January 1, 1862 — Clinton Lyceum, Baltimore MD

Fellow members of the Clinton Lyceum and friends of Literature: Permit me to thank you for the honor conferred in being invited to address you this evening. Although suffering from a very severe cold, I cannot resist the promptings of duty, and will say a few words to you knowing that the harvest is great and the laborers few. The time has come when we, the descendants of Africa, should arouse to a sense of duty; for we are fast approaching the period when the dark cloud of ignorance will be dispelled, and our people will be enabled to reach a high point of elevation. Let us continue being obedient to the laws, diligent in the discharge of all our duties, persevering in our studies, and a brighter day will dawn on us. Let us, like the brave soldiers now filling the Monumental City for the purpose of sustaining our country’s flag, rally around the standard raised by the friends of literature, and not suffer to be lowered and trodden under foot. In conclusion let me ask you, fellow members, to be united in heart and hand, and live in lovely union together until the sun shall set to rise no more.

Source: Weekly Anglo-African, Jan. 11, 1862.

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