Destruction of Pennsylvania Hall, and Freedom of Speech

The June 1, 1838 Liberator, includes encouragement for abolitionists.  This item includes an article  from the Pennsylvania Freeman, titled, The Voice of the People.  Part of the article quotes from a letter written by “an influential member of the Democratic party at  Washington, hitherto bitterly opposed to our measures, and if we mistake it not, a slaveholder”.  An excerpt from the letter:  ” I have a great deal of fault to find, in judgment, with your societies  — but on the common ground of freedom of thought, speech, and person, and of philanthropy, in a great moral cause ” …..  the writer goes on to offer support.