Although not a slave himself, Daniel H. Peterson was born to slave parents and grew up in Maryland in the early 1800s. As a young child, Peterson worked in several households in Baltimore until he successfully purchased his mother's freedom. While so employed, he received some education and religious instruction. After spending some time in Philadelphia as a house servant, Peterson worked for a few years as a steamboat steward on the Delaware River. Following his marriage to Mary Trusty, he went into business and acquired a license to preach. Reverend Peterson served as a minister in Philadelphia and then traveled to Liberia and other African countries to observe the new settlements and existing churches there.

The Looking-Glass (1854) briefly summarizes events in Reverend Peterson's life and career. It focuses on the troubles he experienced as minister of the Bethel Church in Philadelphia. Peterson felt that the Bethel Church leadership was not following God's will in making decisions. He was an outspoken opponent of the way they handled finances, the church building, and the members. The book also highlights Peterson's visit to Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Gambia. In particular, he entreats members of his race to settle in Liberia. He describes the many opportunities available in agriculture, farming, and business, as well as the superior standards of equality practiced by Liberia's citizens. To conclude, Peterson includes letters of recommendation from various pastors and prominent individuals and third-person accounts of the Liberia expedition.

Monique Prince