We consequently, to begin with, select NICARAGUA, in Central America, North, and NEW GRENADA, the Northern part of South America, South of Nicaragua, as the most favorable points at present, in every particular, for us to emigrate to.

In the first place, they are the nearest points to be reached, and countries at which the California adventurers are now touching, on their route to that distant land, and not half the distance of California.

In the second place, the advantages for all kinds of enterprise, are equal if not superior, to almost any other points—­the climate being healthy and highly favorable.

In the third place, and by no means the least point of importance, the British nation is bound by solemn treaty, to protect both of those nations from foreign imposition, until they are able to stand alone.

Then there is nothing in the way, but every thing in favor, and opportunities for us to rise to the full stature of manhood.  Remember this fact, that in these countries, colored men now fill the highest places in the country:  and colored people have the same chances there, that white people have in the United States.  All that is necessary to do, is to go, and the moment your foot touches the soil, you have all the opportunities for elevating yourselves as the highest, according to your industry and merits.

Nicaragua and New Grenada, are both Republics, having a President, Senate, and Representatives of the people.  The municipal affairs are well conducted; and remember, however much the customs of the country may differ, and appear strange to those you have left behind—­remember that you are free; and that many who, at first sight, might think that they could not become reconciled to the new order of things, should recollect, that they were once in a situation in the United States, (in slavery,) where they were compelled to be content with customs infinitely more averse to their feelings and desires.  And that customs become modified, just in proportion as people of different customs from different parts, settle in the same communities together.  All we ask is Liberty—­the rest follows as a matter of course.

XXII

THINGS AS THEY ARE

     “And if thou boast TRUTH to utter,
     SPEAK, and leave the rest to God.”

In presenting this work, we have but a single object in view, and that is, to inform the minds of the colored people at large, upon many things pertaining to their elevation, that but few among us are acquainted with.  Unfortunately for us, as a body, we have been taught to believe, that we must have some person to think for us, instead of thinking for ourselves.  So accustomed are we to submission and this kind of training, that it is with difficulty, even among the most intelligent of the colored people, an audience may be elicited for any purpose whatever, if the expounder is to be a colored person; and the introduction of any subject is treated with indifference, if not contempt, when the originator is a colored person.  Indeed, the most ordinary white person, is almost revered, while the most qualified colored person is totally neglected.  Nothing from them is appreciated.