How often are heirs needy! How very seldom are they actuated by the same spirit or governed by the same views as their ancestor! Some of them might be under age, and legally incapable of acting for themselves; and yet here, as in the other case, unless the widow and heirs-at-law should be all of full age, ready to break the law of the State, and humane, kind-hearted, and above want, like Dr. Fuller, his slaves could not escape the common degradation of their fellows. How extremely improbable is it that such would be the situation of the widow and all the heirs! How much more improbable is it that such a state of things would continue! How much more likely is it that we should find some of the heirs disliking an investment in slaves, or wishing to be disembarrassed of their care, or desirous to reduce their stock of negroes, and accordingly selling their portion of Dr. Fuller's slaves at auction! In the "Charleston (S.C.) Mercury" of Sept. 1, 1847, we find the following:—
"For Sale,—A young and healthy negro-woman, about 24 years of age, with her two children, a boy between 5 and 6 years, and an infant, 6 months old. Sold for no fault but to change the property. Apply at this office."
This is from the "New Orleans Commercial Bulletin" of August 27, 1847:—
"Desirable Virginia House-servant.—By Beard, Calhoun, & Co. Saturday, 28th inst. at 12 o'clock, will be sold at auction, at Banks's Arcade, the Griffe servant, Lucy, 19 years; a trusty house-girl, of fine character, washer, ironer, and American cook, and sews remarkably well. Sold for no fault, as her owner is leaving the city. Fully guarantied against the vices and maladies prescribed by law.—Terms cash. Act of sale before J. R. Beard, notary public, at the expense of purchaser."
The "National Intelligencer" of August 1, 1848, contains the following:—
"Valuable Servant at Private Sale.—We have for sale a valuable servant-girl, aged about 17 years. She is an excellent house-servant. Sold for no fault; the owner about removing to the country.
Ed. C. & G. F. Dyer,
Auctioneers and Commission Merchants."
The same paper of January 20, 1844, contains the following:—
"For Sale,—Two likely mulatto women; one middle-aged, an excellent cook, washer, and ironer, and a good seamstress; the other young, and a good seamstress and house-servant; and both capable of doing any work required in a family. They are sold on account of the owner not having sufficient employment.—Apply to Mr. Henry Trunnel, Georgetown."
In the same paper, Nov. 2, 1844, we find this:—