They are deceived who flatter themselves that the ignorant and debased slave has no conception of the magnitude of his wrongs. They are deceived who imagine that he arises from his knees with back lacerated and bleeding, cherishing only a spirit of meekness and forgiveness. A day may come - it will, if his prayer is heard. A terrible day of vengeance when the master in his turn will cry in vain for mercy.
Solomon NorthupI could not comprehend the justice of that law, or that religion, which upholds or recognizes the principle of slavery.
Solomon NorthupIt has been suggested that an account of my life and fortunes would not be uninteresting to the public.
Solomon NorthupThere have been hours in my unhappy life, many of them, when the contemplation of death as the end of earthly sorrow - of the grave as a resting place for the tired and worn out body - has been pleasant to dwell upon.
Solomon Northup