New York Herald, “Slaves in New York,” July 23, 1860

SLAVES IN NEW YORK. – Within the last few days two slaves have arrived in New York, and they are still here walking about, under no control or guardianship. What are the abolitionists about, and the republicans who nullify the Fugitive Slave law, that they do not induce these men to assert their right to freedom, especially as they have been brought here by their masters, not merely in transitu, as was the case with the Lemons, but on a pleasure tour to the free States. We allude to the two musicians who came here with the military company from Savannah during the last week. One attempt was made by the abolitionists to kidnap them; but they ran for their lives, as if something dreadful was to happen them, and never stopped till they were under the protection of their masters, who gave them free permission to leave if they desired it. But these young men could not be induced to accept the offer. They prefer the kind of slavery to which they are subject rather than such freedom as the abolitionists would give them. What a comment this upon the humbug anti-slavery agitation carried on for so many years at the North, and now carried into the Presidential election by the republican party!