Frederick Douglass to Theodore Tilton, June 20, 1863

Rochester. (New York) June 20. 1863.

My Dear Tilton:

I am letting up your anniversary speech. It ought to have gone into my number for June. It is however a permanent document and will answer for several Julies yet to come. I considered it at the time, when I had only read an imperfect report of it, a remarkable speech every way—but cheefly, because of its calm indifference to all existing modes of thought on the subject of the negro, and its utter defiance of popular prejudice. As a negro, I thank you for this noble vindication of my race. I find the speech more guarded and just than I apprehended when I read the imperfect account of it in the New York daily papers at the time it was delivered.

I shall probably spend the Summer in assisting Mr. Hearns of Boston in raising Colored troops.

My best wishes for you and your dear ones at home. Truly yours—

Fredk Douglass.