Transcript

Philad^a: 4^th: 11^thmo: 1788~

Esteemed Friend,

Thy respectful fav^r: of 20^th: [--] has given me the pleasure I hoped for, that the Pamphletts sent thee would be acceptable, confirming the opinion I had entertained of thy approving the intent of their publication, and the virtuous endeavors exerted in Europe for the removal of an Evil that has been long disgraceful to humanity, and the professors of the Christian name ~

In the present day, a Spirit of liberty, and and investigation of the original rights of men on the principles of Justice are more universally diffused than at any former period of time, which give ground to hope, that the oppression which still subsists will under [--] direction be totally eradicated in due time, and I perfectly agree with the Governor's Judgement, that as Wisdom dwells with prudence'¹ the means used by individuals for affecting this desireable [sic] purpose must be conducted by Patience, perseverance, and firmness to convince the understandings of those who profess not yet to see the injustice of Slave-holding; but as the traffic to Africa was founded in avarice, and is carried on by rapine, cruelty, & bloodshed, I trust there are very few now remaining so depraved in principle, as to vindicate that enormous commerce.' and that the legislation of all the States in the union will unite in declaring their abhorrence of it~

It is true the Religious Society with which I profess has taken an Active part in promoting the relief of the oppressed Africans & their descendants, and after succeeding among ourselves, an apprehension of duty has ld us to sollicit [sic] for the further progress of so laudable a work, yet I have rather regret to observe in divers [sic] late publications on the subject so much commendation attributed to us, who have done no more than our obvious duty dictated, and we are but unprofitable Servants, the praise is due to the Universal Parent of mankind, from whom every good & perfect gift cometh.² a Conscious mental satisfaction is a reward sufficient for the labourer in the cause of Righteousness~

A Deputation lately nominated by our religious Society will I expect in a few days wait on the General Assembly at Princetown with an address, and Petition on the interesting subject, which I wish may claim attention equal to it's [sic] importance, but altho' from the circumstances of your northern Counties, we may not obtain all we wish for, yet I hope the Legislature will be induced to repeal a clause in your late law which appears to be very objectionable. & that they will absolutely prohibite [sic] the equipment of Ships in any part of thee State for the nefarious traffic to Africa, grant protection to the free blacks from kidnappers, and provide against the Separation of the nearest connections in life, who are often sold into distant parts without hope of ever again meeting, in violation of the ties of natural affection. reducing them to an abject state nearly equal to the herds of the field, and that such other regulations may take place in favor of the oppressed people, as are consistent with humanity, Justice, and the precepts of the Christian Religion.

Thy good will to the cause, the disinterested proof those hath given of an attachment to impartial Justice, and thy eminent Station in Government must b influential to thee advancement of this necessary business, and I wish wisdom from above may preside and direct the Legislature in their deliberations thereon.

Thou art not unacquainted with the ៱ [--] proposed Reformation has originated, as others have heretofore from the virtuous exertions of a few simple individuals, whose minds being influenced to see the evil of oppression, & Slavery, were animated to expose its enormity both by writing and personal labours, which at length extended to collective bodies of men, and we have now the satisfaction to behold Advocates of the most illustrious Characters are raised for the total subversion of the iniquity; to what Power can we attribute so laudable an undertaking, bu to that which rules in Heaven above and over the Kingdoms of men? — When Rulers on earth espouse the cause of virtue by precept, and example a Divine blessing attend them. and they become Instrumental to promote the happiness of the People over whom they preside, of which divers [sic] instances occur in Sacred history, and even among the [--] enlightened Romans the reign of Numa is conspicuously distinguished for wisdom superior to any of those times; the Governor must be much better possessed of historical knowledge than I can pretend to, it may therefore look superfluous in me to attempt any information to him of the Character of that illustrious prince. but having Plutarch [--] me, I take the liberty to transcribe in summary given of him by that Author — who says,

"He is celebrated in his political capacity for correcting the law which empowered Fathers to sell their children [--]

"In Numa's reign the Temple of Janus was not opened for years while uninterrupted peace reigned in every quarter [--] the people of Rome were softened, and humanized by the Justice, and mildness of the King, but even the circumjacent cities breathing as it were the same salutary, and delightful Air, began to change their behaviour. Like the Romans they became [descious?] of Peace, and good Laws, of cultivating the ground, educating their children in tranquility, and paying their homage to the Gods; the love of virtue and justice as from the source of Numa's wisdom gently flowing upon all, and moving with the composure of his heart.

"We have no account of the war or insurrection in the Hate during Numa's reign. Nay he experienced neither enmity nor envy; nor did ambition dictate either open or private attempts against his crown. Whether it were the fear of the Gods who took so pious a man under their protection, or reverence of his virtue, or the singular good fortune of his times, that kept the manners of men pure and unsullied, he was an illustrious instance of that truth which Plato several ages after ventured to deliver concerning Government: That the only sure prospect of deliverance from the evils of life will be when the Divine Providence shall so order it, that the Regal powers vested in a Prince who has the [--] of a Philosopher shall render virtue triumphant over vice. — A man of such wisdom is not only happy in himself, butt contributes by his instructions to the happiness of others. There is in truth no need of either force or menaces to direct the multitude; for when they see virtue exemplified in so glorious a pattern as the life of their prince, they become wise of themselves, and endeavour by friendship and unanimity, by a strict regard to Justice and temperance, to form themselves to an innocent & happy life. This is the noblest end of Government; and he is most worthy of the royal seat who can regulate the lives, and dispositions of his subjects in such a manner. — No one was more sensible of this than Numa" ~

Now as it is an undeniable Truth that Righteousness [--] a nation, and universally acknowledged; that virtue is the only sure basis for the establishment and preservation of Common wealths, what a favourable opportunity presents to the Rulers in the American State to display their talents on this principle for the promotion of the essential happiness of the people, and I heartily wish hem to unite in so noble a cause ~

The Governor will be pleased to excuse my freedom & [--] and believe me to be sincerely

Thy respectful Friend

Jam^s. Pemberton

Governor Livingston