The Narrative of the Life Of Frederick Douglass

There are, however, some painful exceptions to this rule

He is much better fed and clothed, and enjoys privileges altogether unknown to the slave on the plantation

What he most dreaded, that I most desired. What he most loved, that I most hated. That which to him was a great evil, to be carefully shunned, was to me a great good, to be diligently sought; and the argument which he so warmly urged, against my learning to read, only served to inspire me with a desire and determination to learn. In learning to read, I owe almost as much to the bitter opposition of my master, as to the kindly aid of my mistress. I acknowledge the benefit of both.

you give a nigger an inch, he will take an ell. A nigger should know nothing but to obey his master—to do as he is told to do. Learning would spoil the best nigger in the world. Now,"

Mrs. Auld, she very kindly commenced to teach me the A, B, C.

preserved from the blighting and dehumanizing effects of slavery.

The thought of owning a pair of trousers was great indeed!

He that ate fastest got most; he that was strongest secured the best place; and few left the trough satisfied.

My feet have been so cracked with the frost, that the pen with which I am writing might be laid in the gashes.

She had been set that night to mind Mrs. Hicks's baby,