Francis Jackson Garrison, William Lloyd Garrison, 1805-1879; the story of his life told by his children: volume 2

[117] circumstance, too, that I was present with them, and that they had an opportunity to become personally acquainted with me; for, as I am a great stumbling-block in the way of the people, or, rather, of some people, it would be somewhat disastrous to our cause if any of our Agents, through the influence of popular sentiment, should be led to cherish prejudices against me. I was most kindly received by all, and treated as a brother beloved, notwithstanding the wide difference of opinion between us on some religious points, especially the Sabbath question. My friend Lewis Tappan had some conversation with me respecting my religious views; but, though we could by no means agree, we harmoniously agreed to differ. He did not show me his written creed, but I should have been gratified to see it.

Mrs. Garrison had been obliged to return home without her husband. A letter to her, dated New York, November 22, 1836, contained a few more particulars concerning the convention— the last, of great importance:

It is still my purpose, the Lord willing, to be with you on¹ Saturday morning; but I shall find it extremely difficult to² leave, and, on some accounts, shall be reluctant to leave; for 1836. the Convention is not to be dissolved until some time next week, and there are many great themes yet to be discussed and illustrated. . . .

Last evening, we had a large and crowded meeting of our³ colored people, with many of our leading abolitionists. Several 1836. of the former addressed the meeting, in a very interesting manner. I was then called upon to make some remarks, and was received with grateful applause. I spoke about half an hour, and was followed by Weld, who delighted and moved all⁴ hearts. Seldom have I witnessed a more thrilling scene. Our hearts were one, and love reigned over all. . . .

Our Convention has unanimously invited the Grimkes, Angelina and Sarah, (who punctually attended our meetings), to speak whenever they think proper, and to state such facts respecting slavery as they may choose. Sarah has just said, that, although brought up in the midst of slavery, and having conversed with hundreds of well-treated slaves, she has never found one who did not long to be free.

One other incident of this November visit to New York deserves to be recorded. Mr. Garrison, sharing the prevailing