William fled from Lewis Roberts, who followed farming in Baltimore
county, Md. In speaking of him, William gave him the character of being
a "fierce and rough man," who owned nine head of slaves. Two of
William's sisters were held by Roberts, when he left. His excuse for
running away was, "ill-treatment." In traveling North, he walked to
Columbia (in Pennsylvania), and there took the cars for Philadelphia.
The Committee took charge of him, and having given him the usual aid,
sent him hopefully on his way. After safely reaching Canada, the thought
of his wife in a land of bondage, pressed so deeply upon his mind, that
he was prompted to make an effort to rescue her. The following letter,
written on his behalf by the Rev. H. Wilson, indicates his feelings and
wishes with regard to her:
ST. CATHARINES, Canada West, 24th July, 1854.
DEAR FRIEND, WILLIAM STILL:--Your encouraging letter, to John
Smith, was duly received by him, and I am requested to write
again on his behalf. His colored friend in Baltimore county, who
would favor his designs, is Thomas Cook, whom he wishes you to
address, Baltimore post-office, care of Mr. Thomas Spicer.
He has received a letter from Thomas Cook, dated the 6th of
June, but it was a long time reaching him. He wishes you to say
to Cook, that he got his letter, and that he would like to have
him call on his wife and make known to her, that he is in good
health, doing well here, and would like to have her come on as
soon as she can.
As she is a free woman, there will, doubtless, be no difficulty
in her coming right through. He is working in the neighborhood
of St. Catharines, but twelve miles from Niagara Falls. You will
please recollect to address Thomas Cook, in the care of Thomas
Spicer, Baltimore Post-office. Smith's wife is at, or near the
place he came from, and, doubtless, Thomas Cook knows all about
her condition and circumstances. Please write again to John
Smith, in my care, if you please, and request Thomas Cook to do
the same.
Very respectfully yours in the cause of philanthropy.