Friday, June 2, 1856
Dear Ms. Browning,
You without doubt have heard today’s news and the verdict for poor Anthony Burns. One might think that we, as a nation, would be well on our way to the business of ameliorating the sins of our country and restoring dignity to the factions of our government. Instead, his misfortune marks that in all of us, as we now comprise a nation even further scarred with the markings of depravity.
Your writing, “The Runaway Slave at Pilgrim’s Point”, roused me so, in part for reinforcing the sentiments of my own soul, and in part for the hope that it would do the same for others. So touching and true to the agonies of poor Anthony Burns, how could it not? Ms. Browning, I too wish to use my writing as t tool to stir that hearts of those who would not be stirred by today’s verdict alone, or even those who would exalt at such a horror. They too must feel the weight of the air, which I felt today, which sent chills racing down my spine as my neck went limp and my head rocked back. If I could one day, move readers as you have moved me with your writing on Anthony Burns, then I too will be able to incite sympathies and articulate the voice of the oppressed, even more valuable than my own, and yet stifled to a murmur. You have inspired me to this goal. For the dignity you bring to our nation, and your time in reading my letter, thank you.
Charlotte Forten
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