conclusion,
one more passenger, namely:

Tom Page. At the time of his arrival, his name only was enrolled on the
book. Yet he was not a passenger soon to be forgotten--he was but a mere
boy, probably eighteen years of age; but a more apt, ready-witted,
active, intelligent and self-reliant fellow is not often seen.

Judging from his smartness, under slavery, with no chances, it was easy
to imagine how creditably he might with a white boy's chances have
climbed the hill of art and science. Obviously he had intellect enough,
if properly cultivated, to fill any station within the ordinary reach of
intelligent American citizens. He could read and write remarkably well
for a slave, and well did he understand his advantages in this
particular; indeed if slave-holders had only been aware of the growing
tendency of Tom's mind, they would have rejoiced at hearing of his
departure for Canada; he was a most dangerous piece of property to be
growing up amongst slaves.

After leaving the Committee and going North his uncaged mind felt the
need of more education, and at the same time he was eager to make money,
and do something in life. As he had no one to depend on, parents and
relatives being left behind in Norfolk, he felt that he must rely upon
himself, young as he was. He first took up his abode in Boston, or New
Bedford, where most of the party with whom he escaped went, and where he
had an aunt, and perhaps some other distant kin. There he worked and was
a live young man indeed--among the foremost in ideas and notions about
freedom, etc., as many letters from him bore evidence. After spending a
year or more in Massachusetts, he had a desire to see how the fugitives
were doing in Upper and Lower Canada, and if any better chances existed
in these parts for men of his stamp.

Some of his letters, from different places, gave proof of real thought
and close observation, but they were not generally saved, probably were
loaned to be read by friendly eyes. Nevertheless the two subjoined will,
in a measure, suffice to give some idea of his intelligence, etc.

BOSTON, Mass., Feb. 25th, 1857.

WILLIAM STILL, Esq.:--Dear Sir--I have not heard from you for
some time. I take this opportunity of writing you a few lines to
let you and all know that I am well at present and thank God for
it. Dear Sir, I hear that the under ground railroad was in
operation. I am glad to hear that. Give my best respects to your