The letter to Mr. Sumner by colored citizens is the first
public expression of their interest in the suffrage. The answer
was according to the sentiments Mr. Sumner had early declared.
WILMINGTON, N. C., April 29, 1865.
HON. CHARLES SUMNER, _Washington_.
DEAR SIR,--We, the undersigned citizens, Executive Board of
the Colored Union Leagues of this city, respectfully ask
your attention to the subject of Reconstruction in this
State, and for a few plain directions in relation to a
proper stand for us to make.
We forward also a copy of the _Herald_, containing an
article on Reconstruction, which causes us much anxiety,
in connection with other facts that are constantly pressed
upon our attention in this Rebel State, although much
is said concerning its loyalty that is unreliable and
untrue. Many of us have done service for the United States
Government, at Fort Fisher and elsewhere, and we shrink
with horror at the thought that we may be left to the
tender mercies of our former Rebel masters, who have taken
the oath, but are filled with malice, and swear vengeance
against us as soon as the military are withdrawn.
We are loyal colored citizens, and strive in all things so
to conduct ourselves that no just cause of complaint may
exist, although we suffer much from the unwillingness of
the Secessionists to regard us as _freemen_, and look up
to the flag of our country with trembling anxiety, knowing
that the _franchise_ alone can give us security for the
future.
We speak with moderation and care, we lay no charges, but
we fear that an ill-judged lenity to Rebels in this State
will leave little to us and our children but the bare name
of freedmen. We remember Louisiana! Better “smash the egg”
than permit it to produce a viper.
We beg an early answer. Direct, simply, “Alfred Howe,
Wilmington, North Carolina.” Do not frank your letter: I
send a stamp. For reference, Jonathan C. Gibbs mentions
the name of Rev. H. H. Garnett, a colored Presbyterian
minister in Washington, and Hon. Judge Kelley, from
Pennsylvania.
ALFRED HOWE, _President_.
D. SADGENAR,
H. D. SAMPSON,
JONATHAN C. GIBBS,
OWEN BURNEY,
HENRY TAYLOR,
RICHARD REED.
WASHINGTON, May 13, 1865.
GENTLEMEN,--I am glad that the colored citizens of North Carolina
are ready to take part in the organization of government. It is
unquestionably their right and duty.
I see little chance of peace or tranquillity in any Rebel State,
unless the rights of all are recognized without distinction of
color. On this foundation we must build.
The article on Reconstruction to which you call my attention
proceeds on the idea, born of Slavery, that persons with a white
skin are the only “citizens.” This is a mistake.
As you do me the honor to ask me the proper stand for you to
make, I have no hesitation in replying that you must insist on
all the rights and privileges of a citizen. They belong to you.
They are yours; and whoever undertakes to rob you of them is a
usurper and impostor.
Of course you will take part in any primary meetings for
political organization, open to citizens generally, and will not
miss any opportunity to show your loyalty and fidelity.
Accept my best wishes, and believe me, Gentlemen,
Faithfully yours,