Instructor's note: As the letter indicates, Mott did not attend the Ohio Women's Convention, but J. Elizabeth Jones read her letter at the Salem meeting, then read Mott's Discourse on Woman, which "was listened to with marked interest by the whole Convention." (Liberator, 17 May 17 1850:80).

Philadelphia, 4th mo., 13th, '50.

To the 'Woman's Convention,' to be held in Salem, Ohio, on the 19th inst.:  ["inst." = instante menses, "this month"]

[1] The call for this Convention, so numerously signed, is indeed gratifying, and gives hope of a large attendance.The letter of invitation was duly received, and I need scarcely say how gladly I would be present, if in my power. Engagements in another direction, as well as the difficulty of travel, at this season of the year, will prevent my availing myself of so great a privilege.

[2] You will not, however, be at a loss for speakers in your midst; for among the signers of the Call are the names of many whose hearts 'believe unto righteousness;' out of their abundance, therefore, the mouth will make 'confession unto salvation.' [Romans 10:10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.]

[3] The wrongs of woman have too long slumbered. They now begin to cry for redress. Let them be clearly pointed out in your Convention; and then, not ask as favor, but demand as right, that every civil and ecclesiastical obstacle be removed out of the way.

[4] Rights are not dependent upon equality of mind; nor do we admit inferiority; leaving that question to be settled by future developments, when a fair opportunity shall be given for the equal cultivation of the intellect, and the stronger powers of the mind shall be called into action.

[5] If, in accordance with your Call, you ascertain 'the bearing which the circumscribed sphere of woman has on the great political and social evils that curse and desolate the land,' you will not have come together in vain. [From the call "To the Women of Ohio" in Anti-Slavery Bugle, 30 March 1850:114.]

[6] May you indeed 'gain strength' by your 'contest with difficulty'! May the whole armor of 'Right, Truth and Reason' be yours! Then will the influence of the Convention be felt in the assembled wisdom of men, which is to follow; and the good results, as well as your example, will ultimately rouse other States to action in this most important cause.

[7] I herewith forward to you a 'Discourse on Woman,' which, though brought out by local circumstances, may yet contain principles of universal application.

[8] Wishing you every success in your noble effort, I am yours for woman's redemption and consequent elevation,

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