A listener note, this episode contains graphic descriptions of racial37 in the town of Mexico, New York.

The sun is dipping low over the horizon as you walk down the street in search of some shelter from the cold.

Your tired legs protest with every step. You've walked all the

way here from Pennsylvania after escaping your owner's plantation by boat. As you've

stopped to peer through the window of a tavern, you jump at the reflection

of an older white man standing behind you. His hat is pulled low over his eyes.

Are you headed to us, we go? Your stomach lurches as you turn around to face the man.

No, sir. Which way are you traveling?

You weigh a response, terrified that this man is going to turn you in as a fugitive.

I'm just passing through.

You clutch your tattered coat tighter around your shoulders.

A man studies your appearance.

Do you know what an abolitionist is? You shrugged. your and you contemplate running, but you don't want to draw more attention to yourself.

The man takes off his hat and meets your gaze.

I don't mean to pry.

I'm an abolitionist. I'm friendly toward black people. If you tell me where you're going, maybe I can help.

You hesitate, wondering if this is a trap. You know you can't afford to be too trusting.

I don't need anything, sir Man's shoulder's slump. He sighs,

begins to back out of the alleyway. All right, but if you find yourself needing help, I

own the hardware store just across the road and I live in the

apartment above. You can find me there day or night. All you have to do is knock.

What's your name, sir? Star Clark. Relief washes over you. With a trembling hand you

...