great value, and a better understanding has been established between the two races that might never have existed otherwise. Hence, I think the Press in the hands of the negro has been a great success. It has been supported as well, probably, as could have been reasonably expected. Remembering our position and condition when this new vocation was first eagerly entered into,—so much ignorance and want of general culture existing among us, it seems but natural that envy, jealousy and strifes, the children of this ignorance on the one side, and possibly a consciousness of superiority, imaginary or real, on the other, has caused much less support to be given to negro journals than ambitious or verdant editors anticipated. I think the future of the negro press will be bright, if conducted upon wise and business-like principles. Its motto should be one adapted to all ventures that hope for life and progress, viz: Excelsior. In order to advance under this noble banner, our editors should adopt some such general rules as these, which must be surely winning ones: Originality, accuracy, truthfulness, promptness, manly independence. Thus conducted, I believe we should soon have one of the greatest and grandest forces for the promotion of invaluable good among the Afro-American people.
Opinion of Ex-Gov. P. B. S. Pinchback.
I think that the Afro-American Press has done good, but has fallen far short of being a success. It is not half supported. This is owing to several causes, viz: Illiteracy of the Afro-American masses, and the abundance of other and much better publications, etc., etc., If the Afro-American Press will assail more vigorously the enemies of the people it represents, adhere strictly to principles, be lenient in criticising the Afro-Americans, and elevate their moral tone, it will accomplish much good. I advise leniency
