Chapter I: Preface

The conflagration of the late "_Pennsylvania Hall_" having frustrated the contemplated discussion between some of the champions of Abolitionism and the Author, he feels it a duty he owes the public, and the best service he can render this country, to make known, through the medium of a Pamphlet, a few of the facts and arguments which he intended adducing on that occasion. Thus contributing his mite of information towards allaying the general excitement on this subject, and, if possible, to open the eyes of those who, _through mistaken philanthropy_, have become the _innocent_ tools of a few reckless men, whose object, (to put the most favourable construction on it) may be, while indifferent of consequences, to render themselves conspicuous. Were he not convinced that the best interests of this country, that the real interests of the coloured population, bond and free, and that common humanity itself, are involved in the question of Abolitionism, he would not presume to obtrude himself on the notice of the Public, on a topic more or less now connected with politics, from which he has hitherto carefully refrained. He comes forward therefore, while he declares himself an eternal and uncompromising enemy to all _cruelty_, _injustice_, _tyranny_, and _oppression_, not _against_, but _for_ liberty--not _against_, but _for_ the coloured man--not _against_, but _for_ humanity.

Philadelphia, 285 Race Street.
_May 21st, 1838._

ABOLITIONISM EXPOSED!