I Am a Free Man in a Free Country

Abstract

Although nearly a year has passed since Liberia became a republic, Tolbert is still giddy. He writes to Ben in 1848, “It is my pride and joy that I am a free man in a free country and can enjoy the free mild and equal government which has just been established, and where I can have an equal share of republicanism.” He also thanks Ben for sending seeds, books, and botanical medicines. In the letter, Tolbert displays more sentiment than he has in the past, asking Ben and his wife to pray for him and writing, “I hope the Lord will make a way for me to see you all again this side of the grave.” He uncharacteristically closes his letter with “farewell.” It is his last letter to America. Austin Major also writes to Ben, catching him up on family news.