cordially yours, John J. DurhamFort Duchesne Utah March 20, 1894 Hon Fred Douglass Washington DC Dear Sir Permit me to address you in the interest of 2nd Lieut. Charles Young 9" Cavalry, now serving under my command at this post, and in whom I feel more than a kindly interest. Lieut Young has served under my Command during the past three years continuously, and for a period of 6 months at Fort Robinson Nebraska before coming here, so that I may write that he has served under my observation nearly all of the time since he was graduated from the Military Academy. During the past 18 months he has served as my private Adjutant and first Quartermaster, I know him thoroughly, and can fully recommend him as an efficient officer, and as a young man of the most exemplary moral character. He is a hard worker and of studious habits and eminently deserves success in life, while his official and moral character can be said to be fully appreciative by all of his associates, still as it were he stands alone socially, he is perfectly unobtrusive and modest in manners, and apparently reconciled to his status But esteeming him as I do for his worth as a man and fellow officer leads me to desire to see him placed for a while at least, in circumstances where he will be priviledged with social engagements and kindred advantages [*1601*]I have thought of a college detail for him, and upon investigation find he will be available under the law for such detail after August of this year, as he will at that time have completed five years service with his Regiment and I am assured that it will be given him provided that a college entitled to have an Army Officer with it makes application to the War Department for his service. This brings me to ask if you will kindly interest yourself in this matter and if possible find the college that will apply for him to serve with it. The detail I think is for four years. Lieut Young has saved all of his earnings often paying for [?] prudent expenses; has provided well for his parents and I am sure at the end of four years of college service he will be found a strong character in dealing with the problems of life. Confident of your sympathy and assistance if in your power, in my efforts for Lieut Young I am very respectfully your obedient Servant James F. Randall Major 9th Cavalry1343. N. Calhoun St Baltimore Maryland March 21/94 To the Hon Frederick Douglass Sir I write only for information on the subject of your Lecture in this city = The impression has gotten about that you were asked not to deliver in this city (for certain reasons) the lecture you delivered in Washington DC. Metropolitan Church = Kindly inform me if this is the fact = Please dont think I am a stranger as I have met you a number of times. Hoping you are enjoying good health I have the honor to be yours Geo. P. T. Jones [*1602*]Brockport. March. 22nd / 94 Mr. Douglass; - Esteemed Friend; - No doubt you will be very much surprised to receive a letter from me, and I am very much surprised at myself for writing to you; but as strange as it may seem I have thought of you oh, so many times since my return from Chicago; a short time ago Father and I were speaking of you, and I said "I have a great mind to write to Mr. Douglass and see if my company would be as agreeable to himself [*1598*]and family now as it would have been last Dec. when he invited me to accompany him to Washington the morning he departed from Chicago," so here I am undertaking the task. I hope Mr. Douglass that you will not think that I am intruding in sending this letter on short acquaintance, but I have heard Father speak so much of you that it seems to me as though I had always known you. Now to the "point" Mr. Douglass - I contemplate taking a pleasure trip south as far as Philadelphia about May 1st and if my company would be agreeable to Mrs. Douglass and yourself I should be pleased to make you a short visit at that time, I always have had a great desire to visit the Capitol City, also I should like very much to become better acquainted with you, I enjoyed your society so much, the several times I met you at the Williams'es, oh, has the "button" which I served on your coat lost off yet? Hoping that yourself and family are enjoying that greatest of Gods blessings, good health, as we are at present also hoping to hear from you, with our kindest regards and best wishes I must say adieu. Yours &c. F. Gertrude Page. Brockport. N.Y. Mr. DouglassBridport Mar. 23rd '94 Dear Mr. Douglass Thank you very much for the three copes of yr. "Lessons of the Hour" wc.h reached here yesterday and wch. I hope to make very useful. I enclose the duplicate of a paper, which I hope you will receive a few days before this reaches you. the Manager of my Bank advised me to send the $100 in this way [*3169*]and said that if one of the papers shd be drowned or stolen - the other would be good for the money! I dare say you will let me know when you have received it. If you write please to tell me how you are - I hope not overworking yourself. The weather here is beautiful just now which I am very glad of, as it makes the Easter holiday of so many people happier. I have had several friends staying with me this last month - Am now alone for a few days - and on Tuesday 29th hope to have a favorite niece with me for a week. With kind regards to Mrs. Douglass I am ever most sincerely yours Mary Carpenter.Biddeford March 23, 1894 My Dear Friends It is so long since I have written many letters that I hardly know where to commence and what to say. But Col Frank M. Roberts called yesterday to say farewell, expecting to leave today for Mexico, United States Consul, will go via Washington, and I invited him to call upon you. He takes his little boy 10 years old with him, leaves the little boy we saw, now seven, with his Mother. His baby boy that we did not see, died when three years old. He thought he would call at your home Tuesday afternoon. He wants the boy to call with him upon the president. Mary Plumer told him he had better let him see Cleaveland as he is the last democratic president we would ever have, and it does look that way. Towns and cities in Maine that never had any but democratic [*1599*] I wanted to tell you, if I could how much we all enjoyed the speak, and we are giving it circulation, and all say it came none too soon. Mayors, are now sweepingly republican out of 21 Cities only 2 have democratic mayors and they have nothing else. the strongest. strong - holds. democracy had; are no longer democratic the Wilson Bill did it. It is good for our City government that there is a Wilson bill, for we should certainly have been bankrupt if indeed we are not already. Well now let me thank you for your last letter, and for the invitation to visit you this spring. I should like to accept ut so many lions in the way, important among them, we expect, May will be married very soon. though I do not think the day is set, but she told her mother,that the next time Mr Neal comes, they would be married. He is doing clothing business in Newburyport, comes down to see May, about once in four weeks, was here first of last week, so about three weeks he will be expected. May intends to spend a good deal of her time here, I think our serious sickness last winter decoded jer staying with us, though as we get strong she may see it will not be necessary for her to stay. Lizzie being gone changes every thing concerning us. She was so much to us all , we are not learning easily how to get on without her. You will not tell Col Roberts, that May is to be married, it would be such a nice item for his paper. May is saying nothing about it asking no body [to] keep her secrets. I ask no question, and only know what her mother says, and she would rather May remain single. We are all well, and the weather is delightful we never experienced such fine weather in March. May picked a full bloom pansy in our yard two weeks ago. I suppose all early flowers are in full bloom with you. We have been snow bound, from 8th feb, until about 1st march no electric cars, running yet. As the summer comes we shall begin looking for you. I had a letter from dear little Emma the other day she always speaks kindly and lovingly of you people - one does not know, whether she can come to us the coming summer but we hope. And if she cannot come to us I think I may go to her. I have no doubt but I would grow strong faster, if I could make a change, and I have no doubt I shall have. Mrs Plumer gets up quite early mornings and does a good deal of work during the day and besides she knits edging. I have no doubt she has knit 30 yards. She had knit for every one of the girls, in the family, and several outside. I often leave her knitting when I retire at night. Lillie came home for the weeks vacation, and next term finishes her college life at Mount Holyoke. She enjoys being there and is a student that ranks well. She took the highest rank in our high school. Please make my regards to Col R tell him I kept my word and informed you he would call. Every body sends love and I will now send this along Affectionately yours E N GrayU.S. Court of Appeals. San Francisco, Cal. March 24th 1894 Hon Frederick Douglass Anacostia Dist of Col. My Dear Sir, There is in our city a gentleman by the name of C. H. Romain, of Hayti, who has a coffee stand at the California Midwinter International Exposition. and who, so we are informed claims to have been the accredited Commissioner of Haytian Government to the Worlds Fair. at Chicago. and who also is regarded by some to the Commissioner of that Republic to the Fair now being held here. the Afro-American League. had intended to tender him a reception as such representing, Meanwhile information reached me from Miss Ida. b. Wells there on the Editorial Staff. [*1604*]Servant T.B. Morton President Afro-American League of the Chicago Conservator, that this Mr Romain was not the Commissioner as he had represented himself, and moreover that he was not the man to be honored by our best citizens thus, and indeed much information to show that he was anything but a gentleman. that while he had a wife and children in Port au Prince, he married one Miss Rosa Hill of Chicago. Will you kindly inform me just what this mans connection with the Haytian Building was? in Chicago, and if he was one of the Commissioners or not - and wether the reports of his double marriage is true or not? He produces a great many receipted Bills, and other matter - including a commission [to] to prove that he was all he claims to be. Will you kindly write me fully concerning him, and oblige your very obedientFirst Term opened October 31, 1892, Spring Term closed May 31, 1893. Fall Term opened October 13, 1893. Spring Term closes June 7. 1894. OFFICE OF Rev. John F. Smallwood, PRESIDENT AND GENERAL FINANCIAL AGENT Temperance, - Industrial - and Collegiate - Institute, Beautifully located in most healthful locality Work upon new building be commenced during summer vacation, We need $50,000 by June, 1894. 65,000 feet of lumber now ordered. BAGLEY HALL, Claremont, Va., March 24, 1894 Hon. Fred. Douglass, Washington D.C. My dear Sir, It would be indeed be inspiring to our teachers, to our pupils and to myself to have you speak for us June the Six, at our Annual Commencement. I therefore I take great pleasure, Mr Douglass, in asking you to come to historic Claremont Va. And speak, if you please before the students of this poor humble institution, June, 6,th. Our pupils are all poor, too poor, to pay us the sum of Six ($) dollars. Our school is strictly non-sectarian and non-political, but real moral [*1606*]industrial and religious. Our teachers are all poor. They are not getting a cent for their labors. I have never received a penny for my time, nor my labors. I looked around. I see in no Negro, what I see in you. Let me beg you to come to us, and speak for us, if you can. I am my dear Mr. Douglas, honored to be your young friend. John J. Smallwood P.S. This will be our second annual commencement. You will find us poor but earnest, young but sincere, Negroes but believers in work. I do pray and trust that you will consent to come to us. And speak for us June 6th J. J. Smallwood.FIFTY-THIRD CONGRESS JAMES B. McCREARY, Ky., Chairman, Charles E. Hooker, Ms. Ashbel P. Fitch, N. Y. Isidor Rayner, Md. Thomas J. Geary, Cal. Andrew Price, La. Henry St. G. Tucker, Va. Hugh A. Dinsmore, Ark. William Everett, Mass. Robert B. Hill, Ill. Alfred C. Harmer, Pa. Bellamy Storer, Ohio. Henry W. Blair, N. H. William F. Draper, Mass. John Van Voorhis, N. Y. Andrew F. Bradley, Clerk Committee on Foreign Affairs, House of Representatives U. S., Washington, D. C. March 24 ", 1894 Dear Mrs Douglass - Your esteemed favor of yesterday was duly received -- I should be glad to be able to believe that your English friend is not mistaken -- But the proof to the contrary is so strong that I cannot. The personal character of the ex-queen, is matter of record, & the record is so bad that it will not bear publication - In moral sense, in sentiment, and in her views of humanity, she is essentially a savage - Minister Willis reports that she demanded the right to behead President Dole, and all the members of the Provisional Government -- Is not that savage enough - It is not strange that some American families kept up the focus of social relations with her, because [*1607*]2 FIFTY-THIRD CONGRESS JAMES B. McCREARY, Ky., Chairman, Charles E. Hooker, Ms. Ashbel P. Fitch, N. Y. Isidor Rayner, Md. Thomas J. Geary, Cal. Andrew Price, La. Henry St. G. Tucker, Va. Hugh A. Dinsmore, ARk. William Everett, Mass. Robert B. Hill, Ill. Alfred C. Harmer, Pa. Bellamy Storer, Ohio. Henry W. Blair, N. H. William F. Draper, Mass. John Van Voorhis, N. Y. Andrew F. Bradley, Clerk Committee on Foreign Affairs, House of Representatives U. S., Washington, D. C. March 24 ", 1894 she was a queen -- It may be different now that she's discrowned - The most urgent promoters of the ex-queen, are English -- In fact, there is no doubt that England. would be glad to grab these islands, if a favorable opportunity offered -- That opportunity would soon present itself, if the ex-queen should be restored to the throne - As it is now, the best people of Hawaii have control of the government, & for that, all good people should rejoice everywhere - With kindest regards to your distinguished husband & yourself I am - Very respectfully yours John Van Voorhis Chicago, Mar 25, 1894. Easter Sunday 1021 Washington Boul. Dear uncle Frederick, It is such a long time since we said "Goodbye", on that cold December day, that I fear you have begun to think I had forgotten you. I have thought of you so many many times and reproached myself for not having written to you 1608-Abut each time it would seem that I was too busy, and I put off writing till some more convenient time. It is convenient now because Frank + his violin are at the 3rd Presbyterian Church rehearsing for this evenings service. Somehow I never find time to write letters when Frank is at home as he is talking or wants my attention in some way. We had a happy xmas, although Frank lost his position in December He has not had any work since but I have been well, and have not lost a day at school since I saw you, nor have I lost a day for over four years. We expect Frank's mamma to come soon after the first of April and expect to go to house keeping just before May 1st. We are to have the 2nd Flat of 148 S. Lincoln St. We bought some furniture just before Xmas of a lady who lost her husband and was going to leave the city. She also gave us her splendid big cat, who is quite an important member of the household + now lies sleeping on one of the chairs as you see at the head of this letter. Dear Mrs Haight is as kind as ever but we shall have to leave her in about a month. She is going to move away also. She sends her kind regards to you and Mrs. Douglass, and says she would have been glad to have seen more of you. All this month we have had delightful spring weather until the last four days, when it has been cold + today there have been several snow flurries + the cold is quite wintry. I hope both you and Mrs. Douglass have enjoyed good health this past winter, and that it will continue good. If Frank were here he would join me in sincerest regards to you both. Write when you can spare the time to Your loving niece Eva W. Russell[*[1894 Mr 26]*] Hon John Van Voorhis My dear sir: I am just home from a lecturing tour -- and make haste to thank you for a copy of your speech on the Hawaiian question. I might call it your great speech, for such it is, showing as it does careful and industrious examination of the facts in the case, and, presenting the subject from your premises, with faultless logic and irresistable clearness, I have given perhaps less attention to the subject than I ought in view of its importance; and have rather thought that the dethronement of the Hawaiian Queen's, the work of Americans and a stepping stone to annexation, an imitation of the policy that wrested Texas from Mexico, but, knowing your justice, your speech has caused me to halt and think, though not convinced. I do not like the character you give the Queen. I do not think she is as bad as she is painted. This is a conflict of testimony on the point and, lawyer that you are, you will not blame me for giving Liliuokalani the benefit of a reasonable doubt. The Jews always gave the peoples whose lands they marched and meant to take possession of, a very bad moral & religious reputation. The religion of the Jews may have some effect upon us in this respect. I am sure you are not right my dear sir in making the Indian impossible to civilization. There are no border wars with the Indian, in Mexico or Canada. These wars and their consequences are confined to the U.S. You are a friend to the negro, and as such, I honor you -- but I want you to be a friend to the Indian as well. You stand among the great men of your time. Let no man, of whatever race or color, feel the weight of your heel, but give, as a lawmaker, your helping hand to all men who are wronged and oppressed. Having known you in your youth and watched with deep interest & admiration your heady rise in statesmanship as well as in your profession, I want to see you right in all things. Truly yours, Frederick Douglass March 26 1894 My dear Mr. Anderson. I do not know that I ever spent an hour more profitably than the hour spent at your house in witnessing the wonders of your phonograph. It brought me nearest to a sense of Divine creative power than anything I ever witnessed before. It raises the question as to the boundary of the human soul, the dividing line between the finite and the Infinite. I was amazed and wonderstruck when I heard coming out that trumpet, the voice & clear cut sentences of my friend Isaiah Wears. It was not merely his words but his voice that I heard. There was something solemn in the thought that though being dead and turned to dust, a man's voice may yet live and speak. Whether trembling with emotion or cool as crystal, whether blessing or cursing, whether melting with pity or blasting with hate, here it is and here it may be, for a century to come. It is something to look upon the faces and forms of our departed, but this thing makes, us to hear the voices, to feel the sentiment that moved them while I feel somewhat over this instrument in your hand as a man feels when he embraces religion. I want all the world to witness what I saw & heard at your house. Should you come to Wash. I will do all I can to make your exhibition a success. With kind regards to Mrs. Anderson & the children - I am very truly yoursCedar Hill, Anacostia, D. C. March 27th, I894. Rev. C. F. Aked, Dear sir, Miss Ida B. Wells, now sojourning in England, known to me by the persecutions to which she has been subjected on accoun of her bold exposures and pungent denunciations of Southern outrages upon colored people, has told me of the kindness and help she has received at your hands, at the beginning of her present mission to England. I join with Miss Wells in thanking you for opening the doors of your church, and otherwise assisting her in obtaining a hearing in England. Once an exile in your land, I know the value of such help as you have given Miss Wells. Southern papers have denounced Miss Wells and have assailed her as an unworthy person, but I give no credit to their denunciations. The motive for their assaults is simply to destroy the effect of her disclosures. I deem it highly important to the cause of justice and humanity, that the English people should know the truth concerning the outrages committed upon colored people in the Southern states of our Union. Nations no more than individuals, should live unto themselves. It is the right of each to do what it can to improve the moral sentiment of all. It is well to show the American people that the moral sentiment of our Republic is not the sentiment of England. The side of the American mob has been told to England by a hundred presses. The side of the negro has been hushed in death. I [*1108*]2 have tried to speak for the negro in this country and, I hope, not entirely in vain, and I am glad that you now have in England, one s so competent as Miss Wells, to tell the negro's side of this story of race persecution. If I were a few years younger, I would willingly join Miss Wells in her work. You will, I am sure, be glad to know that the Northern people, pulpit and press, are beginning to speak out again the mob, and to doubt the truth of the charge against the negro, by which the mob has sought to justify its savage brutality. I will send you, with this letter, an address on this subject recently delivered in Washington, by myself. It has not been well printed,b but I think it will show you good reasons for doubting the prevalence of the crime now charged against the negro. I am sorry not to have seen you when you did me the honor to call upon me at my house. Very truly and gratefully yours, FREDERICK DOUGLASS.Cedar Hill, Anacostia, D. C. March 27th., 1894. Dear Miss Wells, I an glad to know that you have safely arrived in England and to see by the papers that you have already met with friends and hav had a hearing in Liverpool. You are fortunate in having the aid and support of Mr. Aked, and I will take care to thank him for his generous action in opening the doors of his church to you and our cause. I see that you are already advertised as accredited to England by me. I had not supposed that, being invited to England, you needed my endorsement. They who called you there knew, I suppose, what they were doing and meant to stand by you and your mission. I do not see how they could ask you to denounce any one as a condition of fulfilling the obligation implied in the invitation given you to come to England. Will you oblige me by telling me frankly who invited you to spend three months in England and what assurances they gave you of support while on this mission? If they have promised and have failed to perform what they promised they should be exposed. On the other hand, if you have not been invited and have gone to England on your own motion and for your own purposes, you ought to have frankly told me so. There is nothing new in the story you now tell me of the attitude of Mrs. Mayo. You told me of her position when you returned from your first visit to England. I am ready to hold up your hands, and want to do so, but I wish to do so intelligently and truthfully. Very truly yours, Frederick Douglass [*1109*]LÉGATION DE LA RÉPUBLIQUE D'HAÏTI 22 State St. New York. 29th March 1894. Dear Sir: I have the honor to inform you, that I have just received from the Haytian Government, the funds necessary to pay the amount due to you, as Commissioner of Hayti to the Columbian Exposition at Chicago, to the end of Oct. 1893. It therefore affords me very great pleasure, to forward you herewith a cheque endorsed to your order, on the Citizen Natl. Bank, Washington, for the sum of $2012.50. The sum is exactly half the amount due to the Ex-Commissioners, according to the account agreed upon by Mr. Preston, & of which I herewith enclose you a copy. Trusting that you will find it correct & requesting that you will be kind enough to send me a receipt in duplicate for the amount now remitted, I beg you to accept, dear Sir the assurance of my respectful and highest consideration. C. Haentjens Hon. Frederick Douglass Anacostia Washington D.C. [*1608*]Rochester, New York March 31, 1894. My dear Mr. Douglass, I cannot tell you how honored I feel at your request for my photograph. I am going to send you two; one as you used to know me, when you called me "Flossie," and the other taken last year. We have our Mother [*1664*]and to know that she has been having a good time, that it quite pays for the long separation. We have been looking forward to a visit from your for so long, I hope you will not disappoint us. With kindest regards to Mrs. Douglass and yourself, I am, Cordially yours, Florence M. Blackallagain at last, and she looks so well, with a glow in her cheek that no place but Washington can give, that we feel very grateful to you and Mrs. Douglass for giving her such a delightful time. Now that she is home, and it can do no harm, I'm going to tell you that I was pretty Mother-sick; but it is such a pleasure to see her looking so well,Office of the [Collector of Customs,] Quarterly Port of Wilmington, N.C., March 31, 1894. Hon. Frederick Douglass, Anacostia D.C My Dear Mr. Douglass: - I have been trying to agree upon a date for you here, but since I have some engagements North which will take me as far as Boston, and all the important intermediate points. Hence I have agreed to put off your lecture until after I return which will be early in the summer [*1610*]2 Office of the [Collector of Customs,] Quarterly Port of Wilmington, N. C., __, 189 or else put it off still later. I am sorry your engagements necessitate this postponement. But another matter. There is a large and increasing trade between this Port and Haiti in lumber. It would be of great benefit to have a man who could devote some time to the service. Mr J. E. Taylor, who was lately my special Deputy Collector here, has made a special study of this trade is willing to take the3 Office of the Collector of Customs, Port of Wilmington, N. C., __, 189 Vice consulship, if he can get a sufficient backing to secure it for him. He has just the experience to fit him for the discharge of the duties of the position: I am informed that the vice consul here is closely related to large shippers by blood. A word to the powers that be from you would effect the end sought quite readily I am sure. You know too, how and to whom to say it. Mr. Taylor is a colored man of high character, splendid training and popular in the community. Sincerely yours — John C Dancy.V. G. FISCHER ART CO. 529 - 15th STREET. WASHINGTON. D. C. March 31st 1894. Hon. Frederick Douglass Anacostia. Dear Sir, I will not repeat the enthusiastic expressions of high admiration for your personnal worth by Mr. Chesser who felt very gratified you should have selected this picture from his Publications, commercial considerations in such instance have to be entirely disregarded, as it is an honor to be honored by a man whom the whole world felt proud to pay honors to. - I will deliver the picture at the close of the exhibition next Saturday. [*1609*]I feel satisfied it will always give you pleasure and with the assurance of my very highest respects I sign your obedient servant V. G. FischerCedar Hill, Anacostia, D. C. March 31, 1894. Dear sir: [*[C. Haentjens]*] I have the honor to inform you that I have this day received your respected letter of the 28th. March, informing me that you have received from the Haitian Government the funds necessary to pay the amount due me as Commissioner of Haiti to the Columbian Exposition at Chicago, to the end of October, 1893, also enclosing a check endorsed to my order, on Citizen's National Bank Washington for the sum of Two Thousand and Twelve Dollars and Fifty cents; also an account of salaries paid, at different times, by the Government of Haiti to persons connected with the Haitian Commission. In making to you this acknowledgment, it gives me very great pleasure to be able to assure you that the settlement thus made through you, Mr. Minister, by the Haitian Government is entirely satisfactory. The Government of Haiti is not only entitled to my grateful remembrance for the honor it has conferred upon me, by making me one of its Commissioners, but for the more than liberal compensation it has allowed the commission. In pursuance of your proper request, I send you herewith, in duplicate, a receipt for Two Thousand and Twleve Dollars and Fifty Cents. This sum being payment, in full of my services to the Republic of Haiti at the Columbian Exposition. In accepting this sum [*1112*]as I now do, it is due to myself to say, considering all the circumstances of the expenses attending Haiti's participation in the Columbian Exposition, I should never have made a claim upon her for one dollar more than she paid prior to October, 1893. As you are aware, Mr. Minister, there was deducted from the amount paid me last fall, the sum of Two Hundred Dollars. This was a loan to Mr. Charles Preston. He came to me in apparent great distress and solicited this loan as a relief. This money has not been returned to me. He has, however, assured me that it would be paid out of his part of the Four Thousand Dollars now due him. I should be greatly obliged to you, Mr. Haentjens, if you will deduct this sum from Mr. Preston's salary and send the same to me. With sentiments of the highest esteem, Mr. Minister, I am, very truly your obedt. servt. C.Haentjens, Haitien Minister, Plenipotentiary to the United States.Cedar Hill Anacostia, D.C. March 31, 1894 Dear Sir: [C. Haentjens] I have the honor to inform you that I have, this day, received your respected letter, informing me that you have received from the Haitian Government, the funds necessary to pay the amount due me as Commissioner of Haïti to the Columbian Exposition at Chicago to the end of October, 1893; also enclosing a check endorsed to my order on the Citzen's National Bank, Washington, for the sum of two thousand twelve dollars and fifty cents ($2012.50); also an amount of the salaries paid at different times by the Government of Haïti to persons connected with the Haïtian Commission. In making this acknowledgement, as I do, with every sentiment of satisfaction, I enclose [1111]in pursuance of your request, a receipt in duplicate for two thousand twelve dollars and fifty cents in payment for my services in full rendered as Commissioner of the Republic of Haïti at the Columbian Exposition. Mr. Preston on informing me that these funds were to be sent, asked me that the two hundred dollars that you may remember I, [advanced to him bef] before I left Chicago requested you to advance to him, out of funds due me, and which you did pay over to him, would be returned to me out of the present payment. You will oblige me therefore by deducting two hundred dollars from [his] Mr. Preston's part of the [$4000] four thousand and twenty five dollars ($4025) divided between Mr. Preston and myself. I am, dear sir, with sentiments of the highest regard, Your obedient servant Frederick Douglass.Exposition Universelle de Chicago Commission Haïtienne. Cedar Hill: Anacostia D.C. Mch 31st 1894 Dear Sir: [*[C. Haentjens]*] I have the honor to inform you that I have this day received your respected letter of the 28th informing me that you have received from the Haïtian Government the funds necessary to pay the amount due me as Commissioner of Haïti to the Colombian Exposition at Chicago to the end of Oct. 1893: als enclosing a Check endorsed to my order on the Citizen's National Bank, Washington for the sum of Two Thousand Twelve Dollars and Fifty Cents ($2012.50) also an account of Salaries paid at different times by the Government of Haïti to persons connected with the Haïtian Commission. In making this acknowledgment, I take pleasure in assuring you that the settlement you have thus made in the service of the Haïtian Government is in all respects satisfactory and that I am sincerely obliged to you for your in bringing it about. The Government of Haïti is entitled to my grateful thanks not only for the honor conferred upon me by making one of her commissioners, but for the liberal compensation allowed to the commission. I enclose, in pursuance of your request, a receipt in duplicate for Two Thousand Twelve Dollar and fifty cents in payment for my services as Commissioner of the Republic of Haïti at the Columbian Exposition. As you are aware, Mr Preston in his distress at Chicago solicited a loan of Two hundred dollars from me, which was deducted from the amount which you would have otherwise paid me at that time. He has assured me that this two Hundred Dollars, loaned him in his alleged distress, would be paid me out of his part of the Four Thousand and Twenty five Dollars. I shall be greatly obliged if in your settlement with Mr. Preston you will deduct the $200 and send the same to me [] and esteem [*3023*]Exposition Universelle de Chicago, Commission Haïtienne Cedar Hill: Anacostia April 1st 1894 Received of Honbl C. Haentjens, Minister to the United States from the Republic of Haïti, a check payable to my order of [2012.50] Two Thousand and Twelve Dollars and fifty cents. the same being [the sum] payment in full, for the salary due me for service as Haïtien Commissioner to the Columbian Exposition at Chicago. United States [*1112-A*]Washington, D.C., March 31, 1894 Dear Sir: I take this liberty of addressing you now for the reason that leaders of our people in your city have assured me of the valuable service you have heretofore rendered, and are ever ready to render to that down-trodden race, yours and mine. You have in your city men of our race who are ever watchful of our interests, and they have advised the Central Organization here of the fact that a certain J.J. Coughlin, the present incumbent, is a candidate for re-election as an alderman. They have also apprised us of the fact that he is a most bitter foe of our race and kind. They tell us that but for his corrupt evidence, the blood of a late lamented brother, who was foully murdered, would not have gone unavenged. The same enclosure also apprises us that another candidate - J. Irving Pearce - has oppressed members of our race whenever and wherever he has had occasion to deal with them. The Central Afro-American Labor League has information that in his dealings with his employes of our kind, he has always been grinding, tyrannical and unfair. He is no friend to the colored race. The time is fast approaching when wrong must give way to right, and the race so long oppressed must receive the measure of simple justice so long withheld. No other influence is as powerful to bring about this end as the Afro-American himself. In the North, with the ballot in his hand, he is the peer of any man. Men who on every other day in the year deride and oppress him, on election day, court him for his vote. But that is the opportunity for him to assert his independence and rights; and rebuke the men who are his enemies every other day but election day. Looking at the battle from afar, it would seem inconceivable to us here, how any true Afro-American could cast his ballot for those enemies of his race, Coughlin and Pearce. It leaves you with no alternative than to vote for that gentleman, who, we are informed, has always been a friend of our people, William Skakel. It behooves you then, Sir, to exert every effort in your power to elect Skakel, that Coughlin and Pearce may receive their proper rebuke, and from the opening to the closing of the polls, labor with your friends to that end. I enclose you one of my photographs. It will probably be the last occasion I may have to have a photograph taken, as I am fast approaching the sunset of life. With the best and kindest wishes, I am, Yours Truly, Fred Douglass