Page:Narrative of the life and adventures of Henry Bibb, an American slave.djvu/15

This page has been validated.
INTRODUCTION
ix.

Detroit, and endorsed by Judge Wilkins, showing the high esteem, in which Mr. Bibb is held by those who know him well where he makes his home. Their testimony expresses their present regard as well as an opinion of his past Character. It is introduced here with the greatest satisfaction, as the writer is assured from an intimate acquaintance with Henry Bibb that all who know him hereafter will entertain the same sentiments toward him:


Detroit, March 10, 1845

The undersigned have pleasure in recommending Henry Bibb to the kindness and confidence of Anti-slavery friends in every state. He has resided among us for some years. His deportment, his conduct, and his christian course have won our esteem and affection. The narrative of his sufferings and more early life has been thoroughly investigated by a Committee appointed for the purpose. They sought evidence respecting it in every proper quarter, and their report attested its undoubted truth. In this conclusion we all cordially unite.

H. Bibb has for some years publicly made this narrative to assemblies, whose number cannot be told; it has commanded public attention in this State, and provoked inquiry. Occasionally too we see persons from the South, who knew him in early years, yet not a word or fact worthy of impairing its truth has reached us; but on the contrary, every thing tended to its corroboration.

Mr. Bibb's Anti-slavery efforts in this State have produced incalculable benefit. The Lord has blessed him into an instrument of great power. He has labored much, and for every inadequate compensation. Lucrative offers for other quarters did not tempt him to a more profitable field. His sincerity and disinterestedness are therefore beyond suspicion.

We bid him "God-speed," on his route. We bespeak for him every kind cosideration. * * * *

H. Hallock,
President of the Detroit Lib. Association.
Cullen Brown, Vice-President.
S.M. Holmes, Secretary.
J.D. Baldwin,
Charles H. Stewart,
Martin Wilson,
William Barnum.

Detroit, Nov. 11, 1845.

The undersigned, cheerfully concurs with Mr. Hallock and others in their friendly recommendation of Mr. Henry Bibb.