g the above trades he
had been at no expense to his master, as he had learned them solely by
his own perseverance, endowed as he was with a considerable share of
genius. Occasionally he paid for lessons, the money being earned by his
over-work. His master, Bayham, was a "retired gentleman."

Elias had been sold once, and had suffered in various other ways,
particularly from being flogged. He left his wife, Mary, but no child.
Of his intention to leave Elias saw not how to impart to his wife, lest
she should in some way let the "cat out of the bag." She was owned by a
Miss Portlock, and had been treated "tolerably well," having had the
privilege of hiring her time. She had $55 to pay for this favor, which
amount she raised by washing, etc. Elias was a member of the Methodist
Church, as were all of his comrades, and well did they remember the
oft-repeated lesson, "Servants obey your masters," etc. They soon
understood this kind of preaching after breathing free air. The market
value of Elias was placed at $1200.

Arrival, No. 4. Maria Joiner. Captain F. arrived, from Norfolk, with the
above named passenger, the way not being open to risk any other on that
occasion. This seemed rather slow business with this voyager, for he was
usually accustomed to bringing more than one. However, as this arrival
was only one day later than the preceding one noticed, and came from the
same place, the Committee concluded, that they had much reason for
rejoicing nevertheless. As in the case of a great number among the
oppressed of the South, when simply looking at Maria, no visible marks
of ill usage in any way were discernible. Indeed, as she then appeared
at the age of thirty-three, a fine, fresh, and healthy-looking mulatto
woman, nine out of every ten would have been impressed with the idea,
that she had never been subjected to hard treatment; in other words,
that she had derived her full share of advantages from the "Patriarchal
Institution." The appearance of just such persons in Southern cities had
often led Northerners, when traveling in those parts, to regard the lot
of slaves as quite comfortable. But the story of Maria, told in an
earnest and intelligent manner, was at once calculated to dissipate the
idea of a "comfortable" existence in a state of bondage. She frankly
admitted, however, that prior to the death of her old master, she was
favorably treated, compared with many others; but, unfortunately, after
his death, she h