We suppose few events that have taken place during the war have produced a heartier chuckle of satisfaction than the capture of the rebel armed steamed Planter . . . . It is a remarkable instance, even in these times, of riches taking themselves to wing and flying away. Here were eight ‘contrabands’ made out of the commonenst clay imaginable, and with souls so vulgar that their very existence had been questioned; yet they actually emancipated not only themselves, but as many others, bringing a highly valuable present to Uncle Sam . . . The fellow who managed the affir proves that, in spite of his name, for he is no Small man.

The New York Commercial Advisor, May 19, 1862
Miller, p. 9-10