in the right direction. A majority of the papers receive, perhaps, as much support as their merit deserves. Some, however, do not receive what they merit. This, in my opinion, is due to two causes: First, the poverty and illiteracy prevailing among the blacks, and, secondly, the inferiority of the papers published as mediums of news.
To the question, "What future course do you think the Press might take in promoting good among our people?" I would say, the publication at some important point, the the national capital, for instance, of an ably edited daily newspaper which shall be the equal of other daily metropolitan papers published in different parts of the country. One such paper, with capital at its back, and brains, integrity, and principles at its head, would do more good in the direction spoken of than all the other colored papers in the United States combined. With suitable effort on the part of reputable persons, I think such a paper can be established, and would be a success.
Why can not a number of those now engaged in the publication of unimportant local papers unite their means and efforts, and undertake the publication of such a paper?
Opinion of Dr. William H. Johnson.
I do most decidedly think that the Afro-American Press has been a success, and is to-day doing a Herculean work for the up-building, the development, and the broadening of the true and manly character of the Afro-American. I thank God for it. Were it not for the intelligent and aggressive Afro-American editor of these states, the Afro-American would be in a deplorable condition.
I remember vividly, with profound satisfaction, the grand pioneer work iu the anti-slavery crusade performed by snch publications as The Rams Horn, The North Star, and a paper
