existing pro-slavery usages all around him.  He was a member of the Methodist Church, under the charge of the Rev. Mr. Jones.  For twenty years, William had served in the capacity of a “packer” under Messrs. Turner and White, who held a deed for William as their legal property.  While he declared that he had been very “tightly worked” he nevertheless admitted that he had been dealt with in a mild manner in some respects.

For his board and clothing, William had been allowed $1.50 per week.  Truly a small sum for a hard-working man with a family—­yet this was far more than many slaves received from their masters.  In view of receiving this small pittance, he had toiled hard—­doing over-work in order to make “buckle and strap meet.”  Once he had been sold on the auction-block.  A sister of his had also shared the same fate.  While seriously contemplating his life as a slave, he was soon led to the conclusion that it was his duty to bend his entire energies towards freeing himself and his family if possible.  The idea of not being able to properly provide for his family rendered him quite unhappy; he therefore resolved to seek a passage North, via the Underground Rail Road.  To any captain who would aid him in the matter, he resolved to offer a large reward, and determined that the amount should only be limited by his inability to increase it.  Finally, after much anxious preparation, agreement was entered into with Captain B., on behalf of himself, wife, child, and Louisa Bell, which was mutually satisfactory to all concerned, and afforded great hope to William.  In due time the agreement was carried into effect, and all arrived safely and were delivered into the hands of the Committee in Philadelphia.  The fare of the four cost $240, and William was only too grateful to think, that a Captain could be found who would risk his own liberty in thus aiding a slave to freedom.

The Committee gladly gave them aid and succor, and agreed with William that the Captain deserved all that he received for their deliverance.  The arrival of William, wife, and child in Canada was duly announced by the agent at St. Catharines, Rev. H. Wilson, as follows: 

    ST. CATHARINES, C.W., June 28th, 1855.

MR. WM. STILL:—­My Dear Friend:—­I am happy to announce the safe arrival of Thomas Russell with his wife and child.  They have just arrived.  I am much pleased with their appearance.  I shall do what I can for their comfort and encouragement.  They stopt at Elmira from Monday night till this morning, hoping that Lucy Bell would come up and join them at that place.  They are very anxious to hear from her, as they have failed of meeting with her on the way or finding her here in advance of them.  They wish to hear from you as soon as you can write, and would like to know if you have forwarded Lucy on, and if so, what route you sent her.  They send their kind respects to you and your family and many thanks for your kindness to them.

    They wish you to inquire after Lucy if any harm has befallen her
    after her leaving Philadelphia.  Please write promptly in my
    care.