Solomon Peneton to Frederick Douglass, April 20, 1863

SAN FRANCISCO, April 20, 1863.

DEAR FREDERICK:—I am beginning to feel proud of my country, and almost with an intoxication of delight do I rejoice with you in the great strides which the nation is taking towards the goal of human freedom, of universal untramelled liberty. I do earnestly rejoice that the cause for which we have so long battled, and to which you have devoted your life, is now being embraced and aided forward by many who, in times past, have been foundin the ranks of its fiercest opponents. May the wheels of Liberty's triumphal car still continue to roll across this great country till we shall hear no more the appeal "Am I not a man and a brother," but in every state may the black man stand nobly up the acknowledged and respected citizen of the United States. You must know that I am living in an entirely different element from that by which you are surrounded. The people here seem to feel something of an interest in the struggle of the nation for its existence, but yet they do not fully realize its magnitude. They seem absorbed in the desire for gain. The majority, and a vast one, too, would like very well to see the national arm victorious, but outside of wishing the cause "God speed," they think they have nothing more to do. The greatest interest now manifested since the passage of the bill giving the right of oath, is in support of the churches. We have one church which is very creditable to our people. It was pur-

chased about a year ago at a cost of $5,500, and is nearly paid for. The members expect to discharge the debt before the year is completed. Its pastor, Rev. Thos. M. D. Ward, is quite zealous in his field, and highly deserves the support of the colored people. I am sorry to state that his general health is not good. But still he is ever ready, as of old, to give battle for the right. Doubtless you have heard ere this of my sickness and misfortunes, but never for one moment do I despair of making everything right again. I feel at present most sanguine of success. If ever you visit New B., I hope you will call and see my wife, and give her all the encouragement you can. Before I close I must express my admiration of your noble efforts in this great civil commotion. I must mention particularly the Slaves' Appeal to G. B., and your late War Speeches. Depend upon it, if my humble opinion is worth anything, they will not return unto you void. Please send your paper, the monthly and oblige

Your old friend,

SOLOMON PENETON.^{*The surname is incorrectly given as "Pencton," a likely printer's error.}