Assume that it is the year 1845. Mr. Farmer lives in Pennsylvania, a Free State where slavery is illegal. He has a wife and 10 children. He is a believer in "Natural Law" and as such, feels that slavery is contrary to human nature and a violation of Natural Law. But the Law of the United States as contained in the Constitution is that when slave escaptes from his/her owner in a slave state and flees to a free state, he/she must be returned to the owner. It is against the law of the USA to assist an escapted slave even in a free state. A person caught doing so will be imprisoned.

One night a family of slaves appears at the door of Mr. Farmer, having fled nearby Virginia and seeking Mr. Farmer's help in fleeing. Armed searchers on hot on the trail of the escaped slaves.

What does Natural Law tell Mr. Farmer to do? What does Positive Law mandate he do? If he is caught helping the slaves, his wife will not be able to maintain the farm and the children likely will go to orphanages.

What conflict or dilemma does Mr. Farmer face? Explain. Assuming he thinks slavery is against Natural Law, what would you advise him to do under the circumstances? What concern should he put first? What would you think of him if he turned the slaves in? Does he have a difficult choice or is this a "no brainer?"