In 1860, a Bill was introduced before the Ohio Legislature to attempt to pressure to Ohioans to cease harboring and aiding fugitive slaves. Hitchcock is outraged and incensed.
"Have we not done enough? . . . Must we pass additional [laws] . . . ? Laws which, if carried out in their spirit would inflict severe penalties upon that person who should give a cup of water, a bit of bread, or bestow a blanket upon the poor, shivering, hunted fugitive?"
Hitchcock, Peter. Speech of Hon. P[eter] Hitchcock, of Geauga, on the "Bill to Prevent Giving Aid to Fugitive Slaves." In the House of Representatives, Feb 23, 1861. Columbus. Richard Nevins' Steam Printing House. 1861. 15pp.
A good + copy, bound in wraps, generally solid, moderate foxing.
