n people_.

Being distinguished by complexion, we are still singled out--although
having merged in the habits and customs of our oppressors--as a distinct
nation of people; as the Poles, Hungarians, Irish, and others, who still
retain their native peculiarities, of language, habits, and various
other traits. The claims of no people, according to established policy
and usage, are respected by any nation, until they are presented in a
national capacity.

To accomplish so great and desirable an end, there should be held, a
great representative gathering of the colored people of the United
States; not what is termed a National Convention, represented en masse,
such as have been, for the last few years, held at various times and
places; but a true representation of the intelligence and wisdom of the
colored freemen; because it will be futile and an utter failure, to
attempt such a project without the highest grade of intelligence.

No great project was ever devised without the consultation of the most
mature intelligence, and discreet discernment and precaution.

To effect this, and prevent intrusion and improper representation, there
should be a CONFIDENTIAL COUNCIL held; and circulars issued, only to
such persons as shall be _known_ to the projectors to be equal to the
desired object.

The authority from whence the call should originate, to be in this
wise:--The originator of the scheme, to impart the contemplated
Confidential Council, to a limited number of known, worthy gentlemen,
who agreeing with the project, endorse at once the scheme, when becoming
joint proprietors in interest, issue a _Confidential Circular_, leaving
blanks for _date_, _time_, and _place_ of _holding_ the Council; sending
them to trusty, worthy, and suitable colored freemen, in all parts of
the United States, and the Canadas, inviting them to attend; who when
met in Council, have the right to project any scheme they may think
proper for the general good of the whole people--provided, that the
project is laid before them after its maturity.

By this Council to be appointed, a Board of Commissioners, to consist of
three, five, or such reasonable number as may be decided upon, one of
whom shall be chosen as Principal or Conductor of the Board, whose duty
and business shall be, to go on an expedition to the EASTERN COAST of
AFRICA, to make researches for a suitable location on that section of
the coast, for the settlement of colored adventurers f