122. MARYLAND.

of this species of property continues higher
in the southern market than it is here, the
effect of this relaxation cannot be very ex-
tensively felt; but we may reasonably question
whether it be an evidence of the liberality or
of the wise policy of so enlightened a state,
to prohibit a freeman from her borders, be-
cause his skin is tinged beyond a certain shade,
though he may plead his anxiety to join a wife
and family that are there, whilst at the same
time they open their doors freely to any num-
ber of the same unfortunate race, provided
they are brought by masters or sold as slaves!

CHAPTER VIII.
CLIMATE.

In climate ns well as situation, Maryland
belongs rather to the middle than to the
southern division of the United States. Dr.
Morse says of the climate of the middle
states, "that it has but one steady trait in its
character, and that is, its uniform variability."
It is true the changes of weather are frequent,
sometimes sudden and extreme, yet it has been
maintained by no less respectable authority
than Dr. Rush and Dr. Mitchell, after diligent
enquiry, that this district of country is as