Pointing the Way

(Quakers deservedly do not have much of a reputation for having senses of humor;  but even they can have their moments as the below story illustrates)

Once in the 1850s, an Ohio Friend was returning by train from an abolitionist convention when a group of ministers from Kentucky boarded his car. One of them, noting the Friend's plain garb and guessing his antislavery convictions, began to bait him: "Are you one of those Quakers who wants to free all the niggers?" he demanded. The Friend nodded affirmatively.

"Well, then" badgered the minister, "why do you preach your antislavery doctrines up here in Ohio? Why don't you come try it over in Kentucky?"

The Friend was tired and a bit out of sorts, so he responded with a question of his own: "Is thee a preacher?" he asked.

The other said he was.

"And does thee want to save souls from hell?" the Friend continued.

Yes, the minister allowed that he did.

"Well, then," concluded the Friend wearily, "why doesn't thee go there?"


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