to my husband; but though they offered him, as I have heard, a large sum
for my freedom, he was sulky and obstinate, and would not consent to let
me go free.

[Footnote 14: She came first to the Anti-Slavery Office in Aldermanbury,
about the latter end of November 1828; and her case was referred to Mr.
George Stephen to be investigated. More of this hereafter.--ED.]

This was the first winter I spent in England, and I suffered much from the
severe cold, and from the rheumatic pains, which still at times torment
me. However, Providence was very good to me, and I got many
friends--especially some Quaker ladies, who hearing of my case, came and
sought me out, and gave me good warm clothing and money. Thus I had great
cause to bless God in my affliction.

When I got better I was anxious to get some work to do, as I was unwilling
to eat the bread of idleness. Mrs. Mash, who was a laundress, recommended
me to a lady for a charwoman. She paid me very handsomely for what work I
did, and I divided the money with Mrs. Mash; for though very poor, they
gave me food when my own money was done, and never suffered me to want.

In the spring, I got into service with a lady, who saw me at the house
where I sometimes worked as a charwoman. This lady's name was Mrs.
Forsyth. She had been in the West Indies, and was accustomed to Blacks,
and liked them. I was with her six months, and went with her to Margate.
She treated me well, and gave me a good character when she left London.[15]

[Footnote 15: She refers to a written certificate which will be inserted
afterwards.]