Letter from David Holmes and J. E. Davis to Joseph Watson, December 23, 1826

Date: [unknown] [unknown]
Location: [unknown]

Letter from David Holmes and J. E. Davis to Joseph Watson

Published in

• Weekly Natchez Courier, March 2, 1827, Page 5.

https://www.newspapers.com/clip/78138278/ https://www.newspapers.com/clip/78138426/

re-published in

• The African Observer. United States: I. Ashmead, printer, 1827.

This letter included:

• Narrative of Peter Hook, Dec 1826

Joseph Watson replied in

• Letter from Joseph Watson to David Holmes and J. E. Davis, January 20, 1827

and communicated with Duncan S. Walker in

• Letter from Joseph Watson to Duncan S. Walker, January 24, 1827

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Natchez, December 23, 1826.

Dear Sir.—

The enclosed statement of a most cruel and complicated piece of villainy, was accidentally discovered by the servant of Mr. Holmes, (late Governor of this State) and afterwards taken down by D. S. Walker, Esq. a gentleman of the bar, whose professional services we have thought advisable to engage, and whose note we herewith send you.

Public justice requires that prompt measures be taken, to release these unfortunate persons, and if possible to punish the aggressors. Aware of the benevolent feelings of the Philadelphians, and the readiness with which the public authorities would be exerted in the cause of humanity, we have not hesitated to institute an inquiry for their relief. Some creditable person or persons, will have to be sent out for the purpose of identifying these people, and to prove their condition. The residence of many of these persons is unknown to us, but it is believed they may be all found upon search.

Since this statement was made out, the woman, Lydia Smith, has been brought to this city, and sold as a slave, measures are now taking to have her secured against further removal.

We are, respectfully, your obedient servants,

David Holmes,

J. E. Davis.

The Hon. Joseph Watson, Mayor of the City of Philadelphia