Frederick Douglass, the Orator - Monroe County Library System

Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County · Historic Monographs Collection
2O8 LIFE OF FREDERICK DOUGLASS.
Bruce. There are also two portraits, one in
either parlor, of Mr. Douglass. The first represents
him in the early days of his anti-slavery
career, the other in more mature life. In the west
parlor over the mantel is a beautiful picture in
water colors of Othello wooing Desdemona. This
picture Mr. Douglass values very highly. On
the walls of the library hang portraits of the African
Cinque, of Toussaint L'Ouverture, John Brown,
Abraham Lincoln, Hyppolite, and other illustrious
men. The same simplicity which is characteristic
of Mr. Douglass in his manner, in his
dress, in his conversation, in his speeches, may
be seen in the appointments of his house. All
the rooms are tastefully but not extravagantly
furnished.
That portion of the ground not reserved for an
orchard and a garden is beautifully laid off in
walks and drives. In the rear of the house is an
extensive level tract which he has converted into
a fine croquet ground. Here he may be seen any
evening, when the weather permits, playing croquet
with his wife and friends from the city. He
is extremely fond of the game, and is usually the
victor however skillful in play his antagonist may
be.
Mr. Douglass is an excellent conversationalist.
He expresses himself with correctness, ease, and
elegance. He rivals Mr. Lincoln in telling anec-