Rosine Amé-Draz to Frederick Douglass, January 16, 1863

Stanford Rivers Essex

January 16^th 1863.

I came here from Wythe for a few days, dear friend, and this morning I have the joy of reading Lincoln's Proclamation of freedom to all the slaves of the rebellious states. Oh what glorious news! Whatever may be the immediate consequences to the enslaved, the decree has gone forth God be praised. We will accomplish the work began. He reigns omnipotent and Just—Let us continue to trust in Him. I have long and very earnestly prayed for this glorious day yet I cannot fully realize that it is really come. Perhaps because no one

rejoices with me here. The head of this family a gentleman, a philanthropist, a deep thinker, and writer on education and ultimate civilization has just treated me, his guest, with extreme rudeness because I expressed my thankfulness and joy that Lincoln had confirmed his proclamation—I spoke very calmly, and very respectfully to him. His sweet daughters were present, and evidently sympathized with me. For their sake, I shall remain here, till the 20^th when I go to Plymouth. My feelings would otherwise have prompted me to leave the house at once. He told me, that if I spoke on this subject of Emancipation, he would retire to his own room, and remain there altogether, that he did not will his daughters to be influenced by me. And that no one did so much harm, in the world, as ladies philanthropic women, like minded with me—I continued calmly to explain my reasons for rejoicing in the Emancipation of my poor brethren & sisters. I even saw he felt that I was right but he ordered me to be silent—This man professes to detest slavery yet all his sympathies are with the oppressors. He speaks of them as of good

Christians needing our prayers - most especially now that they will be exposed to the cruelty of their slaves ect ect! Oh beloved friend I fear more than ever for you and with you! How you have borne the cruel treatment and indignities of your enemies so long and so patiently is to me miraculous. My noble revered friend I feel so crushed so small so insignificant a being in your presence. I marvel when I contemplate your great and noble soul. And I wonder more and more that you think me worthy of being your friend. Oh believe me I can