64 your progress toward what is better. Four years ago, before the rebellion, they were also satisfied, and, while your true friends hung their heads, they declared that everything was going on admirably, and that material prosperity should suffice. Do you remember, moreover, what reception they gave to those who thought it necessary to solve the question of slavery ? This question would solve itself! The South must decide it! Time must be suffered to do its work ! Well, these same men, or well nigh such, hold the same language to you to-day on the subject of the free negroes. What is the use of being in haste ? This question also will solve itself ! This question also should be left to the independent action of the South ! The fact is, that now as then the detestable selfishness which we all cherish at the bottom of our hearts cries out to us that we must rest, that we must seek enjoyment, that we must not trouble ourselves too much about the unfortunate. The negroes may extricate themselves the best they can, provided that we hear no more about it ! Now it is in this that you are mistaken ; you will hear more about it. The negro question will importune you the more, inasmuch as you will not have profited by the auspicious moment to end it. Yes, you may believe me, you who think of your ease, and who ward off discussion in order to spare your peace, and to prevent any murmurs from the South or its friends, it is your peace that you are sacrificing. This question which displeases you will return to you daily and under all forms, like the old question of slavery. It will be your punishment to be forced daily to occupy yourselves with those negroes, of whom you aspire to rid yourselves—in Congress, in meetings, in journals. You are about to resume the road to war ; and do not complain hereafter,'for you will have desired it. XIX. I have spoken to you, Mr. President, without reserve. While expressing my fears (as was my duty), I have taken
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