SEC. 41. By the Act of 1834, slaves are prohibited to be to read or write, under a penalty (if a white person ma[y] offend) not exceeding $100 fine and six months imprisonment, if a "free person of color," not exceeding 50 lashes and a fine of $50.

SEC. 42. This Act grew out of a feverish state of excitement produced by the impudent meddling of persons out of the slave States, with their peculiar institutions. That has, however, subsided, and I trust we are now prepared to act the part of wise, humane and fearless masters, and that this law, and all of kindred character, will be repealed. When we reflect, as Christians, how can we justify it, that a slave is not to be permitted to read the Bible? It is in vain to say there is danger in it. The best slaves in the State, are those who can and do read the Scriptures. Again, who is it that teach your slaves to read? It generally is done by the children of the owners. Who would tolerate an indictment against his son or daughter for teaching a favorite slave to read? Such laws look to cowardly. It seems as if we were afraid of our slaves. Such a feeling is unworthy of a Carolina master.