Boston, SEPTEMBER 30, 1835.
To the Editor of the Daily Atlas —
SIR,—Through the kindness of a friend, I have just received
a copy of your paper of this day, in which the following paragraph appears,
extracted from the New York Commercial Advertiser.
“Mr. Thompson, in conversation with some of the students,
repeatedly averred that every slaveholder in the United States, ouGHT To HAVE HIs THROAT CUT, or
deserved to have his throat cut; although he afterward publicly denied that
he had said so. But the proof is direct and positive. In conversation with some
of the theological students, in regard to the moral instruction which ought to
be enjoyed by the slaves, he distinctly declared, THAT EVERY SLAVE SHOULD BE
TAUGHT TO CUT HIS MASTER'S THROAT. I state the fact—knowing the responsibility
I am assuming, and challenge a legal investigation.”
In justice to myself, and the cause in which I am engaged, I
feel it my duty, in the most solemn and emphatic manner, to deny the above
allegations. They are at total variance with all the sentiments I have ever
either publicly or privately expressed. I refer with the utmost confidence, to
all who know me, and to the many thousands who have listened to my public
addresses, as witnesses to the perfectly pacific character of my views
and principles, on the subject of slavery. I hold in utter abhorrence the
shedding of blood, and would, if I had the power, inculcate upon the mind of
every slave in the world, the apostolical precept, “Resist not evil.” These
doctrines I hold in common with the advocates of immediate emancipation
universally. Their views, on the subject under discussion, are, I believe, in
strict coincidence with the views of the Society of Friends.
I shall endure, without wrath, the epithets, censures, and
accusations heaped upon me; nor can I wonder at the treatment I am daily receiving,
when I remember that it was said of Him, whose benevolent doctrines I am humbly
endeavoring to set forth, “Behold he hath a devil.”
It may be as well to add, that I heard a rumor of the first
charge, when some time ago in Andover, and there most publicly repelled it. The
latter charge is entire new.
Yours, respectfully,
GEORGE THOMPSON.
SOURCES: Isaac Knapp, Publisher, Letters and
Addresses by G. Thompson [on American Negro Slavery] During His Mission in the
United States, From Oct. 1st, 1834, to Nov. 27, 1835, p. 93-4
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