Virginia Free Press

We perceive that some little stir "is being made" in several counties of this state, upon the subject of the colored population; and it is not improbable, from present indications, that an attempt will be made to renew the discussion of the abolition question at the next session of the Legislature.

Jefferson county has some stake in the matter: and an unequivocal manifestation of her sentiments might not be amiss. But as far as we can judge, our citizens seem disposed to leave the agitation of the question entirely to Eastern Virginia; preferring deliberate reflection upon well-digested plans of deportation, to the glory which might possibly accrue from the presentation of dazzling schemes.

For ourselves, we confess we feel overwhelmed with the magnitude of the subject; it is one which presents so many and such appalling difficulties, that it seems to us almost intangible—if not absolutely beyond the reach of human remedy.

Our sentiments upon the abstract principle, are, we believe, well known, and yet we do not hesitate to say, that we cannot yield our acquiescence to any scheme which has yet been suggested.

In the September number of the American Quarterly Review, we have read an article, from the pen of Professor Dew, of Williamsburg—which presents a mass of facts and arguments against abolition and colonization, which are really almost incontrovertible. The writer has exhibited so much depth of research, and such a mathematical train of reasoning, that he has shaken our former faith, and almost eradicated prejudices and feelings which had become "bone of our bone, and flesh of our flesh." We did not suppose it possible for human ingenuity to shake us upon this point armed, as we thought we were, with an innate hatred of slavery even in its mildest form; and yet, reader, the perusal of this fascinating—this truly powerful production—has "almost persuaded" us that Negro Slavery is not only tolerable, but that it is expedient—if not absolutely right! Of the method by which this writer insensibly leads the mind to this conclusion (heretofore so repugnant to our feelings,) we have not room now to speak; and were it not for the fear of drawing others into a similar predicament with ourselves, we should recommend the perusal of this matchless effort to the admirers of high intellectual endowment.

Whatever effect it may have on others, it at least induces us to pause and ponder.