New national era. [volume] (Washington, D.C.) 1870-1874, 1871-12-07
An Explanation.
AIeyANDRIA ". Nov 81

ALEXANDRIA, Va, Nov. 25, 1871.
To the Editor Of The Ne,O National Era:
BY request of many brethren l make the
following explanation as to the motives which
prompted me to write the article upon ICON
solidation," dated May 9, I'LL.
1t is well known that men are never spoken
evil of until they change their relationship,
either in Church or State. Whatever may be
their particular failings, they are all right
until this dreadful hour comes they are good
fellows while they remain, and bad ones when
they dare leave, no matter how honorable.
The article referred to was not intended for
publication in the shape it appeared; it was
left for examination, but, unfortunately, it
found its way in the columns of the press with
out proper correction.
1t is, therefore, no dishonor for the writer to
make correct statements as to his reception in
the Washington Annual Conference land l
hope that readers will not take advantage of
this article, as to my making concessions in
stead of explaining the whole of the misun-
derstanding as it ocsurred) From information
obtained from reliable brethren, was satisfied
that large majority voted for my reception,
and that the opposing element was composed
of few brethren who did not understand nv
motive, and who would oppose all carpet
baggers, coming from where they might, look
men would not allow them to exhibitany better
feeling. Therefore l have been misled by
false representation, for the vote was taken out
of nay presence. My enthusiasm for union
hath been manifested from a pure motive,
wishing the common good of all, for Christs
on earth should be one. Ny aim in joining
the Nj. E. Church was not for position, or yet
money, as it is stated in letter just received
from one of our good brethren on the other
side. There has never been bribe offered bv
any executive of this large society of Metho-
dists to me or any other Southern minister that
1 know, but We have left from choice, and
simply for love of good government, and be.
cause of its harmony, its unity its influence,
and its learned divines, if not among the COL
ored portion, it is felt and seen among the
white. We love it because it is the mother OF
all on the American continent. Whatever
may be the particular distinction among its
various branches, all are one in faith and doc
trine, and all should be of one body. Let the
word "peace' be written on every banner it
is on that of the Cross; and oh, how soon the
union will be ratified!
But more as to my relationship with the M.
E. Church. 1t was not through persuasion on
the part of any of its members that 1 Joined,
neither was it on account of any difficult
ties with my brethren that left, flor the
Church presented me with a recommendation
to the one that joined, old Sharp street,
which will ever be remem bered by me) /
Joined contemplating that 1 would ind nothing
more or less than body of Christian ministers
and laymen, lovers of the Church, willing SUBJ
jects to its teachings, seekers of q higher at
tainment Of Christian knowledgs, and hard
students to become the equals of our white
brethren. We do not regret our union, unless
we are made to do SO through the cold treat
ment of our newly-made friends. Neither do
we find fault with our appointment, for our
condition is just about the same, with good
church and a fine congregation for its size and