Boston (MA) Liberator, "Maryland Slaves," June 28, 1850

MARYLAND SLAVES. A meeting of the slaveholders of Queen Anne's county was held at Centerville a few days since, for the purpose of organizing a society to protect slave property, on account of the numerous depredations that have been made by the abolitionists recently in that vicinity. Officers were elected, and a constitution adopted, and measures taken for immediately commencing operations. The number of slaves weekly lost from the border counties of this State is estimated to be equal to $10,000 in value, and the most efficient organization will be necessary to prevent its increase. That they receive money, arms, and directions from the Abolitionists, there is no manner of doubt; and, after they cross the line, places of concealment are provided for them, with all the 'aid and comfort' necessary to enable them to elude pursuit. The recent stampede of sixteen slaves belonging to Col. Pearce, from Baltimore county, and their arrest near Shrewsbury, Pennsylvania, proved this beyond a doubt. A reward of $2,000 discovered their hiding place, in one of the out-houses of a farmer in the vicinity. They were carried home without waiting for legal process.