How and why I finally got out

I had gotten a few letters from my brother William. He was so happy to be moving to New York with his master Mr. Sands. But then one day all of the letters stopped from him. Then I heard some amazing news, William had escaped! Just think, I had lived in that wretched place for 7 years, and he finds and opening and escapes. Don't get me wrong I am so happy for him, it is just funny how life deals out the cards at times.

In the wake of this I found out that Mr. Sands had made plans to send Ellen to live with some of his relatives who lived in Brooklyn. And as for my little Ben, he was to live with Mr. Sands and his new wife. Let me say, I am so happy that my children have this opportunity to freedom. I just feel that for all of my labors shouldn't I be granted the right to be with them.

On the night before Ellen was to leave I came out of hiding. I had to be helped to stand, walk, and almost speak. I do not know what kind of impression I left on her last night but I hope that she knows the things that I have sacrificed. I spent the evening with her. We talked, ate, laughed, and talked of smalls things, so that the pain of the reality would not hurt us so much.

I don't think that I have ever cried harder then after waving goodbye as I saw my daughter leave me. I am so upset I don't think that I can muster up the energy or desire to write anymore.