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man had lived several years in Philadelphia, had taken a lot of ground in the Northern Liberties, and erected a small house on it.
In the course of the investigation, the poor fellow, seeing no chance of escape, acknowledged that he was Mr. Peacock's slave, and had run away from him because he wanted to be free.
His friends, being unwilling to see him torn from his wife and children, made an effort to purchase his freedom.
After much intreaty, the master named a very large sum as his ransom; and the slave was committed to prison until the affair was settled.
David Lea was a filthy looking man, apparently addicted to intemperance.
Friend Hopper asked him if he had any business in Philadelphia.
He answered, ‘No.’
He inquired whether he had any money, and he answered, ‘No.’
Friend Hopper then said to the magistrate, ‘Here is a stranger without money, who admits that he has no regular means of obtaining a livelihood.
Judging from his appearance, there is reason to conclude that he may be a dangerous man. I would suggest whether it be proper that he should be permitted to go at large.’
The magistrate interrogated the suspicious looking stranger concerning his business in Philadelphia; and he, being ashamed to acknowledge himself a slave-catcher, returned very evasive and unsatisfactory
Boston, J. P. Jewett and Company; Cleveland, Ohio: Jewett, Proctor and Worthington; London; Low and Company, 1854.
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