We will not invite the reader to any comment of ours upon the character and ability of Mr. Ray as a journalist, or upon the influence and magnitude of the work done by his paper. Any remarks would be lost in the ocean of comments by others, some of which are here quoted. We give what recognized historians say of Mr. Ray: "In the year of 1839, he became the editor of The Colored American, a paper which he conducted with signal ability. The Colored American was well conducted, had the confidence of the public, and was distinguished for the ability shown in its editorials, as well as in its correspondence."
In another place Mr. Brown says: "All, however, who remember as far back as thirty-five years, will bear testimony to the efficient work done by The Colored American, and to the honor that is due to its noble founder." He is an original and subtile writer, having fine powers to analyze, and often flings the sparkling rays of a vivid imagination over the productions of his pen. His articles are usually of a practical nature, always trying to remove evils, working for the moral, social, and political elevation of his race. He was always true to the cause of the Southern slave, and the elevation of the black man, everywhere."
Another writer says: "Dr. Ray is a terse and vigorous writer, well informed upon all subjects of the day."
The American suspended publication in the early part of 1842, having made a brilliant record and opened a comparatively easy road for future efforts in Afro-American journalism.
