ABSTRACT
Dr. John S. Rock's observation that blacks in the city had great difficulty in obtaining housing in a good location was borne out by the experience of Robert Morris, a lawyer. Blacks, complained the Negro William J. Watkins, were vociferous in crying down "complexional distinctions; but, at the same time, the course which we pursue is a virtual recognition of the righteousness of the proscriptive principle. The judicial-legislative antithesis with regard to black rights is easier described than accounted for. The new bill, the most inclusive legislation affecting the status of blacks yet passed in the Commonwealth, declared that: "No distinction, discrimination or restriction on account of color or race shall be lawful in any licensed inn, in any public place of amusement, public conveyance or public meeting in this commonwealth." Many blacks desired to insulate themselves against hostile popular feelings and actions.
