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| author | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 04:34:52 -0700 |
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| committer | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 04:34:52 -0700 |
| commit | 4028627d75f4ba2af20b0432135fd80fbedcfffa (patch) | |
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diff --git a/10633-h/10633-h.htm b/10633-h/10633-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..519840b --- /dev/null +++ b/10633-h/10633-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,29354 @@ +<!DOCTYPE HTML PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.01 Transitional//EN" +"http://www.w3.org/TR/html4/loose.dtd"> + + <head> + <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8"> + + <title>THE HISTORY OF THE RISE, PROGRESS, AND ACCOMPLISHMENT OF THE ABOLITION OF THE SLAVE-TRADE, BY THE BRITISH PARLIAMENT</title> + <style type="text/css"> +/*<![CDATA[ XML blockout */ +<!-- + p { margin-top: .75em; + text-align: justify; + margin-bottom: .75em; + } + h1,h2,h3 { + text-align: center; /* all headings centered */ + clear: both; + } + hr { width: 33%; + margin-top: 2em; + margin-bottom: 2em; + margin-left: auto; + margin-right: auto; + clear: both; + } + a[name] { position:absolute; } + a:link {color:#0000ff; background-color:#FFFFFF; + text-decoration:none; } + a:visited {color:#0000ff; background-color:#FFFFFF; + text-decoration:none; } + a:hover { color:#ff0000; background-color:#FFFFFF; } + + table { width:60%; padding: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;} + + + .lg { margin-left: 3em; } + + body{margin-left: 10%; + margin-right: 10%; + } + + + .center {text-align: center;} + .caption {font-weight: bold; + font-size: smaller; + } + .dedication{ text-align:center; font-weight:bold; } + .notelink {vertical-align: text-top; font-size: 1em; text-decoration: none;} + .poem {margin-left:10%; margin-right:10%; text-align: left;} + + // --> + /* XML end ]]>*/ + </style> + </head> + <body> +<div>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 10633 ***</div> + + <h1>THE HISTORY OF THE RISE, PROGRESS, AND ACCOMPLISHMENT OF THE ABOLITION OF THE SLAVE-TRADE, BY THE BRITISH PARLIAMENT</h1> + + <h2>By THOMAS CLARKSON, M.A. 1839</h2> + + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + + <p class="center"><img src="images/clarkson.png" alt="Thomas Clarkson"><br> + + <span class="caption">Figure 1. Thomas Clarkson</span></p> + + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + + <div class="dedication"> + + <p> + TO + + </p> + <p> + THE RIGHT HONOURABLE WILLIAM, LORD GRENVILLE, + + </p> + <p> + THE RIGHT HONOURABLE CHARLES, EARL GREY, + + </p> + <p> + THE RIGHT HONOURABLE FRANCIS, EARL MOIRA, + + </p> + <p> + THE RIGHT HONOURABLE GEORGE JOHN, EARL SPENCER, + + </p> + <p> + THE RIGHT HONOURABLE HENRY RICHARD, LORD HOLLAND, + + </p> + <p> + THE RIGHT HONOURABLE THOMAS, LORD ERSKINE, + + </p> + <p> + THE RIGHT HONOURABLE EDWARD, LORD ELLENBOROUGH, + + </p> + <p> + THE RIGHT HONOURABLE LORD HENRY PETTY, + + </p> + <p> + THE RIGHT HONOURABLE THOMAS GRENVILLE, + + </p> + <hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + NINE OUT OF TWELVE OF HIS MAJESTY'S LATE CABINET MINISTERS, + + </p> + <p> + TO WHOSE WISE AND VIRTUOUS ADMINISTRATION BELONGS + + </p> + <p> + THE UNPARALLELED AND ETERNAL GLORY + + </p> + <p> + OF THE ANNIHILATION, + + </p> + <p> + AS FAR AS THEIR POWER EXTENDED, + + </p> + <p> + OF ONE OF THE GREATEST SOURCES OF CRIMES AND SUFFERINGS, + + </p> + <p> + EVER RECORDED IN THE ANNALS OF MANKIND; + + </p> + <p> + AND TO THE MEMORIES OF + + </p> + <p> + THE RIGHT HONOURABLE WILLIAM PITT, + + </p> + <p> + AND OF + + </p> + <p> + THE RIGHT HONOURABLE CHARLES JAMES FOX, + + </p> + <p> + UNDER WHOSE FOSTERING INFLUENCE + + </p> + <p> + THE GREAT WORK WAS BEGUN AND PROMOTED; + + </p> + <p> + THIS HISTORY + + </p> + <p> + OF + + </p> + <p> + THE RISE, PROGRESS, AND ACCOMPLISHMENT OF THE + ABOLITION OF THE SLAVE TRADE, + + </p> + <p> + IS RESPECTFULLY AND GRATEFULLY INSCRIBED. + + </p> + </div> + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + + + <h2>CONTENTS</h2> + + + <ol> + <li><a name="d0e108"></a><a href="#preface" >PREFATORY REMARKS ON THE ABOLITION OF SLAVERY</a></li> + <li><a name="d0e111"></a><a href="#chap1" >CHAPTER I</a> + Introduction.—Estimate of the evil of the Slave Trade; and of the + blessing of the Abolition of it.—Usefulness of the contemplation + of this subject + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e115"></a><a href="#chap2" >CHAPTER II</a> + Those, who favoured the cause of the Africans previously to 1787, + were so many necessary forerunners in it.—Cardinal Ximenes; + and others + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e119"></a><a href="#chap3" >CHAPTER III</a> + Forerunners continued to 1787; divided now into four classes.—First + consists of persons in England of various descriptions, Godwyn, + Baxter, and others + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e123"></a><a href="#chap4" >CHAPTER IV</a> + Second, of the Quakers in England, George Fox, and his religious + descendants + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e127"></a><a href="#chap5" >CHAPTER V</a> + Third, of the Quakers in America.—Union of these with individuals + of other religious denominations in the same cause + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e131"></a><a href="#chap6" >CHAPTER VI</a> + Facility of junction between the members of these three different + classes + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e135"></a><a href="#chap7" >CHAPTER VII</a> + Fourth, consists of Dr. Peckard; then of the Author.—Author wishes + to embark in the cause; falls in with several of the members of + these classes + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e139"></a><a href="#chap8" >CHAPTER VIII</a> + Fourth class continued; Langton, Baker, and others.—Author now + embarks in the cause as a business of his life + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e143"></a><a href="#chap9" >CHAPTER IX</a> + Fourth class continued; Sheldon, Mackworth, and others.—Author + seeks for further information on the subject; and visits Members + of Parliament + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e148"></a><a href="#chap10" >CHAPTER X</a> + Fourth class continued.—Author enlarges his knowledge.—Meeting at + Mr. Wilberforce's.—Remarkable junction of all the four classes, + and a Committee formed out of them, in May, 1787, for the Abolition + of the Slave Trade. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e152"></a><a href="#chap11" >CHAPTER XI</a> + History of the preceding classes, and of their junction, shown by + means of a map. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e156"></a><a href="#chap12" >CHAPTER XII</a> + Author endeavours to do away the charge of ostentation in consequence + of becoming so conspicuous in this work. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e160"></a><a href="#chap13" >CHAPTER XIII</a> + Proceedings of the Committee; Emancipation declared to be no part + of its object.—Wrongs of Africa by Mr. Roscoe. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e164"></a><a href="#chap14" >CHAPTER XIV</a> + Author visits Bristol to collect information.—Ill-usage of seamen in + the Slave Trade.—Articles of African produce.—Massacre at + Calabar. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e168"></a><a href="#chap15" >CHAPTER XV</a> + Mode of procuring and paying seamen in that trade; their mortality + in it.—Construction and admeasurement of slave-ships.—Difficulty + of procuring evidence.—Cases of Gardiner and Arnold. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e172"></a><a href="#chap16" >CHAPTER XVI</a> + Author meets with Alexander Falconbridge; visits ill-treated and + disabled seamen; takes a mate out of one of the slave-vessels, and + puts another in prison for murder. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e176"></a><a href="#chap17" >CHAPTER XVII</a> + Visits Liverpool.—Specimens of African produce.—Dock duties.—Iron + instruments used in the traffic.—His introduction to Mr. + Norris. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e180"></a><a href="#chap18" >CHAPTER XVIII</a> + Manner of procuring and paying seamen at Liverpool in the Slave + Trade; their treatment and mortality.—Murder of Peter Green.—Dangerous + situation of the Author in consequence of his + inquiries. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e184"></a><a href="#chap19" >CHAPTER XIX</a> + Author proceeds to Manchester; delivers a discourse there on the + subject of the Slave Trade.—Revisits Bristol; new and difficult + situation there; suddenly crosses the Severn at night.—Returns + to London. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e189"></a><a href="#chap20" >CHAPTER XX</a> + Labours of the Committee during the Author's journey.—Mr. Sharp + elected chairman.—Seal engraved.—Letters from different correspondents + to the Committee. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e193"></a><a href="#chap21" >CHAPTER XXI</a> + Further labours of the Committee to February, 1788.—List of new + Correspondents. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e197"></a><a href="#chap22" >CHAPTER XXII</a> + Progress of the cause to the middle of May.—Petitions to + Parliament.—Author's interviews with Mr. Pitt and Mr. Grenville.—Privy + Council inquire into the subject; examine Liverpool delegates.—Proceedings + of the Committee for the Abolition.—Motion and + Debate in the House of Commons; discussion of the general + question postponed to the next Session. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e201"></a><a href="#chap23" >CHAPTER XXIII</a> + Progress to the middle of July.—Bill to diminish the horrors of the + Middle Passage; Evidence examined against it; Debates; Bill + passed through both Houses.—Proceedings of the Committee, and + effects of them. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e205"></a><a href="#chap24" >CHAPTER XXIV</a> + Continuation from June, 1788, to July, 1789.—Author travels in + search of fresh evidence.—Privy Council resume their examinations; + prepare their report.—Proceedings of the Committee for + the Abolition; and of the Planters and others.—Privy Council + report laid on the table of the House of Commons; debate upon + it.—Twelve propositions.—Opponents refuse to argue from the + report; examine new evidence of their own in the House of + Commons.—Renewal of the Middle Passage Bill.—Death and + character of Ramsay. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e209"></a><a href="#chap25" >CHAPTER XXV</a> + Continuation from July, 1789, to July, 1790.—Author travels to + Paris to promote the abolition in France; his proceedings there; + returns to England.—Examination of opponents' evidence resumed + in the Commons.—Author travels in quest of new evidence on the + side of the Abolition; this, after great opposition, introduced.—Renewal + of the Middle Passage Bill.—Section of the slave-ship.—Cowper's + <em>Negro's Complaint</em>.—Wedgewood's Cameos. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e216"></a><a href="#chap26" >CHAPTER XXVI</a> + Continuation from July, 1790, to July, 1791.—Author travels + again.—Examinations on the side of the Abolition resumed in the Commons; + list of those examined.—Cruel circumstances of the + times.—Motion for the Abolition of the Trade; debates; motion + lost.—Resolutions of the Committee.—Sierra Leone Company + established. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e221"></a><a href="#chap27" >CHAPTER XXVII</a> + Continuation from July, 1791, to July, 1792.—Author travels + again.—People begin to leave off sugar; petition Parliament.—Motion + renewed in the Commons; debates; abolition resolved upon, + but not to commence till 1796.—The Lords determine upon hearing + evidence on the resolution; this evidence introduced; further + hearing of it postponed to the next Session + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e225"></a><a href="#chap28" >CHAPTER XXVIII</a> + Continuation from July, 1792, to July, 1793.—Author travels + again.—Motion to renew the Resolution of the last year in the Commons; + motion lost.—New motion to abolish the foreign Slave + Trade; motion lost.—Proceeding of the Lords + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e229"></a><a href="#chap29" >CHAPTER XXIX</a> + Continuation from July, 1793, to July, 1794.—Author travels + again.—Motion to abolish the foreign Slave Trade renewed, and carried; + but lost in the Lords; further proceedings there.—Author, on + account of declining health, obliged to retire from the cause + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e233"></a><a href="#chap30" >CHAPTER XXX</a> + Continuation from July, 1794, to July, 1799.—Various motions within + this period + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e237"></a><a href="#chap31" >CHAPTER XXXI</a> + Continuation from July, 1799, to July, 1805.—Various motions within + this period + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e241"></a><a href="#chap32" >CHAPTER XXXII</a> + Continuation from July, 1805, to July, 1806.—Author, restored, joins + the Committee again.—Death of Mr. Pitt.—Foreign Slave Trade + abolished.—Resolution to take measures for the total abolition of + the trade.—Address to the King to negotiate with foreign powers + for their concurrence in it.—Motion to prevent new vessels going + into the trade.—All these carried through both Houses of Parliament + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e245"></a><a href="#chap33" >CHAPTER XXXIII</a> + Continuation from July, 1806, to July, 1807.—Death of Mr. Fox.—Bill + for the total abolition carried in the Lords; sent from thence + to the Commons; amended, and passed there, and sent back to + the Lords; receives the royal assent.—Reflections on this great + event + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e249"></a><a href="#coadj1" >Map</a></li> + <li><a name="d0e252"></a><a href="#slaveship" >Plan and Sections of a Slave Ship</a></li> + </ol> + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + + <h2><a name="preface"></a> + PREFATORY REMARKS<br> + + TO<br> + + THE PRESENT EDITION. + </h2> + + + + <p> + The invaluable services rendered by Thomas Clarkson to + the great question of the Slave Trade in all its branches, + have been universally acknowledged both at home and + abroad, and have gained him a high place among the + greatest benefactors of mankind. The History of the + Abolition which this volume contains, affords some means + of appreciating the extent of his sacrifices and his labours + in this cause. But after these, with the unwearied exertions + of William Wilberforce, had conducted its friends + to their final triumph, in 1807, they did not then rest from + their labours. There remained four most important + objects, to which the anxious attention of all Abolitionists + was now directed. + + </p> + <p><em>First</em>,—The law had been passed, forced upon the + Planters, the Traders, and the Parliament, by the voice of + the people; and there was a necessity for keeping a + watchful eye over its execution. + + </p> + <p><em>Secondly</em>,—The statute, however rigorously it might be + enforced, left, of course, the whole amount of the Foreign + Slave traffic untouched, and it was infinitely to be desired + that means should be adopted for extending our Abolition + to other nations. + + </p> + <p><em>Thirdly</em>,—Some compensation was due to Africa, for + the countless miseries which our criminal conduct had for + + ages inflicted upon her, and strict justice, to say nothing + of common humanity and Christian charity, demanded + that every means should be used for aiding in the progress + of her civilization, and effacing as far as possible the + dreadful marks which had been left upon her by our + crimes. + + </p> + <p><em>Lastly,</em>—Many of those whom we had transported by + fraud and violence from their native country, and still + more of the descendants of others who had fallen a sacrifice + to our cruelties, and perished in the course of nature, + slaves in a foreign land, remained to suffer the dreadful + evils of West India bondage. It seemed to follow, that + the earliest opportunity consistent with their own condition, + should be taken to free those unhappy beings, the + victims of our sordid cruelty; and all the more to be + pitied, as we were all the more to be blamed, because one + result of our transgression was the having placed them in + so unnatural a position, that their enemies might seem to + be furnished with an argument more plausible than sound, + drawn from the Negro's supposed unfitness for immediate + emancipation. + + </p> + <p> + In order to promote these four great objects, a society + was formed in May 1807, called the African Institution, + and although, at first, its labours were chiefly directed to + the portion of the subject relating to Africa, by degrees, + as the extinction of the British Slave Trade was accomplished, + its care was chiefly bestowed on West India + matters, which were more within the power of this country + than the slave traffic, still carried on by foreign nations. + But it is necessary in the first place, to recite the measures + by which our own share in that enormous crime was + surrendered, and the stigma partially obliterated, which + + it had brought upon our national character, Thomas + Clarkson bore a forward and important part in all these + useful and virtuous proceedings. His health was now, by + rest among the Lakes of Westmoreland for several years, + comparatively restored and his mind once more bent + itself to the accomplishment of the grand object; of his life, + we may he permitted reverently to suggest, the end of his + existence. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Stephen and others, at first, deemed the certainty + of the Act passed in March 1807, being evaded + under the stimulus, and the insurance against capture + afforded by the enormous profits of the traffic, so clear, + that they expected the law to become, almost from the + time of its being enacted, a dead letter. There soon + appeared the strongest reasons to concur in this opinion, + the result of long and close observation in the Islands + where Mr. Stephen had passed part of his life. The slave-dealers + knew the risk of penalty and forfeiture which they + ran; but they also knew that if one voyage in three or + four was successful, they were abundantly remunerated for + all their losses; and, therefore, they were no more restrained + by the Abolition Act, than by any moderate increase of + the cost or the risk attending their wicked adventures. + This was sure, to be the case, as long as the law only + treated slavetrading as a contraband commerce, subjecting + those who drove it to nothing but pecuniary penalties. + But it was equally evident that the same persons who + made these calculations of profit and risk, while they + only could lose the ship or the money by a seizure, would + hesitate before they encountered the hazard of being tried + as for a crime. And, surely, if ever these was an act + which deserved to be declared felony, and dealt with as + + such, it was this of slave-trading. Accordingly, in 1810, + Mr. Brougham, then a member of the House of Commons, + in moving an address to the crown, (which was + unanimously agreed to,) for more vigorous measures + against the traffic, both British and Foreign, gave notice + of the Bill, which he next year carried through Parliament, + and which declared the traffic to be a felony, + punishable with transportation. Some years afterwards + it was by another Act made capital, under the name of + Piracy, but this has since been repealed. Several convictions + have taken place under the former Act, (of 1811,) + and there cannot be the least doubt that the law has + proved effectual, and that the Slave Trade has long ceased + to exist as far as the British dominions are concerned. + + </p> + <p> + That foreign states continue shamefully to carry it on, + is no less certain. There are yearly transported to Cuba + and Brazil, above 100,000 unhappy beings, by the two + weakest nations in Europe, and these two most entirely + subject to the influence and even direct control of + England. The inevitable consequence is, that more + misery is now inflicted on Africa by the criminals, gently + called Slave-traders, of these two guilty nations, than if + there were no treaties for the abolition of the traffic. The + number required is always carried over, and hence, as + many perish by a miserable death in escaping from the + cruisers, as reach their destination. The recitals of horror + which have been made to Parliament and the country on + this dreadful subject, are enough to curdle the blood in + the veins and heart of any one endued with the common + feelings of humanity. The whole system of prevention, + or rather of capture, after the crime has been committed, + seems framed with a view to exasperate the evils of the + + infernal traffic, to scourge Africa with more intolerable + torments, and to make human blood be spilt like water. + Our cruisers, are excited to an active discharge of their + duty, by the benefit of sharing in the price fetched + when the captured ship is condemned and sold; but this is + a small sum, indeed, compared with the rich reward of + head-money held out, being so much for every slave taken + on board. It is thus made the direct interest of these + cruisers, that the vessels should have their human cargoes + on board, rather than be prevented from shipping them. + True, this vile policy may prove less mischievous where + no treaty exists, giving a right to seize when there are + no slaves in the vessel, because here a slave ship is suffered + to pass, how clear soever her destination might be; + yet, even here, the inducement to send in boats, and seize + as soon as a slave or two may be on board, is removed, + and the cruiser is told, "only let all these wretched + beings be torn from their country, and safely lodged in + the vessel's hold, and your reward is great and sure." + Then, whenever there is an outfit clause, that is a power + to seize vessels fitted for the traffic, this mischievous + plan tends directly to make the cruiser let the slaver + make ready and put to sea, or it has no tendency or + meaning at all. Accordingly, the course is for the cruiser + to stand out to sea, and not allow herself to be seen in + the offing—the crime is consummated—the slaves are + stowed away—the pirate—captain weighs anchor—the + pirate-vessel freighted with victims, and manned by + criminals fares forth—the cruiser, the British cruiser, + gives chace—and then begin those scenes of horror, surpassing + all that the poet ever conceived, whose theme + was the torments of the damned and the wickedness of + + the fiends. Casks are filled with the slave, and in these + they are stowed away; or to lighten the vessel, they are + flung overboard by the score; sometimes they are flung + overboard in casks, that the chasing ship may be detained + by endeavours to pick them up; the dying and the dead + strew the deck; women giving birth to the fruit of the + womb, amidst the corpses of their husbands and their + children; and other, yet worse and nameless atrocities, + fill up the terrible picture, of impotent justice and + triumphant guilt. But the guilt is not all Spanish and + Portuguese. The English Government can enforce its + demands on the puny cabinets of Madrid and Lisbon, + scarce conscious of a substantive existence, in all that + concerns our petty interests: wherever justice and mercy + to mankind demand our interference, there our voice sinks + within us, and no sound is uttered. That any treaty + without an outfit clause should be suffered to exist between + powers so situated, is an outrage upon all justice, + all reason, all common sense. But one thing is certain, + that unless we are to go further, we have gone too far, + and must in mercy to hapless Africa retrace our steps. + Unless we really put the traffic down with a strong hand, + and instantly, we must instantly repeal the treaties that + pretended to abolish it, for these exacerbate the evil a + hundred fold, and are ineffectual to any one purpose but + putting money into the pockets of our men of war. The + fact is as unquestionable, as it is appalling, that all our + anxious endeavours to extinguish the Foreign Slave + Trade, have ended in making it incomparably worse than + it was before we pretended to put it down; that owing + to our efforts, there are thrice the number of slaves yearly + torn from Africa; and that wholly because of our efforts, + + two thirds of these are murdered on the high seas and in + the holds of the pirate vessels. + + </p> + <p> + It is said, that when these scenes were described to an + indignant nation last session of Parliament, the actual + effects of this bad system were denied, though its tendency + could not be disputed. + + </p> + <p> + It was averred that "no British seaman could be + capable of neglecting his duty for the sake of increasing + the gains of the station." But nothing could be more + absurd than this. Can the direct and inevitable tendency + of the head-money system be doubted? Are cruisers the + only men over whom motives have no influence? Then + why offer a reward at all? When they want no stimulus + to perform their duty, why tell them that if the ship is + empty, they get a hundred pounds: if laden, five thousand? + They know the rules of arithmetic;—they understand + the force of numbers. But, in truth, there is not an individual + on all the coast of Africa who will be misled by + such appeals, or suffer all this to divert them from their + purpose of denouncing the system. There are persons + high in rank among the best servants of the crown, who + know the facts from their own observations, and who are + ready to bear witness to the truth, in spite of all the + attempts that have been made to silence them. + + </p> + <p> + The other great object of the African Institution + regarded the West Indies. The preparation of the + negroes for that freedom which was their absolute right, + and could only be withheld for an hour, on the ground of + their not being prepared for it, and therefore being better + without it, was the first thing to be accomplished. Here + the friends of the abolition, all but Mr. Stephen, suffered + a great disappointment. He alone had uniformly-foretold + + that the hopes held out, as it seemed very reasonably, of + better treatment resulting from the stoppage of the + supply of hands, were fallacious. All else had supposed + that interest might operate on men whom principle had + failed to sway; that they whom no feelings of compassion + for their fellow-creatures could move to do their duty, + might be touched by a feeling of their own advantage, + when interest coincided with duty. The Slave-mart is + now closed, it was said; surely the stock on hand will be + saved by all means, and not wasted when it can no longer + be replaced. The argument was purposely rested on the + low ground of regarding human beings as cattle, or even + as inanimate chattels, and it was conceived that human + life would be regarded of as much value as the wear and + tear of beasts, of furniture, or of tools. Hence it was + expected that a better system of treatment would follow, + from the law which closed the African market, and + warned every planter that his stock must be spared by + better treatment, and kept up by breeding, since it no + longer could be, as it hitherto had been, maintained by + new supplies. + + </p> + <p> + Two considerations were, in these arguments, kept out + of view, both of a practical nature, and both known to + Mr. Stephen,—the cultivation of the Islands by agents + having wholly different interests from their masters, and + the gambling spirit of trading and culture which long + habit had implanted in the West Indian nature. The + comforts of the slave depended infinitely more upon the + agent on the spot, than the owner generally resident in + the mother country; and though the interest of the latter + might lead to the saving of negro life, and care for negro + comforts, the agent had no such motives to influence his + + conduct; besides, it was with the eyes of this agent that + the planter must see, and he gave no credence to any + accounts but his. Now the consequence of cruelty is to + make men at war with its objects. No one but a most + irritable person feels angry with his beast, and even the + anger of such a person is of a moment's duration. But + towards an inanimate chattel even the most irritable of + sane men can feel nothing like rage. Why? Because in + the one case there is little, in the other no conflict or resistance + at all. It is otherwise with a slave; he is human, + and can disobey—can even resist. This feeling always + rankles in his oppressor's bosom, and makes the tyrannical + superior hate, and the more oppress his slave. The agent + on the spot feels thus, and thus acts; nor can the voice + of the owner at a distance be heard, even if interest, + clearly proved, were to prompt another course. But the + chief cause of the evil is the spirit of speculation, and it + affects and rules resident owners even more than absentees. + Let sugar rise in price, and all cold calculations + of ultimate loss to the gang are lost in the vehement thirst + of great present gain. All, or nearly all, planters are in + distressed circumstances. They look to the next few + years as their time; and if the sun shines they must make + hay. They are in the mine, toiling for a season, with + every desire to escape and realize something to spend + elsewhere. Therefore they make haste to be rich, and + care little, should the speculation answer and much sugar + bring in great gain, what becomes of the gang ten years + hence. Add to all this, that any interference of the local + legislatures to discourage sordid or cruel management, to + clothe the slaves with rights, to prepare them for freedom + by better education, to pave the way for emancipation by + + restraining the master's power, to create an intermediate + State of transition from slavery to freedom by partial + liberty, as by attaching them to the soil, and placing them + in the preparatory state through which our ancestors in + Europe passed from bondage in gross to entire independence—all + such measures were in the absolute discretion; + not of the planters, but of the resident agents, one + of the worst communities in the world, who had little + interest in preparing for an event which they deprecated, + and whose feelings of party, as well as individually, were + all ranged on the oppressor's side. All this Mr. Stephen, + enlightened by experience, and wise by long reflection, + clearly and alone foresaw; all this vision of the future + was too surely realized by the event. No improvement of + treatment took place; no additional liberality in the supplies + was shown; no abstinence in the exaction of labour + appeared; no interference of the Colonial Legislature to + check misconduct was witnessed; far less was the least + disposition perceived to give any rights to the slaves, any + security against oppression, any title independent of his + Master, any intermediate state or condition which might + prepare him for freedom. It is enough to say, that a + measure which every man, except Mr. Stephen, had regarded + as the natural, almost the necessary effect of the + abolition—attaching the slaves to the soil—was not so + much as propounded, far less adopted; it may be even + said, was never mentioned in any one local assembly of + any of our numerous colonies, during the thirty years + which elapsed between the abolition and the emancipation! + This is unquestionable, and it is decisive. + + </p> + <p> + As soon as it began to be perceived that such was likely + to be the result of the abolition in regard to the emancipation, + + Mr. Stephen's authority with his coadjutors, always + high, rose in proportion to the confirmations which the + event had lent his predictions; and his zealous endeavours + and unwearied labours for the subversion of the accursed + system became both more extensive and more effectual. + If, however, strict justice requires the tribute which we + have paid to this eminent person's distinguished services, + justice also renders it imperative on the historian of the + Abolition in all its branches, to record an error into which + he fell. Having originally maintained that the traffic + would survive the Act of 1807, in which he was right, + that Act only imposing pecuniary penalties, he persisted + in the same opinion after the Act of 1811 had made + slave-trading a felony; and long after it had been + effectually put down in the British dominions, he continued + to maintain that it was carried on nearly as much + as ever, reasoning upon calculations drawn from the + island returns. Hence he insisted upon a general Registry + Act, as essential to prevent the continuance of an importation + which had little or no real existence. The + importance of such a measure was undeniable, with a + view to secure the good treatment of the negroes in the + islands; but the extinction of the Slave Trade had long + before been effectually accomplished. + + </p> + <p> + In the efforts to obtain Negro Emancipation, all the + Abolitionists were now prepared to join. The conduct of + the Colonial Assemblies having long shown the fallacy of + those expectations which had been entertained of the + good work being done in the islands as soon as the + supply of new hands should be stopped by the Abolition, + there remained no longer any doubt whatever, that the + mother country alone could abate a nuisance hateful in + + the sight of God and man. Constant opportunities were + therefore offered to agitate this great question, which was + taken up by the enlightened, the humane, and the religious, + all over the empire. + + </p> + <p> + The magnitude of the subject was indeed worthy of + all the interest it excited. The destiny of nearly a million + of human beings—nay, the question whether they should + be treated as men with rational souls, or as the beasts + which perish—should enjoy the liberty to which all God's + creatures are entitled, as of right, or be harassed, oppressed, + tormented, and stinted, both as regarded bodily + food, and spiritual instruction—whether the colonies + should be peopled with tyrants and barbarians, or inhabited + by civilized and improving christian communities—was + one calculated to put in action all the best principles + of our nature, and to move all the noblest feelings of the + human heart. + + </p> + <p> + Thomas Clarkson, as far as his means extended, aided + this great excitement. He renewed his committees of + correspondence all over the country; aided by the Society + of Friends, his early and steady coadjutors in this pious + work, he recommenced the epistolary intercourse with + the provinces, held for so many hopeless years on the + Slave Trade, but now made far more promising by the + victory which had been obtained, and by the unanimity + with which all Abolitionists now were resolved to procure + emancipation. He also recommenced his journeys through + the different parts of the island, and visited in succession + part of Scotland, almost all England, and the whole of + Wales, encouraging and interesting the friends of humanity + wherever he went, and forming local societies and + committees for furthering the common object. + + </p> + <p> + But it was, after all, in Parliament that the battle + must be fought; and Mr. Buxton, of whose invaluable + services in the House of Commons the cause has lately + been deprived, repeatedly, with the support of Messrs. + Wilberforce, William Smith, Brougham, Lushington, + and others, urged the necessity of interference upon the + representatives of a people unanimous in demanding it; + and he repeatedly urged it in vain. The Government + always leaned towards the planter, and the most flimsy + excuses were constantly given for preferring to the + effectual measures propounded by the Abolitionists, the + most flimsy of expedients, useless for any one purpose, + save that of making pretences and gaining time. + + </p> + <p> + At length came the great case of the missionary + Smith's persecution, trial, and untimely death, when all + the forms of judicature had been prostituted, all the rules + of law broken, all the principles of justice outraged, by + men assuming to sit in judgment as a court of criminal + jurisprudence; and though assisted by legal functionaries, + exhibiting such a spectacle of daring violation of the most + received and best known canons of procedure, as no + civilized community ever before were called upon to + endure. This subject was immediately brought before + Parliament by Mr. Brougham, and his motion of censure, + which might have been an impeachment of the governor + and the court of Demerara, was powerfully supported by + Mr. Wilberforce, the amiable, eloquent, and venerable + leader of the party, Mr. Denman, Mr. Williams, and Dr. + Lushington, but rejected by a majority of the Commons, + whom Mr. Canning led, in a speech little worthy of his + former exertions against the Slave Trade, and far from + being creditable either to his judgment or to his principles. + + Yet this memorable debate was of singular service + to the cause. The great speeches delivered were spread + through all parts of the country; the nakedness of the + horrid system was exposed; the corruptions as well as + cruelty of slavery were laid bare; the determination of + colonies to protect its worst abuses was demonstrated; + necessity of the mother-country interfering with a + strong hand was declared; and even the loss of the + motion showed the people of England how much their + own exertions were still required if they would see + slavery extirpated, by proving that upon them alone the + fate of the execrable system hung. + + </p> + <p> + The effects of this great debate cannot be over estimated. + The case of the missionary became the universal + topic; The name of the martyred Smith, the general + rallying cry. The superior interest excited by individual + sufferings to any general misery inflicted upon masses of + the people, or any evil, however gigantic, which operates + over a large space, and in a course of time, has always + been observed. The remark was peculiarly applicable in + this instance. Although all reflecting men had, for many + long years, been well aware of the evils pervading our + colonial system, and though the iniquity and perverseness + of West Indian judicatures had long been the topic of + universal comment, yet this single case of a persecuted + individual falling a victim to those gross perversions of + law and justice which are familiar to the colonial people, + produced an impression far more general and more deep + than all that had ever been written or declaimed against + system of West India slavery; and looking back on + the consummation of all our hopes in 1833 and 1838, we + at once revert from this auspicious era to that ever + + memorable occasion as having laid the solid foundation + of our ultimate triumph. + + </p> + <p> + In this important day, which has thus by its effects + proved decisive of the Emancipation question, Mr. Stephen + bore no part. He had long ceased to adorn and enlighten + the House of Commons. His retirement was the result + of honest differences of opinion respecting West India + slavery with his political friends, then in the plenitude of + their power. Those differences caused him to take the + noble part, so rarely acted by politicians, of withdrawing + from Parliament rather than lend his great support to men + with whom he differed upon a question admitting no compromise; + and he devoted his exertions in private life to + the furtherance of the cause ever nearest his heart, the + publication of his able and elaborate work on the Colonial + Slave Laws was the fruit of his leisure; and had he never + lent any other aid to the Emancipation, this would alone + have placed him high among its most able and effective + supporters. In all the consultations which were held + before Mr. Brougham's motion in 1824, he bore an active + and useful part. In pushing the advantages gained by + the debate he was unwearied and successful. Unhappily + it pleased Providence that he should not receive here + below the final reward of his long and valued labours; + for he was called to his final repose some months before + the Emancipation Bill passed into a law. + + </p> + <p> + There remains little to add, except that this measure, + which was carried with little opposition in 1833, owed + its success in Parliament to the ample bribe of twenty + millions, by which the acquiescence of the West Indians + was purchased. The measure had hardly come into + operation, when all men perceived that the intermediate + + state of apprenticeship was anything rather than a + preparation for freedom, and anything rather than a + mitigation of slavery. It is due to some able and distinguished + friends of the negro race to state, that they all + along were averse to this plan of a transition state. + Lord Howick, then in the Colonial Office as Under-Secretary, + went so far as to leave the department, from + his dislike of this part of the measure. Mr. Buxton and + others protested against it. Even its friends intimated + that they wished the period of apprenticeship to end in + 1838 instead of 1840; but there was a general belief of + the preparatory step being necessary,—a belief apparently + founded on experience of the negro character, and + indeed of the vicious tendency of all slavery, to extinguish + the power of voluntary labour, as well as to make the + sudden change to freedom unsafe for the peace of the + community. The fact soon dispersed these opinions. + Antigua in a minute emancipated all her slaves to the + number of thirty thousand and upwards. Not a complaint + was ever heard of idleness or indolence; and, far + from any breach of the peace being induced by the sudden + change in the condition of the people, the Christmas of + 1833 was the first, for the last twenty years, that martial + law was not proclaimed, in order to preserve the public + peace. Similar evidence from Jamaica and other islands, + proving the industrious and peaceable habits of the + apprentices, showed that there was nothing peculiar in + the circumstances of Antigua. + + </p> + <p> + An important occurrence is now to be recorded as + having exercised a powerful influence upon the question + of immediate emancipation. Joseph Sturge, of Birmingham, + a member of the Society of Friends, stricken with a + + sense of the injustice perpetrated against the African + race, repaired to the West Indies, in order that he might + examine, with his own eyes, the real state of the question + between the two classes. He was accompanied by John + Scoble and Thomas Harvey; and these able, excellent, + and zealous men returned in a few months with such + ample evidence of the effects produced by apprenticeship, + and the fitness of the negroes for liberty, that the + attention of the community was soon awakened to the + subject, even more strenuously than it ever before had + been; and the walls of Parliament were soon made once + more to ring with the sufferings of the slave, only emancipated + in name, and the injustice of withholding from + him any longer the freedom which was his indefeasible + right, as soon as he was shown capable of enjoying it + beneficially for himself and safely for the rest of the + community. + + </p> + <p> + In these transactions, both in Jamaica, where he is + one of the largest planters, and in Parliament, where he + is one of the most respected members, the Marquess of + Sligo bore an eminent and an honourable part. His + praise has been justly sounded by all who have supported + the cause of negro freedom, and his conduct was + by all admitted to be as much marked by the disinterested + virtue of a good citizen and amiable man, as it was + by the sagacity and ability of an enlightened statesman. + Both as governor of Jamaica, as the owner of slaves + whom he voluntarily liberated, and as a peer of Parliament, + his patriotism, his humanity, and his talents, shone + conspicuously through this severe and glorious struggle. + While such was the conduct of those eminent philanthropists, + some difference of opinion prevailed among the + + other and older leaders of the cause, chiefly grounded + upon doubts whether the arrangement made by Parliament + in 1833, might not be regarded as a compact with + the planters which it would be unjust to violate by + terminating their right to the labour of the apprentices + at a period earlier than the one fixed in the Emancipation + Act. A little consideration of the question at issue soon + dispelled those doubts, and removed every obstacle to + united exertion, by restoring entire unanimity of opinion. + The slaves, it was triumphantly affirmed, were no party + to the compact. But moreover, the whole arrangement + of the apprenticeship was intended as a benefit to them, + by giving them the preparation thought to be required + before they could, safely for themselves, be admitted to + unrestricted freedom,—not as a benefit to the planters, + whose acquiescence was purchased with the grant of + twenty millions. Experience having shown that no + preparation at all was required, it was preposterous to + continue the restraint upon natural liberty an hour + longer, as regarded the negroes,—the only party whom + we had any right to consider in the question; and as for + the planters there was the grossest absurdity in further + regarding any interests or any claims of theirs. The + arrangement of 1833, as far as regards the transition or + intermediate state, had been made under an error in fact, + an error propagated by the representations of the masters. + That error was now at an end, and an immediate alteration + of the provisions to which it had given rise was thus a + matter of strict justice;—not to mention that the planters + had failed to perform their part of the contract. The + Colonial Assemblies had, except in Antigua, done nothing + for the slave in return for the large sum bestowed upon + + the West India body. So that in any view there was an + end of all pretext for the further delay of right and + justice. + + </p> + <p> + The ground now taken by the whole Abolitionists; + therefore, both in and out of Parliament was, that the + two years which remained of the indentured apprenticeship + must immediately be cut off, and freedom + given to the slaves in August, 1838, instead of 1840; + The peace of the West Indian community, and the real + interests of the planters, were affirmed to be as much + concerned in this change as the rights of the negroes + themselves. Far from preparing them for becoming + peaceable subjects and contented members of society at + the end of their apprenticeship, those two years of compulsory + labour would, it was justly observed, be a period + of heart-burning and discontent between master and + servant, which must, in the mean while, be dangerous to + the peace of society, and must leave, at the end of the + time, a feeling of mutual ill-will and distrust. The + question could no longer be kept from the cognizance of + the negro people. Indeed, their most anxious expectations + were already pointed towards immediate liberty, + and their strongest feelings were roused to obtain it. + + </p> + <p> + Of these sentiments the whole community partook; + meetings were everywhere held; petitions crowded the + tables of Parliament; the press poured forth innumerable + tracts which were eagerly received; the pulpit lent its + aid to this holy cause; and discussions upon petitions + and upon incidental motions shook the walls of Parliament, + while they stimulated the zeal of the people. The + Government adopted an unfortunate course, which contributed + greatly to weaken their hold on the confidence + + and affections of the country; they resisted all the + motions that were made on behalf of the slaves, and + appeared to regard only the interests of the master, + turning a deaf ear to the arguments of right and of + justice. + + </p> + <p> + It was found, during the course of these debates, that + a new Slave Trade had sprung up in the East Indies, + with the sanction of an English Order in Council. Under + pretence that hands were wanted to cultivate their estates, + the Demerara planters had obtained permission to import + what they termed, with a delicacy borrowed from the + vocabulary of the African Slave Trade, "labourers" + from Asia and from Africa east of the Cape, and to make + them Indentured Apprentices for a term of years. No + restrictions whatever were imposed by this unheard-of + Order. No tonnage was required in proportion to the + numbers shipped, no amount of provision, no medical + assistance; no precautions were taken, or so much as + thought of, to prevent kidnapping and fraud, nay, to + prevent main force being used in any part of Eastern + Africa, or of all Asia, in carrying on board the victims of + West Indian avarice; in short, a worse Slave Trade than + the African was established, and all the dominions of the + East India Company, with all the African and Asiatic + coasts, as yet independent, were given over to its ravages. + This was repeatedly denounced by Lord Brougham in the + House of Lords; and although his motion for rescinding + the order was supported by Lord Lyndhurst, Lord Ellenborough, + and Lord Wharncliffe, the influence of the + Government and the planters prevailed, and the House + rejected it. A bill was afterwards brought in to check + the enormities complained of; but no remedy at all effectual + + is as yet applied. The official documents, however, + proved that already men had been inveigled on board, + by the agents of the Mauritius planters, in different parts + of the East, and that the mortality on that comparatively + short voyage exceeded even the dreadful waste of life + which had characterized, and impressed with marks of + horrid atrocity, the accursed Middle Passage. + + </p> + <p> + This subject, as might well be expected, once more + roused the energies of Thomas Clarkson: he addressed an + able and convincing letter to Lord Brougham, his old + friend and coadjutor in the sacred cause; and it was + printed and universally circulated. The subject still + remains unsettled: and the labours of the enlightened + philanthropist cannot now be directed to one more + important, or more urgent. + + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile, in the spring of 1838, the question of + Immediate Emancipation was agitated throughout the + country. The Government proved hostile. Immense + meetings were held at Exeter Hall, which were attended + by many members of Parliament, over which Lord + Brougham presided. Among others who were present + and bore a distinguished part, were certain representatives + of Ireland who promised their strenuous support. + It is a painful duty to add, that their fellow-members + from Ireland did not, on this great occasion, follow their + good example; for eleven only of those, on whose votes + reliance had been placed, opposed the Government, while + no less than twenty-seven gave them support. + + </p> + <p> + The question was rejected by the House of Lords, + when brought forward by Lord Brougham; but in spite + of the efforts of the Government; the defalcation of the + Irish, of a still greater proportion of the Scotch representatives, + + two hundred and seventeen members of the House + of Commons voted for Immediate Abolition, out of four + hundred and eighty-nine who were present on the occasion. + A second effort in the same session placed Ministers + in a minority; but they immediately gave notice, they + should strenuously oppose any attempt to carry into + practical effect this decision of the House; and in this + determination they were supported by a majority on a + third division. + + </p> + <p> + The word, however, had gone forth all over England, + that the <em>Slave should be free</em>. It had not only pervaded + Europe, it had reached America; and the West Indians + at length perceived that they could no longer resist the + voice of the British people, when it spoke the accents of + humanity and of justice. The slaves would have met the + dawn of the first of August,—the day which all the + motions in Parliament and all the prayers of the petitions + had fixed,—with perfect quiet, but with a resolute determination + to do no work. The peace would not have + been broken, but no more would a clod have been turned + after that appointed sun had risen. A handful of whites + surrounded by myriads of negroes,—now substantially + free, and free without a blow,—must have been overwhelmed + in an hour after sunrise on that day, had they + resisted. The Colonial Legislatures, therefore, <em>now</em> + listened to the voice of reason, and they, one after + another, emancipated their slaves. The first of August + saw not a bondsman, under whatever appellation, in + any part of the Western Sea which owns the British + rule. + + </p> + <p> + The Mauritius, however, still held out, and on the + Mauritius the hand of the Imperial Parliament must and + + will be laid, to enforce mercy and justice on those to whom + mercy and justice have so long called aloud in vain. In + truth, if the case for instant emancipation was strong everywhere, + it was in no quarter half so strong as in the Mauritius; + and the distribution of the grant by Parliament to + this Colony was the most unjustifiable, and even incomprehensible. + For, elsewhere, there existed at least a title to + the slave, over whom an unjust and unchristian law recognised + the right of property. But in the Mauritius there + was not, nor is there now, one negro to whom a good title + is clearly provable. The atrocious conduct of Governors + and other functionaries, in conniving at the Slave Trade + of Eastern Africa, had filled that Colony with thousands + of negroes, every one of whom was carried there by the + commission of felony, long after Slave Trading had been + declared a capital crime by the law of the land, as by the + law of nature it always was. Sir George Murray, when + Colonial Secretary of State, had admitted, that at least + thirty thousand of the negroes in the settlement were + nominally slaves, but in reality free, having been carried + thither contrary to law. He understated it by twenty + thousand or more: yet on all these negroes, in respect of + property, were two millions and more claimed: for all + these the compensation money was given and taken, + which Parliament had lavishly bestowed. How then + was it possible to doubt, that every slave in the Mauritius + should receive his freedom, when the only ground + alleged for not singling out and liberating this fifty + thousand, was the inability to distinguish them from + the rest? If ten men are tried for an offence, and it + is clear that five are innocent, though you cannot distinguish + them from their companions, what jury will hesitate + + in acquitting the whole, on the ordinary principle + of its being better five guilty should escape than five + guiltless suffer? The same is still the state of the case + in that most criminal settlement, which, having far + surpassed all others in the enormity of its guilt, is now + the only one where no attempt has been made to evince + repentance by amendment of conduct. But the Government + which has the power of compelling justice will share + the crime which they refuse to prevent, and the Legislature + must compel the Government, if their guilty + reluctance shall continue, or it will take that guilt upon + itself<a class="notelink" href="#NoteIntro_1"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootIntro_1"></a>. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteIntro_1"></a><a href="#FootIntro_1">A</a>: It is truly gratifying to state, that the late Secretary for the + Colonies, Lord Glenelg, has, since this was written, given the most + satisfactory assurances of orders having been sent over for immediate + emancipation, in case the former instructions to the Governor of + Mauritius should have failed, to make the Colonists themselves adopt + the measure. Lord Glenelg's conduct on this occasion is most creditable + to him. + </p> + <p> + The latest act of Thomas Clarkson's life has been one + which, or rather the occasion for which, it is truly painful + to contemplate; but this too must be recorded, or the + present historical sketch would be incomplete. He whose + days had all been spent in acts of kindness and of justice + to others, was at last forced to exert his powers, supposed, + by some, and erroneously supposed, to be enfeebled by + age, in obtaining redress for his own wrongs. He whose + thoughts had all been devoted to the service of his fellow-creatures, + was now obliged to think of himself. A life + spent in works of genuine philanthropy, alike standing + aloof from party, and retiring with genuine humility from + the public gaze, might have well hoped to escape that + detraction, which is the lot of those who assume the + + leading stations among their contemporaries, and mingle + in the contentious scenes of worldly affairs. Or, at least, + it might have been expected that his traducers would + only be found among the oppressors of the New World, + or the slave-traders of the Old. This felicity has not + been his lot; and the evening of his days has been overcast + by an assault upon his character, proceeding from the + quarter of all others the most unexpected and the most + strange. + + </p> + <p> + The sons of his old and dear friend William Wilberforce,—whose + incomparable merits he had ever been the + first to acknowledge, whom he loved as a brother, and + revered as the great leader of the cause to which his + whole life had been devoted,—in publishing a Life of + their illustrious parent, thought fit to charge Thomas + Clarkson with having suppressed his services while he + exaggerated his own; and not content with bringing a + charge utterly groundless, (as it was instantly proved,) + they deemed it worthy of their subject and of their name, + to drag forth into the light of day a private correspondence + of a delicate nature, with the purpose of proving + that their father and others had assisted him with money, + and that he had been pressing in his demands of a + subscription. Two extracts of Letters of his were + printed by these reverend gentlemen, upon which a + statement was afterwards grounded in the <em>Edinburgh + Review</em> of their book, that the subscription was raised to + remunerate him for his services in the Abolition. They + further asserted, that their father was in the field before + him, and that it was under their father's direction that he, + and the Abolition Committee of 1786, acted. In the + whole history of controversy, we venture to affirm, there + + never was an instance of so triumphant a refutation as + that by which these slanderous aspersions were instantly + refuted, and their authors and their accomplices reduced + to a silence as prudent as discreditable. + + </p> + <p> + The venerable philanthropist took up his pen, worn + down in the cause of humanity and of justice. <em>First</em>, + he showed, by incontrovertible evidence, the utter falsehood + of the charge, that he had underrated the merits of + others and exalted his own. These proofs were the references + to his volumes themselves, which it really seemed as + if the two reverend authors had never even looked into. + He then proved to demonstration that he had taken the + field earlier than William Wilberforce. This was shown, + first, by known dates, matter of history; next, by letters + from the friends of both parties, as Archdeacon Corbet + and William Smith; but, lastly, by the words of William + Wilberforce himself, as well privately as at public meetings, + asserting that he (William Wilberforce) came into + the field after his valued friend. But a striking fact may + be cited, as a sample at once of the course pursued by + the assailants, and the completeness of the defence. + The reverend authors in proof of their unqualified assertion, + that Thomas Clarkson and the Committee acted + from the first under William Wilberforce's directions, + refer to "MS. Minutes of the Committee" for their + authority. But the friend who so ably superintended the + publication of Thomas Clarkson's defence, and who added + to that tract an appendix of singular merit and great + interest (H.C. Robinson), showed that the parts referred + to by the reverend authors, in proof of their assertion, + completely disproved it; and that six months after the + Committee had been working, William Wilberforce + + applied to them for any information of which they might + be possessed on the subject of the Slave Trade. + + </p> + <p> + But the publication of the letters and the colour + given to the transaction were far worse. The preservation + of that correspondence, at all, by the sons, could only be + justified by the belief of its being accidentally kept by the + father, but, of course, never intended to be made public; + least of all without the usual precaution of asking the + writer's leave, and giving him the opportunity of explaining + it. The biographers printed it without any kind of + communication with him, and he saw it for the first time + in print. + + </p> + <p> + Then, the attempt was made to represent this pure, + and valuable, and disinterested man as a mendicant + philanthropist, who, for his exertions in the cause of + justice, stooped to the humiliating attitude of collecting + a remuneration from his friends. The words of William + Wilberforce, and other Abolition leaders, prove that he + had expended a very considerable portion of his own small + patrimony in the cause, and that the subscription was to + pay a debt,—a just and lawful debt; not to confer a + bounty, or reward, or remuneration for services performed. + It is also proved, that after being reimbursed to the + amount of the sum contributed, or rather levied on those + for whom the poorest of their body had advanced his + own money, he remained out of pocket far more than + others had ever given, after their share of the repayment + was credited to them, in this debtor and creditor + account. + + </p> + <p> + But this is not all: Mr. Wilberforce himself, then a + man of ample fortune, and Member for Yorkshire, had in + 1807, published a pamphlet in the cause. The Minutes + + of the Committee for 6th June, 1811, contained an entry + of an order to pay 83<i>l</i>. out of the subscription funds to Mr. + Cadell, being Mr. Wilberforce's share of the loss sustained + by that publication. There had been no mention at all of + this in his life, by these reverend authors, who scrupled + not to print the garbled letters, with the manifest design + of lowering the character of their father's friend, by + ranking him among venal stipendiary pretenders to philanthropy, + and jobbing mendicant patriots. + + </p> + <p> + Wherefore, it may be asked, was this matter at all + dragged forth to light, except to effect that unworthy + purpose, and to give pain to a man as eminently as + deservedly respected and beloved? The false pretext is, + the vindication of their father's memory.—But it had never + been attacked. They affect to suppose such an attack, + that they may have a pretext for inflicting a wound in a + fictitious and almost a fraudulent defence.—But if it had + been ever so rudely attacked, the letters are no defence. + For the only possible pretence of attack was the notion + of Thomas Clarkson having assumed the priority, and + these letters can have no earthly relation to that point. + Whether Wilberforce, or Clarkson, or neither of them, + first began the abolition struggle, is a question as utterly + wide of the subscription as any one private matter in the + life of either party can be of any one public transaction + in which both were engaged. + + </p> + <p> + The indignation of mankind was awakened by this + disgraceful proceeding, and it was in vain that the friends + of the Wilberforces urged, as some extenuation of their + offence, the zeal which they naturally cherished for the + memory of their parent. Men of reflection felt that no + well-regulated mind can ever engage in slandering one + + person for the purpose of elevating another. Men of + ordinary discernment perceived that the assaults on + Clarkson's reputation had no possible tendency to raise + Wilberforce's reputation. Men of observation saw at + once that there lurked behind the wish to praise the one + party, a desire to wound the other; and gave them far + less credit for over-anxiety to gratify their filial affections + than eagerness to indulge their hostile feelings. It + was plain, too, that they sought this gratification at the + hazard of bringing a stain upon the memory of their + father; for what could be more natural than the suspicion + that they had obtained from him the materials out of + which their web of detraction was woven? And what + more discreditable to the author of the affectionate and + familiar letters of Wilberforce to Clarkson than their + discrepancy with the charges now urged against him? + It is due to the memory of this venerable man, now gone + to his rest, to say that no one who knew him, ever so + slightly, could believe in the possibility of his holding one + language to his friend and another to his children: far less + of his bequeathing to them anything like materials for the + attack upon one to whom he professed the most warm and + steady attachment. But if such be the conclusion of all + who knew the man, assuredly in arriving at it they have + derived no help from the lights afforded by his family. + + </p> + <p> + The vindication of Thomas Clarkson has been triumphant; + the punishment of his traducers has been + exemplary. His character stands higher than ever; his + name is lofty and it is unsullied; they have a character + to retrieve,—a name which they have tarnished since it + descended upon them, they have to restore by their own + future deserts. + + </p> + <p> + The astonishment of the world was at its pitch when + the champion of Abolition, the steady ally of Thomas + Clarkson and Granville Sharpe, the <em>Edinburgh Review</em>, + was seen attempting to rescue these parties, and taking + part against the injured man, the patriarch of a cause defended + by that celebrated Journal during a brilliant period + of much above thirty years. The boldness displayed in + its pages on this occasion was excessive. As if feeling + that the weak and indefensible part in the assault was the + publishing of the letters, it had the confidence to affirm, + that this proceeding was called for in justice to Wilberforce's + memory. So daring an attempt upon the integrity + of facts has not often been witnessed. What! The publication + of these letters, which had no possible connexion + with Wilberforce's character, (a character, indeed, that no + one had assailed,) letters which were absolutely foreign + even to the question of priority in the abolition cause,—the + publication of these necessary to the defence of Wilberforce? + Then, upon what ground necessary? How + had he been attacked? Where was he to be defended? + But, if attacked, how did the letters aid,—how connect + themselves with,—how, in any manner of way, bear upon + the defence, or any defence, or any portion of Wilberforce's + character and life? They showed him to have + contributed towards the payment of a debt he had contracted + to Clarkson. But who had ever charged him with + refusing to pay his debts? With his merits as to the + Abolition, (if that be what is meant by his character,)—merits + which it was a mere fabrication to pretend that + Clarkson had ever been slow to acknowledge,—those + letters had absolutely no possible connexion; and whoever, + on this score, affects to defend this publication, is capable + + of vindicating the printing any private letter upon the + most delicate subject, by any man who writes the history + of any other affair, or who writes on any subject from which + the correspondence is wholly foreign. It is proper to + add, that the editors of this Journal have most properly + published a retractation of the charges made, in their + ignorance of the whole facts of the case. + + </p> + <p> + The acute and sagacious editor of T. Clarkson's vindication, + has given his reasons for suspecting that this criticism, + in the <em>Edinburgh Review</em>, must have proceeded from + some party directly concerned in the publication of Wilberforce's + life. We enter into no discussion of the circumstantial + evidence adduced in favour of this supposition. + The editors of the Journal are the parties to whom we + look; and as they, after being to all appearance misled + by some partial writer, have made the best reparation + for an involuntary error, by doing justice to the injured + party, we can have no further remark to make upon the + subject. + + </p> + <p> + But it is impossible to close these pages without + mentioning the extraordinary merit of this latest, and, in + all likelihood, this last production of Clarkson's pen. It + is indeed a most able performance, and has been admired + by some of the ablest controversial writers of the age, as + a model of excellence in controversial writing. Plain, + vigorous, convincing, perfectly calm and temperate, devoid + of all acrimony, barely saying enough to repel unjust + aggression without one word of retaliation, never losing + sight for a moment of its purely defensive object, and + accordingly, from the singleness of purpose with which + that object is pursued, attaining it with the most triumphant + success,—no wonder that the public judgment + + has been loudly and universally pronounced in its favour, + that its adversaries have been reduced to absolute silence, + that its author's name has been exalted even higher than + before it stood. But the wonder is to see such unimpaired + vigour at four-score years of age, after a life of unwearied + labour, latterly clouded by domestic calamity, and + a spirit as young as ever in zeal for justice, tempered only + by the mellowness which the kindly heart spreads over + the fruits of the manly understanding. + + </p> + <p> + There wanted no testimonials of esteem from his + country to consummate the venerable philanthropist's + renown; yet these too have been added. Various meetings + have addressed their gratulations to him. Of these + the great corporation of London claims the first regard, + and after presenting him with the freedom of the city, + they have ordered to be erected in their hall, as a memorial + of his extraordinary virtue, a likeness of the mortal + form of Thomas Clarkson. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + + <h2><a name="chap1"></a>CHAPTER I. + </h2> + <h3>HISTORY OF THE ABOLITION OF THE SLAVE TRADE.</h3> + + + <p><b>No subject more pleasing than that of the removal of evils.—Evils have existed + almost from the beginning of the world; but there is a power in our + nature to counteract them—this power increased by Christianity.—Of the + evils removed by Christianity one of the greatest is the Slave Trade.—The + joy we ought to feel on its abolition from a contemplation of the nature of + it; and of the extent of it; and of the difficulty of subduing it.—Usefulness + also of the contemplation of this subject.</b></p> + + <p> + I scarcely know of any subject, the contemplation of which is + more pleasing, than that of the correction or of the removal of + any of the acknowledged evils of life; for while we rejoice to + think that the sufferings of our fellow-creatures have been thus, in + any instance, relieved, we must rejoice equally to think, that our + own moral condition must have been necessarily improved by + the change. + + </p> + <p> + That evils, both physical and moral, have existed long upon + earth there can be no doubt. One of the sacred writers, to whom + we more immediately appeal for the early history of mankind, informs + us that the state of our first parents was a state of innocence + and happiness; but that, soon after their creation, sin and misery + entered into the world. The poets in their fables, most of which, + however extravagant they may seem, had their origin in truth, + speak the same language. Some of these represent the first + condition of man by the figure of the golden, and his subsequent + degeneracy and subjection to suffering by that of the silver, and + afterwards of the iron age. Others tell us that the first female + was made of clay; that she was called Pandora, because every + + necessary gift, qualification, or endowment, was given to her by + the gods, but that she received from Jupiter, at the same time, a + box from which, when opened, a multitude of disorders sprung, + and that these spread themselves immediately afterwards among + all of the human race. Thus it appears, whatever authorities we + consult, that those which may be termed the evils of life existed + in the earliest times. And what does subsequent history, combined + with our own experience, tell us, but that these have been + continued, or that they have come down in different degrees + through successive generations of men, in all the known countries + of the universe, to the present day? + + </p> + <p> + But though the inequality visible in the different conditions + of life, and the passions interwoven into our nature, (both which + have been allotted to us for wise purposes, and without which we + could not easily afford a proof of the existence of that, which is + denominated virtue,) have a tendency to produce vice and wretchedness + among us, yet we see, in this our constitution, what may + operate partially as preventives and corrective of them. If + there be a radical propensity in our nature to do that which is + wrong, there is, on the other hand, a counteracting power within + it, or an impulse by means of the action of the divine Spirit upon + our minds, which urges us to do that which is right. If the voice + of temptation, clothed in musical and seducing accents, charms us + one way, the voice of holiness, speaking to us from within, in a + solemn and powerful manner, commands us another. Does one + man obtain a victory over his corrupt affections? an immediate + perception of pleasure, like the feeling of a reward divinely + conferred upon him, is noticed. Does another fall prostrate + beneath their power? a painful feeling, and such as pronounces + to him the sentence of reproof and punishment is found to follow. + If one, by suffering his heart to become hardened, oppresses a + fellow-creature, the tear of sympathy starts up in the eye of + another, and the latter instantly feels a desire, involuntarily + generated, of flying to his relief. Thus impulses, feelings, and + dispositions have been implanted in our nature, for the purpose + of preventing and rectifying the evils of life. And as these have + operated, so as to stimulate some men to lessen them by the + + exercise of an amiable charity, so they have operated to stimulate + others in various other ways to the same end. Hence the philosopher + has left moral precepts behind him in favour of benevolence, + and the legislator has endeavoured to prevent barbarous practices + by the introduction of laws. + + </p> + <p> + In consequence then of these impulses and feelings, by which + the pure power in our nature is thus made to act as a check upon + the evil part of it, and in consequence of the influence which + philosophy and legislative wisdom have had in their respective + provinces, there has been always, in all times and countries, a + counteracting energy, which has opposed itself, more or less, to + the crimes and miseries of mankind. But it seems to have been + reserved for Christianity to increase this energy, and to give it + the widest possible domain. It was reserved for her, under the + same divine influence, to give the best views of the nature and + of the present and future condition of man; to afford the best + moral precepts, to communicate the most benign stimulus to the + heart, to produce the most blameless conduct, and thus to cut off + many of the causes of wretchedness, and to heal it wherever it + was found. At her command, wherever she has been duly + acknowledged, many of the evils of life have already fled. The + prisoner of war is no longer led into the amphitheatre to become + a gladiator, and to imbrue his hands in the blood of his fellow-captive + for the sport of a thoughtless multitude. The stern + priest, cruel through fanaticism and custom, no longer leads his + fellow-creature to the altar to sacrifice him to fictitious gods. + The venerable martyr, courageous through faith and the sanctity + of his life, is no longer hurried to the flames. The haggard + witch, poring over her incantations by moon-light, no longer + scatters her superstitious poison among her miserable neighbours, + nor suffers for her crime. + + </p> + <p> + But in whatever way Christianity may have operated towards + the increase of this energy, or towards a diminution of human + misery, it has operated in none more powerfully than by the new + views and consequent duties, which it introduced on the subject + of charity, or practical benevolence and love. Men in ancient + times looked upon their talents, of whatever description, as, their + + own, which they might use, or cease to use at their discretion. + But the Author of our religion was the first who taught that, + however in a legal point of view, the talent of individuals might + belong exclusively to themselves, so that no other person had a + right to demand the use of it by force, yet in the Christian dispensation + they were but the stewards of it for good; that so + much was expected from this stewardship, that it was difficult + for those who were intrusted with it to enter into his spiritual + kingdom; that these had no right to conceal their talent in a + napkin, but that they were bound to dispense a portion of it to + the relief of their fellow-creatures; and that, in proportion to the + magnitude of it, they were accountable for the extensiveness of its + use. He was the first who pronounced the misapplication of it + to be a crime, and to be a crime of no ordinary dimensions. He + was the first who broke down the boundary between Jew and + Gentile, and, therefore, the first who pointed out to men the inhabitants + of other countries, for the exercise of their philanthropy and + love. Hence a distinction is to be made both in the principle + and practice of charity, as existing in ancient or in modern times. + Though the old philosophers, historians, and poets, frequently + inculcated benevolence, we have no reason to conclude from any + facts they have left us, that persons in their days did anything + more than occasionally relieve an unfortunate object, who might + present himself before them, or that, however they might deplore + the existence of public evils among them, they joined in associations + for their suppression, or that they carried their charity, as + bodies of men, into other kingdoms. To Christianity alone we + are indebted for the new and sublime spectacle, of seeing men + going beyond the bounds of individual usefulness to each other; + of seeing them associate for the extirpation of private and public + misery; and of seeing them carry their charity, as a united + brotherhood, into distant lands. And in this wider field of + benevolence it would be unjust not to confess, that no country + has shone with more true lustre than our own, there being + scarcely any case of acknowledged affliction, for which some of + her Christian children have not united in an attempt to provide + relief. + + </p> + <p> + Among the evils corrected or subdued, either by the general + influence of Christianity on the minds of men, or by particular + associations of Christians, the African<a class="notelink" href="#NoteI_1"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootI_1"></a>. Slave Trade appears to + me to have occupied the foremost place. The abolition of it, + therefore, of which it has devolved upon me to write the history, + should be accounted as one of the greatest blessings, and as such + should be one of the most copious sources of our joy: indeed, I + know of no evil, the removal of which should excite in us a + higher degree of pleasure. For, in considerations of this kind, + are we not usually influenced by circumstances? Are not our + feelings usually affected according to the situation, or the magnitude, + or the importance of these? Are they not more or less + elevated, as the evil under our contemplation has been more or + less productive of misery, or more or less productive of guilt? + Are they not more or less elevated again, as we have found it + more or less considerable in extent? Our sensations will undoubtedly + be in proportion to such circumstances, or our joy to + the appreciation or mensuration of the evil which has been + removed. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteI_1"></a><a href="#FootI_1">A</a>: Slavery had been before annihilated by Christianity; I mean in the West of + Europe, at the close of the twelfth century + </p> + <p> + To value the blessing of the abolition as we ought, or to + appreciate the joy and gratitude which we ought to feel concerning + it, we must enter a little into the circumstances of the trade. + Our statement, however, of these needs not be long: a few pages + will do all that is necessary! A glance only into such a subject + as this will be sufficient to affect the heart,—to arouse our indignation + and our pity,—and to teach us the importance of the + victory obtained. + + </p> + <p> + The first subject for consideration, towards enabling us to + make the estimate in question, will be that of the nature of the + evil belonging to the Slave Trade. This may be seen by examining + it in three points of view. First, as it has been proved + to arise on the Continent of Africa, in the course of reducing the + inhabitants of it to slavery. Secondly, in the course of conveying + them from thence to the lands or colonies of other nations. And, + thirdly, in continuing them there as slaves. + + </p> + <p> + To see it, as it has been shown, to arise in the first case, let + us suppose ourselves on the Continent just mentioned. Well + then, We are landed,—We are already upon our travels,—We + have just passed through one forest,—We are now come to a + more open place, which indicates an approach to habitation. + And what object is that which first obtrudes itself upon our + sight? Who is that wretched woman whom we discover under + that noble tree, wringing her hands, and beating her breast, as + if in the agonies of despair? Three days has she been there, at + intervals, to look and to watch; and this is the fourth morning, + and no tidings of her children yet. Beneath its spreading boughs + they were accustomed to play: but, alas! the savage man-stealer + interrupted their playful mirth, and has taken them for ever from + her sight. + + </p> + <p> + But let us leave the cries of this unfortunate woman, and + hasten into another district. And what do we first see here? + Who is he that just now started across the narrow pathway, as + if afraid of a human face? What is that sudden rustling among + the leaves? Why are those persons flying from our approach, + and hiding themselves in yon darkest thicket? Behold, as we + get into the plain, a deserted village! The rice-field has been + just trodden down around it; an aged man,—venerable by his + silver beard,—lies wounded and dying near the threshold of his + hut. War, suddenly instigated by avarice, has just visited the + dwellings which we see. The old have been butchered, because + unfit for slavery, and the young have been carried off, except such + as have fallen in the conflict, or have escaped among the woods + behind us. + + </p> + <p> + But let us hasten from this cruel scene, which gives rise to so + many melancholy reflections. Let us cross yon distant river, and + enter into some new domain. But are we relieved even here + from afflicting spectacles? Look at that immense crowd which + appears to be gathered in a ring. See the accused innocent in + the middle! The ordeal of poisonous water has been administered + to him, as a test of his innocence or his guilt: he begins + to be sick and pale. Alas! yon mournful shriek of his relatives + confirms that the loss of his freedom is now sealed. + + </p> + <p> + And whither shall we go now? the night is approaching fast. + Let us find some friendly hut, where sleep may make us forget + for a while the sorrows of the day. Behold a hospitable native + ready to receive us at his door! let us avail ourselves of his + kindness. And now let its give ourselves to repose. But why, + when our eyelids are but just closed, do we find ourselves thus + suddenly awakened? What is the meaning of the noise around + us, of the trampling of people's feet, of the rustling of the bow, + the quiver, and the lance? Let us rise up and inquire. Behold! + the inhabitants are all alarmed! a wakeful woman has shown + them yon distant column of smoke and blaze. The neighbouring + village is on fire: the prince, unfaithful to the sacred duty of the + protection of his subjects, has surrounded them. He is now + burning their habitations, and seizing, as saleable booty, the + fugitives from the flames. + + </p> + <p> + Such then are some of the scenes that have been passing in + Africa, in consequence, of the existence of the Slave Trade; or + such is the nature of the evil, as it has shown itself in the first of + the cases we have noticed. Let us now estimate it as it has been + proved to exist in the second; or let us examine the state of the + unhappy Africans reduced to slavery in this manner, while on + board the vessels, which are to convey them across the ocean to + other lands. And here I must observe at once, that, as far as + this part of the evil is concerned, I am at a loss to describe it. + Where shall I find words to express properly their sorrow, as + arising from the reflection of being parted for ever from their + friends, their relatives, and their country? Where shall I find + language to paint, in appropriate colours, the horror of mind + brought on by thoughts of their future unknown destination, of + which they can augur nothing but misery from all that they have + yet seen? How shall I make known their situation, while + labouring, under painful disease, or while struggling in the + suffocating holds of their prisons, like animals enclosed in an + exhausted receiver? How shall I describe their feelings as + exposed to all the personal indignities, which lawless appetite or + brutal passion may suggest? How shall I exhibit their sufferings + as determining to refuse sustenance and die, or as resolving to + + break their chains, and, disdaining to live as slaves, to punish + their oppressors? How shall I give an idea of their agony when + under various punishments and tortures for their reputed crimes? + Indeed, every part of this subject defies my powers, and I must, + therefore, satisfy myself and the reader with a general representation, + or in the words of a celebrated member of Parliament, + that "Never was so much human suffering condensed in so small + a space." + + </p> + <p> + I come now to the evil, as it has been proved to arise in the + third case; or to consider the situation of the unhappy victims + of the trade, when their painful voyages are over, or after they + have been landed upon their destined shores. And here we are + to view them, first under the degrading light of cattle: we are to + see them examined, handled, selected, separated, and sold. Alas! + relatives are separated from relatives, as if, like cattle, they had no + rational intellect, no power of feeling the nearness of relationship, + nor sense of the duties belonging to the ties of life! We + are next to see them labouring; and this for the benefit of those + to whom they are under no obligation, by any law either natural + or divine, to obey. We are to see them, if refusing the commands + of their purchasers, however weary, or feeble, or indisposed, + subject to corporal punishments, and if forcibly resisting them to + death: we are to see them in a state of general degradation and + misery. The knowledge which their oppressors have of their + own crime, in having violated the rights of nature, and of the + disposition of the injured to seek all opportunities of revenge, + produces a fear which dictates to them the necessity of a system + of treatment, by which they shall keep up a wide distinction + between the two, and by which the noble feelings of the latter + shall be kept down, and their spirits broken. We are to see them + again subject to individual persecution, as anger, or malice, or + any bad passion may suggest: hence the whip, the chain, the + iron-collar! hence the various modes of private torture, of which + so many accounts have been truly given. Nor can such horrible + cruelties be discovered so as to be made punishable, while the + testimony of any number of the oppressed is invalid against the + oppressors, however they may be offences against the laws. And, + + lastly, we are to see their innocent offspring, against whose + personal liberty the shadow of an argument cannot be advanced, + inheriting all the miseries of their parents' lot. + + </p> + <p> + The evil then, as far as it has been hitherto viewed, presents + to us, in its three several departments, a measure of human suffering + not to be equalled—not to be calculated—not to be described. + But would that we could consider this part of the subject as + dismissed! would that in each of the departments now examined + there was no counterpart left us to contemplate! But this + cannot be; for if there be persons who suffer unjustly there must + be others who oppress: and if there be those who oppress, there + must be to the suffering, which has been occasioned, a corresponding + portion of immorality or guilt. + + </p> + <p> + We are obliged then to view the counterpart of the evil in + question, before we can make a proper estimate of the nature of + it. And, in examining this part of it, we shall find that we have + a no less frightful picture to behold than in the former cases; or + that, while the miseries endured by the unfortunate Africans excite + our pity on the one hand, the vices, which are connected with + them, provoke our indignation and abhorrence on the other. The + Slave Trade, in this point of view, must strike us as an immense + mass of evil on account of the criminality attached to it, as displayed + in the various branches of it, which have already been + examined. For, to take the counterpart of the evil in the first of + these, can we say that no moral turpitude is to be placed to the + account of those, who, living on the continent of Africa, give + birth to the enormities, which take place in consequence of the + prosecution of this trade? Is not that man made morally worse, + who is induced to become a tiger to his species, or who, instigated + by avarice, lies in wait in the thicket to get possession of his fellow-man? + Is no injustice manifest in the land, where the prince, + unfaithful to his duty, seizes his innocent subjects, and sells them + for slaves? Are no moral evils produced among those communities, + which make war upon other communities for the sake of + plunder, and without any previous provocation or offence? Does + no crime attach to those, who accuse others falsely, or who multiply + and divide crimes for the sake of the profit of the punishment, + + and who for the same reason continue the use of barbarous + and absurd ordeals as a test of innocence or guilt? + + </p> + <p> + In the second of these branches, the counterpart of the evil is + to be seen in the conduct of those who purchase the miserable + natives in their own country, and convey them to distant lands. + And here questions, similar to the former, may be asked. Do + they experience no corruption of their nature, or become chargeable + with no violation of right, who, when they go with their + ships to this continent, know the enormities which their visits + there will occasion, who buy their fellow-creature man, and this, + knowing the way in which he comes into their hands, and who + chain, and imprison, and scourge him? Do the moral feelings of + those persons escape without injury, whose hearts are hardened? + And can the hearts of those be otherwise than hardened, who are + familiar with the tears and groans of innocent strangers forcibly + torn away from every thing that is dear to them in life, who are + accustomed to see them on board their vessels in a state of suffocation + and in the agonies of despair, and who are themselves in + the habit of the cruel use of arbitrary power? + + </p> + <p> + The counterpart of the evil in its third branch is to be seen in + the conduct of those, who, when these miserable people have been + landed, purchase and carry them to their respective homes. And + let us see whether a mass of wickedness is not generated also in + the present case. Can those have nothing to answer for, who separate + the faithful ties which nature and religion have created? + Can their feelings be otherwise than corrupted, who consider their + fellow-creatures as brutes, or treat those as cattle, who may become + the temples of the Holy Spirit, and in whom the Divinity + disdains not himself to dwell? Is there no injustice in forcing + men to labour without wages? Is there no breach of duty, when + we are commanded to clothe the naked, and feed the hungry, and + visit the sick and in prison, in exposing them to want, in torturing + them by cruel punishment, and in grinding them down by + hard labour, so as to shorten their days? Is there no crime in + adopting a system, which keeps down all the noble faculties of + their souls, and which positively debases and corrupts their nature? + Is there no crime in perpetuating these evils among their + + innocent offspring? And finally, besides all these crimes, is there + not naturally in the familiar sight of the exercise, but more especially + in the exercise itself, of uncontrolled power, that which vitiates + the internal man? In seeing misery stalk daily over the land, + do not all become insensibly hardened? By giving birth to that + misery themselves, do they not become abandoned? In what + state of society are the corrupt appetites so easily, so quickly, and + so frequently indulged, and where else, by means of frequent indulgence, + do these experience such a monstrous growth? Where + else is the temper subject to such frequent irritation, or passion to + such little control? Yes—if the unhappy slave is in an unfortunate + situation, so is the tyrant who holds him. Action and reaction + are equal to each other, as well in the moral as in the + natural world. You cannot exercise an improper dominion over + a fellow-creature, but by a wise ordering of Providence you must + necessarily injure yourself. + + </p> + <p> + Having now considered the nature of the evil of the Slave + Trade in its three separate departments of suffering, and in its + corresponding counterparts of guilt, I shall make a few observations + on the extent of it. + + </p> + <p> + On this subject it must strike us, that the misery and the + crimes included in the evil, as it has been found in Africa, were + not like common maladies, which make a short or periodical + visit and then are gone, but that they were continued daily. Nor + were they like diseases, which from local causes attack a village + or a town, and by the skill of the physician, under the blessing of + Providence, are removed; but they affected a whole continent. The + trade with all its horrors began at the river Senegal, and continued, + winding with the coast, through its several geographical divisions + to Cape Negro; a distance of more than three thousand miles. + In various lines or paths formed at right angles from the shore, and + passing into the heart of the country, slaves were procured and + brought down. The distance, which many of them travelled, was + immense. Those, who have been in Africa, have assured us, that + they came as far as from the sources of their largest rivers, which + we know to be many hundred miles inland, and the natives have + told us, in their way of computation, that they came a journey of + many moons. + + </p> + <p> + It must strike us again, that the misery and the crimes, included + in the evil, as it has been shown in the transportation, had + no ordinary bounds. They were not to be seen in the crossing of + a river, but of an ocean. They did not begin in the morning and + end at night, but were continued for many weeks, and sometimes + by casualties for a quarter of the year. They were not limited + to the precincts of a solitary ship, but were spread among many + vessels; and these were so constantly passing, that the ocean + itself never ceased to be a witness of their existence. + + </p> + <p> + And it must strike us, finally, that the misery and crimes, included + in the evil as it has been found in foreign lands, were not + confined within the shores of a little island. Most of the islands + of a continent, and many of these of considerable population and + extent, were filled with them. And the continent itself, to which + these geographically belong, was widely polluted by their domain. + Hence, if we were to take the vast extent of space occupied by these + crimes and sufferings from the heart of Africa to its shores, and that + which they filled on the continent of America and the islands adjacent, + and were to join the crimes and sufferings in one to those in + the other, by the crimes and sufferings which took place in the track + of the vessels successively crossing the Atlantic, we should behold + a vast belt as it were of physical and moral evil, reaching through + land and ocean to the length of nearly half the circle of the globe. + + </p> + <p> + The next view which I shall take of this evil will be as it + relates to the difficulty of subduing it. + + </p> + <p> + This difficulty may be supposed to have been more than ordinarily + great. Many evils of a public nature, which existed in + former times, were the offspring of ignorance and superstition, + and they were subdued of course by the progress of light and + knowledge. But the evil in question began in avarice. It + was nursed also by worldly interest. It did not therefore so + easily yield to the usual correctives of disorders in the world. + We may observe also, that the interest by which it was thus + supported, was not that of a few individuals, nor of one body, + but of many bodies of men. It was interwoven again into the + system of the commerce and of the revenue of nations. Hence + the merchant—the planter—the mortgagee—the + manufacturer—the + + politician—the legislator—the cabinet-minister—lifted up + their voices against the annihilation of it. For these reasons, + the Slave Trade may be considered like the fabulous hydra, to + have a hundred heads, every one of which it was necessary to cut + off before it could be subdued. And as none but Hercules was + fitted to conquer the one, so nothing less than extraordinary + prudence, courage, labour, and patience, could overcome the + other. To protection in this manner by his hundred interests, it + was owing, that the monster stalked in security for so long a + time. He stalked too in the open day, committing his mighty + depredations. And when good men, whose duty it was to mark + him as the object of their destruction, began to assail him, he did + not fly, but gnashed his teeth at them, growling savagely at the + same time, and putting himself into a posture of defiance. + + </p> + <p> + We see then, in whatever light we consider the Slave Trade, + whether we examine into the nature of it, or whether we look + into the extent of it, or whether we estimate the difficulty of subduing + it, we must conclude that no evil more monstrous has ever + existed upon earth. But if so, then we have proved the truth of + the position, that the abolition of it ought to be accounted by us + as one of the greatest blessings, and that it ought to be one of the + most copious sources of our joy. Indeed, I do not know, how we + can sufficiently express what we ought to feel upon this occasion. + It becomes us, as individuals, to rejoice. It becomes us, as a + nation, to rejoice. It becomes us even to perpetuate our joy to + our posterity. I do not mean, however, by anniversaries, which + are to be celebrated by the ringing of bells and convivial meetings, + but by handing down this great event so impressively to our + children, as to raise in them, if not continual, yet frequently + renewed thanksgivings, to the great Creator of the universe, for + the manifestation of this his favour, in having disposed our legislators + to take away such a portion of suffering from our fellow-creatures, + and such a load of guilt from our native land. + + </p> + <p> + And as the contemplation of the removal of this monstrous + evil should excite in us the most pleasing and grateful sensations, + so the perusal of the history of it should afford us lessons, which it + must be useful to us to know or to be reminded of. For it cannot + + be otherwise than useful to us to know the means which have been + used, and the different persons who have moved in so great a cause. + It cannot be otherwise than useful to us to be impressively reminded + of the simple axiom which the perusal of this history will particularly + suggest to us, that "the greatest works must have a beginning;" because + the fostering of such an idea in our minds cannot + but encourage us to undertake the removal of evils, however vast + they may appear in their size, or however difficult to overcome. It + cannot, again, be otherwise than useful to us to be assured, (and + this history will assure us of it,) that in any work, which is a + work of righteousness, however small the beginning may be, or + however small the progress may be that we may make in it, we + ought never to despair; for that, whatever checks and discouragements + we may meet with, "no virtuous effort is ever ultimately + lost." And finally, it cannot be otherwise than useful to us, to form + the opinion, which the contemplation of this subject must always + produce, namely, that many of the evils which are still left among + us, may, by an union of wise and virtuous individuals, be greatly + alleviated, if not entirely done away; for if the great evil of the + Slave Trade, so deeply entrenched by its hundred interests, has + fallen prostrate before the efforts of those who attacked it, what + evil of a less magnitude shall not be more easily subdued? O + may reflections of this sort always enliven us, always encourage + us, always stimulate us to our duty! May we never cease to + believe, that many of the miseries of life are still to be remedied, + or to rejoice that we may be permitted, if we will only make + ourselves worthy by our endeavours, to heal them! May we + encourage for this purpose every generous sympathy that arises + in our hearts, as the offspring of the Divine influence for our + good, convinced that we are not born for ourselves alone, and + that the Divinity never so fully dwells in us, as when we do his + will, and that we never do his will more agreeably, as far as it + has been revealed to us, than when we employ our time in works + of charity towards the rest of our fellow-creatures! + + </p> + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + + <h2><a name="chap2"></a>CHAPTER II. + </h2> + <p><b> As it is desirable to know the true sources of events in history, + so this will be realized in that of the abolition of the Slave Trade.—Inquiry + as to those who favoured the cause of the Africans previously to the year + 1787.—All these to be considered as necessary forerunners in that + cause.—First forerunners + were Cardinal Ximenes; the Emperor Charles the Fifth; Pope + Leo the Tenth; Elizabeth, queen of England; Louis the Thirteenth, of + France.</b></p> + + <p> + It would be considered by many, who have stood at the mouth + of a river, and witnessed its torrent there, to be both an + interesting and a pleasing journey to go to the fountain head, + and then to travel on its banks downwards, and to mark the + different streams in each side, which should run into it + and feed it. So I presume the reader will not be a little + interested and entertained, in viewing with me the course of + the abolition of the Slave Trade, in + first finding its source, and then in tracing the different springs + which have contributed to its increase. And here I may observe + that, in doing this, we shall have advantages, which historians + have not always had in developing the causes of things. Many + have handed down to us, events, for the production of which they + have given us but their own conjectures. There has been often, + indeed, such a distance between the events themselves, and the + lives of those who have recorded them, that the different means + and motives belonging to them have been lost through time. On + the present occasion, however, we shall have the peculiar + satisfaction of knowing, that we communicate the truth, or that + those which we unfold, are the true causes and means; for the + most remote of all the human springs, which can be traced as having + any bearing upon the great event in question, will fall within the + period of three centuries, and the most powerful of them within + the last twenty years. These circumstances indeed have had + their share in inducing me to engage in the present history. + Had I measured it by the importance of the subject, I had been + deterred; but believing that most readers love the truth, and that + + it ought to be the object of all writers to promote it, and believing, + moreover, that I was in possession of more facts on this subject than + any other person, I thought I was peculiarly called to undertake it. + + </p> + <p> + In tracing the different streams from whence the torrent + arose, which has now happily swept away the Slave Trade, I + must begin with an inquiry as to those who favoured the cause of + the injured Africans, from the year 1516, to the year 1787, at + which latter period, a number of persons associated themselves, + in England, for its abolition. For though they, who belonged to + this association, may, in consequence of having pursued a regular + system, be called the principal actors, yet it must be acknowledged, + that their efforts would never have been so effectual, if + the minds of men had not been prepared by others, who had + moved before them. Great events have never taken place without + previously disposing causes. So it is in the case before us. + Hence they, who lived even in early times, and favoured this + great cause, may be said to have been necessary precursors in it. + And here it may be proper to observe, that it is by no means + necessary that all these should have been themselves actors in the + production of this great event. Persons have contributed towards + it in different ways:—Some have written expressly on the subject, + who have had no opportunity of promoting it by personal exertions. + Others have only mentioned it incidentally in their writings. + Others, in an elevated rank and station, have cried out + publicly concerning it, whose sayings have been recorded. + All these, however, + may be considered as necessary forerunners in their day; for all + of them have brought the subject more or less into notice. They + have more or less enlightened the mind upon it; they have more + or less impressed it; and therefore each may be said to have had + his share in diffusing and keeping up a certain portion of knowledge + and feeling concerning it, which has been eminently useful + in the promotion of the cause. + + </p> + <p> + It is rather remarkable, that the first forerunners and coadjutors + should have been men in power. + + </p> + <p> + So early as in the year 1503, a few slaves had been sent from + the Portuguese settlements in Africa into the Spanish colonies + + in America. In 1511, Ferdinand the Fifth, king of Spain, + permitted them to be carried in great numbers. Ferdinand, + however, must have been ignorant in these early times of the + piratical manner in which the Portuguese had procured them. + He could have known nothing of their treatment when in + bondage, nor could he have viewed the few uncertain adventurous + transportations of them into his dominions in the western world, + in the light of a regular trade. After his death, however; a + proposal was made by Bartholomew de las Casas, the bishop of + Chiapa, to Cardinal Ximenes, who held the reigns of the government + of Spain till Charles the Fifth came to the throne, for the + establishment of a regular system of commerce in the persons of + the native Africans. The object of Bartholomew de las Casas + was undoubtedly to save the American Indians, whose cruel + treatment and almost extirpation he had witnessed during his + residence among them, and in whose behalf he had undertaken a + voyage to the court of Spain. It is difficult to reconcile this + proposal with the humane and charitable spirit of the bishop of + Chiapa. But it is probable he believed that a code of laws would + soon be established in favour both of Africans and of the natives + in the Spanish settlements, and that he flattered himself that, + being about to return and to live in the country of their slavery, + he could look to the execution of it. The cardinal, however, + with a foresight, a benevolence, and a justice which will always + do honour to his memory, refused the proposal, not only judging + it to be unlawful to consign innocent people to slavery at all, but + to be very inconsistent to deliver the inhabitants of one country + from a state of misery by consigning to it those of another. + Ximenes, therefore, may be considered as one of the first great + friends of the Africans after the partial beginning of the trade. + + </p> + <p> + This answer of the cardinal, as it showed his virtue as an + individual, so was it peculiarly honourable to him as a public + man, and ought to operate as a lesson to other statesmen, how + they admit any thing new among political regulations and establishments, + which is connected in the smallest degree with injustice; for evil, + when once sanctioned by governments, spreads in + a tenfold degree, and may, unless seasonably checked, become so + + ramified as to effect the reputation of a country, and to render its + own removal scarcely possible without detriment to the political + concerns of the state. In no instance has this been verified more + than in the case of the Slave Trade. Never was our national + character more tarnished, and our prosperity more clouded by + guilt. Never was there a monster more difficult to subdue. + Even they, who heard as it were the shrieks of oppression, and + wished to assist the sufferers, were fearful of joining in their + behalf. While they acknowledged the necessity of removing + one evil, they were terrified by the prospect of introducing another; + and were, therefore, only able to relieve their feelings by, + lamenting, in the bitterness of their hearts, that this traffic had + ever been begun at all. + + </p> + <p> + After the death of Cardinal Ximenes, the emperor Charles the + Fifth, who had come into power, encouraged the Slave Trade. + In 1517, he granted a patent to one of his Flemish favourites, + containing an exclusive right of importing four thousand + Africans into America. But he lived long enough to repent of + what he had thus inconsiderately done; for in the year 1542, he + made a code of laws for the better protection of the unfortunate + Indians in his foreign dominions, and he stopped the progress of + African slavery by an order that all slaves in his American + islands should he made free. This order was executed by Pedro + de la Gasca. Manumission took place as well in Hispaniola as + on the Continent; but on the return of Gasca to Spain, and the + retirement of Charles into a monastery, slavery was revived. + + </p> + <p> + It is impossible to pass over this instance of the abolition of + slavery by Charles, in all his foreign dominions, without some + comments. It shows him, first, to have been a friend both to the + Indians and the Africans, as a part of the human race; it shows + he was ignorant of what he was doing when he gave his sanction + to this cruel trade; it shows when legislators give one set of + men undue power over another, how quickly they abuse it, or he + never would have found himself obliged, in the short space + of twenty-five years, to undo that which he had countenanced as + a great state measure; and while it confirms the former lesson to + statesmen of watching the beginnings or principles of things in + + their political movements, it should teach them never to persist + in the support of evils, through the false shame of being obliged + to confess that they had once given them their sanction, nor to + delay the cure of them because, politically speaking, neither this + nor that is the proper season; but to do them away instantly, as + there can only be one fit or proper time in the eye of religion, + namely, on the conviction of their existence. + + </p> + <p> + From the opinions of Cardinal Ximenes and of the emperor + Charles the Fifth, I hasten to that which was expressed much + about the same time, in a public capacity, by Pope Leo the + Tenth. The Dominicans in Spanish America, witnessing the + cruel treatment which the slaves underwent there, considered + slavery as utterly repugnant to the principles of the gospel, and + recommended the abolition of it. The Franciscans did not + favour the former in this their scheme of benevolence; and the + consequence was, that a controversy on this subject sprung up + between them, which was carried to this pope for his decision. + Leo exerted himself, much to his honour, in behalf of the poor + sufferers, and declared "That not only the Christian religion, but + that Nature herself cried out against a state of slavery." This + answer was certainly worthy of one who was deemed the head of + the Christian Church. It must, however, be confessed that + it would have been strange if Leo, in his situation as pontiff, + had made a different reply. He could never have denied that + God was no respecter of persons. He must have acknowledged + that men were bound to love each other as brethren; and, if he + admitted the doctrine that all men were accountable for their + actions hereafter, he could never have prevented the deduction + that it was necessary they should be free. Nor could he, as a + man of high attainments, living early in the sixteenth century, + have been ignorant of what had taken place in the twelfth; or + that, by the latter end of this latter century, christianity had obtained + the undisputed honour of having extirpated slavery from + the western part of the European world. + + </p> + <p> + From Spain and Italy I come to England. The first importation + of slaves from Africa, by our countrymen, was in the reign + of Elizabeth, in the year 1562. This great princess seems on + + the very commencement of the trade to have questioned its + lawfulness. She seems to have entertained a religious scruple + concerning it; and, indeed, to have revolted at the very thought + of it. She seems to have been aware of the evils to which its + continuance might lead, or that, if it were sanctioned, the most + unjustifiable means might be made use of to procure the persons + of the natives of Africa. And in what light she would have + viewed any acts of this kind, had they taken place, we may conjecture + from this fact,—that when Captain (afterwards Sir John) + Hawkins returned from his first voyage to Africa and Hispaniola, + whither he had carried slaves, she sent for him, and, as we learn + from Hill's <em>Naval History</em> expressed her + concern lest any of the + Africans should be carried off without their free consent, declaring + that "it would be detestable, and call down the vengeance + of heaven upon the undertakers." Captain Hawkins promised + to comply with the injunctions of Elizabeth in this respect, but + he did not keep his word; for when he went to Africa again, he + seized many of the inhabitants and carried them off as slaves, + which occasioned Hill, in the account he gives of his second + voyage, to use these remarkable words:—"Here began the horrid + practice of forcing the Africans into slavery, an injustice and + barbarity which, so sure as there is vengeance in heaven for the + worst of crimes, will some time be the destruction of all who + allow or encourage it." That the trade should have been suffered + to continue under such a princess, and after such solemn expressions + as those which she has been described to have uttered, can + be only attributed to the pains taken by those concerned in it to + keep her ignorant of the truth. + + </p> + <p> + From England I now pass over to France. Labat, a Roman + missionary, in his account of the isles of America, mentions that + Louis the Thirteenth was very uneasy when he was about to issue + the edict by which all Africans coming into his colonies were + to be made slaves, and that this uneasiness continued till he was + assured that the introduction of them in this capacity into his + foreign dominions was the readiest way of converting them to the + principles of the Christian religion. + + </p> + <p> + These, then, were the first forerunners in the great cause of + + the abolition of the Slave Trade: nor have their services towards + it been of small moment; for, in the first place, they have enabled + those who came after them, and who took an active interest + in the same cause, to state the great authority of their opinions + and of their example. They have enabled them, again, to detail + the history connected with these, in consequence of which circumstances + have been laid open which it is of great importance + to know; for have they not enabled them to state that the + African Slave Trade never would have been permitted to exist + but for the ignorance of those in authority concerning it—that at + its commencement there was a revolting of nature against it—a + suspicion, a caution, a fear, both as to its unlawfulness and its + effects? Have they not enabled them to state that falsehoods + were advanced, and these concealed under the mask of religion, + to deceive those who had the power to suppress it? Have they + not enabled them to state that this trade began in piracy, and + that it was continued upon the principles of force? And, finally, + have not they who have been enabled to make these statements, + knowing all the circumstances connected with them, found their + own zeal increased, and their own courage and perseverance + strengthened; and have they not, by the communication of them + to others, produced many friends and even labourers in the + cause? + + </p> + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + + <h2><a name="chap3"></a>CHAPTER III. + </h2> + <p><b>Forerunners continued to 1787; divided from + this time into four classes.—First + class consists principally of persons in Great Britain + of various descriptions: + Godwyn; Baxter; Tryon; Southern; Primatt; Montesquieu; + Hutcheson; Sharp; Ramsay; and a multitude of others, + whose names and services follow.</b></p> + + <p> + I have hitherto traced the history of the forerunners in this great + cause only up to about the year 1640. If I am to pursue my plan, + I am to trace it to the year 1787. But in order to show what I + intend in a clearer point of view, I shall divide those who have + lived within this period, and who will now consist of persons in + a less elevated station, into four classes: and I shall give to each + class a distinct consideration by itself. + + </p> + <p> + Several of our old English writers, though they have not mentioned + the African Slave Trade, or the slavery consequent upon it, + in their respective works, have yet given their testimony of condemnation + against both. Thus our great Milton:— + + </p> + <div class="poem"> + + <div class="lg">O execrable son, so to aspire,<br>Above his brethren, to himself assuming<br>Authority usurpt, from God not given;<br>He gave us only over beast, fish, fowl,<br>Dominion absolute; that right we hold<br>By his donation; but man over men<br>He made not lord, such title to himself<br>Reserving, human left from human free.<br><br></div> + </div> + <p> + I might mention Bishop Saunderson and others, who bore a + testimony equally strong against the lawfulness of trading in the + persons of men, and of holding them in bondage; but as I mean + to confine myself to those who have favoured the cause of the + Africans specifically, I cannot admit their names into any of the + classes which have been announced. + + </p> + <p> + Of those, who compose the first class, defined as it has now + been, I cannot name any individual who took a part in this cause + till between the years 1670 and 1680; for in the year 1640, + and for a few years afterwards, the nature of the trade and of the + + slavery was but little known, except to a few individuals, who + were concerned in them; and it is obvious that these would + neither endanger their own interest nor proclaim their own guilt + by exposing it. The first, whom I shall mention is Morgan + Godwyn, a clergyman of the established church. This pious + divine wrote a treatise upon the subject, which he dedicated to + the then archbishop of Canterbury. He gave it to the world, at + the time mentioned, under the title of "<em>The Negroes' and Indians' + Advocate.</em>" In this treatise he lays open the situation of these + oppressed people, of whose sufferings he had been an eye-witness + in the island of Barbados. He calls forth the pity of the reader + in an affecting manner, and exposes with a nervous eloquence the + brutal sentiments and conduct of their oppressors. This seems to + have been the first work undertaken in England expressly in + favour of the cause. + + </p> + <p> + The next person, whom I shall mention, is Richard Baxter, + the celebrated divine among the nonconformists. In his <em>Christian + Directory</em>, published about the same time as <em>The Negroes' and + Indians' Advocate</em>, he gives advice to those masters in foreign + plantations, who have negroes and other slaves. In this he protests + loudly against this trade. He says expressly that they, who + go out as pirates, and take away poor Africans, or people of + another land, who never forfeited life or liberty, and make them + slaves and sell them, are the worst of robbers, and ought to be + considered as the common enemies of mankind; and that they who + buy them, and use them as mere beasts for their own convenience, + regardless of their spiritual welfare, are fitter to be called demons + than christians. He then proposes several queries, which he + answers in a clear and forcible manner, showing the great inconsistency + of this traffic, and the necessity of treating those then in + bondage with tenderness and a due regard to their spiritual + concerns. + + </p> + <p> + The <em>Directory</em> of Baxter was succeeded by a publication called + <em>Friendly Advice to the Planters</em> in three parts. The first of + these was, <em>A brief Treatise of the principal Fruits and Herbs + that grow in Barbados, Jamaica, and other Plantations in the + West Indies</em>. The second was, <em>The Negroes' Complaint, or their + + hard Servitude, and the Cruelties practised upon them by divers of + their Masters professing Christianity</em>. And the third was, <em>A + Dialogue between an Ethiopian and a Christian, his Master, in + America</em>. In the last of these, Thomas Tryon, who was the + author, inveighs both against the commerce and the slavery of + the Africans, and in a striking manner examines each by the + touchstone of reason, humanity, justice, and religion. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1696, Southern brought forward his celebrated + tragedy of <em>Oronooko</em>, by means of which many became enlightened + upon the subject, and interested in it. For this tragedy was + not a representation of fictitious circumstances, but of such as + had occurred in the colonies, and as had been communicated in a + publication by Mrs. Behn. + + </p> + <p> + The person who seems to have noticed the subject next was + Dr. Primatt. In his <em>Dissertation on the Duty of Mercy, and on + the Sin of Cruelty to Brute Animals</em>, he takes occasion to advert to + the subject of the African Slave Trade. "It has pleased God," + says he, "to cover some men with white skins and others with + black; but as there is neither merit nor demerit in complexion, + the white man, notwithstanding the barbarity of custom and prejudice, + can have no right by virtue of his colour to enslave and + tyrannize over the black man. For whether a man be white or + black, such he is by God's appointment, and, abstractly considered, + is neither a subject for pride, nor an object of contempt." + + </p> + <p> + After Dr. Primatt, we come to Baron Montesquieu, "Slavery," + says he, "is not good in itself. It is neither useful to the + master nor to the slave; not to the slave, because he can do + nothing from virtuous motives; not to the master, because he + contracts among his slaves all sorts of bad habits, and accustoms + himself to the neglect of all the moral virtues. He becomes + haughty, passionate, obdurate, vindictive, voluptuous, and cruel." + And with respect to this particular species of slavery, he proceeds + to say, "It is impossible to allow the negroes are men, because, + if we allow them to be men, it will begin to be believed that we + ourselves are not Christians." + + </p> + <p> + Hutcheson, in his <em>System of Moral Philosophy</em>, endeavours to + show, that he who detains another by force in slavery, can make + + no good title to him, and adds, "Strange that in any nation + where a sense of liberty prevails, and where the Christian religion + is professed, custom and high prospect of gain can so stupify the + consciences of men, and all sense of natural justice, that they can + hear such computations made about the value of their fellow-men + and their liberty, without abhorrence and indignation!" + + </p> + <p> + Foster, in his <em>Discourses on Natural Religion and Social + Virtue</em>, calls the slavery under our consideration "a criminal + and outrageous violation of the natural rights of mankind." I am + sorry that I have not room to say all that he says on this subject. + Perhaps the following beautiful extracts may suffice:— + + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + "But notwithstanding this, we ourselves, who profess to be + Christians, and boast of the peculiar advantages we enjoy by + means of an express revelation of our duty from heaven, are in + effect these very untaught and rude heathen countries. With + all our superior light, we instil into those whom we call savage + and barbarous, the most despicable opinion of human nature. + We, to the utmost of our power, weaken and dissolve the + universal tie that binds and unites mankind. We practise what + we should exclaim against as the utmost excess of cruelty and + tyranny, if nations of the world, differing in colour and form of + government from ourselves, were so possessed of empire as to be + able to reduce us to a state of unmerited and brutish servitude. + Of consequence, we sacrifice our reason, our humanity, our + Christianity, to an unnatural sordid gain. We teach other + nations to despise and trample under foot all the obligations of + social virtue. We take the most effectual method to prevent + the propagation of the Gospel, by representing it as a scheme of + power and barbarous oppression, and an enemy to the natural + privileges and rights of man." + + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps all that I have now offered may be of very little + weight to restrain this enormity, this aggravated iniquity. However, + I shall still have the satisfaction of having entered my + private protest against a practice which, in my opinion, bids that + God, who is the God and Father of the Gentiles unconverted to + Christianity, most daring and bold defiance, and spurns at all the + principles both of natural and revealed religion." + + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + The next author is Sir Richard Steele, who, by means of the + affecting story of Inkle and Yarico, holds up this trade again to + our abhorrence. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1735, Atkins, who was a surgeon in the navy, + published his <em>Voyage to Guinea, Brazil, and the West Indies, in + his Majesty's ships Swallow and Weymouth</em>. In this work he + describes openly the manner of making the natives slaves, such + as by kidnapping, by unjust accusations and trials, and by other + nefarious means. He states also the cruelties practised upon + them by the white people, and the iniquitous ways and dealings + of the latter, and answers their argument, by which they insinuated + that the condition of the Africans was improved by their + transportation to other countries. + + </p> + <p> + From this time, the trade beginning to be better known, a + multitude of persons of various stations and characters sprung up, + who by exposing it, are to be mentioned among the forerunners + and coadjutors in the cause. + + </p> + <p> + Pope, in his <em>Essay on Man</em>, where he endeavours to show + that happiness in the present depends, among other things, upon + the hope of a future state, takes an opportunity of exciting compassion + in behalf of the poor African, while he censures the + avarice and cruelty of his master:— + + </p> + <div class="poem"> + + <div class="lg">Lo, the poor Indian! whose untutored mind<br>Sees God in clouds, or hears him in the wind;<br>His soul proud Science never taught to stray<br>Far as the solar walk, or milky-way;<br>Yet simple Nature to his hope was given<br>Behind the cloud-topt hill an humbler heaven;<br>Some safer world in depth of woods embraced,<br>Some happier island in the watery waste,<br>Where slaves once more their native land behold,<br>No fiends torment, no Christians thirst for gold.<br><br></div> + </div> + <p> + Thomson also, in his <em>Seasons</em>, marks this traffic as destructive + and cruel, introducing the well-known fact of sharks following + the vessels employed in it:— + + </p> + <div class="poem"> + + <div class="lg">Increasing still the sorrows of those storms,<br>His jaws horrific arm'd with three-fold fate,<br>Here dwells the direful shark. Lured by the scent<br>Of steaming crowds, of rank disease, and death;<br>Behold! he rushing cuts the briny flood,<br>Swift as the gale can bear the ship along,<br>And from the partners of that cruel trade;<br>Which spoils unhappy Guinea of her sons,<br>Demands his share of prey, demands themselves.<br>The stormy fates descend: one death involves<br>Tyrants and slaves; when straight their mangled limbs<br>Crashing at once, he dyes the purple seas<br>With gore, and riots in the vengeful meal.<br><br></div> + </div> + <p> + Neither was Richard Savage forgetful in his poems of the + <em>Injured Africans</em>: he warns their oppressors of a day of retribution + for their barbarous conduct. Having personified Public + Spirit, he makes her speak on the subject in the following + manner:— + + </p> + <div class="poem"> + + <div class="lg">Let by my specious name no tyrants rise,<br>And cry, while they enslave, they civilize!<br>Know, Liberty and I are still the same<br>Congenial—ever mingling flame with flame!<br>Why must I Afric's sable children see<br>Vended for slaves, though born by nature free,<br>The nameless tortures cruel minds invent<br>Those to subject whom Nature equal meant?<br>If these you dare (although unjust success<br>Empowers you now unpunished, to oppress),<br>Revolving empire you and yours may doom—<br>(Rome all subdu'd—yet Vandals vanquish'd Rome)<br>Yes—Empire may revolt—give them the day,<br>And yoke may yoke, and blood may blood repay.<br><br></div> + </div> + <p> + Wallis, in his <em>System of the Laws of Scotland</em>, maintains, that + "neither men nor governments have a right to sell those of + their own species. Men and their liberty are neither purchaseable + nor saleable." And, after arguing the case, he says, "This + is the law of nature, which is obligatory on all men, at all times, + and in all places.—Would not any of us, who should be snatched + by pirates from his native land, think himself cruelly abused, + and at all times entitled to be free? Have not these unfortunate + Africans, who meet with the same cruel fate, the same right? + Are they not men as well as we? And have they not the same + sensibility? Let us not, therefore, defend or support an usage, + which is contrary to all the laws of humanity." + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1750, the reverend Griffith Hughes, rector of + St. Lucy, in Barbados, published his Natural History of that + + island. He took an opportunity, in the course of it, of laying + open to the world the miserable situation of the poor Africans, + and the waste of them by hard labour and other cruel means, and + he had the generosity to vindicate their capacities from the + charge, which they who held them in bondage brought against + them, as a justification of their own wickedness in continuing to + deprive them of the rights of men. + + </p> + <p> + Edmund Burke, in his account of the European settlements, + (for this work is usually attributed to him,) complains "that the + Negroes in our colonies endure a slavery more complete, and + attended with far worse circumstances, than what any people in + their condition suffer, in any other part of the world, or have + suffered in any other period of time. Proofs of this are not + wanting. The prodigious waste, which we experience in this + unhappy part of our species, is a full and melancholy evidence of + this truth." And he goes on to advise the planters, for the sake + of their own interest, to behave like good men, good masters, and + good Christians, and to impose less labour upon their slaves, and + to give them recreation on some of the grand festivals, and to + instruct them in religion, as certain preventives of their decrease. + + </p> + <p> + An anonymous author of a pamphlet, entitled, <em>An Essay in + Vindication of the Continental Colonies of America</em>, seems to have + come forward next. Speaking of slavery there, he says, "It is + shocking to humanity, violative of every generous sentiment, + abhorrent utterly from the Christian religion.—There cannot be a + more dangerous maxim than that necessity is a plea for injustice, + for who shall fix the degree of this necessity? What villain so + atrocious, who may not urge this excuse, or, as Milton has happily + expressed it, + + </p> + <div class="lg">And with necessity,<br>The tyrant's plea, excuse his devilish deed?<br><br></div> + <p> + "That our colonies," he continues, "want people, is a very + weak argument for so inhuman a violation of justice.—Shall a + civilized, a Christian nation encourage slavery, + because the barbarous, + savage, lawless African hath done it? To what end do + we profess a religion whose dictates we so flagrantly violate? + Wherefore have we that pattern of goodness and humanity, if we + + refuse to follow it? How long shall we continue a practice + which policy rejects, justice condemns, and piety revolts at?" + + </p> + <p> + The poet Shenstone, who comes next in order, seems to have + written an elegy on purpose to stigmatize this trade. Of this + elegy I shall copy only the following parts:— + + </p> + <div class="poem"> + + <div class="lg">See the poor native quit the Libyan shores,<br>Ah! not in love's delightful fetters bound!<br>No radiant smile his dying peace restores,<br>No love, nor fame, nor friendship, heals his wound.<br><br></div> + <div class="lg">Let vacant bards display their boasted woes;<br>Shall I the mockery of grief display?<br>No; let the muse his piercing pangs disclose,<br>Who bleeds and weeps his sum of life away!<br><br></div> + <div class="lg">On the wild heath in mournful guise he stood,<br>Ere the shrill boatswain gave the hated sign;<br>He dropt a tear unseen into the flood,<br>He stole one secret moment to repine—<br><br></div> + <div class="lg">"Why am I ravish'd from my native strand?<br>What savage race protects this impious gain?<br>Shall foreign plagues infest this teeming land,<br>And more than sea-born monsters plough the main?<br><br></div> + <div class="lg">Here the dire locusts' horrid swarms prevail;<br>Here the blue asps with livid poison swell;<br>Here the dry dipsa writhes his sinuous mail;<br>Can we not here secure from envy dwell?<br><br></div> + <div class="lg">When the grim lion urged his cruel chase,<br>When the stern panther sought his midnight prey;<br>What fate reserved me for this Christian race?<br>O race more polished, more severe than they!<br><br></div> + <div class="lg">Yet shores there are, bless'd shores for us remain,<br>And favour'd isles, with golden fruitage crown'd,<br>Where tufted flow'rets paint the verdant plain,<br>And every breeze shall medicine every wound."<br><br></div> + </div> + <p> + In the year 1755, Dr. Hayter, bishop of Norwich, preached a + sermon before the <em>Society for the Propagation of the Gospel</em>, in + which he bore his testimony against the continuance of this + trade. + + </p> + <p> + Dyer, in his poem called <em>The Fleece</em>, expresses his sorrow on + account of this barbarous trade, and looks forward to a day + + of retributive justice on account of the introduction of such + an evil. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1760, a pamphlet appeared, entitled, <em>Two Dialogues + on the Man-trade</em>, by John Philmore. This name is supposed + to be an assumed one. The author, however, discovers + himself to have been both an able and a zealous advocate in + favour of the African race. + + </p> + <p> + Malachi Postlethwaite, in his <em>Universal Dictionary of Trade + and Commerce</em>, proposes a number of queries on the subject of the + Slave Trade. I have not room to insert them at full length, + but I shall give the following as the substance of some of them + to the reader: "Whether this commerce be not the cause of + incessant wars among the Africans—Whether the Africans, if it + were abolished, might not become as ingenious, as humane, as + industrious, and as capable of arts, manufactures, and trades, as + even the bulk of Europeans—Whether, if it were abolished, a + much more profitable trade might not be substituted, and this to + the very centre of their extended country, instead of the trifling + portion which now subsists upon their coasts—And whether the + great hindrance to such a new and advantageous commerce has + not wholly proceeded from that unjust, inhuman, unchristianlike + traffic, called the Slave Trade, which is carried on by the + Europeans." The public proposal of these and other queries by + a man of so great commercial knowledge as Postlethwaite, and + by one who was himself a member of the African Committee, + was of great service in exposing the impolicy as well as immorality + of the Slave Trade. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1761, Thomas Jeffery published an account of a + part of North America, in which he lays open the miserable state + of the slaves in the West Indies, both as to their clothing, their + food, their labour, and their punishments. But, without going + into particulars, the general account be gives of them is affecting: + "It is impossible," he says, "for a human heart to reflect upon + the slavery of these dregs of mankind, without in some measure + feeling for their misery, which ends but with their lives—nothing + can be more wretched than the condition of this people." + + </p> + <p> + Sterne, in his account of the Negro girl in his <em>Life of Tristram + + Shandy</em>, took decidedly the part of the oppressed Africans. The + pathetic, witty, and sentimental manner, in which he handled + this subject, occasioned many to remember it, and procured a + certain portion of feeling in their favour. + + </p> + <p> + Rousseau contributed not a little in his day to the same + end. + + </p> + <p> + Bishop Warburton, preached a sermon in the year 1766, + before the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel, in which + he took up the cause of the miserable Africans, and in which he + severely reprobated their oppressors. The language in this + sermon is so striking, that I shall make an extract from it. + "From the free savages," says he, "I now come to the savages + in bonds. By these I mean the vast multitudes yearly stolen + from the opposite continent, and sacrificed by the colonists to + their great idol, the god of gain. But what then say these + sincere worshippers of Mammon? They are our own property + which we offer up,—Gracious God! to talk, as of herds of + cattle, of property in rational creatures, creatures endued with all + our faculties, possessing all our qualities but that of colour, our + brethren both by nature and grace, shocks all the feelings of + humanity, and the dictates of common sense? But, alas! what + is there, in the infinite abuses of society, which does not shock + them! Yet nothing is more certain in itself and apparent to + all, than that the infamous traffic for slaves directly infringes + both divine and human law. Nature created man free, and grace + invites him to assert his freedom. + + </p> + <p> + "In excuse of this violation it hath been pretended, that + though, indeed, these miserable outcasts of humanity be torn + from their homes and native country by fraud and violence, yet + they thereby become the happier, and their condition the more + eligible. But who are you, who pretend to judge of another + man's happiness; that state which each man under the guidance + of his Maker forms for himself, and not one man for another? + To know what constitutes mine or your happiness is the sole + prerogative of him who created us, and cast us in so various and + different moulds. Did your slaves ever complain to you of their + unhappiness amidst their native woods and deserts? or rather let + + me ask, did they ever cease complaining of their condition under + you their lordly masters, where they see, indeed, the accommodations + of civil life, but see them all pass to others, themselves + unbenefited by them? Be so gracious then, ye petty tyrants over + human freedom, to let your slaves judge for themselves, what it + is which makes their own happiness, and then see whether they + do not place it in the return to their own country, rather than in + the contemplation of your grandeur, of which their misery makes + so large a part; a return so passionately longed for, that, despairing + of happiness here, that is, of escaping the chains of their + cruel task-masters, they console themselves with feigning it to be + the gracious reward of heaven in their future state." + + </p> + <p> + About this time certain cruel and wicked practices, which + must now be mentioned, had arrived at such a height, and had + become so frequent in the metropolis, as to produce of themselves + other coadjutors to the cause. + + </p> + <p> + Before the year 1700, planters, merchants, and others, resident + in the West Indies, but coming to England, were accustomed + to bring with them certain slaves to act as servants with + them during their stay. The latter, seeing the freedom and the + happiness of servants in this country, and considering what + would be their own hard fate on their return to the islands, + frequently absconded. Their masters of course made search after + them, and often had them seized and carried away by force. It + was, however, thrown out by many on these occasions, that the + English laws did not sanction such proceedings, for that all + persons who were baptized became free. The consequence of this + was, that most of the slaves, who came over with their masters, + prevailed upon some pious clergyman to baptize them. They + took of course godfathers of such citizens as had the generosity + to espouse their cause. When they were seized they usually + sent to these, if they had an opportunity, for their protection. + And in the result, their godfathers, maintaining that they had + been baptized, and that they were free on this account as well as + by the general tenour of the law of England, dared those who + had taken possession of them to send them out of the kingdom. + + </p> + <p> + The planters, merchants, and others, being thus circumstanced, + + knew not what to do. They were afraid of taking their + slaves away by force, and they were equally afraid of bringing + any of the cases before a public court. In this dilemma, in 1729, + they applied to York and Talbot, the attorney and solicitor-general + for the time being, and obtained the following strange + opinion from them:—"We are of opinion, that a slave by + coming from the West Indies into Great Britain or Ireland, + either with or without his master, does not become free, and that + his master's right and property in him is not thereby determined + or varied, and that baptism doth not bestow freedom on him, nor + make any alteration in his temporal condition in these kingdoms. + We are also of opinion, that the master may legally compel him + to return again to the plantations." + + </p> + <p> + This cruel and illegal opinion was delivered in the year 1729. + The planters, merchants, and others, gave it of course all the + publicity in their power. And the consequences were as might + easily have been apprehended. In a little time slaves absconding + were advertised in the London papers as runaways, and rewards + offered for the apprehension of them, in the same brutal manner + as we find them advertised in the land of slavery. They were + advertised also, in the same papers, to be sold by auction, sometimes + by themselves, and at others with horses, chaises, and + harness? They were seized also by their masters, or by persons + employed by them, in the very streets, and dragged from thence + to the ships; and so unprotected now were these poor slaves, that + persons in nowise concerned with them began to institute a trade + in their persons, making agreements with captains of ships going + to the West Indies to put them on board at a certain price. + This last instance shows how far human nature is capable of + going, and is an answer to those persons who have denied that + kidnapping in Africa was a source of supplying the Slave Trade. + It shows, as all history does from the time of Joseph, that where + there is a market for the persons of human beings, all kinds of + enormities will be practised to obtain them. + + </p> + <p> + These circumstances then, as I observed before, did not fail of + producing new coadjutors in the cause. And first they produced + that able and indefatigable advocate, Mr. Granville Sharp. This + + gentleman is to be distinguished from those who preceded him + by this particular, that, whereas these were only writers, he was + both a writer and an actor in the cause. In fact, he was the first + labourer in it in England. By the words "actor" and "labourer," + I mean that he determined upon a plan of action in behalf of the + oppressed Africans, to the accomplishment of which he devoted + a considerable portion of his time, talents, and substance. What + Mr. Sharp has done to merit the title of coadjutor in this high + sense, I shall now explain. The following is a short history of + the beginning and of the course of his labours:— + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1765, Mr. David Lisle had brought over from + Barbados Jonathan Strong, an African slave, as his servant. + He used the latter in a barbarous manner at his lodgings in + Wapping, but particularly by beating him over the head with a + pistol, which occasioned his head to swell. When the swelling + went down, a disorder fell into his eyes, which threatened the + loss of them. To this an ague and fever succeeded, and a lameness + in both his legs. + + </p> + <p> + Jonathan Strong, having been brought into this deplorable + situation, and being therefore wholly useless, was left by his + master to go whither he pleased. He applied accordingly to Mr. + William Sharp, the surgeon, for his advice, as to one who gave + up a portion of his time to the healing of the diseases of the + poor. It was here that Mr. Granville Sharp, the brother of the + former, saw him. Suffice it to say, that in process of time he + was cured. During this time Mr. Granville Sharp, pitying his + hard case, supplied him with money, and he afterwards got him + a situation in the family of Mr. Brown, an apothecary, to carry + out medicines. + + </p> + <p> + In this new situation, when Strong had become healthy and + robust in his appearance, his master happened to see him. The + latter immediately formed the design of possessing him again. + According, when he had found out his residence, he procured + John Ross, keeper of the Poultry-counter, and William Miller, + an officer under the Lord Mayor, to kidnap him. This was done + by sending for him to a public-house in Fenchurch-street, and + then seizing him. By these he was conveyed, without any + + warrant, to the Poultry-counter, where he was sold by his master, + to John Kerr, for thirty pounds. + + </p> + <p> + Strong, in this situation, sent, as was usual, to his godfathers, + John London and Stephen Nail, for their protections. They went, + but were refused admittance to him. At length he sent for Mr. + Granville Sharp: the latter went, but they still refused access to + the prisoner. He insisted, however, upon seeing him, and + charged the keeper of the prison at his peril to deliver him up, + till he had been carried before a magistrate. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Sharp, immediately upon this, waited upon Sir Robert + Kite, the then lord mayor, and entreated him to send for Strong + and to hear his case. A day was accordingly appointed. Mr. + Sharp attended, and also William McBean, a notary public, and + David Laird, captain of the ship Thames, which was to have + conveyed Strong to Jamaica, in behalf of the purchaser, John + Kerr. A long conversation ensued, in which the opinion of + York and Talbot was quoted. Mr. Sharp made his observations. + Certain lawyers who were present seemed to be staggered at the + case, but inclined rather to recommit the prisoner: the lord + mayor, however, discharged Strong, as he had been taken up + without a warrant. + + </p> + <p> + As soon as this determination was made known, the parties + began to move off. Captain Laird, however, who kept close to + Strong, laid hold of him before he had quitted the room, and + said aloud, "Then I now seize him as my slave." Upon this + Mr. Sharp put his hand upon Laird's shoulder, and pronounced + these words: "I charge you, in the name of the king, with an + assault upon the person of Jonathan Strong, and all these are my + witnesses." Laird was greatly intimidated by this charge, made + in the presence of the lord mayor and others, and, fearing a + prosecution, let his prisoner go, leaving him to be conveyed away + by Mr. Sharp. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Sharp having been greatly affected by this case, and + foreseeing how much he might be engaged in others of a similar + nature, thought it time that the law of the land should be known + upon this subject: he applied, therefore, to Dr. Blackstone, + afterwards Judge Blackstone, for his opinion upon it. He was, + + however, not satisfied with it when he received it; nor could he + obtain any satisfactory answer from several other lawyers, to + whom he afterwards applied. The truth is that the opinion of + York and Talbot, which had been made public and acted upon + by the planters, merchants, and others, was considered of high + authority, and scarcely any one dared to question the legality of + it. In this situation Mr. Sharp saw no means of help but in his + own industry, and he determined immediately to give up two or + three years to the study of the English law, that he might the + better advocate the cause of these miserable people. The result + of these studies was the publication of a book in the year 1769, + which he called, <em>A Representation of the Injustice and Dangerous + Tendency of Tolerating Slavery in England</em>. In this work he + refuted, in the clearest manner, the opinion of York and Talbot: + he produced against it the opinion of the Lord Chief Justice Holt, + who, many years before, had determined that every slave coming + into England became free: he attacked and refuted it again by a + learned and laborious inquiry into all the principles of Villenage. + He refuted it again by showing it to be an axiom in the British + constitution, "That every man in England was free to sue for + and defend his rights, and that force could not be used without a + legal process," leaving it to the judges to determine whether an + African was a man. He attacked also the opinion of Judge + Blackstone, and showed where his error lay. This valuable book, + containing these and other kinds of arguments on the subject, he + distributed, but particularly among the lawyers, giving them an + opportunity of refuting or acknowledging the doctrines it contained. + + </p> + <p> + While Mr. Sharp was engaged in this work, another case + offered, in which he took a part: this was in the year 1768. + Hylas, an African slave, prosecuted a person of the name of + Newton for having kidnapped his wife, and sent her to the West + Indies. The result of the trial was, that damages to the amount + of a shilling were given, and the defendant was bound to bring + back the woman, either by the first ship, or in six months from + this decision of the court. + + </p> + <p> + But soon after the work just mentioned was out, and when + + Mr. Sharp was better prepared, a third case occurred: this happened + in the year 1770. Robert Stapylton, who lived at Chelsea, + in conjunction with John Malony and Edward Armstrong, two + watermen, seized the person of Thomas Lewis, an African slave, + in a dark night, and dragged him to a boat lying in the Thames; + they then gagged him and tied him with a cord, and rowed him + down to a ship, and put him on board to be sold as a slave in + Jamaica. This base action took place near the garden of Mrs. + Banks, the mother of the late Sir Joseph Banks. Lewis, it + appears, on being seized, screamed violently. The servants of + Mrs. Banks, who heard his cries, ran to his assistance, but the + boat was gone. On informing their mistress of what had happened, + she sent for Mr. Sharp, who began now to be known as + the friend of the helpless Africans, and professed her willingness + to incur the expense of bringing the delinquents to justice. Mr. + Sharp, with some difficulty, procured a <em>habeas corpus</em>, in consequence + of which Lewis was brought from Gravesend just as the + vessel was on the point of sailing. An action was then commenced + against Stapylton, who defended himself on the plea, + "That Lewis belonged to him as his slave." In the course + of the trial, Mr. Dunning, who was counsel for Lewis, paid + Mr. Sharp a handsome compliment; for he held in his hand + Mr. Sharp's book, on the <em>Injustice and Dangerous Tendency of + Tolerating Slavery in England</em>, while he was pleading; and in + his address to the jury he spoke and acted thus:—"I shall + submit to you," says Mr. Dunning, "what my ideas are upon + such evidence, reserving to myself an opportunity of discussing it + more particularly, and reserving to myself a right to insist upon + a position, which I will maintain (and here he held up the book + to the notice of those present,) in any place and in any court of + the kingdom, that our laws admit of no such property<a class="notelink" href="#NoteIII_1"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootIII_1"></a>." The + result of the trial was, that the jury pronounced the plaintiff not + to have been the property of the defendant, several of them + crying out, "No property, no property." + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteIII_1"></a><a href="#FootIII_1">A</a>: It is lamentable to think that the same Mr. Dunning, + in a cause of this + kind, which came on afterwards, took the opposite side of the + question. + </p> + <p> + After this one or two other trials came on, in which the + + oppressor was defeated, and several cases occurred in which poor + slaves were liberated from the holds of vessels and other places of + confinement, by the exertions of Mr. Sharp. One of these cases + was singular. The vessels on board which a poor African had + been dragged and confined, had reached the Downs, and had + actually got under weigh for the West Indies: in two or three + hours she would have been out of sight; but just at this critical + moment the writ of <em>habeas corpus</em> was carried on board. The + officer who served it on the captain saw the miserable African + chained to the mainmast, bathed in tears, and casting a last + mournful look on the land of freedom, which was fast receding + from his sight. The captain, on receiving the writ, became outrageous; + but knowing the serious consequences of resisting the + law of the land, he gave up his prisoner, whom the officer carried + safe, but now crying for joy, to the shore. + + </p> + <p> + But though the injured Africans, whose causes had been + tried, escaped slavery, and though many who had been forcibly + carried into dungeons, ready to be transported into the Colonies, + had been delivered out of them, Mr. Sharp was not easy in his + mind: not one of the cases had yet been pleaded on the broad + ground, "Whether an African slave, coming into England, + became free?" This great question had been hitherto studiously + avoided; it was still, therefore, left in doubt. Mr. Sharp was + almost daily acting as if it had been determined, and as if he had + been following the known law of the land: he wished, therefore, + that the next cause might be argued upon this principle. Lord + Mansfield too, who had been biassed by the opinion of York and + Talbot, began to waver in consequence of the different pleadings + he had heard on this subject: he saw also no end of trials like + these, till the law should be ascertained, and he was anxious for + a decision on the same basis as Mr. Sharp. In this situation the + following case offered, which was agreed upon for the determination + of this important question. + + </p> + <p> + James Somerset, an African slave, had been brought to + England by his master, Charles Stewart, in November 1769. + Somerset in process of time left him. Stewart took an opportunity + of seizing him, and had him conveyed on board the Ann + + and Mary, Captain Knowles, to be carried out of the kingdom + and sold as a slave in Jamaica: the question was, "Whether a + slave, by coming into England, became free?" + + </p> + <p> + In order that time might be given for ascertaining the law + fully on this head, the case was argued at three different sittings. + First, in January, 1772; secondly, in February, 1772; and + thirdly, in May, 1772. And that no decision otherwise than + what the law warranted might be given, the opinion of the judges + was taken upon the pleadings. The great and glorious result of + the trial was, "That as soon as ever any slave set his foot upon + English territory, he became free." + + </p> + <p> + Thus ended the great case of Somerset, which, having, been + determined after so deliberate an investigation of the law, can + never be reversed while the British Constitution remains. The + eloquence displayed in it by those who were engaged on the side of + liberty, was perhaps never exceeded on any occasion; and the + names of the counsellors Davy, Glynn, Hargrave, Mansfield, and + Alleyne, ought always to be remembered with gratitude by the + friends of this great cause. For when we consider in how many + crowded courts they pleaded, and the number of individuals in + these, whose minds they enlightened, and whose hearts they interested + in the subject, they are certainly to be put down as no + small instruments in the promotion of it; but chiefly to him, under + Divine Providence, are we to give the praise, who became + the first great actor in it, who devoted his time, his talents, and + his substance to this Christian undertaking, and by whose laborious + researches the very pleaders themselves were instructed and + benefited. By means of his almost incessant vigilance and attention, + and unwearied efforts, the poor African ceased to be hunted + in our streets as a beast of prey. Miserable as the roof might be, + under which he slept, he slept in security. He walked by the + side of the stately ship, and he feared no dungeon in her hold. + Nor ought we, as Englishmen, to be less grateful to this distinguished + individual than the African ought to be upon this occasion. + To him we owe it, that we no longer see our public papers + polluted by hateful advertisements of the sale of the human species, + or that we are no longer distressed by the perusal of impious + + rewards for bringing back the poor and the helpless into slavery, + or that we are prohibited the disgusting spectacle of seeing man + bought by his fellow-man. To him, in short, we owe this restoration + of the beauty of our constitution—this prevention of the continuance + of our national disgrace. + + </p> + <p> + I shall say but little more of Mr. Sharp at present, than that + he felt it his duty, immediately after the trial, to write to Lord + North, then principal minister of state, warning him in the most + earnest manner, to abolish immediately both the trade and the + slavery of the human species in all the British dominions, as + utterly irreconcileable with the principles of the British + constitution, + and the established religion of the land. + + </p> + <p> + Among other coadjutors, whom the cruel and wicked practices + which have now been so amply detailed brought forward, + was a worthy clergyman, whose name I have not yet been able + to learn. He endeavoured to interest the public feeling in behalf + of the injured Africans, by writing an epilogue to the <em>Padlock</em>, in + which Mungo appeared as a black servant. This epilogue is so + appropriate to the case, that I cannot but give it to the reader. + Mungo enters, and thus addresses the audience:— + + </p> + <div class="poem"> + + <div class="lg">Thank you, my massas! have you laugh your fill?<br>Then let me speak, nor take that freedom ill.<br>E'en from <em>my</em> tongue some heart-felt truths may fall,<br>And outraged Nature claims the care of all.<br>My tale in <em>any</em> place would force a tear,<br>But calls for stronger, deeper feelings here;<br>For whilst I tread the free-born British land,<br>Whilst now before me crowded Britons stand,—<br>Vain, vain that glorious privilege to me,<br>I am a slave, where all things else are free.<br><br></div> + <div class="lg">Yet was I born, as you are, no man's slave,<br>An heir to all that liberal Nature gave;<br>My mind can reason, and my limbs can move<br>The same as yours; like yours my heart can love;<br>Alike my body food and sleep sustain;<br>And e'en like yours—feels pleasure, want, and pain.<br>One sun rolls o'er us, common skies surround;<br>One globe supports us, and one grave must bound.<br><br></div> + <div class="lg">Why then am I devoid of all to live<br>That manly comforts to a man can give?<br><br></div> + <div class="lg">To live—untaught religion's soothing balm,<br>Or life's choice arts; to live—unknown the calm,<br>Of soft domestic ease; those sweets of life,<br>The duteous offspring, and th' endearing wife?<br>To live—to property and rights unknown,<br>Not e'en the common benefits my own!<br>No arm to guard me from Oppression's rod,<br>My will subservient to a tyrant's nod!<br>No gentle hand, when life is in decay,<br>To soothe my pains, and charm my cares away;<br>But helpless left to quit the horrid stage,<br>Harassed in youth, and desolate in age!<br><br></div> + <div class="lg">But I was born in Afric's tawny strand,<br>And you in fair Britannia's fairer land;<br>Comes freedom, then, from colour?—Blush with shame!<br>And let strong Nature's crimson mark your blame.<br>I speak to Britons.—Britons—then behold<br>A man by, Britons <em>snared</em>, and <em>seized</em>, and <em>sold!</em><br>And yet no British statute damns the deed,<br>Nor do the more than murderous villains bleed.<br><br></div> + <div class="lg">O sons of Freedom! equalize your laws,<br>Be all consistent, plead the negro's cause;<br>That all the nations in your code may see<br>The British negro, like the Briton, free.<br>But, should he supplicate your laws in vain,<br>To break, for ever, this disgraceful chain,<br>At least, let gentle usage so abate<br>The galling terrors of its passing state,<br>That he may share kind Heaven's all social plan;<br>For, though no Briton, Mungo is—a man.<br><br></div> + </div> + <p> + I may now add, that few theatrical pieces had a greater run + than the <em>Padlock</em>; and that this epilogue, which + was attached to it soon after it came out, procured a good deal of + feeling for the + unfortunate sufferers, whose cause it was intended to serve. + + </p> + <p> + Another coadjutor, to whom these cruel and wicked practices + gave birth, was Thomas Day, the celebrated author of <em>Sandford + and Merton</em>, and whose virtues were well known among those + who had the happiness of his friendship. In the year 1773 he + published a poem, which he wrote expressly in behalf of the + oppressed Africans. He gave it the name of <em>The Dying Negro.</em> + The preface to it was written in an able manner by his friend + Counsellor Bicknell, who is therefore to be ranked among the + coadjutors in this great cause. The poem was founded on a + + simple fact, which had taken place a year or two before. A poor + negro had been seized in London, and forcibly put on board a + ship, where he destroyed himself, rather than return to the land + of slavery. To the poem is affixed a frontispiece, in which the + negro is represented. He is made to stand in an attitude of the + most earnest address to heaven, in the course of which, with the + fatal dagger in his hand, he breaks forth in the following words: + + </p> + <div class="lg">To you this unpolluted blood I pour,<br>To you that spirit, which ye gave, restore.<br><br></div> + <p> + This poem, which was the first ever written expressly on the + subject, was read extensively; and it added to the sympathy in + favour of suffering humanity, which was now beginning to show + itself in the kingdom. + + </p> + <p> + About this time the first edition of the <em>Essay an Truth</em> made + its appearance in the world. Dr. Beattie took an opportunity, in + this work, of vindicating the intellectual powers of the Africans + from the aspersions of Hume, and of condemning their slavery as + a barbarous piece of policy, and as inconsistent with the free and + generous spirit of the British nation. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1774, John Wesley, the celebrated divine, to + whose pious labours the religious world will long be indebted, + undertook the cause of the poor Africans. He had been in America, + and had seen and pitied their hard condition. The work + which he gave to the world in consequence, was entitled <em>Thoughts + on Slavery</em>. Mr. Wesley had this great cause much at heart, and + frequently recommended it to the support of those who attended + his useful ministry. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1776, the Abbé Proyart brought out, at Paris, his + <em>History of Loango</em>, and other kingdoms in Africa, in which he + did ample justice to the moral and intellectual character of the + natives there. + + </p> + <p> + The same year produced two new friends in England, in the + same cause, but in a line in which no one had yet moved. David + Hartley, then a member of parliament for Hull, and the son of + Dr. Hartley who wrote the <em>Essay on Man</em>, found it impossible + any longer to pass over without notice the case of the oppressed + + Africans. He had long felt for their wretched condition, and, + availing himself of his legislative situation, he made a motion in + the House of Commons, "That the Slave Trade was contrary to + the laws of God, and the rights of men." In order that he might + interest the members as much as possible in his motion, he had + previously obtained some of the chains in use in this cruel traffic, + and had laid them upon the table of the House of Commons. + His motion was seconded by that great patriot and philanthropist, + Sir George Saville. But though I am now to state that it failed, + I cannot but consider it as a matter of pleasing reflection, that + this great subject was first introduced into parliament by those + who were worthy of it; by those who had clean hands and an + irreproachable character, and to whom no motive of party or faction + could be imputed, but only such as must have arisen from a + love of justice, a true feeling of humanity, and a proper sense of + religion. + + </p> + <p> + About this time two others, men of great talents and learning, + promoted the cause of the injured Africans, by the manner + in which they introduced them to notice in their respective + works. + + </p> + <p> + Dr. Adam Smith, in his <em>Theory of Moral Sentiments</em>, had, so + early as the year 1759, held them up in an honourable, and their + tyrants in a degrading light. "There is not a Negro from the + coast of Africa, who does not, in this respect, possess a degree of + magnanimity which the soul of his sordid master is too often + scarce capable of conceiving. Fortune never exerted more cruelly + her empire over mankind, than when she subjected those nations + of heroes to the refuse of the gaols of Europe, to wretches + who possess the virtue neither of the countries they came from, + nor of those they go to, and whose levity, brutality, and baseness + so justly expose them to the contempt of the vanquished." And + now, in 1776, in his <em>Wealth of Nations</em> he showed in a forcible + manner (for he appealed to the interest of those concerned,) the + dearness of African labour; or the impolicy of employing slaves. + + </p> + <p> + Professor Millar, in his <em>Origin of Ranks</em>, followed Dr. Smith + on the same ground. He explained the impolicy of slavery in + general, by its bad effects upon industry, population, and morals. + + These effects he attached to the system of agriculture as followed + in our islands. He showed, besides, how little pains were taken, + or how few contrivances were thought of, to ease the labourers + there. He contended that the Africans ought to be better + treated, and to be raised to a better condition; and he ridiculed + the inconsistency of those who held them in bondage. "It + affords," says he, "a curious spectacle to observe that the same + people, who talk in a high strain of political liberty, and who + consider the privilege of imposing their own taxes as one of the + unalienable rights of mankind, should make no scruple of reducing + a great proportion of their fellow-creatures into circumstances + by which they are not only deprived of property, but almost of + every species of right. Fortune, perhaps, never produced a situation + more calculated to ridicule a liberal hypothesis, or to show + how little the conduct of men is at the bottom directed by any + philosophical principles." It is a great honour to the University + of Glasgow, that it should have produced, before any public agitation + of this question, three professors<a class="notelink" href="#NoteIII_2"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootIII_2"></a>, all of whom bore their + public testimony against the continuance of the cruel trade. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteIII_2"></a><a href="#FootIII_2">A</a>: The other was Professor Hutcheson, before mentioned in <a href="#chap2" >p. 56</a>. + </p> + <p> + From this time, or from about the year 1776, to about the + year 1782, I am to put down three other coadjutors, whose labours + seem to have come in a right season for the promotion of the + cause. + + </p> + <p> + The first of these was Dr. ROBERTSON. In his <em>History of + America</em> he laid open many facts relative to this subject. He + showed himself a warm friend both of the Indians and Africans. + He lost no opportunity of condemning that trade, which brought + the latter into bondage: "a trade," says he, "which is no less + repugnant to the feelings of humanity than to the principles of + religion." And in his <em>Charles the Fifth</em>, he showed in a manner + that was clear, and never to be controverted, that Christianity + was the great cause in the twelfth century of extirpating slavery + from the west of Europe. By the establishment of this fact, he + rendered important services to the oppressed Africans. For if + Christianity, when it began to be felt in the heart, dictated the + abolition of slavery, it certainly became those who lived in a + + Christian country, and who professed the Christian religion, to + put an end to this cruel trade. + + </p> + <p> + The second was the Abbé Raynal. This author gave an + account of the laws, government, and religion of Africa, of the + produce of it, of the manners of its inhabitants, of the trade in + slaves, of the manner of procuring these, with + several other particulars + relating to the subject. And at the end of his account, + fearing lest the good advice he had given for making the condition + of the slaves more comfortable should be construed into an + approbation of such a traffic, he employed several pages in showing + its utter inconsistency with sound policy, justice, reason, humanity, + and religion. + + </p> + <p> + "I will not here," says he, "so far debase myself as to enlarge + the ignominious list of those writers who devote their abilities + to justify by policy what morality condemns. In an age + where so many errors are boldly laid open, it would be unpardonable + to conceal any truth that is interesting to humanity. If + whatever I have hitherto advanced hath seemingly tended only + to alleviate the burden of slavery, the reason is, that it was + first necessary to give some comfort to those unhappy beings whom + we cannot set free, and convince their oppressors that they were + cruel, to the prejudice of their real interests. But, in the mean + time, till some considerable revolution shall make the evidence + of this great truth felt, it may not be improper to pursue this + subject further. I shall then first prove that there is no reason + of state which can authorize slavery. I shall not be afraid to + cite to the tribunal of reason and justice those governments + which tolerate this cruelty, or which even are not ashamed to + make it the basis of their power." + + </p> + <p> + And a little further on he observes—"Will it be said that he, + who wants to make me a slave, does me no injury; but that he + only makes use of his rights? Where are those rights? Who + hath stamped upon them so sacred a character as to silence mine?" + + </p> + <p> + In the beginning of the next paragraph he speaks thus:—"He + who supports the system of slavery is the enemy of the + whole human race. He divides it into two + societies of legal assassins; + + the oppressors, and the oppressed. It is the same thing + as proclaiming to the world, if you would preserve your life, + instantly take away mine, for I want to have yours." + + </p> + <p> + Going on two pages further, we find these words:—"But the + Negroes, they say, are a race born for slavery; their dispositions + are narrow, treacherous, and wicked; they themselves allow the + superiority of our understandings, and almost acknowledge the + justice of our authority. Yes; the minds of the Negroes are + contracted, because slavery destroys all the springs of the soul. + They are wicked, but not equally so with you. They are treacherous, + because they are under no obligation to speak truth to their + tyrants. They acknowledge the superiority of our understanding, + because we have abused their ignorance. They allow the + justice of our authority, because we have abused their weakness." + + </p> + <p> + "But these Negroes, it is further urged, were born slaves. + Barbarians! will you persuade me that a man can be the property + of a sovereign, a son the property of a father, a wife the + property of a husband, a domestic the property of a master, a + Negro the property of a planter?" + + </p> + <p> + But I have no time to follow this animated author, even by + short extracts, through the varied strains of eloquence which he + displays upon this occasion. I can only say that his labours entitle + him to a high station among the benefactors to the African + race. + + </p> + <p> + The third was Dr. PALEY, whose genius, talents, and learning + have been so eminently displayed in his writings in the cause of + natural and revealed religion. Dr. Paley did not write any essay + expressly in favour of the Africans. But in his <em>Moral Philosophy</em>, + where he treated on slavery, he took an opportunity of + condemning, in very severe terms, the continuance of it. In this + work he defined what slavery was, and how it might arise consistently + with the law of nature; but he made an exception + against that which arose from the African trade. + "The Slave Trade," says he, "upon the coast of Africa, is not + excused by these principles. When slaves in that country are + brought to market, no questions, I believe, are asked about the + + origin or justice of the vendor's title. It may be presumed, + therefore, that this title is not always, if it be ever, founded in + any of the causes above assigned. + + </p> + <p> + "But defect of right in the first purchase is the least crime + with which this traffic is chargeable. The natives are excited to + war and mutual depredation, for the sake of supplying their + contracts, or furnishing the markets with slaves. With this the + wickedness begins. The slaves, torn away from their parents, + wives, and children, from their friends and companions, from + their fields and flocks, from their home and country, are + transported to the European settlements in America, with no other + accommodation on ship-board than what is provided for brutes. + This is the second stage of the cruelty, from which the miserable + exiles are delivered, only to be placed, and that for life, + in subjection to a dominion add system of laws, the most + merciless and + tyrannical that ever were tolerated upon the face of the earth: + and from all that can be learned by the accounts of people upon + the spot, the inordinate authority which the plantation-laws confer + upon the slaveholder is exercised, by the English slaveholder + especially, with rigour and brutality. + + </p> + <p> + "But necessity is pretended, the name under which every + enormity is attempted to be justified; and after all, what is the + necessity? It has never been proved that the land could not be + cultivated there, as it is here, by hired servants. It is said, that + it could not be cultivated with quite the same conveniency and + cheapness, as by the labour of slaves; by which means, a pound + of sugar, which the planter now sells for sixpence, could not be + afforded under sixpence-halfpenny—and this is the necessity! + + </p> + <p> + "The great revolution which has taken place in the western + world, may, probably, conduce (and who knows but that it was + designed) to accelerate the fall of this abominable tyranny: and + now that this contest and the passions which attend it are no + more, there may succeed, perhaps, a season for reflecting, whether + a legislature, which had so long lent its assistance to the support + of an institution replete with human misery, was fit to be trusted + with an empire, the most extensive that ever obtained in any age + or quarter of the world." + + </p> + <p> + The publication of these sentiments may be supposed to have + produced an extensive effect. For <em>The Moral Philosophy</em> was + adopted early by some of the colleges in our universities into the + system of their education. It soon found its way also into most + of the private libraries of the kingdom; and it was, besides, + generally read and approved. Dr. Paley, therefore, must be + considered, as having been a considerable coadjutor in + interesting the mind of the public in favour of the + oppressed Africans. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1783, we find Mr. Sharp coming again into + notice. We find him at this time taking a part in a cause, the + knowledge of which, in proportion as it was disseminated, produced + an earnest desire among all disinterested persons for the + abolition of the Slave Trade. + + </p> + <p> + In this year, certain underwriters desired to be heard against + Gregson and others of Liverpool, in the case of the ship Zong, + Captain Collingwood, alleging that the captain and officers of the + said vessel threw overboard one hundred and thirty-two slaves + alive into the seas in order to defraud them, by claiming the + value of the said slaves, as if they had been lost in a natural way. + In the course of the trial which afterwards came on, it appeared, + that the slaves on board the Zong were very sickly; that sixty of + them had already died; and several were ill and likely to die, + when the captain proposed to James Kelsall, the mate, and + others, to throw several of them overboard, stating, "that if + they died a natural death, the loss would fall upon the owners of + the ship; but that if they were thrown into the sea, it would fall + upon the underwriters." He selected, accordingly, one hundred + and thirty-two of the most sickly of the slaves. Fifty-four of + these were immediately thrown overboard, and forty-two were + made to be partakers of their fate on the succeeding day. In the + course of three days afterwards the remaining twenty-six were + brought upon deck to complete the number of victims. The + first sixteen submitted to be thrown into the sea; but the rest, + with a noble resolution, would not suffer the officers to touch + them, but leaped after their companions and shared their fate. + + </p> + <p> + The plea which was set up in behalf of this atrocious and + unparalleled act of wickedness was, that the captain discovered, + + when he made the proposal, that he had only two hundred gallons + of water on board, and that he had missed his port. It was + proved, however, in answer to this, that no one had been put + upon short allowance; and that, as if Providence had determined + to afford an unequivocal proof of the guilt, a shower of rain fell + and continued for three days immediately after the second lot of + slaves had been destroyed, by means of which they might have + filled many of their vessels<a class="notelink" href="#NoteIII_3"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootIII_3"></a> with water, and thus have prevented + all necessity for the destruction of the third. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteIII_3"></a><a href="#FootIII_3">A</a>: It appeared that they filled six. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Sharp was present at this trial, and procured the attendance + of a short-hand writer to take down the facts, which should + come out in the course of it. These he gave to the public afterwards. + He communicated them also, with a copy of the trial, + to the Lords of the Admiralty, as the guardians of justice upon + the seas, and to the Duke of Portland, as principal minister of + state. No notice, however, was taken by any of these, of the + information which had been thus sent them. + + </p> + <p> + But though nothing was done by the persons then in power, + in consequence of the murder of so many innocent individuals, + yet the publication of an account of it by Mr. Sharp, in the + newspapers, made such an impression upon others, that; new + coadjutors rose up. For, soon after this, we find Thomas Day + entering the lists again as the champion of the injured Africans. + He had lived to see his poem of <em>The Dying Negro</em>, which had + been published in 1773, make a considerable impression. In 1776, + he had written a letter to a friend in America, who was the + possessor of slaves, to dissuade him by a number of arguments + from holding such property; and now, when the knowledge of + the case of the ship Zong was spreading, he published that letter + under the title of Fragment of an Original Letter on the Slavery + of the Negroes. + + </p> + <p> + In this same year, Dr. Porteus, Bishop of Chester, but now + Bishop of London, came forward as a new advocate for the natives + of Africa. The way in which he rendered them service, was by + preaching a sermon in their behalf, before the Society for the + Propagation of the Gospel. Of the wide circulation of this + + sermon, I shall say something in another place, but much more + of the enlightened and pious author of it, who from this time + never failed to aid, at every opportunity, the cause which he had + so ably undertaken. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1784, Dr. GREGORY produced his <em>Essays, Historical + and Moral</em>. He took an opportunity of disseminating in + these a circumstantial knowledge of the Slave Trade, and an equal + abhorrence of it at the same time. He explained the manner of + procuring slaves in Africa; the treatment of them on the passage, + (in which he mentioned the case of the ship Zong) and the + wicked and cruel treatment of them in the colonies. He recited + and refuted also the various arguments adduced in defence of the + trade. He showed that it was destructive to our seamen. He + produced many weighty arguments also against the slavery itself. + He proposed clauses for an Act of Parliament for the abolition of + both; showing the good both to England and her colonies from + such a measure, and that a trade might be substituted in Africa, + in various articles, for that which he proposed to suppress. By + means of the diffusion of light like this, both of a moral and + political nature; Dr. Gregory is entitled to be ranked among the + benefactors to the African race. + + </p> + <p> + In the same year, Gilbert Wakefield preached a sermon at + Richmond, in Surrey, where, speaking of the people of this + nation, he says, "Have we been as renowned for a liberal + communication of our religion and our laws as for the possession of + them! Have we navigated and conquered to save, to civilize, + and to instruct; or to oppress, to plunder, and to destroy? Let + India and Africa give the answer to these questions. The one + we have exhausted of her wealth and her inhabitants by violence, + by famine, and by every species of tyranny and murder. The + children of the other we daily carry from off the land of their + nativity; like sheep to the slaughter, to return no more. We + tear them from every object of their affection, or, sad alternative, + drag them together to the horrors of a mutual servitude! We + keep them in the profoundest ignorance. We gall them in a + tenfold chain, with an unrelenting spirit of barbarity, inconceivable + to all but the spectators of it, unexampled among former + + and other nations, and unrecorded even in the bloody registers + of heathen persecution. Such is the conduct of us enlightened + Englishmen, reformed Christians! Thus have we + profited by our superior advantages, by the favour of God, by the + doctrines and example of a meek and lowly Savior. Will not + the blessings which we have abused loudly testify against us? + Will not the blood which we have shed cry from the ground + for vengeance upon our sins?" + + </p> + <p> + In the same year, James Ramsay, vicar of Teston in Kent, + became also an able, zealous, and indefatigable patron of the + African cause. This gentleman had resided nineteen years in + the island of St. Christopher, where he had observed the treatment + of the slaves, and had studied the laws relating to them. + On his return to England, yielding to his own feelings of duty + and the solicitations of some amiable friends, he published a + work, which he called <em>An Essay on the Treatment and Conversion + of the African Slaves in the British Sugar Colonies</em>. + After having given an account of the relative situation of master + and slave in various parts of the world, he explained the low and + degrading situation which the Africans held in society in our own + islands. He showed that their importance would be increased; + and the temporal interest of their masters promoted, by giving + them freedom, and by granting them other privileges. He + showed the great difficulty of instructing them in the state in + which they then were, and such as he himself had experienced, + both in his private and public attempts, and such as others had + experienced also. He stated the way in which private attempts + of this nature might probably be successful. He then answered + all objections against their capacities, as drawn from philosophy, + form, anatomy, and observation; and vindicated these from his + own experience. And lastly, he threw out ideas for the improvement + of their condition, by an establishment of a greater number + of spiritual pastors among them; by giving them more privileges + than they then possessed; and by extending towards them the + benefits of a proper police. Mr. Ramsay had no other motive + for giving this work to the public, than that of humanity, of a + wish to serve this much-injured part of the human species. For + + he compiled it at the hazard of forfeiting that friendship, which + he had contracted with many during his residence in the islands, + and of suffering much in his private property, as well as subjecting + himself to the ill-will and persecution of numerous individuals. + + </p> + <p> + The publication of this book by one who professed to have + been so long resident in the islands, and to have been an eyewitness + of facts, produced, as may easily be supposed, a good + deal of conversation, and made a considerable impression, + but particularly at this time, when a storm was visibly + gathering over + the heads of the oppressors of the African race. These circumstances + occasioned one or two persons to attempt to answer it, + and these answers brought Mr. Ramsay into the first controversy + ever entered into on this subject, during which, as is the case in + most controversies, the cause of truth was spread. + + </p> + <p> + The works which Mr. Ramsay wrote upon this subject were, + the essay just mentioned, in 1784. <em>An + Inquiry</em>, also, <em>into the Effects + of the Abolition of the Slave Trade</em>, in 1784; <em>A + Reply to Personal Invectives and Objections</em>, in + 1785; <em>A Letter to James Tobin, Esq.</em>, + in 1787; <em>Objections to the Abolition of + the Slave Trade, with Answers</em>; and <em>An + Examination of Harris's Scriptural Researches on the + Licitness of the Slave Trade</em>, in 1788; + and <em>An Address on the proposed Bill for + the Abolition of the Slave Trade</em>, in 1789. In short, + from the time when he first took up the cause, he was + engaged in it till his death, which was not a little + accelerated by his exertions. He lived, however, to see + this cause in a train of parliamentary inquiry, and he died + satisfied; being convinced, as he often expressed, that the + investigation must inevitably lead to the total abolition + of the Slave Trade. + + </p> + <p> + In the next year, that is, in the year 1785, another advocate + was seen in Monsieur Necker, in his celebrated work on the + <em>French Finances</em>, which had just been + translated into the English language from the original work, + in 1784. This virtuous statesman, after having given his + estimate of the population and revenue of the French West + Indian colonies, proceeds thus:—"The + colonies of France contain, as we have seen, near five hundred + thousand slaves, and it is from the number of these poor wretches + that the inhabitants set a value on their plantations. What a + + dreadful prospect! and how profound a subject for reflection! + Alas! how little are we both in our morality and our principles! + We preach up humanity, and yet go every year to bind in chains + twenty thousand natives of Africa! We call the Moors barbarians + and ruffians, because they attack the liberty of Europeans + at the risk of their own; yet these Europeans go, without + danger, and as mere speculators, to purchase slaves by gratifying + the avarice of their masters, and excite all those bloody scenes + which are the usual preliminaries of this traffic!" He goes on + still further in the same strain. He then shows the kind of + power which has supported this execrable trade. He throws out + the idea of a general compact, by which all the European nations + should agree to abolish it; and he indulges the pleasing hope that + it may take place even in the present generation. + + </p> + <p> + In the same year we find other coadjutors coming before our + view, but these in a line different from that in which any other + belonging to this class had yet moved. Mr. George White, a + clergyman of the established church, and Mr. John Chubb, suggested + to Mr. William Tucket, the mayor of Bridgewater, where + they resided, and to others of that town, the propriety of + petitioning parliament for the abolition of the Slave Trade. This + petition was agreed upon, and, when drawn up, was as follows:— + + </p> + <p> + "The humble petition of the inhabitants of Bridgewater + showeth, + + </p> + <p> + "That your petitioners, reflecting with the deepest sensibility + on the deplorable condition of that part of the human species, the + African Negroes, who, by the most flagitious means, are reduced + to slavery and misery in the British colonies, beg leave to address + this honourable house in their behalf, and to express a just + abhorrence of a system of oppression, which no prospect of private + gain, no consideration of public advantage, no plea of political + expediency, can sufficiently justify or excuse. + + </p> + <p> + "That, satisfied as your petitioners are that this inhuman system + meets with the general execration of mankind, they flatter + themselves the day is not far distant when it will be universally + abolished. And they most ardently hope to see a British parliament, + by the extinction of that sanguinary traffic, extend the + + blessings of liberty to millions beyond this realm, held up to an + enlightened world a glorious and merciful example, and stand + in the defence of the violated rights of human nature." + + </p> + <p> + This petition was presented by the Honourable Ann Poulet, + and Alexander Hood, Esq., (afterwards Lord Bridport,) who were + the members for the town of Bridgewater. It was ordered to lie on + the table. The answer which these gentlemen gave to their + constituents relative to the reception of it in the House of Commons + is worthy of notice:—"There did not appear," say they in their + common letter, "the least disposition to pay any further attention + to it. Every one almost says that the abolition of the Slave + Trade must immediately throw the West Indian islands into + convulsions, and soon complete their utter ruin. Thus they will + not trust Providence for its protection for so pious an undertaking." + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1786, Captain J.S. Smith, of the royal navy, + offered himself to the notice of the public in behalf of the African + cause. Mr. Ramsay, as I have observed before, had become + involved in a controversy in consequence of his support of it. + His opponents not only attacked his reputation, but had the + effrontery to deny his facts. This circumstance occasioned + Captain Smith to come forward. He wrote a letter to his friend Mr. + Hill, in which he stated that he had seen those things, while in + the West Indies, which Mr. Ramsay had asserted to exist, but + which had been so boldly denied. He gave, also, permission to + Mr. Hill to publish this letter. Too much praise cannot be + bestowed on Captain Smith, for thus standing forth in a noble + cause, and in behalf of an injured character. + + </p> + <p> + The last of the necessary forerunners and coadjutors of this + class, whom I am to mention, was our much-admired poet, + Cowper; and a great coadjutor he was, when we consider what + value was put upon his sentiments, and the extraordinary + circulation of his works. There are few persons who have not been + properly impressed by the following lines:— + + </p> + <div class="poem"> + + <div class="lg"> My ear is pain'd,<br>My soul is sick with every day's report,<br>Of wrong and outrage with which earth is fill'd.<br>There is no flesh in man's obdurate heart,<br>It does not feel for man. The natural bond<br>Of brotherhood is sever'd as the flax<br>That falls asunder at the touch of fire.<br>He finds his fellow guilty of a skin<br>Not colour'd like his own, and having power<br>To inforce the wrong, for such a worthy cause<br>Dooms and devotes him as his lawful prey.<br>Lands intersected by a narrow frith<br>Abhor each other. Mountains interpos'd,<br>Make enemies of nations, who had else,<br>Like kindred drops been mingled into one.<br>Thus man devotes his brother, and destroys;<br>And, worse than all, and most to be deplored<br>As human Nature's broadest, foulest blot,—<br>Chains him, and tasks him, and exacts his sweat<br>With stripes, that Mercy with a bleeding heart<br>Weeps, when she sees inflicted on a beast.<br>Then what is man? And what man, seeing this,<br>And having human feelings, does not blush<br>And hang his head to think himself a man?<br>I would not have a slave to till my ground,<br>To carry me, to fan me while I sleep,<br>And tremble when I wake, for all the wealth<br>That sinews bought and sold have ever earn'd.<br>No: dear as freedom is,—and in my heart's<br>Just estimation prized above all price,—<br>I had much rather be myself the slave,<br>And wear the bonds, than fasten them on him.<br>We have no slaves at home—then why abroad?<br>And they themselves once ferried o'er the wave<br>That parts us, are emancipate and loos'd.<br>Slaves cannot breathe in England; if their lungs<br>Receive our air, that moment they are free;<br>They touch our country, and their shackles fall<a class="notelink" href="#NoteIII_4"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootIII_4"></a>.<br>That's noble, and bespeaks a nation proud<br>And jealous of the blessing. Spread it, then,<br>And let it circulate through every vein<br>Of all your empire—that where Britain's power<br>Is felt, mankind may feel her mercy too.<br><br></div> + <p><a name="NoteIII_4"></a><a href="#FootIII_4">A</a>: Expressions used in the great trial, when Mr. Sharp + obtained the verdict in favour of Somerset. + </p> + </div> + + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + <h2><a name="chap4"></a>CHAPTER IV. + </h2> + <p><b>—Second class of forerunners and coadjutors, up to + May 1787, consists of the Quakers in England.—Of George Fox + and others.—Of the body of the Quakers assembled at the + yearly meeting in 1727; and at various other times.—Quakers, + as a body, petition Parliament; and circulate + books on the subject.—Individuals among them become + labourers and associate in behalf of the Africans; + Dilwyn, Harrison, and others.—This the first association + ever formed in England for the purpose.</b></p> + + <p> + The second class of the forerunners and coadjutors in this great + cause, up to May 1787, will consist of the Quakers in England. + + </p> + <p> + The first of this class was George Fox, the venerable founder + of this benevolent society. + + </p> + <p> + George Fox was contemporary with Richard Baxter, being + born not long after him, and dying much about the same time. + Like him, he left his testimony against this wicked trade. When + he was in the island of Barbados, in the year 1671, he delivered + himself to those who attended his religious meetings in the following + manner:— + + </p> + <p> + "Consider with yourselves," says he, "if you were in the + same condition as the poor Africans are—who came strangers to + you, and were sold to you as slaves—I say, if this should be the + condition of you or yours, you would think it a hard measure; + yea, and very great bondage and cruelty. And, therefore, consider + seriously of this; and do you for them and to them, as you + would willingly have them, or any others, do unto you, were you + in the like slavish condition, and bring them to know the Lord + Christ." And in his Journal, speaking of the advice which he + gave his friends at Barbados, he says, "I desired also that they + would cause their overseers to deal mildly and gently with their + negroes, and not to use cruelty towards them, as the manner of + some had been, and that after certain years of servitude they + should make them free." + + </p> + <p> + William Edmundson, who was a minister of the society, and, + indeed, a fellow-traveller with George Fox, had the boldness in + + the same island to deliver his sentiments to the governor on the + same subject. Having been brought before him and accused of + making the Africans Christians, or, in other words, of making + them rebel and destroy their owners, he replied, "That it was a + good thing to bring them to the knowledge of God and Christ + Jesus, and to believe in him who died for them and all men, and + that this would keep them from rebelling, or cutting any person's + throat; but if they did rebel and cut their throats, as the governor + insinuated they would, it would be their own doing, in keeping + them in ignorance and under oppression, in giving them liberty + to be common with women like brutes, and, on the other hand, + in starving them for want of meat and clothes convenient; thus, + giving them liberty in that which God restrained, and restraining + them in that which was meat and clothing." + + </p> + <p> + I do not find any individual of this society moving in this + cause, for some time after the death of George Fox and William + Edmundson. The first circumstance of moment which I discover, + is a resolution of the whole Society on the subject, at their yearly + meeting, held in London in the year 1727. The resolution was + contained in the following words:—"It is the sense of this + meeting, that the importing of negroes from their native country + and relations by Friends is not a commendable nor allowed + practice, and is, therefore, censured by this meeting." + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1758, the Quakers thought it their duty, as + a body, to pass another resolution upon this subject. At this, + time the nature of the trade beginning to be better known, we + find them more animated upon it, as the following extract will + show:— + + </p> + <p> + "We fervently warn all in profession with us, that they + carefully avoid being any way concerned in reaping the unrighteous + profits, arising from the iniquitous practice of dealing in + negro or other slaves; whereby, in the original purchase, one man + selleth another, as he doth the beasts that perish, without any + better pretension to a property in him than that of superior force; + in direct violation of the Gospel rule, which teacheth all to do as + they would be done by, and to do good to all; being the reverse + of that covetous disposition, which furnisheth encouragement to + + those poor ignorant people to perpetuate their savage wars, in + order to supply the demands of this most unnatural traffic, by + which great numbers of mankind, free by nature, are subject to + inextricable bondage, and which hath often been observed to fill + their possessors with haughtiness, tyranny, luxury, and barbarity, + corrupting the minds and debasing the morals of their children, + to the unspeakable prejudice of religion and virtue, and the + exclusion of that holy spirit of universal love, meekness, and + charity, which is the unchangeable nature and the glory of true + Christianity. We, therefore, can do no less, than, with the + greatest earnestness, impress it upon Friends everywhere, that + they endeavour to keep their hands clear of this unrighteous gain + of oppression." + + </p> + <p> + The Quakers hitherto, as appears by the two resolutions + which have been quoted, did nothing more than seriously warn + all those in religious profession with them against being concerned + in this trade. But in three years afterwards, or at the yearly + meeting in 1761, they came to a resolution, as we find by the + following extract from their minutes, that any of their members + haying a concern in it should be disowned:—"This meeting + having reason to apprehend that divers under our name, are + concerned in the unchristian traffic in negroes, doth recommend + it earnestly to the care of Friends everywhere, to discourage, as + much as in them lies, a practice so repugnant to our Christian + profession; and to deal with all such as shall persevere in a + conduct so reproachful to Christianity; and to disown them, if + they desist not therefrom." + + </p> + <p> + The yearly meeting of 1761, having thus agreed to exclude + from membership such as should be found concerned in this trade, + that of 1763 endeavoured to draw the cords, still tighter, by + attaching criminality to those who should aid and abet the trade + in any manner. By the minute, which was made on this occasion, + I apprehend that no one belonging to the Society could + furnish even materials for such voyages. "We renew our + exhortation, that Friends everywhere be especially careful to + keep their hands clear of giving encouragement in any shape to + the Slave Trade, it being evidently destructive of the natural + + rights of mankind, who are all ransomed by one Saviour, and + visited by one divine light, in order to salvation; a + traffic calculated to enrich and aggrandize some upon + the misery of others; + in its nature abhorrent to every just and tender sentiment, and + contrary to the whole tenour of the Gospel." + + </p> + <p> + Some pleasing intelligence having been sent on this subject, + by the Society in America to the Society in England, the yearly + meeting of 1772 thought it their duty to notice it, and to keep + their former resolutions alive by the following minute:—"It + appears that the practice of holding negroes in oppressive and + unnatural bondage hath been so successfully discouraged by + Friends in some of the colonies, as to be considerably lessened. + We cannot but approve of these salutary endeavours, and earnestly + intreat that they may be continued, that through the favour of divine + Providence a traffic, so unmerciful and unjust in its nature to a + part of our own species made, equally with ourselves, for + immortality, may come to be considered by all in its proper + light, and be utterly abolished as a reproach to the + Christian name." + + </p> + <p> + I must beg leave to stop here for a moment, just to pay the + Quakers a due tribute of respect for the proper estimation, in + which they have uniformly held the miserable outcasts of society, + who have been the subject of these minutes. What a contrast + does it afford to the sentiments of many others concerning them! + How have we been compelled to prove by a long chain of evidence, + that they had the same feelings and capacities as ourselves! + How many, professing themselves enlightened, even now view + them as of a different species! But in the minutes which have + been cited we have seen them uniformly represented, as persons + "ransomed by one and the same Saviour," "as visited by one + and the same light for salvation," and "as made equally for + immortality as others." These practical views of mankind, as + they are highly honourable to the members of this Society, so + they afford a proof both of the reality and of the consistency of + their religion. + + </p> + <p> + But to return:—From this time, there appears to have been + a growing desire in this benevolent society to step + out of its ordinary course in behalf of this injured + people. It had hitherto confined + + itself to the keeping of its own members unpolluted by any + gain from their oppression. But it was now ready to make an + appeal to others, and to bear a more public testimony in their + favour. Accordingly, in the month of June, 1783, when a bill + had been brought into the House of Commons for certain regulations + to be made with respect to the African Trade, the society + sent the following petition to that branch of the legislature:— + + </p> + <p> + "Your petitioners, met in this their annual assembly, having + solemnly considered the state of the enslaved negroes, conceive + themselves engaged, in religious duty, to lay the suffering situation + of that unhappy people before you, as a subject loudly calling for + the humane interposition of the legislature, + + </p> + <p> + "Your petitioners regret that a nation, professing the Christian + faith, should so far counteract the principles of humanity and + justice, as by the cruel treatment of this oppressed race to fill + their minds with prejudices against the mild and beneficent + doctrines of the gospel. + + </p> + <p> + "Under the countenance of the laws of this country, many + thousand of these our fellow-creatures, entitled to the natural + rights of mankind, are held as personal property in cruel bondage; + and your petitioners being informed that a Bill for the Regulation + of the African Trade is now before the House, containing a + clause which restrains the officers of the African Company from + exporting negroes, your petitioners, deeply affected with + a consideration of the rapine, oppression, and bloodshed, + attending this traffic, humbly request that this + restriction may be extended to + all persons whomsoever, or that the House would grant such other + relief in the premises as in its wisdom may seem meet." + + </p> + <p> + This petition was presented by Sir Cecil Wray, who, on introducing + it, spoke very respectfully of the society. He declared + his hearty approbation of their application, and said he hoped he + should see the day when not a slave would remain within the + dominions of this realm. Lord North seconded the motion, saying + he could have no objection to the petition, and that its object + ought to recommend it to every humane breast; that it did credit + to the most benevolent society in the world; but that, the session, + being so far advanced, the subject, could not then be taken into + + consideration; and he regretted that the Slave Trade, against + which the petition was so justly directed, was in a commercial + view become necessary to almost every nation of Europe. The + petition was then brought up and read, after which it was ordered + to lie on the table. This was the first petition (being two years + earlier than that from the inhabitants of Bridgewater), which was + ever presented to parliament for the abolition of the Slave Trade. + + </p> + <p> + But the society did not stop here; for having at the yearly + meeting of 1783 particularly recommended the cause to a standing + committee, appointed to act at intervals, called the Meeting for + Sufferings, the latter in this same year resolved upon an address + to the public, entitled, <em>The Case of our Fellow-creatures, the + oppressed Africans, respectfully recommended to the serious Consideration of the Legislature of Great Britain, by the People + called Quakers</em>: in which they endeavoured, in the most pathetic + manner, to make the reader acquainted with the cruel nature of + this trade; and they ordered 2000 copies of it to be printed. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1784, they began the distribution of this case. The + first copy was sent to the king through Lord Carmarthen, and the + second and the third, through proper officers, to the queen and + the Prince of Wales. Others were sent by a deputation of two + members of the society to Mr. Pitt, as prime-minister; to the + Lord Chancellor Thurlow; to Lord Gower, as president of the + council; to Lords Carmarthen and Sidney, as secretaries of state; + to Lord Chief-Justice Mansfield; to Lord Howe, as first lord of + the Admiralty; and to C.F. Cornwall, Esq., as speaker of the + House of Commons. Copies were sent also to every member of + both houses of parliament. + + </p> + <p> + The society, in the same year, anxious that the conduct of its + members should be consistent with its public profession on this + great subject, recommended it to the quarterly and monthly + meetings to inquire through their respective districts, whether + any, bearing its name, were in any way concerned in the traffic, + and to deal with such, and to report the success of their labours + in the ensuing year. Orders were also given for the reprinting + and circulation of 10,000 other copies of <em>The Case</em>. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1785, the society interested itself again in a + + similar manner. For the Meeting for Sufferings, as representing + it, recommended to the quarterly meetings to distribute a work, + written by Anthony Benezet, in America, called <em>A Caution to + Great Britain and her Colonies, in a short Representation of the + calamitous State of the enslaved Negroes in the British + Dominions.</em> This book was accordingly forwarded to + them for this purpose. On receiving it, they sent it + among several public bodies, the regular and dissenting + clergy, justices of the peace, and particularly among + the great Schools of the kingdom, that the rising + youth might acquire a knowledge, and at the same time a + detestation, of this cruel traffic. In this latter base, + a deputation of the + society waited, upon the masters, to know if they would allow + their scholars to receive it. The schools of Westminster, the + Charter-house, St. Paul, Merchant-Taylors, Eton, Winchester, + and Harrow, were among those visited. Several academies also + were visited for this purpose. + + </p> + <p> + But I must now take my leave of the Quakers as a public + body<a class="notelink" href="#NoteIV_1"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootIV_1"></a> and go back to the year 1783, to record an event, which + will be found of great importance in the present history, and in + which only individuals belonging to the society were concerned. + This event seems to have arisen naturally out of existing or past + circumstances. For the society, as I have before stated, had sent + a petition to parliament in this year, praying for the abolition, of + the Slave Trade. It had also laid the foundation for a public + distribution of the books as just mentioned, with a view of + enlightening others on this great subject. The case of the + ship Zong, + which I have before had occasion to explain, had occurred this + same year. A letter also had been presented, much about the + same time, by Benjamin West, from Anthony Benezet, before + mentioned, to our queen, in behalf of the injured Africans, which + she had received graciously. These subjects occupied at this + time the attention of many Quaker families, and among others, + that of a few individuals, who were in close intimacy with each + other. These, when they met together, frequently conversed + upon them. They perceived, as facts came out in conversation, + + that there was a growing knowledge and hatred of the Slave Trade, + and that the temper of the times was ripening towards its abolition. + Hence a disposition manifested itself among these, to + unite as labourers for the furtherance of so desirable an object. + An union was at length proposed and approved of, and the + following persons (placed in alphabetical order) came together to + execute the offices growing out of it:— + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteIV_1"></a><a href="#FootIV_1">A</a>: The Quakers, as a public body, kept the subject alive + at their yearly meeting in 1784, 1785, 1787, &c. + </p> + <table> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">WILLIAM DILLWYN,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">THOMAS KNOWLES, M.D.</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">GEORGE HARRISON,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">JOHN LLOYD,</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">SAMUEL HOARE,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">JOSEPH WOODS.</td> + </tr> + </table> + <p> + The first meeting was held on the seventh of July, 1783. At + this "they assembled to consider what steps they should take for + the relief and liberation of the negro slaves in the West Indies, + and for the discouragement of the Slave Trade on the coast of + Africa." + + </p> + <p> + To promote this object; they conceived it necessary that the + public mind should be enlightened respecting it. They had recourse; + therefore, to the public papers, and they appointed their + members in turn to write in these, and to see that their productions + were inserted. They kept regular minutes for this purpose. + It was not however known to the world that such an association + existed. + + </p> + <p> + It appears that they had several meetings in the course of + this year. Before the close of it they had secured a place in the + <em>General Evening Post</em>, in <em>Lloyd's Evening Post</em>, + in the Norwich, Bath, York, Bristol, Sherborne, Liverpool, Newcastle, and + other provincial papers, for such articles as they chose to send to them. + These consisted principally of extracts from such authors, both in prose + and verse, as they thought would most enlighten and interest the mind + upon the subject of their institution. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1784 they pursued the same plan; but they began + now to print books. The first was from a manuscript composed + by Joseph Woods, one of the committee; It was entitled, + <em>Thoughts on the Slavery of the Negroes</em>. This + manuscript was well put together. It was a manly and yet + feeling address in behalf + of the oppressed Africans. It contained a sober and dispassionate + + appeal to the reason of all, without offending the prejudices of any. + It was distributed at the expense of the association, and proved to + be highly useful to the cause which it was intended to promote. + + </p> + <p> + A communication having been made to the committee, that + Dr. Porteus, then Bishop of Chester, had preached a sermon before + the society for the propagation of the gospel, in behalf of the + injured Africans, (which sermon was noticed in the last chapter,) + Samuel Hoare was deputed to obtain permission to publish it. + This led him to a correspondence with Mr. Ramsay before mentioned. + The latter applied in consequence to the bishop, and + obtained his consent. Thus this valuable sermon was also given + to the world. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1785, the association continued their exertions as + before; but I have no room to specify them. I may observe, however, + that David Barclay, a grandson of the great apologist of that + name, assisted at one of their meetings, and (what is singular) + that he was in a few years afterwards unexpectedly called to a + trial of his principles on this very subject. For he and his + brother John became, in consequence of a debt due to them, possessed + of a large grazing farm, or pen, in Jamaica, which had + thirty-two slaves upon it. Convinced, however, that the retaining + of their fellow-creatures in bondage was not only irreconcilable + with the principles of Christianity, but subversive of the rights of + human nature, they determined upon the emancipation of these. + And they<a class="notelink" href="#NoteIV_2"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootIV_2"></a> performed + this generous office to the satisfaction of + their minds, to the honour of their characters, to the benefit of + the public, and to the happiness of the slave<a class="notelink" href="#NoteIV_3"><sup>B</sup></a><a name="FootIV_3"></a>. I + mention this + + anecdote, not only to gratify myself, by paying a proper respect to + those generous persons who sacrificed their interest to principle, + but also to show the sincerity of David Barclay, (who is now the + only surviving brother,) as he actually put in practice what at + one of these meetings he was desirous of recommending to others. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteIV_2"></a><a href="#FootIV_2">A</a>: They engaged an agent to embark for Jamaica in 1796 to + effect this business, and had the slaves conveyed to Philadelphia, + where they were kindly received by the Society for improving the + Condition of free Black people. Suitable situations were found + for the adults, and the young ones were bound out apprentices to + handicraft trades, and to receive school learning. + </p> + <p><a name="NoteIV_3"></a><a href="#FootIV_3">B</a>: James + Pemberton, of Philadelphia, made the following + observation in a letter to a Friend in England:—"David Barclay's + humane views towards the Blacks from Jamaica have been so far + realized, that these objects of his concern enjoy their freedom + with comfort to themselves, and are respectable in their + characters, keeping up a friendly intercourse with each other, + and avoiding to + intermix with the common Blacks of this city, being sober in + their conduct and industrious in their business." + </p> + <p> + Having now brought up the proceedings of this little association + towards the year 1786, I shall take my leave of it, remarking, + that it was the first ever formed in England for the promotion + of the abolition of the Slave Trade. That Quakers have had this + honour is unquestionable. Nor is it extraordinary that they + should have taken the lead on this occasion, when we consider + how advantageously they have been situated for so doing. For + the Slave Trade, as we have not long ago seen, came within the + discipline of the society in the year 1727. From thence it continued + to be an object of it till 1783. In 1783 the society + petitioned parliament, and in 1784 it distributed books to enlighten + the public concerning it. Thus we see that every Quaker, + born since the year 1727, was nourished as it were in a fixed + hatred against it. He was taught, that any concern in it was a + crime of the deepest dye. He was taught, that the bearing of his + testimony against it was a test of unity with those of the same + religious profession. The discipline of the Quakers was therefore + a school for bringing them up as advocates for the abolition of + this trade. To this it may be added, that the Quakers knew + more about the trade and the slavery of the Africans, than any + other religious body of men, who had not been in the land of their + sufferings. For there had been a correspondence between the + society in America and that in England on the subject, the contents + of which must have been known to the members of each. + American ministers also were frequently crossing the Atlantic on + religious missions to England. These, when they travelled + through various parts of our island, frequently related to the + Quaker families in their way the cruelties they had seen and + heard of in their own country. English ministers were also frequently + going over to America on the same religious errand. + These, on their return, seldom failed to communicate what they + had learned or observed, but more particularly relative to the + + oppressed Africans, in their travels. The journals also of these, + which gave occasional accounts of the sufferings of the slaves, + were frequently published. Thus situated in point of knowledge, + and brought up moreover from their youth in a detestation of the + trade, the Quakers were ready to act whenever a favourable + opportunity should present itself. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + + <h2><a name="chap5"></a>CHAPTER V. + </h2> + <p><b>Third class of forerunners and coadjutors, up to 1787, consists of the Quakers + and others in America.—Yearly meeting for Pennsylvania and the Jerseys + takes up the subject in 1696; and continue it till 1787.—Other five yearly + meetings take similar measures.—Quakers, as individuals, also become + labourers; William Burling and others.—Individuals of other religious + denominations take up the cause also; Judge Sewell and others.—Union + of the Quakers with others in a society for Pennsylvania, in 1774; James + Pemberton; Dr. Rush.—Similar union of the Quakers with others for New + York and other provinces.</b></p> + + <p> + The next class of the forerunners and coadjutors, up to the + year 1787, will consist, first, of the Quakers in America; and + then of others, as they were united to these for the same object. + + </p> + <p> + It may be asked, How the Quakers living there should have + become forerunners and coadjutors in the great work now under + our consideration. I reply, first, that it was an object for many + years with these to do away the Slave Trade as it was carried on + in their own ports. But this trade was conducted in part, both + before and after the independence of America, by our own + countrymen. It was, secondly, an object with these to annihilate + slavery in America; and this they have been instruments in + accomplishing to a considerable extent. But any abolition of + slavery within given boundaries must be a blow to the Slave + Trade there. The American Quakers, lastly, living in a land + where both the commerce and slavery existed, were in the way + of obtaining a number of important facts relative to both, which + made for their annihilation; and communicating many of these + facts to those in England, who espoused the same cause, they + became fellow-labourers with these in producing the event in + question. + + </p> + <p> + The Quakers in America, it must be owned, did most of them + originally as other settlers there with respect to the purchase of + slaves. They had lands without a sufficient number of labourers, + and families without a sufficient number of servants, for their + + work. Africans were poured in to obviate these difficulties, and + these were bought promiscuously by all. In these days, indeed, + the purchase of them was deemed favourable to both parties, for + there was little or no knowledge of the manner in which they + had been procured as slaves. There was no charge of inconsistency + on this account, as in later times. But though many of + the Quakers engaged, without their usual consideration, in purchases + of this kind, yet those constitutional principles, which + belong to the society, occasioned the members of it in general to + treat those whom they purchased with great tenderness, considering + them, though of a different colour, as brethren, and as + persons for whose spiritual welfare it became them to be concerned; + so that slavery, except as to the power legally belonging + to it, was in general little more than servitude in their hands. + + </p> + <p> + This treatment, as it was thus mild on the continent of + America where the members of this society were the owners of + slaves, so it was equally mild in The West India Islands where + they had a similar property. In the latter countries, however, + where only a few of them lived, it began soon to be productive of + serious consequences; for it was so different from that which the + rest of the inhabitants considered to be proper, that the latter + became alarmed at it. Hence in Barbados an act was passed + in 1676, under Governor Atkins, which was entitled, An Act + to prevent the people called Quakers from bringing their Negroes + into their meetings for worship, though they held these in their + own houses. This act was founded on the pretence, that the + safety of the island might be endangered, if the slaves were to + imbibe the religious principles of their masters. Under this + act Ralph Fretwell and Richard Sutton were fined in the + different sums of eight hundred and of three hundred pounds, + because each of them had suffered a meeting of the Quakers + at his own house, at the first of which eighty negroes, and + at the second of which thirty of them were present. But + this matter was carried still further; for in 1680, Sir Richard + Dutton, then governor of the island, issued an order to the + Deputy Provost Marshal and others, to prohibit all meetings of + this society. In the island of Nevis the same bad spirit manifested + + itself. So early as in 1661, a law was made there prohibiting + members of this society from coming on shore. Negroes were + put in irons for being present at their meetings, and they themselves + were fined also. At length, in 1677, another act was + passed, laying a heavy penalty on every master of a vessel + who should even bring a Quaker to the island. In Antigua and + Bermudas similar proceedings took place, so that the + Quakers were in time expelled from this part of the world. By + these means a valuable body of men were lost to the community + in these islands, whose example might have been highly useful; + and the poor slave, who saw nothing but misery in his temporal + prospects, was deprived of the only balm which could have + soothed his sorrow—the comfort of religion. + + </p> + <p> + But to return to the continent of America. Though the + treatment which the Quakers adopted there towards those Africans + who fell into their hands, was so highly commendable, it + did not prevent individuals among them from becoming uneasy + about holding them in slavery at all. Some of these bore their + private testimony against it from the beginning as a wrong practice, + and in process of time brought it before the notice of their + brethren as a religious body. So early as in the year 1688, some + emigrants from Krieshiem in Germany, who had adopted the + principles of William Penn, and followed him into Pennsylvania, + urged, in the yearly meeting of the society there, the inconsistency + of buying, selling, and holding men in slavery, with the + principles of the Christian religion. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1696, the yearly meeting for that province took + up the subject as a public concern, and the result was, advice to + the members of it to guard against future-importations of African + slaves, and to be particularly attentive to the treatment of those + who were then in their possession. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1711, the same yearly meeting resumed the important + subject, and confirmed and renewed the advice which had + been before given. + + </p> + <p> + From this time it continued to keep the subject alive; but + finding at length, that though individuals refused to purchase + slaves, yet others continued the custom, and in greater numbers + + than it was apprehended would have been the case after the + public declarations which had been made, it determined, in the + year 1754, upon a fuller and more serious publication of its sentiments; + and therefore it issued, in the same year, the following + pertinent letter to all the members within its jurisdiction:— + + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + Dear Friends, + + </p> + <p> + It hath frequently been the concern of our yearly meeting + to testify their uneasiness and disunity with the importation + and purchasing of negroes and other slaves, and to direct the + overseers of the several meetings to advise and deal with such as + engage therein. And it hath likewise been the continual care of + many weighty friends to press those who bear our name, to guard, + as much as possible, against being in any respect concerned in + promoting the bondage of such unhappy people. Yet, as we + have with sorrow to observe, that their number is of late increased + among us, we have thought it proper to make our advice + and judgment more public, that none may plead ignorance of our + principles therein; and also again earnestly to exhort all to avoid, + in any manner, encouraging that practice of making slaves of our + fellow-creatures. + + </p> + <p> + Now, dear friends, if we continually bear in mind the royal + law of doing to others as we would be done by, we should never + think of bereaving our fellow-creatures of that valuable + blessing—liberty, nor endure to grow rich by their bondage. To live in + ease and plenty by the toil of those whom violence and cruelty + have put in our power, is neither consistent with Christianity nor + common justice; and, we have good reason to believe, draws + down the displeasure of Heaven; it being a melancholy but true + reflection, that, where slave-keeping prevails, pure religion and + sobriety decline, as it evidently tends to harden the heart, and + render the soul less susceptible of that holy spirit of love, + meekness and charity, which is the peculiar characteristic of a true + Christian. + + </p> + <p> + How then can we, who have been concerned to publish the + Gospel of universal love and peace among mankind, be so inconsistent with + ourselves, as to purchase such as are prisoners of war, + + and thereby encourage, this anti-Christian practice; and more + especially as many of these poor creatures are stolen away, + parents from children, and children from parents; and others, + who were in good circumstances in their native country, inhumanly torn + from what they esteemed a happy situation, and + compelled to toil in a state of slavery, too often extremely cruel! + + </p> + <p> + What dreadful scenes of murder and cruelty those barbarous + ravages must occasion in these unhappy people's country are too + obvious to mention. Let us make their case our own, and consider + what we should think, and how we should feel, were we in + their circumstances. Remember our blessed Redeemer's positive + command—to do unto others as we would have them do unto + us;—and that with what measure we mete, it shall be measured + to us again. And we intreat you to examine, whether the purchasing + of a negro, either born here or imported, doth not contribute to a + further importation, and, consequently, to the upholding of all + the evils above mentioned, and to the promoting of + man-stealing, the, only theft which by the Mosaic law was + punished with death;—He that stealeth a man and selleth him + or if he be found in his hand, he shall surely be put to death.' + + </p> + <p> + The characteristic and badge of a true Christian is love and + continual exercise of them: 'Love one, another,' says he, 'as I have + loved you.' But how can we be said to love our brethren who + bring, or, for selfish ends, keep them in bondage? Do we act + consistently with this noble principle, who lay such heavy burdens + on our fellow creatures? Do we consider that they are called + and do we sincerely desire that they may become heirs with us + in glory, and that they may rejoice in the liberty of the sons of + God, whilst we are withholding from them the common liberties + of mankind? Or can the spirit of God, by which we have + always professed to be led, be the author of these oppressive and + unrighteous measures? Or do we not thereby manifest, that + temporal interest hath more influence on our conduct herein, than + the dictates of that merciful, holy, and unerring Guide? + + </p> + <p> + And we, likewise, earnestly recommend to all who have slaves, + to be careful to come up in the performance of their duty + + towards them, and to be particularly watchful over their own + hearts, it being, by sorrowful experience, remarkable that custom + and a familiarity with evil of any kind, have a tendency to bias + the judgment and to deprave the mind; and it is obvious, that + the future welfare of these poor slaves, who are now in bondage, + is generally too much disregarded by those who keep them. If + their daily task of labour be but fulfilled, little else, perhaps, is + thought of: nay, even that which in others would be looked + upon with horror and detestation, is little regarded in them by + their masters; such as the frequent separation of husbands from + wives, and wives from husbands, whereby they are tempted to + break their marriage covenants, and live in adultery, in direct + opposition to the laws of God and men, although we believe that + Christ died for all men without respect of persons. How fearful + then ought we to be of engaging in what hath so natural a + tendency to lesson our humanity, and of suffering ourselves to be + inured to the exercise of hard and cruel measures, lest thereby, + in any degree, we lose our tender and feeling sense of the miseries + of our fellow-creatures, and become worse than those who + have not believed. + + </p> + <p> + And, dear friends, you, who by inheritance have slaves + born in your families, we beseech you to consider them as souls + committed to your trust, whom the Lord will require at your + hand, and who, as well as you, are made partakers of the Spirit + of grace, and called to be heirs of salvation. And let it be your + constant care to watch over them for good, instructing them in + the fear of God and the knowledge of the Gospel of Christ, that + they may answer the end of their creation, and that God may be + glorified and honoured by them, as well as by us. And so train + them up, that if you should come to behold their unhappy situation, + in the same light that many worthy men who are at rest + have done, and many of your brethren now do, and should think + it your duty to set them free, they may be the more capable of + making proper use of their liberty. + + </p> + <p> + Finally, brethren, we intreat you, in the bowels of Gospel-love, + seriously to weigh the Cause of detaining them in bondage. + If it be for your own private gain, or any other motive than their + + good, it is much to be feared that the love of God, and the influence + of the Holy Spirit, are not the prevailing principles in you, + and that your hearts are not sufficiently redeemed from the + world, which, that you with ourselves may more and more come + to witness, through the cleansing virtue of the Holy Spirit of + Jesus Christ, is our earnest desire. With the salutation of our + love we are your friends and brethren:— + + </p> + <p><i>"Signed, in behalf of the yearly + meeting, by</i></p> + <table> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">JOHN EVANS,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">ABRAHAM FARRINGDON,</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">JOHN SMITH,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">JOSEPH NOBLE,</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">THOMAS CARLETON,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">JAMES DANIEL,</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">WILLIAM TRIMBLE,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">JOSEPH GIBSON,</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">JOHN SCARBOROUGH,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">JOHN SHOTWELL,</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">JOSEPH HAMPTON,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">JOSEPH PARKER."</td> + </tr> + </table> + </blockquote> + <p> + This truly Christian letter, which was written in the year + 1754, was designed, as we collect from the contents of it, to make + the sentiments of the society better known and attended to on + the subject of the Slave Trade. It contains, as we see, exhortations + to all the members within the yearly meeting of Pennsylvania + and the Jerseys, to desist from purchasing and importing + slaves, and, where they possessed them, to have a tender consideration + of their condition. But that the first part of the subject of this + exhortation might be enforced, the yearly meeting for the same provinces + came to a resolution in 1755, That if any of the members belonging to + it bought or imported slaves, the overseers + were to inform their respective monthly meetings of it, that + "these might treat with them, as they might be directed in the + wisdom of truth." + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1774, we find the same yearly meeting legislating + again on the same subject. By the preceding resolution they + who became offenders, were subjected only to exclusion from the + meetings for discipline, and from the privilege of contributing to + the pecuniary occasions of the Society; but, by the resolution of + the present year, all members concerned in importing, selling, + purchasing, giving, or transferring negro or other slaves, or otherwise + + acting in such manner as to continue them in slavery + beyond the term limited by law<a class="notelink" href="#NoteV_1"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootV_1"></a> or custom, + were directed to be + excluded from membership or disowned. At this meeting also + all the members of it were cautioned and advised against acting + as executors or administrators to estates, where slaves were + bequeathed, or likely to be detained in bondage. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteV_1"></a><a href="#FootV_1">A</a>: This alludes to the + term of servitude for white persons in these provinces. + </p> + <p> + In the year 1776, the same yearly meeting carried the matter + still further. It was enacted, That the owners of slaves, who + refused to execute proper instruments for giving them their + freedom, were to be disowned likewise. + + </p> + <p> + In 1778 it was enacted by the same meeting, that the + children of those who had been set free by members, should be + tenderly advised, and have a suitable education given them. + + </p> + <p> + It is not necessary to proceed further on this subject. It + may be sufficient to say, that from this time the minutes of the + yearly meeting for Pennsylvania and the Jerseys exhibit proofs + of an almost incessant attention, year after year<a class="notelink" href="#NoteV_2"><sup>B</sup></a><a name="FootV_2"></a>, to + the means not only of wiping away the stain of slavery from their religious + community, but of promoting the happiness of those restored to + freedom, and of their posterity also; and as the yearly meeting + of Pennsylvania and the Jerseys set this bright example, so those + of New England, New York, Maryland, Virginia, and of the + Carolinas and Georgia, in process of time followed it. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteV_2"></a><a href="#FootV_2">B</a>: Thus + in 1778-1782, 1784-1786. The members also of this meeting petitioned + their own legislature on this subject, both in 1783 and in 1786. + </p> + <p> + But, whilst the Quakers were making these exertions at their + different yearly meetings in America, as a religious body, to get + rid both of the commerce and slavery of their fellow-creatures, + others, in the same profession; were acting as individuals, (that + is, on their own grounds, and independently of any influence from + their religious communion,) in the same cause, whose labours it + will now be proper, in a separate narrative, to detail. + + </p> + <p> + The first person of this description in the Society, was + William Burling, of Long Island. He had conceived an abhorrence + of slavery from early youth. In process of time he began + + to bear his testimony against it, by representing the unlawfulness + of it to those of his own Society, when assembled at one of their + yearly meetings. This expression of his public testimony, he + continued annually on the same occasion. He wrote also + several Tracts with the same design, one of which, published in + the year 1718, he addressed to the elders of his own church, on + the inconsistency of compelling people and their posterity to + serve them continually and arbitrarily, and without any proper + recompense for their services. + + </p> + <p> + The next was Ralph Sandiford, a merchant in Philadelphia. + This worthy person had many offers of pecuniary assistance, + which would have advanced him in life, but he declined them all + because they came from persons who had acquired their independence + by the oppression of their slaves. He was very earnest + in endeavouring to prevail upon his friends, both, in and out of + the society, to liberate those whom they held in bondage. At + length he determined upon a work called the <em>Mystery of Iniquity</em>, + in a brief examination of the practice of the times. This he + published in the year 1780, though the chief judge had threatened + him if he should give it to the world, and he circulated it free + of expense wherever he believed it would be useful. The above + work was excellent as a composition; the language of it was + correct; the style manly and energetic; and it abounded with + facts, sentiments, and quotations, which, while, they showed the + virtue and talents of the author, rendered it a valuable appeal in + behalf of the African cause. + + </p> + <p> + The next public advocate was Benjamin Lay<a class="notelink" href="#NoteV_3"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootV_3"></a>, who lived at + Abington, at the distance of twelve or fourteen miles from + Philadelphia. Benjamin Lay was known, when in England, to the + royal family of that day, into whose private presence he was + admitted. On his return to America, he took an active part in + behalf of the oppressed Africans. In the year 1737, he published + a <em>Treatise on Slave-Keeping</em>. This he gave away among his + + neighbours and others, but more particularly among the rising + youth, many of whom he visited in their respective schools. He + applied also to several of the governors for interviews, with whom + he held conferences on the subject. Benjamin Lay was a man of + strong understanding and of great integrity, but of warm and + irritable feelings, and more particularly so when he was called + forth on any occasion in which the oppressed Africans were concerned; + for he had lived in the island of Barbados, and he had + witnessed there scenes of cruelty towards them which had greatly + disturbed his mind, and which unhinged it, as it were, whenever + the subject of their sufferings was brought before him. Hence, if + others did not think precisely as he did, when he conversed with + them on the subject, he was apt to go out of due bounds. In + bearing what he believed to be his testimony against this system + of oppression, he adopted sometimes a singularity of manner, by + which, as conveying demonstration of a certain eccentricity of + character, he diminished in some degree his usefulness to the + cause which he had undertaken; as far, indeed, as this eccentricity + might have the effect of preventing others from joining + him in his pursuit, lest they should be thought singular also, so + far it must be allowed that he ceased to become beneficial. But + there can be no question, on the other hand, that his warm and + enthusiastic manners awakened the attention of many to the + cause, and gave them first impressions concerning it, which they + never afterwards forgot, and which rendered them useful to it in + the subsequent part of their lives. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteV_3"></a><a href="#FootV_3">A</a>: Benjamin + Lay attended the meetings for worship, or associated + himself with the religious society of the Quakers. His wife, too, was an + approved minister of the Gospel in that society; but I believe he was not + long an acknowledged member of it himself. + </p> + <p> + The person who laboured next in the society, in behalf of the + oppressed Africans, was John Woolman. + + </p> + <p> + John Woolman was born at Northampton, in the county of + Burlington and province of Western New Jersey, in the year + 1720. In his very early youth he attended, in an extraordinary + manner, to the religious impressions which he perceived upon his + mind, and began to have an earnest solicitude about treading in + the right path. "From what I had read and heard," says he, in + his Journal<a class="notelink" href="#NoteV_4"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootV_4"></a>, "I + believed there had been in past ages, people + + who walked in uprightness before God in a degree exceeding any, + that I knew or heard of, now living. And the apprehension of + there being less steadiness and firmness among people of this age, + than in past ages, often troubled me while I was a child." An + anxious desire to do away, as far as himself was concerned, + this merited reproach, operated as one among other causes to + induce him to be particularly watchful over his thoughts and + actions, and to endeavour to attain that purity of heart, without + which he conceived there could be no perfection of the Christian + character. Accordingly, in the twenty-second year of his age, he + had given such proof of the integrity of his life, and of his religious + qualifications, that he became an acknowledged minister of + the Gospel in his own society. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteV_4"></a><a href="#FootV_4">A</a>: This short sketch of the life and + labours of John Woolman, is made up from his Journal. + </p> + <p> + At a time prior to his entering upon the ministry, being in + low circumstances, he agreed for wages to "attend shop for a + person at Mount Holly, and to keep his books." In this situation + we discover, by an occurrence that happened, that he had + thought seriously on the subject, and that he had conceived + proper views of the Christian unlawfulness of slavery. "My + employer," says he, "having a Negro woman, sold her, and + desired me to write a bill of sale, the man being waiting who + bought her. The thing was sudden, and though the thought of + writing an instrument of slavery for one of my fellow-creatures + made me feel uneasy, yet I remembered I was hired by the year, + that it was my master who directed me to do it, and that it was + an elderly man, a member of our society, who bought her. So + through weakness I gave way and wrote, but, at executing it, I + was so afflicted in my mind, that I said before my master and the + friend, that I believed slave-keeping to be a practice inconsistent + with the Christian religion. This in some degree abated my + uneasiness; yet, as often as I reflected seriously upon it, I + thought I should have been clearer, if I had desired to have been + excused from it, as a thing against my conscience; for such it + was. And some time after this, a young man of our society + spoke to me to write a conveyance of a slave to him, he having + lately taken a Negro into his house. I told him I was not easy + to write it; for though many of our meeting, and in other places, + + kept slaves, I still believed the practice was not right, and desired + to be excused from the writing. I spoke to him in good-will; + and he told me that keeping slaves was not altogether agreeable + to his mind, but that the slave being a gift to his wife he had + accepted of her." + + </p> + <p> + We may easily conceive that a person so scrupulous and + tender on this subject, (as indeed John Woolman was on all + others,) was in the way of becoming in time more eminently + serviceable to his oppressed fellow-creatures. We have seen + already the good seed sown in his heart, and it seems to have + wanted only providential seasons and occurrences to be brought + into productive fruit. Accordingly we find that a journey, + which he took as a minister of the Gospel in 1746 through the + provinces of Maryland, Virginia, and, North Carolina, which + were then more noted than others for the number of slaves in + them, contributed to prepare him as an instrument for the + advancement of this great cause. The following are his own + observations upon this journey:—"Two things were remarkable + to me in this journey; first, in regard to my entertainment. + When I ate, drank, and lodged free-cost, with people who lived + in ease on the hard labour of their slaves, I felt uneasy; and, as + my mind was inward to the Lord, I found, from place to place, + this uneasiness return upon me at times through the whole visit. + Where the masters bore a good share of the burden and lived + frugally, so that their servants were well provided for; and their + labour moderate, I felt more easy; but where they lived in a + costly way, and laid heavy burdens on their slaves, my exercise + was often great, and I frequently had conversations with them in + private concerning it. Secondly, this trade of importing slaves + from their native country being much encouraged among them, + and the white people and their children so generally living without + much labour, was frequently the subject of my serious + thoughts: and I saw in these southern provinces so many vices + and corruptions, increased by this trade and this way of life, that + it appeared to me as a gloom over the land." + + </p> + <p> + From the year 1747 to the year 1758, he seems to have been + occupied chiefly as a minister of religion, but in the latter year + + he published a work upon slave-keeping; and in the same year, + while travelling within the compass of his own monthly meeting, + a circumstance happened which kept alive his attention to the + same Subjects. + + </p> + <p> + "About this time" says he, "a person at some + distance lying sick, his brother came to me to write his will. I + knew he had slaves, and asking his brother was told he intended + to leave them as slaves to his children. As writing was a profitable + employ, and as offending sober people was disagreeable to + my inclination, I was straitened in my mind, but as I looked to + the Lord he inclined my heart to his testimony; and I told the + man that I believed the practice of continuing slavery to this + people was not right, and that I had a scruple in my mind against + doing writings of that kind; that, though many in our society + kept them as slaves, still I was not easy to be concerned in it, and + desired to be excused from going to write the will. I spoke to + him in the fear of the Lord; and he made no reply to what I said, but + went away: he also had some concerns in the practice, and + I thought he was displeased with me. In this case I had a + confirmation, that acting contrary to present outward interest + from a motive of Divine love, and in regard to truth and + righteousness, opens the way to a treasure better than silver, and + to a friendship exceeding the friendship of men." + + </p> + <p> + From 1753 to 1755, two circumstances of a similar kind took + place, which contributed greatly to strengthen him in the path he + had taken; for in both these cases the persons who requested him + to make their wills were so impressed by the principle upon + which he refused them, and by his manner of doing it, that they + bequeathed liberty to their slaves. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1756, he made a religious visit to several of + the society in Long Island. Here it was that the seed, now + long fostered by the genial influences of Heaven, began to burst + forth into fruit; Till this time he seems to have been a passive + instrument, attending only to such circumstances as came in his + way on this subject. But now he became an active one, looking + out for circumstances for the exercise of his labours. + + </p> + <p> + "My mind," says he; "was deeply engaged in this visit, both in + public and private; and at several places, observing that members + + kept slaves, I found myself under a necessity, in a friendly way, + to labour with them, on that subject, expressing, as the way + opened, the inconsistency of that practice with the parity of + the Christian religion, and the ill effects of it as manifested + amongst us." + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1757, he felt, his mind so deeply interested on the + same subject, that he resolved to travel over Maryland, Virginia, + and North Carolina, in order to try to convince persons, principally + in his own society, of the inconsistency of holding slaves. + He joined his brother with him in this arduous service. Having + passed the Susquehanna into Maryland, he began to experience + great agitation of mind. "Soon after I entered this province," + says he, "a deep and painful exercise came upon me, which I + often had some feeling of since my mind was drawn towards + these parts, and with which I had acquainted my brother, before + we agreed to join as companions." + + </p> + <p> + "As the people in this and the southern provinces live much + on the labour of slaves, many of whom are used hardly, my concern + was that I might attend with singleness of heart to the voice + of the true Shepherd, and be so supported, as to remain unmoved + at the faces of men." + + </p> + <p> + It is impossible for me to follow him in detail, through this + long and interesting journey, when I consider the bounds I have + prescribed to myself in this work. I shall say, therefore, what I + propose to offer generally, and in a few words. + + </p> + <p> + It appears that he conversed with persons occasionally, who + were not of his own society, with a view of answering their + arguments, and of endeavouring to evince the wickedness and impolicy + of slavery. In discoursing with these, however strenuous he + might appear, he seems never to have departed from a calm, + modest, and yet dignified and even friendly demeanour. At the + public meetings for discipline, held by his own society in these + provinces, he endeavoured to display the same truths, and in the + same manner, but particularly to the elders of his own society, + exhorting them, as the most conspicuous rank, to be careful of + their conduct, and to give a bright example in the liberation of + their slaves. He visited, also, families for the same purpose: and + + he had the well-earned satisfaction of finding his admonitions + kindly received by some, and of seeing a disposition in others to + follow the advice he had given them. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1758, he attended the yearly meeting at Philadelphia, + where he addressed his brethren on the propriety of + dealing with such members as should hereafter purchase slaves. + On the discussion of this point he spoke a second time, and this + to such effect that, he had the satisfaction at this meeting to see + minutes made more fully than any before, and a committee appointed + for the advancement of the great object, to which he had + now been instrumental in turning the attention of many, and to + witness a considerable spreading of the cause. In the same year, + also, he joined himself with two others of the society to visit + such members of it as possessed slaves in Chester county. In + this journey he describes himself to have met with several who + were pleased with his visit, but to have found difficulties with + others, towards whom, however, he felt a sympathy and tenderness, + on account of their being entangled by the spirit of the + world. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1759, he visited several of the society who held + slaves in Philadelphia. In about three months afterwards, he + travelled there again, in company with John Churchman, to see + others under similar circumstances. He then went to different + places on the same errand. In this last journey he went alone. + After this he joined himself to John Churchman again, but he + confined his labours to his own province. Here he had the pleasure + of finding that the work prospered. Soon after this he took + Samuel Eastburne as a coadjutor, and pleaded the cause of the + poor Africans with many of the society in Bucks county, who + held them in bondage there. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1760, he travelled, in company with his friend + Samuel Eastburne, to Rhode Island, to promote the same object. + This island had been long noted for its trade to Africa for slaves. + He found at Newport, the great sea-port town belonging to it, + that a number of them had been lately imported. He felt his + mind deeply impressed on this account. He was almost over-powered + + in consequence of it, and became ill. He thought once + of prompting a petition to the legislature, to discourage all such + importations in future. He then thought of going and speaking + to the House of Assembly, which was then sitting; but he was + discouraged from both these proceedings. He held, however, + conference with many of his own society in the meeting-house + chamber, where the subject of his visit was discussed on both + sides with a calm and peaceable spirit. Many of those present + manifested the concern they felt at their former practices, and + others a desire of taking suitable care of their slaves at their + decease. From Newport he proceeded to Nantucket; but observing + the members of the society there to have few or no + slaves, he exhorted them to persevere in abstaining from the use + of them, and returned home. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1761, he visited several families in Pennsylvania, + and, in about three months afterwards, others about Shrewsbury + and Squan in New Jersey. On his return he added a + part to the treatise before published on the keeping of + care which had been growing upon him for some years. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1762, he printed, published, and distributed this + treatise. + + </p> + <p> + In 1767, he went on foot to the western shores of the same + province on a religious visit. After having crossed the Susquehanna, + his old feelings returned to him; for coming amongst + people living in outward ease and greatness, chiefly on the labour + of slaves, his heart was much affected, and he waited with humble + resignation to learn how he should further perform his duty to + this injured people. The travelling on foot, though it was agreeable + to the state of his mind, he describes to have been wearisome + to his body. He felt himself weakly at times, in consequence of + it, but yet continued to travel on. At one of the quarterly meetings + of the society, being in great sorrow and heaviness, and under + deep exercise on account of the miseries of the poor Africans, he + expressed himself freely to those present, who held them in bondage. + He expatiated on the tenderness and loving-kindness of the + apostles, as manifested in labours, perils, and sufferings, towards + + the poor Gentiles, and contracted their treatment of the Gentiles + with it, whom he described in the persons of their slaves; and + was much satisfied with the result of his discourse. + + </p> + <p> + From this time we collect little more, from his journal + concerning him, than that, in 1772, he embarked for England on a + religious visit. After his arrival there, he travelled through many + counties, preaching in different meetings of the society, till he + came to the city of York. But even here, though he was far + removed from the sight of those whose interests he had so warmly + espoused, he was not forgetful of their wretched condition. At + the quarterly meeting for that county, he brought their case before, + those present in an affecting manner. He exhorted these to + befriend their cause. He remarked that as they, the society, when + under outward sufferings, had often found a concern to lay them + before the legislature, and thereby, in the Lord's time, had obtained + relief; so he recommended this oppressed part of the creation + to their notice, that they might, as, the way opened, represent + their sufferings as individuals, if not as a religious society, + to those in authority in this land. This was the last opportunity + that he had of interesting himself in behalf of this injured people + for soon afterwards he was seized with the small-pox at the + house of a friend in the city of York, where he died. + + </p> + <p> + The next person belonging to the society of the Quakers, who + laboured in behalf of the oppressed Africans, was Anthony + Benezet. He was born before, and he lived after, John + Woolman; of course he was contemporary with him. I place him + after John Woolman, because he was not so much known as a + labourer, till two or three years after the other had begin to move + in the same cause. + + </p> + <p> + Anthony Benezet was born at St. Quintin, in Picardy, of a + respectable family, in the year 1713. His father was one of the + many Protestants who, in consequence of the persecutions which + followed the revocation of the edict of Nantz, sought an asylum + in foreign countries. After a short stay in Holland, he settled, + with his wife and children, in London, in 1715. + + </p> + <p> + Anthony Benezet having received from his father a liberal + education, served an apprenticeship in an eminent mercantile + + house in London. In 1731, however, he removed with his family + to Philadelphia, where he joined in profession with the Quakers. + His three brothers then engaged in trade, and made considerable + pecuniary acquisitions in it. He himself might have partaken + both of their concerns and of their prosperity; but he did not + feel himself at liberty to embark in their undertakings. He + considered the accumulation of wealth as of no importance, when + compared with the enjoyment of doing good; and he chose the + humble situation of a schoolmaster, as according best with this + notion, believing, that by endeavouring to train up youth in + knowledge and virtue, he should become more extensively useful + than in any other way to his fellow-creatures. + + </p> + <p> + He had not been long in his new situation, before he manifested + such an uprightness of conduct, such a courtesy of manners, + such a purity of intention, and such a spirit of benevolence, that + he attracted the notice, and gained the good opinion, of the + inhabitants among whom he lived. He had ready access to them, in + consequence, upon all occasions; and, if there were any whom + he failed to influence at any of these times, he never went away + without the possession of their respect. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1756, when a considerable number of French families + were removed from Acadia into Pennsylvania, on account of + some political suspicions, he felt deeply interested about them. + In a country where few understood their language, they were + wretched and helpless; but Anthony Benezet endeavoured to + soften the rigour of their situation, by his kind attention towards + them. He exerted himself, also, in their behalf, by procuring + many contributions for them, which, by the consent of his + fellow-citizens, were intrusted to his care. + + </p> + <p> + As the principle of benevolence, when duly cultivated, brings + forth fresh shoots, and becomes enlarged, so we find this amiable + person extending the sphere of his usefulness by becoming an + advocate for the oppressed African race. For this service he + seems to have been peculiarly qualified. Indeed, as in all great + works, a variety of talents is necessary to bring them to perfection, + so Providence seems to prepare different men as instruments, + with dispositions and qualifications so various, that each, in pursuing + + that line which seems to suit him best, contributes to furnish + those parts which, when put together, make up a complete + whole. In this point of view, John Woolman found in Anthony + Benezet the coadjutor whom, of all others, the cause required. + The former had occupied himself principally on the subject of + slavery. The latter went to the root of the evil, and more frequently + attacked the trade. The former chiefly confined his + labours to America, and chiefly to those of his own society there. + The latter, when he wrote, did not write for America only, but + for Europe also, and endeavoured to spread a knowledge and + hatred of the traffic through the great society of the world. + + </p> + <p> + One of the means which Anthony Benezet took to promote + the cause in question, (and an effectual one it proved, as far as it + went,) was to give his scholars a due knowledge and proper + impressions concerning it. Situated as they were likely to be in + after-life, in a country where, slavery, was a custom, + he thus prepared many, and this annually, for the promotion of his plans. + + </p> + <p> + To enlighten others, and to give them a similar bias, he had + recourse to different measures from time to time. In the almanacs + published annually in Philadelphia, he procured articles to + be inserted, which he believed would attract the notice of the + reader, and make him pause, at least for a while, as to the licitness + of, the Slave Trade. He wrote also, as he saw occasion, in + the public papers of the day. From small things he proceeded + to greater. He collected, at length, further information on the + subject, and, winding it up with observations and reflections, he + produced several little tracts, which he circulated successively + (but generally at his, own expense), as he considered them + adapted to the temper and circumstances of the times. + + </p> + <p> + In the course of this his employment, having found some who + had approved his tracts, and, to whom, on that account, he wished + to write, and sending his tracts to others, to whom he thought + it proper to introduce them by letter, he found himself engaged + in a correspondence which much engrossed his time, but which + proved of great importance in procuring many advocates for his + cause. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1762, when he had obtained a still greater store + + of information, he published a larger work. This, however, he + entitle <em>A short Account of that part of Africa inhabited by the + Negroes</em> In 1767 he published <em>A Caution and Warning to Great + Britain and her colonies on the calamitous state of the enslaved + Negroes in the British Dominions</em>; and soon after this appeared, + <em>An Historical Account of Guinea, its Situation, Produce, and the + general Disposition of its Inhabitants: with an Inquiry into the + Rise and Progress of the Slave Trade, its Nature, and Calamitous + Effects.</em> This pamphlet contained a clear and distinct development + of the subject, from the best authorities. It contained also, + the sentiments of many enlightened upon it; and it became + instrumental beyond any other book ever before published, in + disseminating a proper knowledge and detestation of this trade. + + </p> + <p> + Anthony Benezet may be considered as one of the most zealous, + vigilant, and active advocates which the cause of the + oppressed Africans ever had. He seemed to have been born and + to have lived for the promotion of it and therefore he never + omitted any the least opportunity of serving it. If a person + called upon him who was going a journey his first thoughts + usually were how he could make him an instrument in its favour; + he either gave him tracts to distribute or he sent letters by + him, or he gave him some commission on the subject; so that he + was the means of employing several persons at the same time, in + various parts of America; in advancing the work he had undertaken. + + </p> + <p> + In the same manner he availed himself of every other circumstance, + as far as he could, to the same end. When he heard that + Mr. Granville Sharp had obtained; in the year 1772, the noble + verdict in the cause of Somerset the slave, he opened a correspondence + with him which he kept up, that there might be an + union of action between them for the future, as far as it could + be effected, and that they might each give encouragement to the + other to proceed. + + </p> + <p> + He opened also a correspondence with George Whitfield and + John Wesley that these might assist him in promoting the cause + of the oppressed. + + </p> + <p> + He wrote also a letter to the Countess of Huntingdon on the + + following subject:—She had founded a college, at the + recommendation of George Whitfield, called the Orphan-house near + Savannah, in Georgia, and had endowed it. The object of this + institution was to furnish scholastic instruction to the poor, and + to prepare some of them for the ministry. George Whitfield, + ever attentive to the cause of the poor Africans, thought that this + institution might have been useful to them also; but soon after + his death, they who succeeded him bought slaves, and these in + unusual numbers to extend the rice and indigo plantations belonging + to the college. The letter then in question was written + by Anthony Benezet, in order to lay before the Countess, as a + religious woman, the misery she was occasioning in Africa, by + allowing the managers of her college in Georgia to give encouragement + to the Slave Trade. The Countess replied, that + such a measure should never have her countenance, and that she + would take care to prevent it. + + </p> + <p> + On discovering that the Abbé Raynal had brought out his + celebrated work, in which he manifested a tender feeling in + behalf of the injured Africans, he entered into a correspondence + with him, hoping to make him yet more useful to their cause. + + </p> + <p> + Finding, also, in the year 1783 that the Slave Trade, which + had greatly declined during the American war, was reviving, he + addressed a pathetic letter to our Queen, (as I mentioned in the + last chapter,) who, on hearing the high character of the writer of + it from Benjamin West, received it with marks of peculiar condescension + and attention. The following is a copy of it:— + + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + TO CHARLOTTE, QUEEN OF GREAT BRITAIN. + + </p> + <p> + Impressed with a sense of religious duty, and encouraged + by the opinion generally entertained of thy benevolent disposition + to succor the distressed, I take the liberty; very respectfully, + to offer to thy perusal some tracts, which, I believe, + faithfully describe the suffering condition of many hundred + thousands of our fellow-creatures of the African race, great + numbers of whom, rent from every tender connexion in life, are + annually taken from their native land; to endure, in the American + + islands and plantations, a most rigorous and cruel slavery; + whereby many, very many of them, are brought to a melancholy + and untimely end. + + </p> + <p> + When it is considered that the inhabitants of Great Britain, + who are themselves so eminently blessed in the enjoyment of + religious and civil liberty, have long been, and yet are, very + deeply concerned in this flagrant violation of the common rights + of mankind, and that even its national authority is exerted in + support of the African Slave Trade, there is much reason to + apprehend that this has been, and, as long as the evil exists, will + continue to be, an occasion of drawing down the Divine displeasure + on the nation and its dependencies. May these considerations + induce thee to interpose thy kind endeavours in behalf of + this greatly injured people, whose abject situation gives them an + additional claim to the pity and assistance of the generous mind, + inasmuch as they are altogether deprived of the means of soliciting + effectual relief for themselves; that so thou mayest not + only be a blessed instrument in the hand of him 'by whom + kings reign and princes decree justice,' to avert the awful judgments + by which the empire has already been so remarkably + shaken, but that the blessings of thousands ready to perish may + come upon thee, at a time when the superior advantages attendant + on thy situation in this world will no longer be of any avail to + thy consolation and support. + + </p> + <p> + To the tracts on this subject to which I have thus ventured + to crave thy particular attention, I have added some which at + different times I have believed it my duty to publish<a class="notelink" href="#NoteV_5"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootV_5"></a>, and + which, I trust, will afford thee some satisfaction, their design + being for the furtherance of that universal peace and good-will + amongst men, which the Gospel was intended to introduce. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteV_5"></a><a href="#FootV_5">A</a>: These + related to the principles of the religious society of the Quakers. + </p> + <p> + "I hope thou wilt kindly excuse the freedom used on this + occasion by an ancient man, whose mind, for more than forty + years past, has been much separated from the common intercourse + of the world, and long painfully exercised in the consideration of + the miseries under which so large a part of mankind, equally + + with us the objects of redeeming love, are suffering the most + unjust and grievous oppression, and who sincerely desires thy + temporal and eternal felicity, and that of thy royal consort. + + </p> + <p> + "ANTHONY BENEZET." + + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Anthony Benezet, besides the care he bestowed upon forwarding + the cause of the oppressed Africans in different parts of the + world, found time to promote the comforts, and improve the + condition of those, in the state in which he lived. Apprehending + that much advantage would arise both to them and the public + from instructing them in common learning, he zealously promoted + the establishment of a school for that purpose. Much of the + two last years of his life he devoted to a personal attendance on + this school, being earnestly desirous that they who came to it + might be better qualified for the enjoyment of that freedom to + which great numbers of them had been then restored. To this + he sacrificed the superior emoluments of his former school, and + his bodily ease also, although the weakness of his constitution + seemed to demand indulgence. By his last will he directed, + that, after the decease of his widow, his whole little fortune (the + savings of the industry of fifty years) should, except a few very + small legacies, be applied to the support of it. During his + attendance upon it he had the happiness to find, (and his situation + enabled him to make the comparison,) that Providence had + been equally liberal to the Africans in genius and talents as to + other people. + + </p> + <p> + After a few days' illness, this excellent man died at Philadelphia, + in the spring of 1784. The interment of his remains + was attended by several thousands of all ranks, professions, and + parties, who united in deploring their loss. The mournful procession + was closed by some hundreds of those poor Africans + who had been personally benefited by his labours, and whose + behaviour on the occasion showed the gratitude and affection they + considered to be due to him as their own private benefactor, as + well as the benefactor of their whole race. + + </p> + <p> + Such, then, were the labours of the Quakers in America; of + individuals, from 1718 to 1784, and of the body at large, from + + 1696 to 1787, in this great cause of humanity and religion. Nor + were the effects produced from these otherwise than corresponding + with what might have been expected from such an union of + exertion in such a cause; for both the evils, that is, the evil of + buying and selling, and the evil of using slaves, ceased at length + with the members of this benevolent society. The leaving off all + concern with the Slave Trade took place first. The abolition of + slavery, though it followed, was not so speedily accomplished; + for, besides the loss of property, when slaves were manumitted, + without any pecuniary consideration in return, their owners had + to struggle, in making them free, against the laws and customs + of the times. In Pennsylvania, where the law in this respect was + the most favourable, the parties wishing to give freedom to a + slave were obliged to enter into a bond for the payment of thirty + pounds currency, in case the said slave should become chargeable + for maintenance. In New Jersey the terms were far less favorable, + as the estate of the owner remained liable to the consequences + of misconduct in the slave, or even in his posterity. In + the southern parts of America manumission was not permitted + but on terms amounting nearly to a prohibition. But, notwithstanding + these difficulties, the Quakers could not be deterred, as + they became convinced of the unlawfulness of holding men in + bondage, from doing that which they believed to be right. Many + liberated their slaves, whatever the consequences were; and some + gave the most splendid example in doing it, not only by consenting, + as others did, thus to give up their property, and to incur + the penalties of manumission, but by calculating and giving what + was due to them, over and above their food and clothing, for + wages<a class="notelink" href="#NoteV_6"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootV_6"></a> from + the beginning of their slavery to the day when + their liberation commenced. Thus manumission went on, some + sacrificing more; and others less; some granting it sooner, and + others later; till, in the year 1787<a class="notelink" href="#NoteV_7"><sup>B</sup></a><a name="FootV_7"></a> there was not a slave in the + possession of an acknowledged Quaker. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteV_6"></a><a href="#FootV_6">A</a>: One of the brightest instances was that + afforded by Warner Mifflin. He gave unconditional liberty to his + slaves. He paid all the adults, on their discharge, the sum, which + arbitrators, mutually chosen, awarded them. + </p> + <p><a name="NoteV_7"></a><a href="#FootV_7">B</a>: Previously to + the year 1787, several of the states had made the terms of manumission + more easy. + </p> + <p> + Having given to the reader the history of the third class + of forerunners and coadjutors, as it consisted of the Quakers + in America, I am now to continue it, as it consisted of an union + of these with others on the same continent, in the year 1774, in + behalf of the African race. To do this, I shall begin with the + causes which led to the production of this great event. + + </p> + <p> + And, in the first place, as example is more powerful than + precept, we cannot suppose that the Quakers could have shown + these noble instances of religious principle, without supposing + also that individuals of other religious denominations would be + morally instructed by them. They who lived in the neighborhood + where they took place, must have become acquainted with + the motives which led to them. Some of them must at least + have praised the action, though they might not themselves have + been ripe to follow the example: nor is it at all improbable that + these might be led, in the course of the workings of their own + minds, to a comparison between their own conduct and that of + the Quakers on this subject, in which they themselves might + appear to be less worthy in their own eyes. And as there is + sometimes a spirit of rivalship among the individuals of religious + sects, where the character of one is sounded forth as higher than + that of another; this, if excited by such a circumstance, would + probably operate for good. It must have been manifest also to + many, after a lapse of time, that there was no danger in what + the Quakers had done, and that there was even sound policy in + the measure. But, whatever were the several causes, certain it + is, that the example of the Quakers in leaving off all concern + with the Slave Trade, and in liberating their slaves, (scattered, + as they were, over various parts of America,) contributed to + produce in many of a different religious denomination from + themselves, a more tender disposition than had been usual + towards the African race. + + </p> + <p> + But a similar disposition towards these oppressed people was + created in others, by means of other circumstances or causes. In + the early part of the eighteenth century, Judge Sewell of New + England came forward as a zealous advocate for them: he + addressed a memorial to the legislature, which he called, <em>The + + Selling of Joseph</em>, and in which he pleaded their cause both as + a lawyer and, a Christian. This memorial produced an effect + upon many, but particularly upon those of his own persuasion; + and from this time the Presbyterians appear to have encouraged + a sympathy in their favour. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1739, the celebrated George Whitfield became an + instrument in turning the attention of many others to their hard + case, and of begetting in these a fellow sympathy towards them. + This laborious minister, having been deeply affected with what + he had seen in the course of his religious travels in America, + thought it his duty, to address a letter from Georgia to the inhabitants + of Maryland, Virginia, and North and South Carolina. + This letter was printed in the year above mentioned, and is in + part as follows:— + + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + As I lately passed through your provinces in my way hither, + I was sensibly touched with a fellow-feeling for the miseries of + the poor negroes. Whether it be lawful for Christians to buy + slaves, and thereby encourage the nations, from whom they are + bought, to be at perpetual war with each other, I shall not take + upon me to determine. Sure I am, it is sinful, when they have + bought them to use them as bad as though they were brutes, nay, + worse; and whatever particular exceptions there may be, (as I + would charitably hope there are some,) I fear the generality of + you who own negroes are liable to such a charge; for your slaves, + I believe, work as hard, if not harder, than the horses whereon + you ride. These, after they have done their work, are fed and + taken proper care of; but many negroes when wearied with + labour, in your plantations, have been obliged to grind their corn + after their return home: your dogs are caressed and fondled at + your table, but your slaves, who are frequently styled dogs or + beasts, have not an equal privilege; they are scarce permitted to + pick up the crumbs which fall from their master's table: not to + mention what numbers have been given up to the inhuman usage + of cruel taskmasters, who, by their unrelenting scourges have + ploughed their backs and made long furrows, and at length + brought them even unto death. When, passing along, I have + viewed your plantations cleared and cultivated, many spacious + + houses built and the owners of them faring sumptuously every + day, my blood has frequently almost run cold within me, to + consider how many of your slaves had neither convenient food to + eat, nor proper raiment to put on, notwithstanding most of the + comforts you enjoy were solely owing to their indefatigable + labours. + + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + The letter, from which this is an extract, produced a desirable + effect upon many of those who perused it, but particularly upon + such as began to be seriously disposed in these times. And as + George Whitfield continued a firm friend to the poor Africans, + never losing an opportunity of serving them, he interested, in the + course of his useful life, many thousands of his followers in their + favour. + + </p> + <p> + To this account it may be added, that from the year 1762 + ministers, who were in the connection of John Wesley, began to + be settled in America, and that as these were friends to the + oppressed Africans also, so they contributed in their + turn<a class="notelink" href="#NoteV_8"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootV_8"></a> to promote a softness of feeling towards them among those of + their own persuasion. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteV_8"></a><a href="#FootV_8">A</a>: It must not be forgotten, that the example of the + Moravians had its influence also in directing men to their duty towards these + oppressed people; for though, when they visited this part of the world + for their conversion, they never meddled with the political state of things, + by recommending it to masters to alter the condition of their slaves, as + believing religion could give comfort in the most abject situations in + life, yet they uniformly freed those slaves who came into their own + possession. + </p> + <p> + In consequence then of these and other causes, a considerable + number of persons of various religious denominations, had + appeared at different times in America, besides the Quakers, + who, though they had not distinguished themselves by resolutions + and manumissions as religious bodies, were yet highly + friendly to the African cause. This friendly disposition began to + manifest itself about the year 1770; for when a few Quakers, as + individuals, began at that time to form little associations in the + middle provinces of North America, to discourage the introduction + of slaves among people in their own neighbourhoods, who + were not of their own Society, and to encourage the manumission + of those already in bondage, they, were joined as colleagues by + + several persons of this description<a class="notelink" href="#NoteV_9"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootV_9"></a>, who + co-operated with them in the promotion of their design. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteV_9"></a><a href="#FootV_9">A</a>: It then + appeared that individuals among those of the + Church of England, Roman Catholics, Presbyterians, Methodists, + and others had begun in a few instances to liberate their slaves. + </p> + <p> + This disposition, however, became more manifest in the year + 1772; for the house of burgesses of Virginia presented a petition + to the king, beseeching his majesty to remove all those restraints + on his governors of that colony, which inhibited their assent to + such laws as might check that inhuman and impolitic commerce, + the Slave Trade: and it is remarkable, that the refusal of the + British government to permit the Virginians to exclude slaves + from among them by law, was enumerated afterwards among the + public reasons for separating from the mother country. + + </p> + <p> + But this friendly disposition was greatly increased in the year + 1773, by the literary labours of Dr. Benjamin Rush, of + Philadelphia<a class="notelink" href="#NoteV_10"><sup>B</sup></a><a name="FootV_10"></a>, who, I believe, is a member + of the Presbyterian Church: for in this year, at the instigation of + Anthony Benezet, he took up the cause of the oppressed Africans in a + little work, which he entitled, + <em>An Address to the Inhabitants of the British + Settlements, on the Slavery of the Negroes</em>; and soon afterwards in + another, which was a vindication of the first, in answer to an + acrimonious attach by a West Indian planter. These publications + contained many new observations; they were written in a + polished style; and while they exhibited the erudition and + talents, they showed the liberality and benevolence of the author. + Having had a considerable circulation, they spread conviction + among many, and promoted the cause for which they had been so + laudably undertaken. Of the great increase of friendly disposition + towards the African cause in this very year, we have this remarkable + proof: that when the Quakers, living in East and West + Jersey, wished to petition the legislature to obtain an act of + assembly for the more equitable manumission of slaves in that + province, so many others of different persuasions joined them, + + that the petition was signed by upwards of three thousand + persons. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteV_10"></a><a href="#FootV_10">B</a>: Dr. Rush has been better known + since for his other literary works, such as his + <em>Medical Dissertations</em>, his + <em>Treatises on the Discipline of Schools</em>, + <em>Criminal Law</em>, &c. + </p> + <p> + But in the next year, or in the year 1774<a class="notelink" href="#NoteV_11"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootV_11"></a>, the increased + good-will towards the Africans became so apparent, but more + particularly in Pennsylvania, where the Quakers were more + numerous than in any other state, that they, who considered + themselves more immediately as the friends of these injured + people, thought it right to avail themselves of it: and accordingly + James Pemberton, one of the most conspicuous of the Quakers + in Pennsylvania, and Dr. Rush, one of the most conspicuous of + those belonging to the various other religious communities in + that province, undertook, in conjunction with others, the important + task of bringing those into a society who were friendly + to this cause. In this undertaking they succeeded. And hence + arose that union of the Quakers with others, to which I have + been directing the attention of the reader, and by which the third + class of forerunners and coadjutors becomes now complete. This + society, which was confined to Pennsylvania, was the first ever + formed in America, in which there was an union of persons of + different religious denominations in behalf of the African race. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteV_11"></a><a href="#FootV_11">A</a>: In this + year, Elhanan Winchester, a supporter of + the doctrine of universal redemption, turned the attention of + many of his hearers to this subject, both by private interference, + and by preaching expressly upon it. + </p> + <p> + But this society had scarcely begun to act, when the war + broke out between England and America, which had the effect + of checking its operations. This was considered as a severe blow + upon it. But as those things which appear most to our disadvantage, + turn out often the most to our benefit, so the war, by + giving birth to the independence of America, was ultimately + favourable to its progress. For as this contrast had produced + during its continuance, so it left, when it was over, a general + enthusiasm for liberty. Many talked of little else but of the + freedom they had gained. These were naturally led to the consideration + of those among them who were groaning in bondage. + They began to feel for their hard case. They began to think + that they should not deserve the new blessing which they + had acquired if they denied it to others. Thus the discussions, + + which originated in this contest, became the occasion of turning + the attention of many, who might not otherwise have thought of + it, towards the miserable condition of the slaves. + + </p> + <p> + Nor were writers wanting, who, influenced by considerations + on the war, and the independence resulting from it, made their + works subservient to the same benevolent end. A work, entitled + <em>A Serious Address to the Rulers of America on the Inconsistency + of their Conduct respecting Slavery, forming a Contrast between the + Encroachments of England on American Liberty and American + Injustice in tolerating Slavery</em>; which appeared in 1783, was particularly + instrumental in producing this effect. This excited a + more than usual attention to the case of these oppressed people, + and where most of all it could be useful; for the author compared in + two opposite columns the animated speeches and resolutions + of the members of congress in behalf of their own liberty + with their conduct in continuing slavery to others. Hence the + legislature began to feel the inconsistency of the practice; and so + far had the sense of this inconsistency spread there, that when + the delegates met from each state to consider of a federal union, + there was a desire that the abolition of the Slave Trade should be + one of the articles in it. This was, however, opposed by the + delegates from North and South Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, + and Georgia, the five states which had the greatest concern in + slaves. But even these offered to agree to the article, provided a + condition was annexed to it, (which was afterwards done,) that + the power of such abolition should not commence in the legislature + till the 1st of January, 1808. + + </p> + <p> + In consequence then of these different circumstances, the + Society of Pennsylvania, the object of which was "for promoting + the abolition of slavery and the relief of free negroes unlawfully + held in bondage," became so popular, that in the year 1787 it + was thought desirable to enlarge it. Accordingly several new + members were admitted into it. The celebrated Dr. Franklin, + who had long warmly espoused the cause of the injured Africans, + was appointed president; James Pemberton and Jonathan Penrose + were appointed vice-presidents; Dr. Benjamin Rush and Tench + Coxe, secretaries; James Star, treasurer; William Lewis, John + + D. Coxe, Miers Fisher, and William Rawle, counsellors; Thomas + Harrison, Nathan Boys, James Whiteall, James Reed, John + Todd, Thomas Armatt, Norris Jones, Samuel Richards, Francis + Bayley, Andrew Carson, John Warner, and Jacob Shoemaker, + junior, an electing committee; and Thomas Shields, Thomas + Parker, John Oldden, William Zane, John Warner, and William + McElhenny, an acting committee for carrying on the purposes + of the institution. + + </p> + <p> + I shall now only observe further upon this subject, that as a + society, consisting of an union of the Quakers, with others of + other religious denominations, was established for Pennsylvania + in behalf of the oppressed Africans; so different societies, consisting + each of a similar union of persons, were established in New + York, Connecticut, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, and other + states for the same object, and that these afterwards held a correspondence + and personal communion with each other for the + promotion of it. + + </p> + + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + <h2><a name="chap6"></a>CHAPTER VI. + </h2> + <p><b>Observations on the three classes already + introduced.—Coincidence of extraordinary + circumstances.—Individuals in each of these classes, who seem to + have had an education as it were to qualify them for promoting the cause + of the abolition; Sharp and Ramsay in the first; Dillwyn in the second; + Pemberton and Rush in the third.—These, with their respective classes, + acted on motives of their own, and independently of each other; and yet, + from circumstances neither foreseen nor known by them, they were in the + way of being easily united in 1787.—William Dillwyn, the great medium + of connexion between them all.</b></p> + + <p> + If the reader will refer to his recollection, he will find that I + have given the history of three of the classes of the forerunners + and coadjutors in the great cause of the abolition of the Slave + Trade up to the time proposed. He will of course expect that I + should proceed with the history of the fourth. But, as I foresee + that, by making certain observations upon the classes already + introduced in the present, rather than in any future, place, I shall + be able to give him clearer views on the subject, I shall postpone + the history of the remaining class to the next chapter. + + </p> + <p> + The account which I shall now give, will exhibit a concurrence + of extraordinary and important circumstances. It will + show, first, that in each of the three classes now introduced, + there were individuals, in the year 1787, who had been educated + as it were for the purpose of becoming peculiarly qualified to act + together for the promotion of the abolition of the Slave Trade. + It will show, secondly, that these, with their respective classes, + acted upon their own principles, distinctly and independently of + each other. And lastly, that by means of circumstances, which + they themselves had neither foreseen nor contrived, a junction + between them was rendered easily practicable, and that it was + beginning to take place at the period assigned. + + </p> + <p> + The first class of forerunners and coadjutors consisted principally, + as it has appeared, of persons in England of various + descriptions. These, I may observe, had no communication with + each other as to any plan for the abolition of the Slave Trade. + + There were two individuals, however, among them who were + more conspicuous than the rest, namely, Granville Sharp, the + first labourer, and Mr. Ramsay, the first controversial writer, in + the cause. + + </p> + <p> + That Granville Sharp received an education as if to become + qualified to unite with others, in the year 1787, for this important + object, must have, appeared from the history of his labours, + as detailed in several of the preceding pages. The same may be + said of Mr. Ramsay; for it has already appeared that he lived in + the island of St. Christopher, where he made his observations, + and studied the laws, relative to the treatment of slaves, for nineteen years. + + </p> + <p> + That Granville Sharp acted on grounds distinct from those in + any of the other classes is certain. For he knew nothing at this + time either of the Quakers in England or of those in America, + any more than that they existed by name. Had it not been for + the case of Jonathan Strong, he might never have attached himself + to the cause. A similar account may be given of Mr. + Ramsay; for, if it had not been for what he had seen in the + island of St. Christopher, he had never embarked in it. It was + from scenes, which he had witnessed there, that he began to feel + on the subject. These feelings he communicated to others on his + return to England, and these urged him into action. + + </p> + <p> + With respect to the second class, the reader will recollect that + it consisted of the Quakers in England: first, of George Fox; then + of the Quakers as a body; then of individuals belonging to that + body, who formed themselves into a committee, independently + of it, for the promotion of the object in question. This committee, + it may he remembered, consisted of six persons, of whom + one was William Dillwyn. + + </p> + <p> + That William Dillwyn became fitted for the station, which + he was afterwards to take, will be seen shortly. He was born in + America, and was a pupil of the venerable Benezet, who took pains + very early to interest his feelings on this great subject. Benezet + employed him occasionally, I mean in a friendly manner, as his + amanuensis, to copy his manuscripts for publication, as well as + several of his letters written in behalf of the cause. This gave + + his scholar an insight into the subject; who, living besides in the + land where both the Slave Trade and slavery were established, + obtained an additional knowledge of them, so as to be able to + refute many of those objections, to which others, for want of local + observation, could never have replied. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1772, Anthony Benezet introduced William Dillwyn + by letter to several of the principal people of Carolina, with + whom he had himself corresponded on the sufferings of the poor + Africans, and desired him to have interviews with them on the + subject. He charged him also to be very particular in making + observations as to what he should see there. This journey was + of great use to the latter, in fixing him as the friend of these oppressed + people; for he saw so much of their cruel treatment in + the course of it, that he felt an anxiety ever afterwards, amounting + to a duty, to do every thing in his power for their relief. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1773, William Dillwyn, in conjunction with + Richard Smith and Daniel Wells, two of his own society, wrote + a pamphlet in answer to arguments then prevailing, that the + manumission of slaves would be injurious. This pamphlet—which + was entitled, <em>Brief Considerations on Slavery, and the Expediency + of its Abolition; with some Hints on the Means whereby it may be + gradually effected</em>,—proved that in lieu of the usual security required, + certain sums paid at the several periods of manumission + would amply secure the public, as well as the owners of the + slaves, from any future burdens. In the same year also, when + the society, joined by several hundreds of others in New Jersey, + presented a petition to the legislature, (as mentioned in the former chapter,) + to obtain an act of assembly for the more equitable + manumission of slaves in that province, William Dillwyn was + one of a deputation, which was heard at the bar of the assembly + for that purpose. + + </p> + <p> + In 1774, he came to England, but his attention was still kept + alive to the subject; for he was the person by whom Anthony + Benezet sent his letter to the Countess of Huntingdon, as before + related. He was also the person to whom the same venerable + defender of the African race sent his letter, before spoken of, to + be forwarded to the Queen. + + </p> + <p> + That William Dillwyn, and those of his own class in England, + acted upon motives very distinct from those of the former + class, may be said with truth; for they acted upon the constitutional + principles of their own society, as incorporated into its + discipline: which principles would always have incited them to + the subversion of slavery, as far as they themselves were concerned, + whether any other person had abolished it or not. To + which it may be added, as a further proof of the originality of + their motives, that the Quakers have had, ever since their institution + as a religious body, but little intercourse with the world. + + </p> + <p> + The third class, to which I now come, consisted, as we have + seen, first of the Quakers in America; and secondly, of an union, + of these with others on the same continent. The principal individuals + concerned in this union were James Pemberton and Dr. + Rush. The former of these, having taken an active part in several + of the yearly meetings of his own society relative to the oppressed + Africans, and having been in habits of intimacy and friendship + with John Woolman and Anthony Benezet, with the result of + whose labours he was acquainted, may be supposed to have become + qualified to take a leading station in the promotion of their + cause. Dr. Rush also had shown himself, as has appeared, an + able advocate, and had even sustained a controversy in their + favour. That the two last mentioned acted also on motives of + their own, or independently of those belonging to the other two + classes, when they formed their association in Pennsylvania, will + be obvious from these circumstances; first, that most of those of + the first class, who contributed to throw the greatest light and + odium upon the Slave Trade, had not then made their public + appearance in the world. And, with respect to the second class, + the little committee belonging to it had neither been formed nor + thought of. + + </p> + <p> + And as the individuals in each of the three classes, who have + now been mentioned, had an education as it were to qualify them + for acting together in this great cause, and had moved independently + of each other; so it will appear that, by means of circumstances, + which they themselves had neither foreseen nor contrived, + + a junction between them was rendered easily practicable, and + that it was beginning to take place at the period assigned. + + </p> + <p> + To show this, I must first remind the reader, that Anthony + Benezet, as soon as he heard of the result of the case of Somerset, + opened a correspondence with Granville Sharp, which was kept + up to the encouragement of both. In the year 1774, when he + learned that William Dillwyn was going to England, he gave + him letters to that gentleman. Thus one of the most conspicuous + of the second class was introduced, accidentally as it were, to one + of the most conspicuous of the first. In the year 1775, William + Dillwyn went back to America, but, on his return to England to + settle, he renewed his visits to Granville Sharp. Thus the connexion + was continued. To these observations I may now add, + that Samuel Hoare, of the same class as William Dillwyn, had, + in consequence of the Bishop of Chester's sermon, begun a correspondence + in 1784, as before mentioned, with Mr. Ramsay, + who was of the same class as Mr. Sharp. Thus four individuals + of the two first classes were in the way of an union with one + another. + + </p> + <p> + But circumstances equally natural contributed to render an + union between the members of the second and the third classes + easily practicable also. For what was more natural than that + William Dillwyn, who was born and who had resided long in + America, should have connexions there? He had long cultivated + a friendship (not then knowing to what it would lead) with + James Pemberton. His intimacy with him was like that of a + family connexion. They corresponded together; they corresponded + also as kindred hearts, relative to the Slave Trade. + Thus two members of the second and third classes had opened an + intercourse on the subject and thus was William Dillwyn the + great medium, through whom the members of the two classes + now mentioned, as well as the members of all the three, might be + easily united also, if a fit occasion should offer. + + </p> + + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + <h2><a name="chap7"></a>CHAPTER VII. + </h2> + <p><b> Fourth class of forerunners and coadjutors + up to 1787.—Dr. Peckard, vice-chancellor + of the University of Cambridge, the first of these; gives out + the Slave Trade as the subject for one of the annual prizes.—Author writes + and obtains the first of these; reads his Dissertation in the Senate-house in + the summer of 1785; his feelings on the subject during his return home; is + desirous of aiding the cause of the Africans, but sees great difficulties; + determines to publish his prize essay for this purpose; is accidentally + thrown into the way of James Phillips, who introduces him to W. Dillwyn, + the connecting medium of the three classes before mentioned; and + to G. Sharp and Mr. Ramsay, and to R. Phillips.</b></p> + + <p> + I proceed now to the fourth class of forerunners and coadjutors + up to the year 1787 in the great cause of the abolition of + the Slave Trade. + + </p> + <p> + The first of these was Dr. Peckard. This gentleman had + distinguished himself in the earlier part of his life by certain + publications on the intermediate state of the soul, and by others + in favour of civil and religious liberty. To the latter cause he + was a warm friend, seldom omitting any opportunity of declaring + his sentiments in its favour. In the course of his preferment he + was appointed by Sir John Griffin, afterwards Lord Howard of + Walden, to the mastership of Magdalen College in the University + of Cambridge. In this high office he considered it to be + his duty to support those doctrines which he had espoused when + in an inferior station; and accordingly, when in the year 1784 it + devolved upon him to preach a sermon, before the University of + Cambridge, he chose his favourite subject: in the handling of + which he took an opportunity of speaking of the Slave Trade in + the following nervous manner:— + + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + "Now, whether we consider the crime with respect to the + individuals concerned in this most barbarous and cruel traffic, or + whether we consider it as patronized and encouraged by the laws + of the land, it presents to our view an equal degree of enormity. + A crime, founded on a dreadful pre-eminence in wickedness—a + crime, which being both of individuals and the nation, must + + sometime draw down upon us the heaviest judgment of Almighty + God, who made of one blood all the sons of men, and who gave + to all equally a natural right to liberty; and who, ruling all the + kingdoms of the earth with equal providential justice, cannot + suffer such deliberate, such monstrous iniquity, to pass long + unpunished." + + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + But Dr. Peckard did not consider this delivery of his testimony, + though it was given before a learned and religious body, as + a sufficient discharge of his duty, while any opportunity remained + of renewing it with effect. And, as such an one offered in the + year 1785, when he was vice-chancellor of the University, he + embraced it. In consequence of his office, it devolved upon him + to give out two subjects for Latin dissertations, one to the middle + bachelors, and the other to the senior bachelors of arts. They + who produced the best were to obtain the prizes. To the latter + he proposed the following: <em>Anne liceat Invitos in Servitutem + dare?</em> or, <em>Is it right to make slaves of others against their will?</em></p> + <p> + This circumstance of giving out subjects for the prizes, though + only an ordinary measure, became the occasion of my own + labours, or of the real honour which I feel in being able to + consider myself as the next coadjutor of this class in the cause of + the injured Africans. For it happened in this year that, being + of the order of senior bachelors, I became qualified to write. I + had gained a prize for the best Latin dissertation in the former + year, and, therefore, it was expected that I should obtain one in + the present, or I should be considered as having lost my reputation + both in the eyes of the University and of my own College. It + had happened also, that I had been honoured with the first of the + prizes<a class="notelink" href="#NoteVII_1"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootVII_1"></a>, in that year, and therefore it was expected again, that I + should obtain the first on this occasion. The acquisition of the + second, however honourable, would have been considered as a + falling off, or as a loss of former fame. I felt myself, therefore, + particularly called upon to maintain my post. And, with feelings + of this kind, I began to prepare myself for the question. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteVII_1"></a><a href="#FootVII_1">A</a>: There are two prizes on each + subject, one for the best and the other for the second-best + essays. + </p> + <p> + In studying the thesis, I conceived it to point directly to the + + African Slave Trade, and more particularly as I knew that Dr. + Peckard, in the sermon which I have mentioned, had pronounced + so warmly against it. At any rate, I determined to give it this + construction. But, alas! I was wholly ignorant of this subject; + and, what was unfortunate, a few weeks only were allowed for + the composition. I was determined, however, to make the best + use of my time. I got access to the manuscript papers of a + deceased friend, who had been in the trade. I was acquainted + also with several officers who had been in the West Indies, and + from these I gained something. But I still felt myself at a loss for + materials, and I did not know where to get them; when going by + accident into a friend's house, I took up a newspaper then lying + on his table. One of the articles which attracted my notice, was + an advertisement of ANTHONY BENEZET'S <em>Historical Account of + Guinea</em>. I soon left my friend and his paper, and, to lose no + time, hastened to London to buy it. In this precious book I + found almost all I wanted. I obtained, by means of it, a knowledge + of, and access to, the great authorities of Adanson, Moore, Barbot, + Smith, Bosman, and others. It was of great consequence to know + what these persons had said upon this subject. For, having been + themselves either long resident in Africa, or very frequently there, + their knowledge of it could not be questioned. Having been + concerned also in the trade, it was not likely that they would + criminate themselves more than they could avoid. Writing too + at a time when the abolition was not even thought of, they could + not have been biassed with any view to that event. And, lastly, + having been dead many years, they could not have been influenced, + as living evidences may be supposed to have been, either + to conceal or exaggerate, as their own interest might lead them, + either by being concerned in the continuance of the trade, or by + supporting the opinions of those of their patrons in power, who + were on the different sides of this question. + + </p> + <p> + Furnished then in this manner, I began my work. But no + person can tell the severe trial which the writing of it proved to + me. I had expected pleasure from the invention of the arguments, + from the arrangement of them, from the putting of them + together, and from the thought in the interim that I was engaged + + in an innocent contest for literary honour. But, all my pleasure + was damped by the facts which were now continually before me. + It was but one gloomy subject from morning to night. In the + day-time I was uneasy. In the night I had little rest. I sometimes + never closed my eye-lids for grief. It became now not so + much a trial for academical reputation, as for the production of a + work, which might be useful to injured Africa. And keeping + this idea in my mind ever after the perusal of Benezet, I always + slept with a candle in my room, that I might rise out of my bed + and put down such thoughts as might occur to me in the night, + if I judged them valuable, conceiving that no arguments of any + moment should be lost in so great a cause. Having at length + finished this painful task, I sent my Essay to the vice-chancellor, + and soon afterwards found myself honoured as before with the + first prize. + + </p> + <p> + As it is usual to read these Essays publicly in the senate-house + soon after the prize is adjudged, I was called to Cambridge + for this purpose. I went and performed my office. On returning + however to London, the subject of it almost wholly engrossed + my thoughts. I became at times very seriously affected while + upon the road. I stopped my horse occasionally, and dismounted + and walked. I frequently tried to persuade myself in these intervals + that the contents of my Essay could not be true. The more, + however, I reflected upon them, or rather upon the authorities on + which they were founded, the more I gave them credit. Coming + in sight of Wades Mill, in Hertfordshire, I sat down disconsolate + on the turf by the roadside and held my horse. Here a thought + came into my mind, that if the contents of the Essay were true, + it was time some person should see these calamities to their end. + Agitated in this manner, I reached home. This was in the + summer of 1785. + + </p> + <p> + In the course of the autumn of the same year I experienced + similar impressions. I walked frequently into the woods, that I + might think on the subject in solitude, and find relief to my mind + there. But there the question still recurred, "Are these things + true?" Still the answer followed as instantaneously "They are." + Still the result accompanied it, "Then surely some person should + + interfere." I then began to envy those who had seats in parliament, + and who had great riches, and widely extended connexions, + which would enable them to take up this cause. Finding scarcely + any one at that time who thought of it, I was turned frequently + to myself. But here many difficulties arose. It struck me, among + others, that a young man of only twenty-four years of age could + not have that solid judgment or knowledge of men, manners, and + things, which were requisite to qualify him to undertake a task + of such magnitude and importance;—and with whom was I to + unite? I believed also, that it looked so much like one of the + feigned labours of Hercules, that my understanding would be + suspected if I proposed it. On ruminating, however, on the + subject, I found one thing at least practicable, and that this also + was in my power. I could translate my Latin dissertation. I + could enlarge it usefully. I could see how the public received it, + or how far they were likely to favour any serious measures, which + should have a tendency to produce the abolition of the Slave + Trade. Upon this then I determined; and in the middle of the + month of November 1785, I began my work. + + </p> + <p> + By the middle of January, I had finished half of it, though + I had made considerable additions. I now thought of engaging + with some bookseller to print it when finished. For this purpose + I called upon Mr. Cadell, in the Strand, and consulted him + about it. He said that as the original essay had been honoured + by the University of Cambridge with the first prize, this circumstance + would insure it a respectable circulation among persons of + taste. I own I was not much pleased with his opinion. I wished + the essay to find its way among useful people, and among such as + would act and think with me. Accordingly I left Mr. Cadell, + after having thanked him for his civility, and determined, as I + thought I had time sufficient before dinner, to call upon a friend + in the city. In going past the Royal Exchange, Mr. Joseph + Hancock, one of the religious society of the Quakers, and with + whose family my own had been long united in friendship, suddenly + met me. He first accosted me by saying that I was the + person whom he was wishing to see. He then asked me why I + had not published my prize essay. I asked him in return what + + had made him think of that subject in particular. He replied + that his own society had long taken it up as a religious body, and + individuals among them were wishing to find me out. I asked + him who. He answered, James Phillips, a bookseller, in Georgeyard, + Lombard-street, and William Dillwyn, of Walthamstow, + and others. Having but little time to spare, I desired + him to introduce me to one of them. In a few minutes he took me to + James Phillips, who was then the only one of them in town; + by whose conversation I was so much interested and encouraged, + that without any further hesitation I offered him the publication + of my work. This accidental introduction of me to James Phillips + was, I found afterwards, a most happy circumstance for the + promotion of the cause which I had then so deeply at heart, as it + led me to the knowledge of several of those, who became afterwards + material coadjutors in it. It was also of great importance + to me with respect to the work itself: for he possessed an acute + penetration, a solid judgment, and a literary knowledge, which he + proved by the many alterations and additions he proposed; and + which I believe I uniformly adopted, after mature consideration, + from a sense of their real value. It was advantageous to me also, + inasmuch as it led me to his friendship, which was never interrupted + but by his death. + + </p> + <p> + On my second visit to James Phillips, at which time I + brought him about half my manuscript for the press, I desired + him to introduce me to William Dillwyn, as he also had mentioned + him to me on my first visit, and as I had not seen Mr. + Hancock since. Matters were accordingly arranged, and a day + appointed before I left him. On this day I had my first interview + with my new friend. Two or three others of his own religious + society were present, but who they were, I do not now recollect. + There seemed to be a great desire among them to know + the motive, by which I had been actuated in contending for the + prize. I told them frankly that I had no motive but that which, + other young men in the University had on such occasions; + namely, the wish of being distinguished, or of obtaining literary + honour; but that I had felt so deeply on the subject of it, that + I had lately interested myself in it from a motive of duty. My + + conduct seemed to be highly approved by those present, and much + conversation ensued, but it was of a general nature. + + </p> + <p> + As William Dillwyn wished very much to see me at his + house at Walthamstow, I appointed the 13th of March to + spend the day with them there. We talked for the most part, + during my stay, on the subject of my essay. I soon discovered + the treasure I had met with in his local knowledge, both of the + Slave Trade and of slavery, as they existed in the United States; + and I gained from him several facts, which, with his permission, + I afterwards inserted in my work. But how surprised was I to + hear, in the course of our conversation, of the labours of + Granville Sharp, of the writings of Ramsay, and of the controversy + in which the latter was engaged, of all which I had hitherto + known nothing! How surprised was I to learn that William + Dillwyn himself had, two years before, associated himself with + five others for the purpose of enlightening the public mind upon + this great subject! How astonished was I to find that a society + had been formed in America for the same object, with some of + the principal members of which he was intimately acquainted! + And how still more astonished at the inference which instantly + rushed upon my mind, that he was capable of being made the + great medium of connexion between them all. These thoughts + almost overpowered me. I believe that after this I talked but + little more to my friend. My mind was overwhelmed with the + thought that I had been providentially directed to his house; that + the finger of Providence was beginning to be discernible; that + the day-star of African liberty was rising, and that probably + I might be permitted to become an humble instrument in + promoting it. + + </p> + <p> + In the course of attending to my work, as now in the press, + James Phillips introduced me also to Granville Sharp, with + whom I had afterwards many interesting interviews from time to + time, and whom I discovered to be a distant relation by my + father's side. + + </p> + <p> + He introduced me also by letter to a correspondence with Mr. + Ramsay, who in a short time afterwards came to London to + see me. + + </p> + <p> + He introduced me also to his cousin, Richard Phillips, of + Lincoln's Inn, who was at that time, on the point of joining the + religious society of Quakers. In him I found much sympathy, + and a willingness to co-operate with me. When dull + and disconsolate, he encouraged me. When in spirits, he stimulated me + further. Him I am now to mention as a new, but soon afterwards + as an active and indefatigable, coadjutor in the cause. But + I shall say more concerning him in a future chapter. I shall + only now add that my work was at length printed; that it was + entitled <em>An Essay on the Slavery and Commerce of the Human + Species, particularly the African, translated + from a Latin Dissertation, which was honoured + with the first Prize in the University + of Cambridge, for the year 1785; with Additions</em>; and that it + was ushered into the world in the month of June, 1786, or in + about a year after it had been read in the Senate-house in its first + form. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + + <h2><a name="chap8"></a>CHAPTER VIII. + </h2> + <p><b>Continuation of the fourth class + of forerunners and coadjutors up to 1787; + Bennet Langton; Dr. Baker; Lord and Lady Scarsdale.—Author visits + Ramsay at Teston.—Lady Middleton and Sir Charles (afterward Lord + Barham).—Author declares himself at the house of the latter ready now + to devote himself to the cause; reconsiders this declaration or pledge; + his reasoning and struggle upon it; persists in it; returns to London; and + pursues the work as now a business of his life.</b></p> + + <p> + I had purposed, as I said before, when I determined to publish + my essay, to wait to see how the world would receive it, or what + disposition there would be in the public to favour my measures + for the abolition of the Slave Trade. But the conversation which + I had held on the 13th of March with William Dillwyn, continued + to make such an impression upon me, that I thought now + there could be no occasion for waiting for such a purpose. It + seemed now only necessary to go forward. Others I found had + already begun the work. I had been thrown suddenly among + these, as into a new world of friends. I believed, also, that a + way was opening under Providence for support; and I now + thought that nothing remained for me but to procure as many + coadjutors as I could. + + </p> + <p> + I had long had the honour of the friendship of Mr. Bennet + Langton, and I determined to carry him one of my books, and to + interest his feelings in it, with a view of procuring his assistance + in the cause. Mr. Langton was a gentleman of an ancient + family and respectable fortune in Lincolnshire, but resided then + in Queen Square, Westminster. He was known as the friend + of Dr. Johnson, Jonas Hanway, Edmund Burke, Sir Joshua + Reynolds, and others. Among his acquaintance, indeed, were + most of the literary, and eminent professional, and public-spirited + men of the times. At court, also, he was well known, and had + the esteem of his majesty (George III.), with whom he frequently + conversed. His friends were numerous also, in both houses of + the legislature. As to himself, he was much noted for his + + learning, but most of all for the great example he gave, with + respect to the usefulness and integrity of his life. + + </p> + <p> + By introducing my work to the sanction of a friend of such + high character and extensive connexions, I thought I should be + doing great things. And so the event proved. For when I + went to him after he had read it, I found that it had made a + deep impression upon his mind. As a friend to humanity, he + lamented over the miseries of the oppressed Africans; and over + the crimes of their tyrants, as a friend to morality and religion. + He cautioned me, however, against being too sanguine in my + expectations, as so many thousands were interested in continuing + the trade. Justice, however, which he said weighed with him + beyond all private or political interest, demanded a public + inquiry, and he would assist me to the utmost of his power in my + attempts towards it. From this time he became a zealous and + active coadjutor in the cause, and continued so to the end of his + valuable life. + + </p> + <p> + The next person, to whom I gave my work with a like view, + was Dr. Baker, a clergyman of the Establishment, and with + whom I had been in habits of intimacy for some time. Dr. + Baker was a learned and pious man. He had performed the + duties of his profession, from the time of his initiation into the + church, in an exemplary manner; not only by paying a proper + attention to the customary services, but by the frequent visitation + of the sick and the instruction of the poor. This he had done, + too, to admiration in a particularly extensive parish. At the + time I knew him, he had May-Fair Chapel, of which an unusual + portion of the congregation consisted then of persons of rank and + fortune. With most of these he had a personal acquaintance. + This was of great importance to me in the promotion of my + views. Having left him my book for a month, I called upon + him. The result was that which I expected from so good a man. + He, did not wait for me to ask him for his co-operation, but he + offered his services in any way which I might think most eligible; + feeling it his duty, as he expressed it, to become an instrument + in exposing such a complication of guilt and misery to the world. + Dr. Baker became from this time an active coadjutor also, and + continued so to his death. + + </p> + <p> + The person to whom I sent my work next, was the late Lord + Scarsdale, whose family I had known for about two years. Both + he and his lady read it with attention. They informed me, after + the perusal of it, that both of them were desirous of assisting me + in promoting the cause of the poor Africans. Lady Scarsdale + lamented that she might possibly offend near and dear connexions, + who had interests in, the West Indies, by so doing; but that, + conscious of no intention to offend these, and considering the + duties of religion to be the first to be attended to, she should be + pleased to become useful in so good a cause. Lord Scarsdale also + assured me, that, if the subject should ever come before the + House of Lords, it should have his constant support. + + </p> + <p> + While attempting to make friends in this manner, I received + a letter from Mr. Ramsay, with an invitation to spend a month + at his house at Teston, near Maidstone, in Kent. This I accepted, + that I might communicate to him the progress I had made, + that I might gain more knowledge from him on the subject, and + that I might acquire new strength and encouragement to proceed. + On hearing my account of my proceedings, which I detailed to + him on the first evening of our meeting, he seemed almost overpowered + with joy. He said he had been long of opinion that the + release of the Africans from the scourges of this cruel trade was + within the determined views of Providence, and that by turning + the public attention to their misery, we should be the instruments + of beginning the good work. He then informed me how long + he himself had had their cause at heart; that communicating his + feelings to Sir Charles Middleton (afterwards Lord Barham) and + his lady, the latter had urged him to undertake a work in their + behalf; that her importunities were great respecting it; and that + he had on this account, and in obedience also to his own feelings, + as has been before mentioned, begun it; but that, foreseeing the + censure and abuse which such a subject, treated in any possible + manner, must bring upon the author, he had laid it aside for + some time. He had, however, resumed it at the solicitation of + Dr. Porteus, then Bishop of Chester; after which, in the year + 1784, it made its appearance in the world. + + </p> + <p> + I was delighted with this account on the first evening of my + + arrival; but more particularly, as I collected from it that I might + expect in the Bishop of Chester and Sir Charles Middleton two + new friends to the cause. This expectation was afterwards fully + realized, as the reader will see in its proper place. But I was + still more delighted, when I was informed that Sir Charles and + Lady Middleton, with Mrs. Bouverie, lived at Teston Hall, in a + park which was but a few yards from the house in which I then + was. In the morning I desired an introduction to them, which + accordingly took place, and I found myself much encouraged and + supported by this visit. + + </p> + <p> + It is not necessary, nor indeed is there room, to detail my + employments in this village, or the lonely walks I took there, or + the meditations of my mind at such seasons. I will therefore + come at once to a particular occurrence. When at dinner one + day with the family at Teston Hall, I was much pleased with + the turn which the conversation had taken on the subject, and in + the joy of my heart I exclaimed, that "I was ready to devote + myself to the cause." This brought great commendation from + those present; and Sir Charles Middleton added, that if I wanted + any information in the course of my future inquiries relative to + Africa, which he could procure me as comptroller of the navy, + such as extracts from the journals of the ships of war to + that continent, or from other papers, I should have free access to his + office. This offer I received with thankfulness, and it operated + as a new encouragement to me to proceed. + + </p> + <p> + The next morning, when I awoke, one of the first things that + struck me was, that I had given a pledge to the company the day + before that I would devote myself to the cause of the oppressed + Africans. I became a little uneasy at this. I questioned whether + I had considered matters sufficiently to be able to go so far with + propriety. I determined therefore to give the subject a full + consideration, and accordingly I walked to the place of my usual + meditations,—the woods. + + </p> + <p> + Having now reached a place of solitude, I began to balance + everything on both sides of the question. I considered first, that + I had not yet obtained information sufficient on the subject to + qualify me for the undertaking of such a work. But I reflected, + + on the other hand, that Sir Charles Middleton had just opened + to me a new source of knowledge; that I should be backed by + the local information of Dillwyn and Ramsay; and that surely, + by taking pains, I could acquire more. + + </p> + <p> + I then considered that I had not yet a sufficient number of + friends to support me. This occasioned me to review them. I + had now Sir Charles Middleton, who was in the House of Commons. + I was sure of Dr. Porteus, who was in the House of + Lords. I could count upon Lord Scarsdale, who was a peer also. + I had secured Mr. Langton, who had a most extensive acquaintance + with members of both houses of the legislature. I had also + secured Dr. Baker, who had similar connexions. I could depend + upon Granville Sharp, James Phillips, Richard Phillips, Ramsay, + Dillwyn, and the little committee to which he belonged, as well + as the whole society of the Quakers. I thought, therefore, upon + the whole, that, considering the short time I had been at work, + I was well off with respect to support. I believed, also, that + there were still several of my own acquaintance whom I could + interest in the question, and I did not doubt that, by exerting + myself diligently, persons, who were then strangers to me, would + be raised up in time. + + </p> + <p> + I considered next, that it was impossible for a great cause like + this to be forwarded without large pecuniary funds. I questioned + whether some thousand pounds would not be necessary, and from + whence was such a sum to come! In answer to this, I persuaded + myself that generous people would be found who would unite + with me in contributing their mite towards the undertaking, + and I seemed confident that, as the Quakers had taken up the + cause as a religious body, they would not be behind-hand in + supporting it. + + </p> + <p> + I considered lastly, that if I took up the question, I must + devote myself wholly to it. I was sensible that a little labour + now and then would be inadequate to the purpose, or that, where + the interests of so many thousand persons were likely to be + affected, constant exertion would be necessary. I felt certain + that if ever the matter were to be taken up, there could be no + hope of success, except it should be taken up by some one who + + would make it an object or business of his life. I thought too + that a man's life might not be more than adequate to the accomplishment + of the end. But I knew of no one who could devote + such a portion of time to it. Sir Charles Middleton, though he + was so warm and zealous, was greatly occupied in the discharge + of his office. Mr. Langton spent a great portion of his time in + the education of his children. Dr. Baker had a great deal to do + in the performance of his parochial duty. The Quakers were + almost all of them in trade. I could look therefore to no person + but myself; and the question was, whether I was prepared to + make the sacrifice. In favour of the undertaking, I urged to + myself, that never was any cause, which had been taken up by + man in any country or in any age, so great and important; that + never was there one in which so much misery was heard to cry + for redress; that never was there one in which so much good + could be done; never one in which the duty of Christian charity + could be so extensively exercised; never one more worthy of the + devotion of a whole life towards it; and that, if a man thought + properly, he ought to rejoice to have been called into existence, if + he were only permitted to become an instrument in forwarding + it in any part of its progress. Against these sentiments, on the + other hand, I had to urge, that I had been designed for the + church; that I had already advanced as far as deacon's orders in + it; that my prospects there on account of my connexions were + then brilliant, that, by appearing to desert my profession, my + family would be dissatisfied, if not unhappy. These thoughts + pressed upon me, and rendered the conflict difficult. But the + sacrifice of my prospects staggered me, I own, the most. When + the other objections, which I have related, occurred to me, my + enthusiasm instantly, like a flash of lightning, consumed them; + but this stuck to me, and troubled me. I had ambition. I had + a thirst after worldly interest and honours, and I could not + extinguish it at once. I was more than two hours in solitude + under this painful conflict. At length I yielded, not because I + saw any reasonable prospect of success in my new undertaking + (for all cool-headed and cool-hearted men would have pronounced + against it), but in obedience, I believe, to a higher Power. And + + I can say, that both on the moment of this resolution, and + for some time afterwards, I had more sublime and happy feelings + than at any former period of my life. + + </p> + <p> + Having now made up my mind on the subject, I informed + Mr. Ramsay, that in a few days I should be leaving Teston, that + I might begin my labours, according to the pledge I had given + him. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + + <h2><a name="chap9"></a>CHAPTER IX. + </h2> + <p><b>Continuation of the fourth Class of forerunners and + coadjutors Up to 1787.—Author resolves upon the distribution + of his book.—Mr. Sheldon; Sir Herbert Mackworth; Lord Newhaven; + Lord Balgonie (afterwards Leven); Lord Hawke; Bishop + Porteus.—Author visits African vessels in the Thames; and + various persons, for further information.—Visits also Members + of Parliament; Sir Richard Hill; Mr. Powys (late Lord Lilford); + Mr. Wilberforce and others; conduct of the latter on this occasion.</b></p> + + <p> + On my return to London, I called upon William Dillwyn, to + inform him of the resolution I had made at Teston, and found + him at his town lodgings in the Poultry. I informed him also, + that I had a letter of introduction in my pocket from Sir Charles + Middleton to Samuel Hoare, with whom I was to converse on + the subject. The latter gentleman had interested himself the + year before as one of the committee for the Black poor in + London, whom Mr. Sharp was sending under the auspices of + government to Sierra Leone. He was also, as the reader + may see by looking back, a member of the second class + of coadjutors, or of the little committee which had branched + out of the Quakers in England as before described. William + Dillwyn said he would go with me and introduce me + himself. On our arrival in Lombard-street, I saw my new + friend, with whom we conversed for some time. From thence I + proceeded, accompanied by both, to the house of James Phillips + in George-yard, to whom I was desirous of communicating my + resolution also. We found him at home, conversing with a + friend of the same religious society, whose name was Joseph + Gurney Bevan. I then repeated my resolution before them all. + We had much friendly and satisfactory conversation together. + I received much encouragement on every side, and I fixed to + meet them again at the place where we then were in three days. + + </p> + <p> + On the evening of the same day, I waited upon Granville + Sharp to make the same communication to him. He received it + with great pleasure, and he hoped I should have strength to proceed. + From thence I went to the Baptist-head coffee-house, in + + Chancery-lane, and having engaged with the master of the house + that I should always have one private room to myself when I + wanted it, I took up my abode there, in order to be near my + friend Richard Phillips of Lincoln's Inn, from whose advice and + assistance I had formed considerable expectations. + + </p> + <p> + The first matter for our deliberation, after we had thus become + neighbours, was, what plan I ought to pursue to give effect to the + resolution I had taken. + + </p> + <p> + After having discussed the matter two or three times at his + chambers, it seemed to be our opinion, that, as members of the + legislature could do more to the purpose in this question, than any + other persons, it would be proper to circulate all the remaining + copies of my work among these, in order that they might thus + obtain information upon the subject. Secondly, that it would be + proper that I should wait personally upon several of these also. + And thirdly, that I should be endeavouring in the interim to + enlarge my own knowledge, that I might thus be enabled to + answer the various objections which might be advanced on the + other side of the question, as well as become qualified to be a + manager of the cause. + + </p> + <p> + On the third day, or at the time appointed, I went with + Richard Phillips to George-yard, Lombard-street, where I met + all my friends as before. I communicated to them the opinion + we had formed at Lincoln's Inn, relative to my future proceedings + in the three different branches as now detailed. They approved + the plan. On desiring a number of my books to be sent + to me at my new lodgings for the purpose of distribution, Joseph + Gurney Bevan, who was stated to have been present at the + former interview, seemed uneasy, and at length asked me if I was + going to distribute these at my own expense. I replied, I was. + He appealed immediately to those present whether it ought to be + allowed. He asked whether, when a young man was giving up + his time from morning till night, they who applauded his pursuit + and seemed desirous of co-operating with him, should allow him + to make such a sacrifice, or whether they should not at least + secure him from loss; and he proposed directly that the remaining + part of the edition should be taken off by subscription, + + and, in order that my feelings might not be hurt from any supposed + stain arising from the thought of gaining any thing by + such a proposal, they should be paid for only at the prime cost. + I felt myself much obliged to him for this tender consideration + about me, and particularly for the latter part of it, under which + alone I accepted the offer. Samuel Hoare was charged with the + management of the subscription, and the books were to be distributed + as I had proposed, and in any way which I myself might + prescribe. + + </p> + <p> + This matter having been determined upon, my first care was + that the books should be put into proper hands. Accordingly I + went round among my friends from day to day, wishing to secure + this before I attended to any of the other objects. In this I was + much assisted by my friend Richard Phillips. Mr. Langton began + the distribution of them. He made a point either of writing + to or of calling upon those to whom he sent them. Dr. Baker + took the charge of several for the same purpose; Lord and Lady + Scarsdale of others; Sir Charles and Lady Middleton of others. + Mr. Sheldon, at the request of Richard Phillips, introduced me + by letter to several members of parliament, to whom I wished to + deliver them myself. Sir Herbert Mackworth, when spoken to + by the latter, offered his services also. He seemed to be particularly + interested in the cause. He went about to many of his + friends in the House of Commons, and this from day to day, to + procure their favour towards it. Lord Newhaven was applied to, + and distributed some. Lord Balgonie took a similar charge. + The late Lord Hawke, who told me that he had long felt for + the sufferings of the injured Africans, desired to be permitted + to take his share of the distribution among members of the + House of Lords, and Dr. Porteus, now Bishop of London, + became another coadjutor in the same work. + + </p> + <p> + This distribution of my books having been consigned to proper + hands, I began to qualify myself, by obtaining further knowledge, + for the management of this great cause. As I had obtained the + principal part of it from reading, I thought I ought now to see + what could be seen, and to know from living persons what could + be known on the subject. With respect to the first of these + + points, the river Thames presented itself as at hand. Ships were + going occasionally from the port of London to Africa, and why + could I not get on board them and examine for myself? After + diligent inquiry, I heard of one which had just arrived. I + found her to be a little wood-vessel, called the Lively, Captain + Williamson, or one which traded to Africa in the natural productions + of the country, such as ivory, bees'-wax, Malaguetta pepper, + palm-oil, and dye-woods. I obtained specimens of some of these, + so that I now became possessed of some of those things of which + I had only read before. On conversing with the mate, he showed + me one or two pieces of the cloth made by the natives, and from + their own cotton. I prevailed upon him to sell me a piece of + each. Here new feelings arose, and particularly when I considered + that persons of so much apparent ingenuity, and capable of + such beautiful work as the Africans, should be made slaves, and + reduced to a level with the brute creation. My reflections here + on the better use which might be made of Africa by the substitution + of another trade, and on the better use which might be made + of her inhabitants, served greatly to animate and to sustain me + amidst the labour of my pursuits. + + </p> + <p> + The next vessel I boarded was the Fly, Captain Colley. + Here I found myself for the first time on the deck of a slave-vessel. + The sight of the rooms below and of the gratings above, + and of the barricado across the deck, and the explanation of the + uses of all these, filled me both with melancholy and horror. I + found soon afterwards a fire of indignation kindling within me. + I had now scarce patience to talk with those on board. I had not + the coolness this first time to go leisurely over the places that + were open to me. I got away quickly. But that which I + thought I saw horrible in this vessel had the same effect upon me + as that which I thought I had seen agreeable in the other, + namely, to animate and to invigorate me in my pursuit. + + </p> + <p> + But I will not trouble the reader with any further account of + my water-expeditions, while attempting to perfect my knowledge + on this subject. I was equally assiduous in obtaining intelligence + wherever it could be had; and being now always on the watch, I + was frequently falling in with individuals, from whom I gained + + something. My object was to see all who had been in Africa, + but more particularly those who had never been interested, or + who at any rate were not then interested, in the trade. I gained + accordingly access very early to General Rooke; to Lieutenant + Dalrymple, of the army; to Captain Fiddes, of the engineers; to + the reverend Mr. Newton; to Mr. Nisbett, a surgeon in the + Minories; to Mr. Devaynes, who was then in parliament, and to + many others; and I made it a rule to put down in writing, after + every conversation, what had taken place in the course of it. By + these means, things began to unfold themselves to me more and + more, and I found my stock of knowledge almost daily on the + increase. + + </p> + <p> + While, however, I was forwarding this, I was not inattentive + to the other object of my pursuit, which was that of waiting + upon members personally. The first I called upon was Sir + Richard Hill. At the first interview he espoused the cause. I + waited then upon others, and they professed themselves friendly; + but they seemed to make this profession more from the emotion + of good hearts, revolting at the bare mention of the Slave Trade, + than from any knowledge concerning it. One, however, whom I + visited, Mr. Powys, (the late Lord Lilford,) with whom I had + been before acquainted in Northamptonshire, seemed to doubt + some of the facts in my book, from a belief that human nature + was not capable of proceeding to such a pitch of wickedness. I + asked him to name his facts. He selected the case of the hundred + and thirty-two slaves who were thrown alive into the sea to + defraud the underwriters. I promised to satisfy him fully upon + this point, and went immediately to Granville Sharp, who lent me + his account of the trial, as reported at large from the notes of the + short-hand writer, whom he had employed on the occasion. Mr. + Powys read the account. He became, in consequence of it, convinced, + as, indeed, he could not otherwise be, of the truth of + what I had asserted, and he declared at the same time that, if + this were true, there was nothing so horrible related of this trade, + which might not immediately be believed. Mr. Powys had been + always friendly to this question, but now he took a part in the + distribution of my books. + + </p> + <p> + Among those whom I visited was Mr. Wilberforce. On my + first interview with him, he stated frankly, that the subject had + often employed his thoughts, and that it was near his heart. + He seemed earnest about it, and also very desirous of taking the + trouble of inquiring further into it. Having read my book, which + I had delivered to him, in person, he sent, for me. He expressed + a wish that I would make him acquainted with some of my + authorities for the assertions in it, which I did afterwards to his + satisfaction. He asked me if I could support it by any other evidence. + I told him I could. I mentioned Mr. Newton, Mr. + Nisbett, and several others to him. He took the trouble of sending + for all these. He made memorandums of their conversation, + and, sending for me afterwards, showed them to me. On learning + my intention to devote myself to the cause, he paid me many handsome + compliments. He then desired me to call upon him + often, and to acquaint him with my progress from time to time. + He expressed also his willingness to afford me any assistance in + his power in the prosecution of my pursuits. + + </p> + <p> + The carrying on of these different objects, together with the + writing which was connected with them, proved very laborious, + and occupied almost all my time. I was seldom engaged less + than sixteen hours in the day. When I left Teston to begin the + pursuit as an object of my life, I promised my friend Mr. Ramsay + a weekly account of my progress. At the end of the first week + my letter to him contained little more than a sheet of paper. At + the end of the second it contained three; at the end of the third, + six; and at the end of the fourth I found it would be so + voluminous, that I was obliged to decline writing it. + + </p> + + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + <h2><a name="chap10"></a>CHAPTER X. + </h2> + <p><b>Continuation of the fourth class of forerunners and + coadjutors up to 1787.—Author goes on to enlarge his knowledge + in the different departments of the subject; communicates more + frequently with Mr. Wilberforce.—Meetings now appointed at + the house of the latter.—Dinner at Mr. Langton's.—Mr. Wilberforce + pledges himself there to take up the subject in Parliament; + remarkable junction, in consequence, of all the four classes + of forerunners and coadjutors before-mentioned.—Committee formed + out of these on the 22nd of May, 1787, for the abolition of the + Slave Trade.</b></p> + + <p> + The manner in which Mr. Wilberforce had received me, and the + pains which he had taken, and was still taking, to satisfy himself + of the truth of those enormities which had been charged upon the + Slave Trade, tended much to enlarge my hope, that they might + become at length the subject of a parliamentary inquiry. Richard + Phillips, also, to whom I made a report at his chambers almost + every evening of the proceedings of the day, had begun to entertain + a similar expectation. Of course we unfolded our thoughts + to one another; from hence a desire naturally sprung up in each + of us to inquire whether any alteration in consequence of this new + prospect should be made in my pursuits. On deliberating upon + this point, it seemed proper to both of us that the distribution of + the books should be continued; that I should still proceed in + enlarging my own knowledge; and that I should still wait upon + members of the legislature, but with this difference, that I should + never lose sight of Mr. Wilberforce, but, on the other hand, that + I should rather omit visiting some others than paying a proper + attention to him. + + </p> + <p> + One thing however appeared now to be necessary, which had + not yet been done. This was to inform our friends in the city, + upon whom I had all along occasionally called, that we believed + the time was approaching when it would be desirable that we + should unite our labours, if they saw no objection to such a + measure; for, if the Slave Trade were to + become a subject of parliamentary inquiry with + a view to the annihilation of it, no individual + + could perform the work which would be necessary for such + a purpose. This work must be a work of many; and who so + proper to assist in it as they, who had before so honourably + laboured in it? In the case of such an event large funds also + would be wanted, and who so proper to procure and manage them + as these? A meeting was accordingly called at the house of James + Phillips, when these our views were laid open. When I stated + that from the very time of my hopes beginning to rise I had + always had those present in my eye as one day to be fellow-labourers, + William Dillwyn replied, that from the time they had + first heard of the <em>Prize Essay</em>, they also had had their eyes + upon me, and, from the time they had first seen me, had conceived: a + desire of making the same use of me as I had now expressed a + wish of making of them, but that matters did not appear ripe at + our first interview. Our proposal, however, was approved, and + an assurance was given, that an union should take place as soon + as it was judged to be seasonable. It was resolved also, that one + day in the week<a class="notelink" href="#NoteX_1"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootX_1"></a> should be + appointed for a meeting at the house + of James Phillips, where as many might attend as had leisure, + and that I should be there to make a report of my progress, by + which we might all judge of the fitness of the time of calling ourselves + an united body. Pleased now with the thought that + matters were put into such a train, I returned to my former + objects. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteX_1"></a><a href="#FootX_1">A</a>: At these weekly meetings I met + occasionally Joseph Woods, George Harrison, and John Lloyd, three of the other + members, who belonged to the committee of the second class of forerunners + and coadjutors as before described. I had seen all of them before, + but I do not recollect the time when I first met them. + </p> + <p> + It is not necessary to say anything more of the first of these + objects, which was that of the further distribution of my book, + than that it was continued, and chiefly by the same hands. + + </p> + <p> + With respect to the enlargement of my knowledge, it was + promoted likewise. I now gained access to the Custom-House + in London, where I picked up much valuable information for my + purpose. + + </p> + <p> + Having had reason to believe that the Slave Trade was peculiarly + fatal to those employed in it, I wished much to get copies + + of many of the muster-rolls from the Custom-House at Liverpool + for a given time. James Phillips wrote to his friend William + Rathbone, who was one of his own religious society, and who + resided there, to procure them. They were accordingly sent up. + The examination of these, which took place at the chambers of + Richard Phillips, was long and tedious. We looked over them + together. We usually met for this purpose at nine in the evening, + and we seldom parted till one, and sometimes not till three + in the morning. When our eyes were inflamed by the candle, or + tired by fatigue, we used to relieve ourselves by walking out + within the precincts of Lincoln's Inn, when all seemed to be fast + asleep, and thus, as it were, in solitude and in stillness to converse + upon them, as well as upon the best means of the further promotion + of our cause. These scenes of our early friendship and exertions + I shall never forget. I often think of them both with + astonishment and with pleasure. Having recruited ourselves in + this manner, we used to return to our work. From these muster-rolls, + I may now observe that we gained the most important + information: we ascertained, beyond the power of contradiction, that + more than half of the seamen who went out with the ships in the + Slave Trade did not return with them, and that of these so many + perished, as amounted to one-fifth of all employed. As to what + became of the remainder, the muster-rolls did not inform us; + this, therefore, was left to us as a subject for our future inquiry. + + </p> + <p> + In endeavouring to enlarge my knowledge, my thoughts were + frequently turned to the West Indian part of the question, and + in this department my friend Richard Phillips gained me important + intelligence. He put into my hands several documents + concerning estates in the West Indies, which he had mostly from + the proprietors themselves, where the slaves by mild and prudent + usage had so increased in population, as to supersede the necessity + of the Slave Trade. + + </p> + <p> + By attending to these and to various other parts of the subject, + I began to see as it were with new eyes; I was enabled to make + several necessary discriminations, to reconcile things before + seemingly contradictory, and to answer many objections which had + hitherto put on a formidable shape. But most of all was I + + rejoiced at the thought that I should soon be able to prove that + which I had never doubted, but which had hitherto been beyond + my power in this case, that Providence, in ordaining laws relative + to the agency of man, had never made that to be wise which was + immoral, and that the Slave Trade would be found as impolitic + as it was inhuman and unjust. + + </p> + <p> + In keeping up my visits to members of parliament, I was + particularly attentive to Mr. Wilberforce, whom I found daily + becoming more interested in the fate of Africa. I now made to + him a regular report of my progress, of the sentiments of those in + parliament whom I had visited, of the disposition of my friends + in the city, of whom he had often heard me speak, of my discoveries + from the Custom-Houses of London and Liverpool, of + my documents concerning West India estates, and of all, indeed, + that had occurred to me worth mentioning. He had himself also + been making his inquiries, which he communicated to me in + return. Our intercourse had now become frequent, no one week + elapsing without an interview: at one of these, I suggested to him + the propriety of having occasional meetings at his own house, + consisting of a few friends in parliament, who might converse on + the subject: of this he approved. The persons present at the + first meeting were Mr. Wilberforce, the Honourable John Villiers, + Mr. Powys, Sir Charles Middleton, Sir Richard Hill, Mr. + Granville Sharp, Mr. Ramsay, Dr. Gregory, (who had written + on the subject, as before mentioned,) and myself. At this meeting + I read a paper, giving an account of the light I had collected + in the course of my inquiries, with observations as well on the + impolicy as on the wickedness of the trade. Many questions + arose out of the reading of this little essay; many answers followed. + Objections were started and canvassed. In short, this + measure was found so useful, that certain other evenings as well + as mornings were fixed upon for the same purpose. + + </p> + <p> + On reporting my progress to my friends in the city, several of + whom now assembled once in the week, as I mentioned before to + have been agreed upon, and particularly on reporting the different + meetings which had taken place at the house of Mr. Wilberforce + on the subject, they were of opinion that the time was approaching + + when we might unite, and that this union might prudently + commence as soon as ever Mr. Wilberforce would give his word + that he would take up the question in Parliament. Upon this I + desired to observe, that though the latter gentleman had pursued + the subject with much earnestness, he had never yet dropped the + least hint that he would proceed so far in the matter, but I would + take care that the question should be put to him, and I would + bring them his answer. + + </p> + <p> + In consequence of the promise I had now made, I went to + Mr. Wilberforce. But when I saw him, I seemed unable to + inform him of the object of my visit. Whether this inability + arose from any sudden fear that his answer might not be favourable, + or from a fear that I might possibly involve him in a long + and arduous contest upon this subject, or whether it arose from + an awful sense of the importance of the mission, as it related to + the happiness of hundreds of thousands then alive, and of millions + then unborn, I cannot say. But I had a feeling within me for + which I could not account, and which seemed to hinder me from + proceeding; and I actually went away without informing him + of my errand. + + </p> + <p> + In this situation I began to consider what to do, when I + thought I would call upon Mr. Langton, tell him what had happened, + and ask his advice. I found him at home. We consulted + together. The result was, that he was to invite Mr. Wilberforce + and some others to meet me at a dinner at his own house + in two or three days, when he said he had no doubt of being able + to procure an answer, by some means or other, to the question + which I wished to have resolved. + + </p> + <p> + On receiving a card from Mr. Langton, I went to dine with + him. I found the party consist of Sir Charles Middleton, Mr. + Wilberforce, Mr. Hawkins Browne, Mr. Windham, Sir Joshua + Reynolds, and Mr. Boswell. The latter was then known as the + friend of Dr. Johnson, and afterwards as the writer of + his <em>Tour to the Hebrides</em>. After dinner + the subject of the Slave Trade + was purposely introduced. Many questions were put to me, and + I dilated upon each in my answers, that I might inform and + interest those present as much as I could. They seemed to be + + greatly impressed with my account of the loss of seamen in the + trade, and with the little samples of African cloth which I had + procured for their inspection. Sir Joshua Reynolds gave his + unqualified approbation of the abolition of this cruel traffic. + Mr. Hawkins Browne joined heartily with him in sentiment; + he spoke with much feeling upon it, and pronounced it to be + barbarous, and contrary to every principle of morality and religion. + Mr. Boswell, after saying the planters would urge that the + Africans were made happier by being carried from their own + country to the West Indies, observed, "Be it so. But we have + no right to make people happy against their will." Mr. Windham, + when it was suggested that the great importance of our + West Indian islands, and the grandeur of Liverpool, would be + brought against those who should propose the abolition of the + Slave Trade, replied, "We have nothing to do with the policy + of the measure. Rather let Liverpool and the islands be swallowed + up in the sea, than this monstrous system of iniquity be + carried on.<a class="notelink" href="#NoteX_2"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootX_2"></a>" While such conversation was passing, and when + all appeared to be interested in the cause, Mr. Langton put the + question, about the proposal of which I had been so diffident, to + Mr. Wilberforce, in the shape of a delicate compliment. The + latter replied, that he had no objection to bring forward the + measure in parliament when he was better prepared for it, and + provided no person more proper could be found. Upon this, + Mr. Hawkins Browne and Mr. Windham both said they would + support him there. Before I left the company, I took Mr. Wilberforce + aside, and asked him if I might mention this his resolution + to those of my friends in the city, of whom he had often + heard me speak, as desirous of aiding him by becoming a committee + for the purpose. He replied, I might. I then asked + Mr. Langton, privately, if he had any objection to belong to a + society of which there might be a committee for the abolition of + the Slave Trade. He said he should be pleased to become a + + member of it. Having received these satisfactory answers, I + returned home. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteX_2"></a><a href="#FootX_2">A</a>: I do not know upon what grounds, after + such strong expressions, Mr. Boswell, in the next year, and Mr. Windham, + after having supported the cause for three or four years, became + inimical to it. + </p> + <p> + The next day, having previously taken down the substance of + the conversation at the dinner, I went to James Phillips, and + desired that our friends might be called together as soon as they + conveniently could to hear my report. In the interim I wrote + to Dr. Peckard, and waited upon Lord Scarsdale, Dr. Baker, + and others, to know (supposing a society were formed for the + abolition of the Slave Trade) if I might say they would belong + to it. All of them replied in the affirmative, and desired me to + represent them, if there should be any meeting for this purpose. + + </p> + <p> + At the time appointed I met my friends. I read over the + substance of the conversation which had taken place at Mr. + Langton's. No difficulty occurred. All were unanimous for the + formation of a committee. On the next day we met by agreement + for this purpose. It was then resolved unanimously, among + other things,—That the Slave Trade was both impolitic and + unjust. It was resolved, also,—That the following persons be a + committee for procuring such information and evidence, and publishing + the same, as may tend to the abolition of the Slave Trade, + and for directing the application of such moneys as have been + already, and may hereafter be collected for the above purpose:— + + </p> + <ul> + <li><a name="d0e2128"></a>Granville Sharp + </li> + <li><a name="d0e2130"></a>Thomas Clarkson + </li> + <li><a name="d0e2132"></a>Richard Phillips + </li> + <li><a name="d0e2134"></a>William Dillwyn + </li> + <li><a name="d0e2136"></a>Samual Hoare + </li> + <li><a name="d0e2138"></a>John Barton + </li> + <li><a name="d0e2140"></a>George Harrison + </li> + <li><a name="d0e2142"></a>Joseph Hooper + </li> + <li><a name="d0e2144"></a>John Lloyd + </li> + <li><a name="d0e2146"></a>James Phillips + </li> + <li><a name="d0e2148"></a>Joseph Woods + </li> + <li><a name="d0e2150"></a>Philip Sansom + </li> + </ul> + <p> + All these were present. Granville Sharp, who stands at the + head of the list, and who, as the father of the cause in England, + was called to the chair, maybe considered as representing the + first class of forerunners and coadjutors, as it has been before + described. The five next, of whom Samuel Hoare was chosen + as the treasurer, were they who had been the committee of the + second class, or of the Quakers in England, with the exception + + of Dr. Knowles, who was then dying, but who, having heard of + our meeting, sent a message to us to exhort us to proceed. The + third class, or that of the Quakers in America, may be considered + as represented by William Dillwyn, by whom they were + afterwards joined to us in correspondence. The two who stand + next, and in which I am included, may be considered as representing + the fourth, most of the members of which we had been + the means of raising. Thus, on the 22nd of May, 1787, the + representatives of all the four classes, of which I have been giving + a history from the year 1516, met together, and were united in + that committee, to which I have been all along directing the + attention of the reader; a committee, which, labouring afterwards + with Mr. Wilberforce as a parliamentary head, did, under + Providence, in the space of twenty years, contribute to put an + end to a trade, which, measuring its magnitude by its crimes and + sufferings, was the greatest practical evil that ever afflicted the + human race. + + </p> + <p> + After the formation of the committee<a class="notelink" href="#NoteX_3"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootX_3"></a>, notice was sent to + Mr. Wilberforce of the event, and a friendship began, which has + continued uninterruptedly between them, from that to the present + day. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteX_3"></a><a href="#FootX_3">A</a>: All the members + were of the society of the Quakers, except Mr. Sharp, + Sansom, and myself. Joseph Gurney Bevan was present on the day before this + meeting. He desired to belong to the society, but to be excused from belonging + to the committee. + </p> + + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + <h2><a name="chap11"></a>CHAPTER XI. + </h2> + <p><b>The preceding history of the different classes of the + forerunners and coadjutors, to the time of the formation of the committee, + collected into one view by means of a map.—Explanation of this map, + and observations upon it.</b></p> + + <p> + As the preceding history of the different classes of the forerunners + and coadjutors, to the time of their junction, or to the + formation of the committee, as just explained, may be thought + interesting by many, I have endeavoured, by means of the + annexed map, so to bring it before the reader, that he may comprehend + the whole of it at a single view. + + </p> + <p> + The figure beginning at A and reaching down to X represents + the first class of forerunners and coadjutors up to the year 1787, + as consisting of so many springs or rivulets, which assisted in + making and swelling the torrent which swept away the Slave + Trade. + + </p> + <p> + The figure from B to C and from C to X represents the second + class, or that of the Quakers in England, up to the same time. + The stream on the right-hand represents them as a body, and + that on the left the six individuals belonging to them, who formed + the committee in 1783. + + </p> + <p> + The figure from B to D represents the third class, or that of + the Quakers in America when joined with others in 1774. The + stream passing from D through E to X shows how this class + was conveyed down, as it were, so as to unite with the second. + That passing from D to Y shows its course in its own country, + to its enlargement in 1787. And here I may observe, that as the + different streams which formed a junction at X, were instrumental + in producing the abolition of the Slave Trade in England, + in the month of March, 1807, so those, whose effects are found + united at Y, contributed to produce the same event in America, + in the same month of the same year. + + </p> + <p> + The figure from F to X represents the fourth class up to + 1787. + + </p><a name="coadj1"></a><span class="center"><img src="images/174-1.png" alt="First Class of Forerunners and Coadjutors"></span><span class="center"><img src="images/175-1.png" alt="Second Class of Forerunners and Coadjutors"></span><span class="center"><img src="images/176-1.png" alt="Third Class of Forerunners and Coadjutors"></span><p> + X represents the junction of all the four classes in the + committee instituted in London on the twenty-second day of + May, 1787. + + </p> + <p> + The parallel lines G, H, I, K, represent different periods of + time, showing when the forerunners and coadjutors lived. The + space between G and H includes the space of fifty years, in which + we find but few labourers in this cause. That between H and I + includes the same portion of time, in which we find them considerably + increased, or nearly doubled. That between I and K + represents the next thirty-seven years; but here we find their + increase beyond all expectation, for we find four times more + labourers in this short term, than in the whole of the preceding + century. + + </p> + <p> + In looking over the map, as thus explained, a number of + thoughts suggested themselves, some of which it may not be + improper to detail. And first, in looking between the first and + second parallel, we perceive, that Morgan Godwyn, Richard + Baxter, and George Fox, the first a clergyman of the established + church, the second a divine at the head of the nonconformists, + and the third the founder of the religious society of the Quakers, + appeared each of them the first in his own class, and all of them, + about the same time, in behalf of the oppressed Africans. We + see then this great truth first apparent, that the abolition of the + Slave Trade took its rise, not from persons who set up a cry for + liberty, when they were oppressors themselves, nor from persons + who were led to it by ambition, or a love of reputation among + men, but where it was most desirable, namely, from the teachers + of Christianity in those times. + + </p> + <p> + This account of its rise will furnish us with some important + lessons. And first, it shows us the great value of religion. We + see, when moral disorders become known, that the virtuous are + they who rise up for the removal of them. Thus Providence + seems to have appointed those who devote themselves most to his + service, to the honourable office of becoming so many agents, + under his influence, for the correction of the evils of life. And + as this account of the rise of the abolition of the Slave Trade + teaches us the necessity of a due cultivation of religion; so it + + should teach us to have a brotherly affection for those, who, + though they may differ from us in speculative opinions concerning + it, do yet show by their conduct that they have a high reward + for it. For though Godwyn, and Baxter, and Fox, differed as to + the articles of their faith, we find them impelled by the spirit of + Christianity, which is of infinitely more importance than a mere + agreement in creeds, to the same good end. + + </p> + <p> + In looking over the different streams in the map, as they are + discoverable both in Europe and America, we are impressed with + another truth on the same subject, which is, that the Christian + religion is capable of producing the same good fruit in all lands. + However men may differ on account of climate, or language, or + government, or laws, or however they may be situated in different + quarters of the globe, it will produce in them the same virtuous + disposition, and make them instruments for the promotion of + happiness in the world. + + </p> + <p> + In looking between the two first parallels, where we see so + few labourers, and in contemplating the great increase of these + between the others, we are taught the consoling lesson, that however + small the beginning and slow the progress may appear in any + good work which we may undertake, we need not be discouraged + as to the ultimate result of our labours; for though our cause may + appear stationary, it may only become so, in order that it may + take a deeper root, and thus be enabled to stand better against + the storms which may afterwards beat about it. + + </p> + <p> + In taking the same view again, we discover the manner in + which light and information proceed under a free government in + a good cause. An individual, for example, begins; he communicates + his sentiments to others. Thus, while alive, he enlightens; + when dead, he leaves his works, behind him. Thus, though departed, + he yet speaks, and his influence is not lost. Of those + enlightened by him, some become authors, and others actors in + their turn. While living, they instruct, like their predecessors; + when dead, they speak also. Thus a number of dead persons are + encouraging us in libraries, and a number of living are conversing + and diffusing zeal among us at the same time. This, however, is + not true in any free and enlightened country, with respect to the + + propagation of evil. The living find no permanent encouragement, + and the dead speak to no purpose in such a case. + + </p> + <p> + This account of the manner in which light and information + proceed in a free country, furnishes us with some valuable knowledge. + It shows us, first, the great importance of education; for + all they who can read may become enlightened. They may gain + as much from the dead as from the living. They may see the sentiments + of former ages. Thus they may contract, by degrees, + habits of virtuous inclination, and become fitted to join with + others in the removal of any of the evils of life. + + </p> + <p> + It shows us, secondly, how that encouraging maxim may become + true, That no good effort is ever lost. For if he, who + makes the virtuous attempt, should be prevented by death from + succeeding in it, can he not speak, though in the tomb? Will not + his works still breathe his sentiments upon it? May not the + opinions, and the facts, which he has recorded, meet the approbation + of ten thousand readers, of whom it is probable, in the + common course of things, that some will branch out of him as + authors, and others as actors or labourers, in the same cause? + + </p> + <p> + And, lastly, it will show us the difficulty (if any attempt + should be made) of reversing permanently the late noble act of + the legislature for the abolition of the Slave Trade. For let us + consider how many, both of the living and the dead, could be, + made to animate us. Let us consider, too, that this is the cause + of mercy, justice, and religion; that as such, it will always afford + renewed means of rallying; and that the dead will always be + heard with interest, and the living with enthusiasm upon it. + + </p> + + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + <h2><a name="chap12"></a>CHAPTER XII. + </h2> + <p><b>Author devotes this chapter to considerations relative to himself; + fears that by the frequent introduction of himself to the notice of the reader he + may incur the charge of ostentation.—Observations on such a charge.</b></p> + + <p> + Having brought my history of the abolition of the Slave Trade + up to the month of May 1787, I purpose taking the liberty, + before I proceed with it, to devote this chapter to considerations + relative to myself. This, indeed, seems to be now necessary; for + I have been fearful for some pages past, and, indeed, from the + time when I began to introduce myself to the notice of the reader, + as one of the forerunners and coadjutors in this great cause, that + I might appear to have put myself into a situation too prominent, + so as even to have incurred the charge of ostentation. But if + there should be some who, in consequence of what they have + already read of this history, should think thus unfavourably of + me, what must their opinion ultimately be, when, unfortunately, + I must become still more prominent in it! Nor do I know in + what manner I shall escape their censure: for if, to avoid egotism, + I should write, as many have done, in the third person, what + would this profit me? The delicate situation, therefore, in which + I feel myself to be placed, makes me desirous of saying a few + words to the reader on this subject. + + </p> + <p> + And first, I may observe, that several of my friends urged me + from time to time, and this long before the abolition of the Slave + Trade had been effected, to give a history of the rise and progress + of the attempt, as far as it had been then made; but I uniformly + resisted their application. + + </p> + <p> + When the question was decided last year, they renewed + their request. They represented to me, that no person knew the + beginning and progress of this great work so well as myself; that it + was a pity that such knowledge should die with me; that such a + history would be useful; that it would promote good feelings + among men; that it would urge them to benevolent exertions; + that it would supply them with hope in the midst of these; that + it would teach them many valuable lessons;—these and other + things were said to me. But, encouraging as they were, I never + + lost sight of the objection; which is the subject of this chapter; + nor did I ever fail to declare, that though, considering the part I + had taken in this great cause, I might be qualified better than + some others, yet it was a task too delicate for me to perform. I + always foresaw that I could not avoid making myself too prominent + an object in such a history, and that I should be liable, on + that account, to the suspicion of writing it for the purpose of + sounding my own praise. + + </p> + <p> + With this objection my friends were not satisfied. They + answered, that I might treat the History of the Abolition of the + Slave Trade as a species of biography, or as the history of a part of + my own life: that people, who had much less weighty matters to + communicate, wrote their own histories; and that no one charged + them with vanity for so doing. + + </p> + <p> + I own I was not convinced by this answer. I determined, + however, in compliance with their wishes, to examine the objection + more minutely, and to see if I could overcome it more satisfactorily + to my own mind. With this view, I endeavoured to + anticipate the course which such a history would take. I saw + clearly, in the first place, that there were times, for months together, + when the committee for the abolition of the Slave Trade + was labouring without me, and when I myself for an equal space + of time was labouring in distant parts of the kingdom without + them. Hence I perceived that, if my own exertions were left + out, there would be repeated chasms in this history; and, indeed, + that it could not be completed without the frequent mention of + myself. And I was willing to hope that this would be so obvious + to the good sense of the reader, that if he should think me vain-glorious + in the early part of it, he would afterwards, when he + advanced in the perusal of it, acquit me of such a charge. This + consideration was the first which removed my objection on this + head. That there can be no ground for any charge of ostentation, + as far as the origin of this history is concerned, so I hope to + convince him there, can be none, by showing him in what light I + have always viewed myself in connexion with the committee, to + which I have had the honour to belong. + + </p> + <p> + I have uniformly considered our committee for the abolition + of the Slave Trade; as we usually consider the human body, + + that is, as made up of a head and of various members + which had different offices to perform. Thus, if one man was + an eye, another was an ear, another an arm, and another a + foot. And here I may say, with great truth, that I believe no + committee was ever made up of persons, whose varied talents + were better adapted to the work before them. Viewing then the + committee in this light, and myself as in connexion with it, I + may deduce those truths, with which the analogy will furnish me. + And first, it will follow, that if every member has performed his + office faithfully, though one may have done something more than + another, yet no one of them in particular has any reason to boast. + With what propriety could the foot, though in the execution of + its duty it had become weary, say to the finger, "Thou hast done + less than I;" when the finger could reply with truth, "I have + done all that has been given me to do?". It will follow, also, that + as every limb is essentially necessary for the completion of a perfect + work; so in the case before us, every one was as necessary + in his own office, or department, as another. For what, for example, + could I myself have done if I had not derived so much + assistance from the committee? What could Mr. Wilberforce + have done in Parliament, if I, on the other hand, had not collected + that great body of evidence, to which there was such a + constant appeal? And what could the committee have done + without the parliamentary aid of Mr. Wilberforce? And in + mentioning this necessity of distinct offices and talents for the + accomplishment of the great work, in which we have been all of + us engaged, I feel myself bound by the feelings of justice to deliver + it as my opinion in this place, (for, perhaps, I may have no + other opportunity,) + that knowing, as I have done, so many members of + both houses of our legislature, for many of whom I have had a + sincere respect, there was never yet one, who appeared to me to + be so properly qualified, in all respects, for the management of + the great cause of the abolition of the Slave Trade, as he, whose + name I have just mentioned. His connexions, but more particularly + his acquaintance with the first minister of state, were of + more service in the promotion of it, than they, who are but little + acquainted with political movements, can well appreciate. His + habits also of diligent and persevering inquiry made him master + + of all the knowledge that was requisite for conducting it. His + talents both in and out of parliament made him a powerful advocate + in its favour. His character, free from the usual spots of + human imperfection, gave an appropriate lustre to the cause, + making it look yet more lovely, and enticing others to its support. + But most of all the motive, on which he undertook it, insured its + progress. For this did not originate in views of selfishness, or of + party or of popular applause, but in an awful sense of his duty as + a Christian. It was this which gave him alacrity and courage + in his pursuit. It was this which made him continue in his elevated + situation of a legislator, though it was unfavourable, if not + to his health, at least to his ease and comfort. It was this which + made him incorporate this great object among the pursuits of his + life, so that it was daily in his thoughts. It was this which + when year after year of unsuccessful exertion returned, occasioned + him to be yet fresh and vigorous in spirit, and to persevere till + the day of triumph. + + </p> + <p> + But to return:—There is yet another consideration, which I + shall offer to the reader on this subject, and with which I shall + conclude it. It is this; that no one ought to be accused of vanity + until he has been found to assume to himself some extraordinary + merit. This being admitted, I shall now freely disclose the views + which I have always been desirous of taking of my own conduct + on this occasion, in the following words:— + + </p> + <p> + As Robert Barclay, the apologist for the Quakers, when + he dedicated his work to Charles the Second, intimated to this + prince, that any merit which the work might have, would not be + derived from his patronage of it, but from the Author of all + spiritual good; so I say to the reader, with respect to myself, that + I disclaim all praise on account of any part I may have taken + in the promotion of this great cause, for that I am desirious + above all things to attribute my best endeavours in it to the influence + of a superior Power; of Him, I mean, who gave me a + heart to feel—who gave me courage to begin—and perseverance + to proceed—and that I am thankful to Him, and this with the + deepest feeling of gratitude and humility, for having permitted + me to become useful, in any degree, to my fellow-creatures. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + + <h2><a name="chap13"></a> + CHAPTER XIII + + </h2> + <p><b>Author returns to his History.—Committee formed as before-mentioned; its + proceedings.—Author produces a summary view of the Slave Trade, and + of the probable consequences of its abolition.—Wrongs of Africa, by Mr. + Roscoe, generously presented to the committee.—Important discussion as + to the object of the committee.—Emancipation declared to be no part of + it.—Committee decides on its public title.—Author requested to go to + Bristol, Liverpool, and Lancaster, to collect further information on the + subject of the trade.</b></p> + + <p> + I return now, after this long digression, to the continuation of + my history. + + </p> + <p> + It was shown in the latter part of the tenth chapter, that + twelve individuals, all of whom were then named, met together + by means which no one could have foreseen, on the 22d of May, + 1787; and that, after having voted the Slave Trade to be both + unjust and impolitic, they formed themselves into a committee + for procuring such information and evidence, and for publishing + the same, as might tend to the abolition of it, and for directing + the application of such money as had been already, and might + hereafter be collected for that purpose. At this meeting it was + resolved also, that no less than three members should form a + quorum; that Samuel Hoare should be the treasurer; that the + treasurer should pay no money but by order of the committee; + and that copies of these resolutions should be printed and circulated, + in which it should be inserted that the subscriptions of all + such as were willing to forward the plans of the committee should + be received by the treasurer or any member of it. + + </p> + <p> + On the 24th of May the committee met again to promote the + object of its institution. + + </p> + <p> + The treasurer reported at this meeting, that the subscriptions + already received amounted to one hundred and thirty-six pounds. + + </p> + <p> + As I had foreseen long before this time that my <em>Essay on the + Slavery and Commerce of the Human Species</em> was too large for + general circulation, and yet that a general circulation of knowledge + + on this subject was absolutely necessary, I determined + directly after the formation of the committee to write a short + pamphlet consisting only of eight or ten pages for this purpose. + I called it <em>A Summary View of the Slave Trade, and of the probable + consequences of its Abolition</em>. It began by exhibiting to the + reader the various unjustifiable ways in which persons living on + the coast of Africa became slaves. It then explained the treatment + which these experienced on their passage, the number dying + in the course of it, and the treatment of the survivors in the + colonies of those nations to which they were carried. It then + announced the speedy publication of a work on the impolicy of + the trade, the contents of which, as far as I could then see, I gave + generally under the following heads:—Part the first, it was said, + would show that Africa was capable of offering to us a trade in + its own natural productions as well as in the persons of men; + that the trade in the persons of men was profitable but to a few; + that its value was diminished from many commercial considerations; + that it was also highly destructive to our seamen; and + that the branch of it, by which we supplied the island of St. + Domingo with slaves, was peculiarly impolitic on that account. + Part the second, it was said, would show that if the slaves were + kindly treated in our colonies, they would increase; that the + abolition of the trade would necessarily secure such a treatment + to them, and that it would produce many other advantages which + would be then detailed. + + </p> + <p> + This little piece I presented to the committee at this their + second meeting. It was then duly read and examined; and the + result was, that after some little correction it was approved, and + that two thousand copies of it were ordered to be printed, with + lists of the subscribers and of the committee, and to be sent to + various parts of the kingdom. + + </p> + <p> + On June the 7th, the committee met again for the despatch + of business, when, among other things, they voted their thanks + to Dr. Baker, of Lower Grosvenor-street, who had been one of + my first assistants, for his services to the cause. + + </p> + <p> + At this committee John Barton, one of the members of it, + stated that he was commissioned by the author of a poem, + + entitled <em>The Wrongs of Africa</em>, to offer the profits which might + arise from the sale of that work, to the committee, for the purpose + of enabling them to pursue the object of their institution. This + circumstance was not only agreeable, inasmuch as it showed us + that there were others who felt with us for the injured Africans, + and who were willing to aid us in our designs, but it was + rendered still more so when we were given to understand that + the poem was written by Mr. Roscoe, of Liverpool, and the preface + to it by the late Dr. Currie, who then lived in the same + place. To find friends to our cause rising up from a quarter + where we expected scarcely anything but opposition, was very + consolatory and encouraging. As this poem was well written, + but cannot now be had, I shall give the introductory part of it, + which is particularly beautiful, to the perusal of the reader. It + begins thus:— + + </p> + <div class="poem"> + + <div class="lg">Offspring of Love divine, Humanity!<br>To whom, his eldest born, th' Eternal gave<br>Dominion o'er the heart; and taught to touch<br>Its varied stops in sweetest unison;<br>And strike the string that from a kindred breast<br>Responsive vibrates! from the noisy haunts<br>Of mercantile confusion, where thy voice<br>Is heard not; from the meretricious glare<br>Of crowded theatres, where in thy place<br>Sits Sensibility, with wat'ry eye,<br>Dropping o'er fancied woes her useless tear;<br>Come thou, and weep with me substantial ills;<br>And execrate the wrongs that Afric's sons,<br>Torn from their natal shore, and doom'd to bear<br>The yoke of servitude in foreign climes,<br>Sustain. Nor vainly let our sorrows flow,<br>Nor let the strong emotion rise in vain;<br>But may the land contagion widely spread,<br>Till in its flame the unrelenting heart<br>Of avarice melt in softest sympathy—<br>And one bright blaze of universal love<br>In grateful incense rises up to Heaven!<br><br></div> + <div class="lg">Form'd with the same capacity of pain,<br>The same desire of pleasure and of ease,<br>Why feels not man for man! When nature shrinks<br>From the slight puncture of an insect's sting,<br>Faints, if not screen'd from sultry suns, und pines<br>Beneath the hardship of an hour's delay<br>Of needful nutriment;—when liberty<br>Is priz'd so dearly, that the slightest breath<br>That ruffles but her mantle, can awake<br>To arms unwarlike nations, and can rouse<br>Confed'rate states to vindicate her claims:—<br>How shall the suff'rer man his fellow doom<br>To ills he mourns and spurns at; tear with stripes<br>His quiv'ring flesh; with hunger and with thirst<br>Waste his emaciate frame; in ceaseless toils<br>Exhaust his vital powers; and bind his limbs<br>In galling chains? Shall he, whose fragile form<br>Demands continual blessings to support<br>Its complicated texture, air, and food,<br>Raiment, alternate rest, and kindly skies,<br>And healthful seasons, dare with impious voice<br>To ask those mercies, whilst his selfish aim<br>Arrests the general freedom of their course;<br>And, gratified beyond his utmost wish,<br>Debars another from the bounteous store?<br><br></div> + </div> + <p> + In this manner was the subject of this beautiful poem introduced + to the notice of the public. But I have no room for any + further extracts, nor time to make any further comment upon it. + I can only add, that the committee were duly sensible as well of + its merits, as of the virtuous and generous disposition of the + author, and that they requested John Barton to thank him in an + appropriate manner for his offer, which he was to say they + accepted gratefully. + + </p> + <p> + At this sitting, at which ten members were present out of the + twelve, a discussion unexpectedly arose on a most important subject. + The committee, finding that their meetings began to be + approved by many, and that the cause under their care was likely + to spread, and foreseeing, also, the necessity there would soon be + of making themselves known as a public body throughout the + kingdom, thought it right that they should assume some title, + which should be a permanent one, and which should be expressive + of their future views. This gave occasion to them to reconsider + the object for which they had associated, and to fix and + define it in such a manner that there should be no misunderstanding + about it in the public mind. In looking into the subject, + it appeared to them that there were two evils quite distinct + from each other, which it might become their duty to endeavour + + to remove. The first was the evil of the Slave Trade, in consequence + of which many thousand persons were every year fraudulently + and forcibly taken from their country, their relations and + friends, and from all that they esteemed valuable in life. The + second was the evil of slavery itself, in consequence of which the + same persons were forced into a situation where they were + deprived of the rights of men, where they were obliged to linger + out their days subject to excessive labour and cruel punishments, + and where their children were to inherit the same hard lot. Now + the question was, which of the two evils the committee should + select as that to which they should direct their attention with a + view of the removal of it; or whether, with the same view, it + should direct its attention to both of them. + + </p> + <p> + It appeared soon to be the sense of the committee, that to + aim at the removal of both, would be to aim at too much, and + that by doing this we might lose all. + + </p> + <p> + The question then was, which of the two they were to take + as their object? Now, in considering this question, it appeared + that it did not matter where they began, or which of them they + took, as far as the end to be produced was the thing desired. For + first, if the Slave Trade should be really abolished, the bad usage + of the slaves in the colonies, that is, the hard part of their slavery, + if not the slavery itself, would fall. For the planters and others + being unable to procure more slaves from the coast of Africa, it + would follow directly, whenever this great event should take + place, that they must treat those better whom they might then + have. They must render marriage honourable among them. + They must establish the union of one man with one wife. They + must give the pregnant women more indulgences. They must + pay more attention to the rearing of their offspring. They must + work and punish the adults with less rigour. Now it was to be + apprehended that they could not do these things, without seeing + the political advantages which would arise to themselves from so + doing; and that, reasoning upon this, they might be induced to + go on to give them greater indulgences, rights, and privileges, in + time. But how would every such successive improvement of + their condition operate, but to bring them nearer to the state of + + freemen? In the same manner it was contended, that the better + treatment of the slaves in the colonies, or that the emancipation + of them there, when fit for it, would of itself lay the foundation + for the abolition of the Slave Trade. For if the slaves were + kindly treated, that is, if marriage were encouraged among them; + if the infants who should be born were brought up with care; if + the sick were properly attended to; if the young and the adult + were well fed and properly clothed, and not over-worked, and not + worn down by the weight of severe punishments, they would + necessarily increase, and this on an extensive scale. But if the + planters were thus to get their labourers from the births on their + own estates, then the Slave Trade would in time be no longer + necessary to them, and it would die away as an useless and a + noxious plant. Thus it was of no consequence, which of the two + evils the committee were to select as the object for their labours; + for, as far as the end in view only was concerned, that the same + end would be produced in either case. + + </p> + <p> + But in looking further into this question, it seemed to make + a material difference which of the two they selected, as far as + they had in view the due execution of any laws, which might + be made respecting them, and their own prospect of success in + the undertaking. For, by aiming at the abolition of the Slave + Trade, they were laying the axe at the very root. By doing this, + and this only, they would not incur the objection, that they were + meddling with the property of the planters, and letting loose an + irritated race of beings, who, in consequence of all the vices + and infirmities which a state of slavery entails upon those who + undergo it, were unfit for their freedom. By asking the government + of the country to do this, and this only, they were asking + for that which it had an indisputable right to do; namely, to + regulate or abolish any of its branches of commerce: whereas it + was doubtful, whether it could interfere with the management of + the internal affairs of the colonies, or whether this was not wholly + the province of the legislatures established there. By asking the + government, again, to do this, and this only, they were asking + what it could really enforce. It could station its ships of war, + and command its custom-houses, so as to carry any act of this + + kind into effect. But it could not insure that an act to be + observed in the heart of the islands should be + enforced<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXI_1"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXI_1"></a>. + To this it was added, that if the committee were to fix upon the + annihilation of slavery as the object for their labours, the Slave + Trade would not fall so speedily as it would by a positive law for + the abolition; because, though the increase from the births might + soon supply all the estates now in cultivation with labourers, + yet new plantations might be opened from time to time in different + islands, so that no period could be fixed upon, when it could be + said that it would cease. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXI_1"></a><a href="#FootXI_1">A</a>: The late correspondence of the governors of our + colonies with Lord Camden in his official situation, but particularly + the statements made by Lord Seaforth and General Prevost, have shown + the wisdom of this remark, and that no dependence was to be had for the + better usage of the slaves but upon the total abolition of the trade. + </p> + <p> + Impressed by these arguments, the committee were clearly of + opinion, that they should define their object to be the abolition of + the Slave Trade, and not of the slavery which sprung from it. + Hence from this time, and in allusion to the month when this + discussion took place, they styled themselves in their different + advertisements, and reports, though they were first associated in + the month of May, The Committee instituted in June, 1787, for + effecting the Abolition of the Slave Trade. Thus, at the very + outset, they took a ground which was for ever tenable. Thus + they were enabled also to answer the objection, which was afterwards + so constantly and so industriously circulated against them, + that they were going to emancipate the slaves. And I have no + doubt that this wise decision contributed greatly to their success; + for I am persuaded that, if they had adopted the other object, + they could not for years to come, if ever, have succeeded in their + attempt. + + </p> + <p> + Before the committee broke up, I represented to them the + necessity there was of obtaining further knowledge on all those + individual points which might be said to belong to the great + subject of the abolition of the Slave Trade. In the first place, + this knowledge was necessary for me, if I were to complete my + work on <em>The Impolicy of this Trade</em>, which work, the <em>Summary + View</em>, just printed, had announced to the world. It would be + + necessary, also, in case the Slave Trade should become a subject + of parliamentary inquiry; for this inquiry could not proceed + without evidence. And if any time was peculiarly fit for the + procuring of such information or evidence, it was the present. + At this time the passions of men had not been heated by any + public agitation of the question, nor had interest felt itself biassed + to conceal the truth. But as soon as ever it should be publicly + understood, that a parliamentary inquiry was certain, (which we + ourselves believed would be the case, but which interested men + did not then know,) we should find many of the avenues to + information closed against us. I proposed, therefore, that some + one of the committee should undertake a journey to Bristol, + Liverpool, and Lancaster, where he should reside for a time to + collect further light upon this subject; and that if others should + feel their occupations or engagements to be such as would make + such a journey unsuitable, I would undertake it myself. I + begged, therefore, the favour of the different members of the + committee, to turn the matter over in their minds by the next + meeting, that we might then talk over and decide upon the + propriety of the measure. + + </p> + <p> + The committee held its fourth meeting on the 12th of June. + Among the subjects which were then brought forward, was that + of the journey before mentioned. The propriety, and indeed, + even the necessity, of it was so apparent, that I was requested + by all present to undertake it, and a minute for that purpose was + entered upon our records. Of this journey, as gradually unfolding + light on the subject, and as peculiarly connected with the promotion + of our object, I shall now give an account; after which I + shall return to the proceedings of the committee. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + + <h2><a name="chap14"></a>CHAPTER XIV. + </h2> + <p><b> Author arrives at Bristol; introduction to Quaker families there.—Objects of + his inquiry.—Ill usage of seamen on board the ship Brothers.—Obtains a + knowledge of several articles of African produce.—Dr. Caniplin; Dean + Tucker; Mr. Henry Sulgar.—Procures an authenticated account of the + treacherous massacre at Calabar.—Ill usage of the seamen of the ship + Alfred.—Painful feelings of the author on this occasion.</b></p> + <p> + Having made preparations for my journey, I took my leave of + the different individuals of the committee. I called upon Mr. + Wilberforce, also, with the same design. He was then very ill, + and in bed; Sir Richard Hill and others were sitting by his bedside. + After conversing as much as he well could in his weak + state, he held out his hand to me and wished me success. When + I left him I felt much dejected; it appeared to me as if it would + be in this case, as it is often in that of other earthly things, that + we scarcely possess what we repute a treasure when it is taken + from us. + + </p> + <p> + I determined to take this journey on horseback, not only on + account of the relaxed state in which I found myself, after such + close and constant application, but because I wished to have all + my time to myself upon the road, in order the better to reflect + upon the proper means of promoting this great cause. The first + place I resolved to visit was Bristol; accordingly I directed my + course thither. On turning a corner, within about a mile of that + city, at about eight in the evening, I came within sight of it. + The weather was rather hazy, which occasioned it to look of + unusual dimensions. The bells of some of the churches were + then ringing; the sound of them did not strike me till I had + turned the corner before mentioned, when it came upon me at + once; it filled me, almost directly, with a melancholy for which I + could not account. I began now to tremble, for the first time, at + the arduous task I had undertaken, of attempting to subvert one + of the branches of the commerce of the great place which was + then before me. I began to think of the host of people I should + + have to encounter in it; I anticipated much persecution in it + also; and I questioned whether I should even get out of it alive. + But in journeying on I became more calm and composed; my + spirits began to return. In these latter moments I considered + my first feelings as useful, inasmuch as they impressed upon me + the necessity of extraordinary courage, and activity, and perseverance, + and of watchfulness, also, over my own conduct, that I + might not throw any stain upon the cause I had undertaken. + When, therefore, I entered the city, I entered it with an undaunted + spirit, determining that no labour should make me + shrink, nor danger, nor even persecution, deter me from my + pursuit. + + </p> + <p> + My first introduction was by means of a letter to Harry + Gandy, who had then become one of the religious society of the + Quakers. This introduction to him was particularly useful to + me; for he had been a seafaring man. In his early youth he had + been of a roving disposition; and, in order to see the world, had + been two voyages in the Slave Trade, so that he had known the + nature and practices of it. This enabled him to give me much + useful information on the subject; and as he had frequently felt, + as he grew up, deep affliction of mind for having been concerned + in it, he was impelled to forward my views as much as possible, + under an idea that he should be thus making some reparation + for the indiscreet and profane occupations of his youth. + + </p> + <p> + I was also introduced to the families of James Harford, John + Lury, Matthew Wright, Philip, Debell Tucket, Thomas Bonville, + and John Waring; all of whom were of the same religious + society. I gained an introduction, also, soon afterwards, to George + Fisher. These were my first and only acquaintance at Bristol + for some time; I derived assistance in the promotion of my object + from all of them; and it is a matter of pleasing reflection, that the + friendships then formed have been kept alive to the present time. + + </p> + <p> + The objects I had marked down as those to be attended to, + were—to ascertain what were the natural productions of Africa, + and, if possible, to obtain specimens of them, with the view of + forming a cabinet or collection—to procure as much information + as I could relative to the manner of obtaining slaves on continent + + of Africa, of transporting them to the West Indies, and of + treating them there—to prevail upon persons, having a knowledge + of any or all of these circumstances, to come forward to be examined + as evidences before parliament, if such an examination + should take place—to make myself still better acquainted with + the loss of seamen in the Slave Trade—also with the loss of + those who were employed in the other trades from the same port—to + know the nature, and quantity, and value of the imports and + exports of goods in the former case:—there were some other + objects which I classed under the head of miscellaneous. + + </p> + <p> + In my first movements about this city, I found that people + talked very openly on the subject of the Slave Trade. They + seemed to be well acquainted with the various circumstances + belonging to it. There were facts, in short, in every body's + mouth concerning it; and every body seemed to execrate it, + though no one thought of its abolition. In this state of things I + perceived that my course was obvious; for I had little else to do, + in pursuing two or three of my objects, than to trace the foundation + of those reports which were in circulation. + + </p> + <p> + On the third of July I heard that the ship + Brothers<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXIV_1"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXIV_1"></a>, then lying in King's Road for Africa, could not get her + seamen, and that a party which had been put on board, becoming terrified by + the prospect of their situation, had left her on Sunday morning. + On inquiring further, I found that those who had navigated her + on her last voyage, thirty-two of whom had died, had been so + dreadfully used by the captain, that he could not get hands in + the present. It was added, that the treatment of seamen was a + crying evil in this trade, and that consequently few would enter + into it, so that there was at all times a great difficulty in procuring + them, though they were ready enough to enter into + other trades. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXIV_1"></a><a href="#FootXIV_1">A</a>: I abstain from mentioning the names + of the captain of this or of other vessels, lest the recording of them + should give pain to relatives who can have had no share in their + guilt. + </p> + <p> + The relation of these circumstances made me acquainted with + two things, of which I had not before heard; namely, the aversion + of seamen to engage, and the bad usage of them when engaged in + + this cruel trade; into both which I determined immediately to + inquire. + + </p> + <p> + I conceived that it became me to be very cautious about giving + ear too readily to reports; and therefore, as I could easily learn + the truth of one of the assertions which had been made to me, I + thought it prudent to ascertain this, and to judge, by the discovery + I should make concerning it, what degree of credit might + be due to the rest. Accordingly, by means of my late friend, + Truman Harford, the eldest son of the respectable family of that + name, to which I have already mentioned myself to have been + introduced, I gained access to the muster-roll of the ship Brothers. + On looking over the names of her last crew, I found the melancholy + truth confirmed, that thirty-two of them had been placed + among the dead. + + </p> + <p> + Having ascertained this circumstance, I became eager to + inquire into the truth of the others, but more particularly of the + treatment of one of the seamen, which, as it was reported to me, + exceeded all belief. His name was John Dean; he was a black + man, but free. The report was, that for a trifling circumstance, + for which he was in no-wise to blame, the captain had fastened + him with his belly to the deck, and that, in this situation, he had + poured hot pitch upon his back, and made incisions in it with + hot tongs. + + </p> + <p> + Before however I attempted to learn the truth of this barbarous + proceeding, I thought I would look into the ship's muster-roll, + to see if I could find the name of such a man. On examination + I found it to be the last on the list. John Dean, it appeared, + had been one of the original crew, having gone on board, from + Bristol, on the twenty-second day of July, 1785. + + </p> + <p> + On inquiring where Dean was to be found, my informant told + me that he had lately left Bristol for London. I was shown, + however, to the house where he had lodged. The name of his + landlord was Donovan. On talking with him on the subject, he + assured me that the report I had heard was true; for that while + he resided with him he had heard an account of his usage from + some of his ship-mates, and that he had often looked at his + scarred and mutilated back. + + </p> + <p> + On inquiring of Donovan if any other person in Bristol could + corroborate this account, he referred me to a reputable tradesman + living, in the Market-place. Having been introduced to him, he + told me that he had long known John Dean to be a sober and + industrious man; that he had seen the terrible indentures on his + back; and that they were said to have been made by the captain, + in the manner related, during his last voyage. + + </p> + <p> + While I was investigating this matter further, I was introduced + to Mr. Sydenham Teast, a respectable ship-builder in + Bristol, and the owner of vessels trading to Africa in the natural + productions of that country. I mentioned to him by accident + what I had heard relative to the treatment of John Dean. He + said it was true. An attorney<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXIV_2"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXIV_2"></a> in London had then taken up + his cause, in consequence of which the captain had been prevented + from sailing till he could find persons who would be + answerable for the damages which might be awarded against him + in a court of law. Mr. Teast further said, that, not knowing at + that time the cruelty of the transaction to its full extent, he himself + had been one of the securities for the captain at the request + of the purser<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXIV_3"><sup>B</sup></a><a name="FootXIV_3"></a> of the ship. Finding, however, afterwards, + that it was as the public had stated, he was sorry that he had ever + interfered, in such a barbarous case. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXIV_2"></a><a href="#FootXIV_2">A</a>: I afterwards found out + this attorney. He described the transaction to me, as, by report, it had + taken place, and informed me that he had made the captain of the Brothers + pay for his barbarity. + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXIV_3"></a><a href="#FootXIV_3">B</a>: The purser of a ship, at Bristol, + is the person who manages the outfit, as well as the trade, and who is + often in part owner of her. + </p> + <p> + This transaction, which I now believed to be true, had the + effect of preparing me for crediting whatever I might hear concerning + the barbarities said to be practised in this trade. It + kindled also a fire of indignation within me, and produced in me + both anxiety and spirit, to proceed. But that which excited these + feelings the most, was the consideration that the purser of this + ship, knowing, as he did, of this act of cruelty, should have sent + out this monster again. This, I own, made me think that there + was a system of bad usage to be deliberately practised upon the + + seamen in this employment, for some purpose or other which I + could then neither comprehend nor ascertain. + + </p> + <p> + But while I was in pursuit of this one object, I was not + unmindful of the others which I had marked out for myself. I + had already procured an interview, as I have mentioned, with + Mr. Sydenham Teast. I had done this with a view of learning + from him what were the different productions of the continent of + Africa, as far as he had been able to ascertain from the imports + by his own vessels. He was very open and communicative. + He had imported ivory, red-wood, cam-wood, and gum-copal. + He purposed to import palm-oil. He observed that bees'-wax + might be collected, also, upon the coast. Of his gum-copal he + gave me a specimen. He furnished me, also, with two different + specimens of unknown woods, which had the appearance of being + useful. One of his captains, he informed me, had been told by + the natives, that cotton, pink in the pod, grew in their country. + He was of opinion, that many valuable productions might be + found upon this continent. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Biggs, to whom I gained an introduction also, was in a + similar trade with Mr. Teast; that is, he had one or two vessels + which skimmed, as it were, the coast and rivers for what they + could get of the produce of Africa, without having any concern + in the trade for slaves. Mr. Biggs gave me a specimen of gum + Senegal, of yellow-wood, and of Malaguetta and Cayenne pepper. + He gave me, also, small pieces of cloth made and dyed by the + natives, the colours of which they could only have obtained from + materials in their own country. Mr. Biggs seemed to be assured + that, if proper persons were sent to Africa on discovery, they + would fine a rich mine of wealth in the natural productions of it, + and in none more advantageous to this as a manufacturing nation, + than in the many beautiful dyes which it might furnish. + + </p> + <p> + From Thomas Bonville I collected two specimens of cloth + made by the natives; and from others a beautiful piece of tulipwood, + a small piece of wood similar to mahogany, and a sample + of fine rice, all of which had been brought from the same continent. + + </p> + <p> + Among the persons whom I found out at Bristol, and from + + whom I derived assistance, were Dr. Camplin and the celebrated + Dean Tucker. The former was my warm defender; for the + West Indian and African merchants, as soon as they discovered + my errand, began to calumniate me. The dean, though in a + very advanced age, felt himself much interested in my pursuit. + He had long moved in the political world himself, and was + desirous of hearing of what was going forward that was new in it, + but particularly about so desirable a measure as that of the abolition + of the Slave Trade<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXIV_4"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXIV_4"></a>. He introduced me to the + Custom House at Bristol. He used to call upon me at the Merchants' + Hall, while I was transcribing the muster-rolls of the seamen + there. In short, he seemed to be interested in all my movements. + He became, also, a warm supporter both of me and of my cause. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXIV_4"></a><a href="#FootXIV_4">A</a>: Dean Tucker, in his + <em>Reflections on the Disputes between Great Britain and Ireland</em>, + published in 1785, had passed a severe censure on the British planters + for the inhuman treatment of their slaves. + </p> + <p> + Among others who were useful to me in my pursuit, was + Mr. Henry Sulgar, an amiable minister of the gospel, belonging + to the religious society of the Moravians in the same city. From + him I first procured authentic documents relative to the treacherous + massacre at Calabar. This cruel transaction had been frequently + mentioned to me; but as it had taken place twenty + years before, I could not find one person who had been engaged + in it, nor could I come, in a satisfactory manner, at the various + particulars belonging to it. My friend, however, put me in possession + of copies of the real depositions which had been taken in + the case of the king against Lippincott and others relative to this + event; namely, of Captain Floyd, of the city of Bristol, who had + been a witness to the scene, and of Ephraim Robin John, and of + Ancona Robin Robin John, two African chiefs, who had been + sufferers by it. These depositions had been taken before Jacob + Kirby and Thomas Symons, esquires, commissioners at Bristol + for taking affidavits in the Court of King's Bench. The tragedy, + of which they gave a circumstantial account, I shall present to + the reader in as concise a manner as I can. + + </p> + <p> + In the year, 1767, the ships Indian Queen, Duke of York, + + Nancy, and Concord, of Bristol; the Edgar, of Liverpool; and + the Canterbury, of London; lay in Old Calabar river. + + </p> + <p> + It happened, at this time, that a quarrel subsisted between + the principal inhabitants of Old Town and those of New Town, + Old Calabar, which had originated in a jealousy respecting slaves. + The captains of the vessels now mentioned, joined in sending + several letters to the inhabitants of Old Town, but particularly + to Ephraim Robin John, who was at that time a grandee, or + principal inhabitant of the place. The tenor of these letters was, + that they were sorry that any jealousy or quarrel should subsist + between the two parties; that if the inhabitants of Old Town + would come on board, they would afford them security and protection; + adding, at the same time, that their intention in inviting + them was, that they might become mediators, and thus heal + their disputes. + + </p> + <p> + The inhabitants of Old Town, happy to find that their differences + were likely to be accommodated, joyfully accepted the + invitation. The three brothers of the grandee just mentioned, + the eldest of whom was Amboe Robin John, first entered their + canoe, attended by twenty-seven others, and, being followed by + nine canoes, directed their course to the Indian Queen. They + were despatched from thence the next morning to the Edgar, and + afterwards to the Duke of York, on board of which they went, + leaving their canoe and attendants by the side of the same vessel. + In the mean time, the people on board the other canoes were + either distributed on board, or lying close to, the other ships. + + </p> + <p> + This being the situation of the three brothers, and of the + principal inhabitants of the place, the treachery now began to + appear. The crew of the Duke of York, aided by the captain + and mates, and armed with pistols and cutlasses, rushed into the + cabin, with an intent to seize the persons of their three innocent + and unsuspicious guests. The unhappy men, alarmed at this + violation of the rights of hospitality, and struck with astonishment + at the behaviour of their supposed friends, attempted to + escape through the cabin windows; but, being wounded, were + obliged to desist, and to submit to be put in irons. + + </p> + <p> + In the same moment in which this atrocious attempt had + + been made, an order had been given to fire upon the canoe, + which was then lying by the side of the Duke of York. The + canoe soon filled and sunk, and the wretched attendants were + either seized, killed, or drowned. Most of the other ships followed + the example. Great numbers were additionally killed and + drowned on the occasion, and others were swimming to the shore. + + </p> + <p> + At this juncture, the inhabitants of New Town, who had concealed + themselves in the bushes by the water-side, and between + whom and the commanders of the vessels the plan had been previously + concerted, came out from their hiding-places, and, + embarking in their canoes, made for such as were swimming + from the fire of the ships. The ships' boats, also, were manned, + and joined in the pursuit. They butchered the greatest part of + those whom they caught. Many dead bodies were soon seen + upon the sands, and others were floating upon the water; and + including those who were seized and carried off, and those who + were drowned and killed, either by the firing of the ships or by + the people of New Town, three hundred were lost to the inhabitants + of Old Town on that day. + + </p> + <p> + The carnage which I have been now describing was scarcely + over, when a canoe, full of the principal people of New Town, + who had been the promoters of the scheme, dropped along-side of + the Duke of York. They demanded the person of Amboe Robin + John, the brother of the grandee of Old Town, and the eldest of + the three on board. The unfortunate man put the palms of his + hands together, and beseeched the commander of the vessel that + he would not violate the rights of hospitality, by giving up an + unoffending stranger to his enemies. But no entreaties could + avail. The commander received from the New Town people a + slave of the name of Econg in his stead, and then forced him + into the canoe, where his head was immediately struck off in the + sight of the crew, and of his afflicted and disconsolate brothers. + As for them, they escaped his fate; but they were carried off + with their attendants to the West Indies, and sold for slaves. + + </p> + <p> + The knowledge of this tragical event now fully confirmed me + in the sentiment, that the hearts of those who were concerned + in this traffic became unusually hardened, and that I might + + readily believe any atrocities, however great, which might be + related of them. It made also my blood boil, as it were, within + me: it gave anew spring to my exertions; and I rejoiced, sorrowful + as I otherwise was, that I had visited Bristol, if it had + been only to gain an accurate statement of this one fact. + + </p> + <p> + In pursuing my objects, I found that reports were current, + that the crew of the Alfred slave-vessel, which had just returned, + had been barbarously used, but particularly a young man of the + name of Thomas, who had served as the surgeon's mate on board + her. The report was, that he had been repeatedly knocked down + by the captain; that he had become in consequence of his ill + usage so weary of his life, that he had three times jumped over + board to destroy it; that on being taken up the last time he had + been chained to the deck of the ship, in which situation he had + remained night and day for some time; that in consequence of + this his health had been greatly impaired; and that it was supposed + he could not long survive this treatment. + + </p> + <p> + It was with great difficulty, notwithstanding all my inquiries, + that I could trace this person. I discovered him, however, at + last. He was confined to his bed when I saw him, and appeared + to me to be delirious. I could collect nothing from himself + relative to the particulars of his treatment. In his intervals of + sense, he exclaimed against the cruelty both of the captain and of + the chief mate, and pointing to his legs, thighs, and body, which + were all wrapped up in flannel, he endeavoured to convince me + how much he had suffered there. At one time he said he forgave + them. At another, he asked if I came to befriend him. At + another, he looked wildly, and asked if I meant to take the + captain's part, and to kill him. + + </p> + <p> + I was greatly affected by the situation of this poor man, + whose image haunted me both night and day, and I was meditating + how most effectually to assist him, when I heard that he + was dead. + + </p> + <p> + I was very desirous of tracing something further on this + subject, when Walter Chandler, of the society of the Quakers, + who had been daily looking out for intelligence for me, brought a + young man to me of the name of Dixon. He had been one of + + the crew of the same ship. He told me the particulars of the + treatment of Thomas, with very little variation from those contained + in the public report. After cross-examining him in the + best manner I was able, I could find no inconsistency in his + account. + + </p> + <p> + I asked Dixon how the captain came to treat the surgeon's + mate in particular so ill. He said he had treated them all much + alike. A person of the name of Bulpin, he believed, was the + only one who had escaped bad usage in the ship. With respect + to himself, he had been cruelly used so early as in the outward + bound passage, which had occasioned him to jump overboard. + When taken up, he was put into irons, and kept in these for a + considerable time. He was afterwards ill used at different times, + and even so late as within three or four days of his return to + port. For just before the Alfred made the island of Lundy, he + was struck by the captain, who cut his under lip into two. He + said that it had bled so much, that the captain expressed himself + as if much alarmed; and having the expectation of arriving soon + at Bristol, he had promised to make him amends, if he would + hold his peace. This he said he had hitherto done, but he had + received no recompense. In confirmation of his own usage, he + desired me to examine his lip, which I had no occasion to do, + having already perceived it, for the wound was apparently almost + fresh. + + </p> + <p> + I asked Dixon if there was any person in Bristol beside + himself, who could confirm to me this his own treatment, as well + as that of the other unfortunate man who was now dead. He + referred me to a seaman of the name of Matthew Pyke. This + person, when brought to me, not only related readily the particulars + of the usage in both cases, as I have now stated them, but + that which he received himself. He said that his own arm had + been broken by the chief mate in Black River, Jamaica, and + that he had also by the captain's orders, though contrary to the + practice in merchant-vessels, been severely flogged. His arm + appeared to be then in pain; and I had a proof of the punishment + by an inspection of his back. + + </p> + <p> + I asked Matthew Pyke if the crew in general had been + + treated in a cruel manner. He replied they had, except James + Bulpin. I then asked where James Bulpin was to be found. + He told me where he had lodged; but feared he had gone home + to his friends in Somersetshire, I think, somewhere in the neighbourhood + of Bridgewater. + + </p> + <p> + I thought it prudent to institute an inquiry into the characters + of Thomas, Dixon, and Matthew Pyke, before I went further. + The two former I found were strangers in Bristol, and I could + collect nothing about them. The latter was a native of the place, + had served his time as a seaman from the port, and was reputed + of fair character. + + </p> + <p> + My next business was to see James Bulpin. I found him + just setting off for the country. He stopped, however, to converse + with me. He was a young man of very respectable appearance, + and of mild manners. His appearance, indeed, gave me reason + to hope that I might depend upon his statements; but I was + most of all influenced by the consideration that, never having + been ill-used himself, he could have no inducement to go beyond + the bounds of truth on this occasion. He gave me a melancholy + confirmation of all the three cases. He told me, also, that one + Joseph Cunningham had been a severe sufferer, and that there + was reason to fear that Charles Horseler, another of the crew, + had been so severely beaten over the breast with a knotted end + of a rope, (which end was of the size of a large ball, and had + been made on purpose,) that he died of it. To this he added, + that it was now a notorious fact, that the captain of the Alfred, + when mate of a slave-ship, had been tried at Barbados for the + murder of one of the crew with whom he had sailed, but that he + escaped by bribing the principal witness to + disappear<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXIV_5"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXIV_5"></a>. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXIV_5"></a><a href="#FootXIV_5">A</a>: Mr. Sampson, who was surgeon's mate + of the ship in which the captain had thus served as a mate, + confirmed to me afterwards this assertion, having + often heard him boast in the cabin, "how he had tricked the law on that + occasion." + </p> + <p> + The reader will see, the further I went into the history of + this voyage, the more dismal it became. One miserable account, + when examined, only brought up another. I saw no end to + inquiry. The great question was, what was I to do? I thought + + the best thing would be to get the captain apprehended, and + make him stand his trial either for the murder of Thomas or of + Charles Horseler. I communicated with the late Mr. Burges, + an eminent attorney, and the deputy town-clerk, on this occasion. + He had shown an attachment to me on account of the cause I + had undertaken, and had given me privately assistance in it. I + say privately; because, knowing the sentiments of many of the + corporate body at Bristol, under whom he acted, he was fearful + of coming forward in an open manner. His advice to me was, + to take notes of the case for my own private conviction, but to + take no public cognizance of it. He said that seamen, as soon as + their wages were expended, must be off to sea again. They + could not generally, as landsmen do, maintain themselves on + shore. Hence I should be obliged to keep the whole crew at my + own expense till the day of trial, which might not be for months + to come. He doubted not that, in the interim, the merchants + and others would inveigle many of them away by making them + boatswains and other inferior officers in some of their ships; so + that, when the day of trial should come, I should find my witnesses + dispersed and gone. He observed, moreover, that if any + of the officers of the ship had any notion of going out again + under the same owners<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXIV_6"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXIV_6"></a>, I should + have all these against me. To which he added, that if I were to make a point + of taking up the cause of those whom I found complaining of hard usage in this + trade, I must take up that of nearly all who sailed in it; for that + he only knew of one captain from the port in the Slave Trade, + who did not deserve long ago to be hanged. Hence I should get + into a labyrinth of expense, and difficulty, and uneasiness of mind, + from whence I should not easily find a clew to guide me. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXIV_6"></a><a href="#FootXIV_6">A</a>: The seamen of the Alfred + informed the purser of their ill usage, + Matthew Pyke not only showed him his arm and his back, but acquainted him + with the murder of Charles Horseler, stating that he had the instrument of + his death in his possession. The purser seemed more alive to this than to + any other circumstance, and wished to get it from him. Pyke, however, had + given it to me. Now what will the reader think, when he is informed that the + purser, after all this knowledge of the captain's cruelty, sent him out + again, and that he was the same person who was purser of the Brothers, and + who had also sent out the captain of that ship a second time, as has been + related, notwithstanding his barbarities in former voyages! + </p> + <p> + This advice, though it was judicious, and founded on a + knowledge of law proceedings, I found it very difficult to adopt. + My own disposition was naturally such, that whatever I engaged + in I followed with more than ordinary warmth. I could not be + supposed, therefore, affected and interested as I then was, to be + cool and tranquil on this occasion. And yet what would my + worthy friend have said, if in this first instance I had opposed + him? I had a very severe struggle in my own feelings on this + account. At length, though reluctantly, I obeyed; but as the + passions which agitate the human mind, when it is greatly + inflamed, must have a vent somewhere, or must work off, as it + were, or in working together must produce some new passion or + effect, so I found the rage which had been kindling within me + subsiding into the most determined resolutions of future increased + activity and perseverance. I began now to think that the day + was not long enough for me to labour in. I regretted often the + approach of night, which suspended my work, and I often welcomed + that of the morning, which restored me to it. When I + felt myself weary, I became refreshed by the thought of what I + was doing; when disconsolate, I was comforted by it. I lived + in hope that every day's labour would furnish me with that + knowledge which would bring this evil nearer to its end; and I + worked on under these feelings, regarding neither trouble nor + danger in the pursuit. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + + <h2><a name="chap15"></a> + + CHAPTER XV.</h2> + + + <p><b>Author confers with the inhabitants of Bridgewater relative to a petition to + parliament in behalf of the abolition; returns to Bristol; discovers a + scandalous mode of procuring seamen for the Slave Trade, and of paying + them; makes a comparative view of their loss in this and in other + trades; procures imports and exports.—Examines the construction and + admeasurement of slave ships; of the Fly and Neptune.—Difficulty of + procuring evidence.—Case of Gardiner, of the Pilgrim; of Arnold, of the + Ruby; some particulars of the latter in his former voyages.</b></p> + + <p> + Having heard by accident that the inhabitants of the town of + Bridgewater had sent a petition to the House of Commons, in the + year 1785, for the abolition of the Slave Trade, as has been + related in a former part of the work, I determined, while my + feelings were warm, to go there, and to try to find out those who + had been concerned in it, and to confer with them as the tried + friends of the cause. The time seemed to me to be approaching + when the public voice should be raised against this enormous evil. + I was sure that it was only necessary for the inhabitants of this + favoured island to know it to feel a just indignation against it. + Accordingly I set off. My friend George Fisher, who was before + mentioned to have been of the religious Society of the Quakers, + gave me an introduction to the respectable family of Ball, which + was of the same religious persuasion. I called upon Mr. Sealey, + Anstice, Crandon, Chubb, and others. I laid open to those + whom I saw, the discoveries I had made relative to the loss and + ill treatment of seamen; at which they seemed to be much + moved; and it was agreed that if it should be thought a proper + measure, (of which I would inform them when I had consulted + the committee,) a second petition should be sent to Parliament + from the inhabitants, praying for the abolition of the Slave Trade. + With this view I left them several of my <em>Summary View</em>, before + mentioned, to distribute, that the inhabitants might know more + particularly the nature of the evil, against which they were going + to complain. On my return to Bristol, I determined to inquire + into the truth of the reports that seamen had an aversion to enter, + + and that they were inveigled, if not often forced, into this hateful + employment. For this purpose I was introduced to a landlord + of the name of Thompson, who kept a public-house called + the Seven Stars. He was a very intelligent man, was accustomed + to receive sailors when discharged at the end of their voyages, + and to board them till their vessels went out again, or to find + them births in others. He avoided, however, all connexion with + the Slave Trade, declaring that the credit of his house would be + ruined if he were known to send those, who put themselves under + his care, into it. + + </p> + <p> + From him I collected the truth of all that had been stated to + me on this subject. But I told him I should not be satisfied + until I had beheld those scenes myself which he had described + to me; and I entreated him to take me into them, saying that I + would reward him for all his time and trouble, and that I would + never forget him while I lived. To this he consented; and as three + or four slave-vessels at this time were preparing for their voyages, it + was time that we should begin our rounds. At about twelve at + night we generally set out, and were employed till two and sometimes + three in the morning. He led me from one of these public-houses + to another which the mates of the slave-vessels used + to frequent to pick up their hands. These houses were in Marsh-street, + and most of them were then kept by Irishmen. The + scenes witnessed in these houses were truly distressing to me; + and yet, if I wished to know practically what I had purposed, I + could not avoid them. Music, dancing, rioting, drunkenness, + and profane swearing, were kept up from night to night. The + young mariner, if a stranger to the port, and unacquainted with + the nature of the Slave Trade, was sure to be picked up. The + novelty of the voyages, the superiority of the wages in this over + any other trades, and the privileges of various kinds, were set + before him. Gulled in this manner, he was frequently enticed + to the boat, which was waiting to carry him away. If these + prospects did not attract him, he was plied with liquor till he + became intoxicated, when a bargain was made over him between + the landlord and the mate. After this his senses were kept in + such a constant state of stupefaction by the liquor, that in time + + the former might do with him what he pleased. Seamen, also, + were boarded in these houses, who, when the slave-ships were + going out, but at no other time, were encouraged to spend more + than they had money to pay for; and to these, when they had + thus exceeded, but one alternative was given, namely, a slave-vessel + or a gaol. These distressing scenes I found myself obliged + frequently to witness, for I was no less than nineteen times occupied + in making these hateful rounds; and I can say from my + own experience, and all the information I could collect from + Thompson and others, that no such practices were in use to obtain + seamen for other trades. + + </p> + <p> + The treatment of the seamen employed in the Slave Trade + had so deeply interested me, and now the manner of procuring + them, that I was determined to make myself acquainted with + their whole history; for I found by report that they were not + only personally ill-treated, as I have already painfully described, + but that they were robbed by artifice of those wages, which had + been held up to them as so superior in this service. All persons + were obliged to sign articles that, in case they should die or be + discharged during the voyage, the wages then due to them should + be paid in the currency where the vessel carried her slaves, and + that half of the wages due to them on their arrival there should + be paid in the same manner, and that they were never permitted + to read over the articles they had signed. By means of this + iniquitous practice the wages in the Slave Trade, though nominally + higher in order to induce seamen to engage in it, were + actually lower than in other trades. All these usages I ascertained + in such a manner, that no person could doubt the truth of them. + I actually obtained possession of articles of agreement belonging + to these vessels, which had been signed and executed in former + voyages. I made the merchants themselves, by sending those + seamen who had claims upon them to ask for their accounts current + with their respective ships, furnish me with such documents + as would have been evidence against them in any court of law. + On whatever branch of the system I turned my eyes, I found it + equally barbarous. The trade was, in short, one mass of iniquity + from the beginning to the end. + + </p> + <p> + I employed myself occasionally in the Merchant's-hall, in + making copies of the muster-rolls of ships sailing to different + parts of the world, that I might make a comparative view of the + loss of seamen in the Slave Trade, with that of those in the other + trades from the same port. The result of this employment + showed me the importance of it: for, when I considered how + partial the inhabitants of this country were to their fellow-citizens, + the seamen belonging to it, and in what estimation the + members of the legislature held them, by enforcing the Navigation + Act, which they considered to be the bulwark of the nation, + and by giving bounties to certain trades, that these might become + so many nurseries for the marine, I thought it of great importance, + to be able to prove, as I was then capable of doing, that + more persons would be found dead in three slave-vessels from + Bristol, in a given time, than in all the other vessels put together, + numerous as they were, belonging to the same port. + + </p> + <p> + I procured also an account of the exports and imports for the + year 1786, by means of which I was enabled to judge of the + comparative value of this and the other trades. + + </p> + <p> + In pursuing another object, which was that of going on board + the slave-ships, and learning their construction and dimensions, I + was greatly struck, and indeed affected, by the appearance of two + little sloops, which were fitting out for Africa, the one of only + twenty-five tons, which was said to be destined to carry seventy + and the other of only eleven, which was said to be destined to + carry thirty slaves. I was told also that which was more affecting, + namely, that these were not to act as tenders on the coast, + by going up and down the rivers, and receiving three or four + slaves at a time, and then carrying them to a large ship, which + was to take them to the West Indies; but that it was actually + intended, that they should transport their own slaves themselves; + that one if not both of them were, on their arrival in the West + Indies, to be sold as pleasure-vessels, and that the seamen belonging + to them were to be permitted to come home by what is + usually called the run. + + </p> + <p> + This account of the destination of these little vessels, though + it was distressing at first, appeared to me afterwards, on cool + + reasoning, to be incredible. I thought that my informants + wished to impose upon me, in order that I might make statements + which would carry their own refutation with them, and that thus + I might injure the great cause which I had undertaken. And I + was much inclined to be of this opinion, when I looked again at + the least of the two; for any person, who was tall, standing upon + dry ground by the side of her, might have overlooked every thing + upon her deck. I knew also that she had been built as a pleasure-boat + for the accommodation of only six persons upon the + Severn. I determined, therefore, to suspend my belief till I + could take the admeasurement of each vessel. This I did; but + lest, in the agitation of my mind on this occasion, I should have + made any mistake, I desired my friend George Fisher to apply + to the builder for his admeasurement also. With this he kindly + complied. When he obtained it he brought it me. This account, + which nearly corresponded with my own, was as follows:—In + the vessel of twenty-five tons, the length of the upper part of + the hold, or roof of the room, where the seventy slaves were to be + stowed, was but little better than ten yards, or thirty-one feet. + The greatest breadth of the bottom, or floor, was ten feet four + inches; and the least five. Hence, a grown person must sit down + all the voyage, and contract his limbs within the narrow limits of + three square feet. In the vessel of eleven tons, the length of the + room for the thirty slaves was twenty-two feet. The greatest + breadth of the floor was eight, and the least four. The whole + height from the keel to the beam was but five feet eight inches, + three feet of which were occupied by ballast, cargo, and provisions, + so that two feet eight inches remained only as the height + between the decks. Hence, each slave would have only four + square feet to sit in, and, when in this posture, his head, if he + were a full-grown person, would touch the ceiling, or upper deck. + + </p> + <p> + Having now received this admeasurement from the builder, + which was rather more favourable than my own, I looked upon + the destination of these little vessels as yet more incredible than + before. Still the different persons, whom I occasionally saw on + board them, persisted in it that they were going to Africa for + slaves, and also for the numbers mentioned, which they were + + afterwards to carry to the West Indies themselves. I desired, + however, my friends, George Fisher, Truman Harford, Harry + Gandy, Walter Chandler, and others, each to make a separate + inquiry for me on this subject; and they all agreed that, improbable + as the account both of their destination, and of the number + they were to take, might appear, they had found it to be too true. + I had soon afterwards the sorrow to learn from official documents + from the Custom-house, that these little vessels actually + cleared out for Africa, and that now nothing could be related + so barbarous of this traffic, which might not instantly be + believed. + + </p> + <p> + In pursuing my different objects there was one, which, to my + great vexation, I found it extremely difficult to attain. This was + the procuring of any assurance from those who had been personally + acquainted with the horrors of this trade, that they would + appear, if called upon, as evidence against it. My friend Harry + Gandy, to whom I had been first introduced, had been two + voyages, as I before mentioned; and he was willing, though at an + advanced age, to go to London, to state publicly all he knew concerning + them. But with respect to the many others in Bristol, + who had been to the coast of Africa, I had not yet found one + who would come forward for this purpose. There were several + old Slave Captains living there, who had a great knowledge of the + subject. I thought it not unreasonable that I might gain one or + two good evidences out of these, as they had probably long ago + left the concern, and were not now interested in the continuance + of it; but all my endeavours were fruitless. I sent messages to + them by different persons. I met them in all ways. I stated to + them, that if there was nothing objectionable in the trade, seeing + it laboured under such a stigma, they had an opportunity of + coming forward and of wiping away the stain. If, on the other + hand, it was as bad as represented, then they had it in their + power, by detailing the crimes which attached to it, of making + some reparation or atonement, for the part they had taken in it. + But no representations would do. All intercourse was positively + forbidden between us; and whenever they met me in the street, + they shunned me as if I had been a mad dog. I could not for + + some time account, for the strange disposition which they thus + manifested towards me; but my friends helped me to unravel it, + for I was assured that one or two of them, though they went no + longer to Africa as captains, were in part owners of vessels + trading there; and, with respect to all of them, it might be + generally said, that they had been guilty of such enormities, that + they would be afraid of coming forward in the way I proposed, + lest any thing should come out by which they might criminate + themselves. I was obliged then to give up all hope of getting + any evidence from this quarter, and I saw but little prospect of + getting it from those, who were then actually deriving their livelihood + from the trade: and yet I was determined to persevere; + for I thought that some might be found in it who were not yet + so hardened as to be incapable of being awakened on this subject. + I thought that others might be found in it who wished to leave it + upon principle, and that these would unbosom themselves to me: + and I thought it not improbable that I might fall in with others, + who had come unexpectedly into a state of independence, and + that these might be induced, as their livelihood would be no + longer affected by giving me information, to speak the truth. + + </p> + <p> + I persevered for weeks together under this hope, but could + find no one of all those, who had been applied to, who would + have any thing to say to me. At length, Walter Chandler had + prevailed upon a young gentleman, of the name of Gardiner, who + was going out as surgeon of the Pilgrim, to meet me. The condition + was, that we were to meet at the house of the former, but + that we were to enter in and go out at different times, that is, we + were not to be seen together. + + </p> + <p> + Gardiner, on being introduced to me, said at once, that he had + often wished to see me on the subject of my errand, but that the + owner of the Pilgrim had pointed me out to him as a person + whom he would wish him to avoid. He then laid open to me + the different methods of obtaining slaves in Africa, as he had + learned from those on board his own vessel in his first, or former, + voyage. He unfolded also the manner of their treatment in the + Middle passage, with the various distressing scenes which had + occurred in it. He stated the barbarous usuage of the seamen as + + he had witnessed it, and concluded by saying, that there never + was a subject which demanded so loudly the interference of the + legislature as that of the Slave Trade. + + </p> + <p> + When he had finished his narrative, and answered the different + questions which I had proposed to him concerning it, I asked + him, in as delicate a manner as I could, how it happened, that, + seeing the trade in this horrible light, he had consented to follow + it again? He told me frankly, that he had received a regular + medical education, but that his relations, being poor, had not been + able to set him up in his profession. He had saved a little money + in his last voyage. In that, which he was now to perform, he + hoped to save a little more. With the profits of both voyages + together, he expected he should be able to furnish a shop in the + line of his profession, when he would wipe his hands of this + detestable trade. + + </p> + <p> + I then asked him, whether, upon the whole, he thought he + had judged prudently, or whether the prospect of thus enabling + himself to become independent, would counterbalance the uneasiness + which might arise in future? He replied, that he had not + so much to fear upon this account. The trade, while it continued, + must have surgeons. But it made a great difference both to the + crew and to the slaves, whether these discharged their duty + towards them in a feeling manner, or not. With respect to himself, + he was sure that he should pay every attention to the + wants of each. This thought made his continuance in the trade + for one voyage longer more reconcilable. But he added, as if + not quite satisfied, "Cruel necessity!" and he fetched a deep + sigh. + + </p> + <p> + We took our leave, and departed, the one a few minutes after + the other. The conversation of this young man was very interesting. + I was much impressed both by the nature and the manner + of it. I wished to secure him, if possible, as an evidence for + parliament, and thus save him from his approaching voyage: but + I knew not what to do. At first, I thought it would be easy to + raise a subscription to set him up. But then, I was aware that + this might be considered as bribery, and make his testimony + worth nothing. I then thought that the committee might detain + + him as an evidence, and pay him, in a reasonable manner, for his + sustenance, till his testimony should be called for. But I did not + know how long it would be before his examination might take + place. It might be a year or two. I foresaw other difficulties + also and I was obliged to relinquish what otherwise I should + have deemed a prize. + + </p> + <p> + On reviewing the conversation which had passed between us + after my return home, I thought, considering the friendly disposition + of Gardiner towards us, I had not done all I could for the + cause; and, communicating my feelings to Walter Chandler, he + procured me another interview. At this, I asked him, if he + would become an evidence if he lived to return. He replied, + very heartily, that he would. I then asked him, if he would + keep a journal of facts during his voyage, as it would enable + him to speak more correctly, in case he should be called upon + for his testimony. He assured me he would, and that he would + make up a little book for that purpose. I asked him, lastly, + when he meant to sail. He said, as soon as the ship could get + all her hands. It was their intention to sail to-morrow, but that + seven men, whom the mates had brought drunk out of Marsh-street + the evening before, were so terrified when they found they + were going to Africa, that they had seized the boat that morning, + and had put themselves on shore. I took my leave of him, + entreating him to follow his resolutions of kindness both to the + sailors and the slaves, and wished him a speedy and a safe + return. + + </p> + <p> + On going one day by the Exchange, after this interview with + Gardiner, I overheard a young gentleman say to another, "that + it happened on the coast, last year, and that he saw it." I + wished to know who he was, and to get at him if I could. I + watched him at a distance for more than half an hour, when I + saw him leave his companion. I followed him till he entered a + house. I then considered whether it would be proper, and in + what manner, to address him when he should come out of it. + But I waited three hours, and I never saw him. I then concluded + that he either lodged where I saw him enter, or that he + had gone to dine with some friend. I therefore took notice of + + the house, and, showing it afterwards to several of my friends, + desired them to make him out for me. In a day or two I had an + interview with him. His name was James Arnold. He had + been two voyages to the coast of Africa for slaves; one as a surgeon's + mate in the Alexander, in the year 1785, and the other as + surgeon in the Little Pearl, in the year 1786, from which he had + not then very long returned. + + </p> + <p> + I asked him if he was willing to give me any account of these + voyages, for that I was making an inquiry into the nature of the + Slave Trade. He replied, he knew that I was. He had been + cautioned about falling in with me; he had, however, taken no + pains to avoid me. It was a bad trade, and ought to be exposed. + + </p> + <p> + I went over the same ground as I had gone with Gardiner + relative to the first of these voyages; or that in the Alexander. + It is not necessary to detail the particulars. It is impossible, + however, not to mention, that the treatment of the seamen on + board this vessel was worse than I had ever before heard of. + No less than eleven of them; unable to bear their lives; had deserted + at Bonny, on the coast of Africa,—which is a most unusual + thing,—choosing all that could be endured, though in a + most inhospitable climate, and in the power of the natives, + rather than to continue in their own ship. Nine others also, in + addition to the loss of these, had died in the same voyage. As + to the rest; he believed, without any exception, that they had + been badly used. + + </p> + <p> + In examining him with respect to his second voyage, or that + in the Little Pearl, two circumstances came out with respect to + the slaves, which I shall relate in few words. + + </p> + <p> + The chief mate used to beat the men-slaves on very trifling + occasions. About eleven one evening, the ship then lying off the + coast, he heard a noise in their room. He jumped down among + them with the lanthorn in his hand. Two of those who had + been ill-used by him, forced themselves out of their irons, and, + seizing him, struck him with the bolt of them, and it was with + some difficulty that he was extricated from them by the crew. + + </p> + <p> + The men-slaves, unable now to punish him, and finding they + had created an alarm, began to proceed to extremities. They + + endeavoured to force themselves up the gratings, and to pull down + a partition which had been made for a sick-birth; when they + were fired upon and repressed. The next morning they were + brought up one by one; when it appeared that a boy had been + killed, who was afterwards thrown into the sea. + + </p> + <p> + The two men, however, who had forced themselves out of + irons, did not come up with the rest, but found their way into + the hold, and armed themselves with knives from a cask, which + had been opened for trade. One of them being called to in the + African tongue by a black trader, who was then on board, came + up, but with a knife in each hand; when one of the crew, supposing + him yet hostile, shot him in the right side and killed him + on the spot. + + </p> + <p> + The other remained in the hold for twelve hours. Scalding + water mixed with fat was poured down upon him, to make him + come up. Though his flesh was painfully blistered by these + means, he kept below. A promise was then made to him in the + African tongue by the same trader, that no injury should be done + him if he would come among them. To this at length he consented; + but on observing, when he was about half way up, that a + sailor was armed between decks, he flew to him, and clasped him, + and threw him down. The sailor fired his pistol in the scuffle, + but without effect; he contrived, however, to fracture his skull + with the butt end of it, so that the slave died on the third day. + + </p> + <p> + The second circumstance took place after the arrival of the + same vessel at St. Vincent's. There was a boy-slave on board, + who was very ill and emaciated. The mate, who, by his cruelty, + had been the author of the former mischief, did not choose to + expose him to sale with the rest, lest the small sum he would + fetch in that situation should lower the average price, and thus + bring down<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXV_1"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXV_1"></a> the + value of the privileges of the officers of the ship. + This boy was kept on board, and no provisions allowed him. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXV_1"></a><a href="#FootXV_1">A</a>: Officers are said to be allowed + the privilege of one or more slaves, according to their rank. When + the cargo is sold, the sum total fetched is put down, and this being + divided by the number of slaves sold, gives the average price of + each. Such officers, then, receive this average price for one or more slaves, + according to their privileges, but never the slaves themselves. + </p> + <p> + The mate had suggested the propriety of throwing him overboard, + but no one would do it. On the ninth day he expired, having + never been allowed any sustenance during that time. + + </p> + <p> + I asked Mr. Arnold if he was willing to give evidence of + these facts in both cases. He said he had only one objection, + which was, that in two or three days he was to go in the Ruby + on his third voyage: but on leaving me, he said, that he would + take an affidavit before the mayor of the truth of any of those + things which he had related to me, if that would do; but, from + motives of safety, he should not choose to do this till within a few + hours before he sailed. + + </p> + <p> + In two or three days after this he sent for me; he said the + Ruby would leave King-road the next day, and that he was + ready to do as he had promised. Depositions were accordingly + made out from his own words. I went with him to the residence + of George Daubeny, Esq., who was then chief magistrate of the + city, and they were sworn to in his presence, and witnessed as + the law requires. + + </p> + <p> + On taking my leave of him, I asked him how he could go a + third time in such a barbarous employ; he said he had been distressed. + In his voyage in the Alexander he had made nothing; + for he had been so ill-used, that he had solicited his discharge in + Grenada, where, being paid in currency, he had but little to + receive. When he arrived in Bristol from that island, he was + quite penniless; and finding the Little Pearl going out, he was + glad to get on board her as her surgeon, which he then did + entirely for the sake of bread. He said, moreover, that she was + but a small vessel, and that his savings had been but small in + her. This occasioned him to apply for the Ruby, his present + ship; but if he survived this voyage he would never go another. + I then put the same question to him as to Gardiner, and he promised + to keep a journal of facts, and to give his evidence, if + called upon, on his return. + + </p> + <p> + The reader will see, from this account, the difficulty I had in + procuring evidence from this port. The owners of vessels employed + in the trade there forbade all intercourse with me; the old + captains, who had made their fortunes in it, would not see me; + + the young, who were making them, could not be supposed to + espouse my cause, to the detriment of their own interest. Of + those whose necessities made them go into it for a livelihood, I + could not get one to come forward, without doing so much for + him as would have amounted to bribery. Thus, when I got one + of these into my possession, I was obliged to let him go again. I + was, however, greatly consoled by the consideration, that I had + procured two sentinels to be stationed in the enemy's camp, who + keeping a journal of different facts, would bring me some important + intelligence at a future period. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + + <h2><a name="chap16"></a>CHAPTER XVI. + </h2> + <p><b>Author goes to Monmouth; confers relative to a petition from that place; + returns to Bristol; is introduced to Alexander Falconbridge; takes one of + the mates of the Africa out of that ship; visits disabled seamen from the + ship Thomas; puts a chief mate into prison for the murder of William + Lines.—Ill-usage of seamen in various other slave-vessels; secures Crutwell's + Bath paper in favour of the abolition; lays the foundation of a committee + at Bristol; and of a petition from thence also; takes his leave of + that city.</b></p> + + <p> + By this time I began to feel the effect of my labours upon my + constitution. It had been my practice to go home in the evening + to my lodgings, about twelve o'clock, and then to put down + the occurrences of the day. This usually kept me up till one, and + sometimes till nearly two in the morning. When I went my + rounds in Marsh-street, I seldom got home till two, and into bed + till three. My clothes, also, were frequently wet through with + the rains. The cruel accounts I was daily in the habit of hearing, + both with respect to the slaves, and to the seamen employed + in this wicked trade, from which, indeed, my mind had no + respite, often broke my sleep in the night, and occasioned me to + awake in an agitated state. All these circumstances concurred + in affecting my health; I looked thin; my countenance became + yellow; I had also rheumatic feelings. My friends, seeing this, + prevailed upon me to give myself two or three days' relaxation; + and as a gentleman, of whom I had some knowledge, was going + into Carmarthenshire, I accompanied him as far as Monmouth. + + </p> + <p> + After our parting at this place, I became restless and uneasy, + and longed to get back to my work. I thought, however, + my journey ought not to be wholly useless to the cause; and + hearing that Dr. Davis, a clergyman at Monmouth, was a man + of considerable weight among the inhabitants, I took the liberty + of writing him a letter, in which I stated who I was and the + way in which I had lately employed myself, and the great wish I + had to be favoured with an interview with him; and I did not + + conceal that it would be very desirable, if the inhabitants of the + place could have that information on the subject which would + warrant them in so doing, that they should petition the legislature + for the abolition of the Slave Trade. Dr. Davis returned + me an answer, and received me. The questions which he put to + me were judicious. He asked me, first, whether, if the slaves + were emancipated, there would not be much confusion in the + islands? I told him that the emancipation of them was no part + of our plan; we solicited nothing but the stopping of all future + importations of them into the islands. He then asked what the + planters would do for labourers? I replied, they would find sufficient + from an increase of the native population, if they were + obliged to pay attention to the latter means. We discoursed a + long time upon this last topic. I have not room to give the many + other questions he proposed to me: no one was ever more judiciously + questioned. In my turn, I put him into possession of + all the discoveries I had made. He acknowledged the injustice + of the trade; he confessed, also, that my conversation had + enlightened him as to the impolicy of it; and, taking some of my + <em>Summary View</em> to distribute, he said he hoped that the inhabitants + would, after the perusal of them, accede to my request. + + </p> + <p> + On my return to Bristol, my friends had procured for me an + interview with Mr. Alexander Falconbridge, who had been to + the coast of Africa, as a surgeon, for four voyages; one in the + Tartar, another in the Alexander, and two in the Emilia slave-vessels. + + </p> + <p> + On my introduction to him, I asked him if he had any objection + to give me an account of the cruelties which were said to be + connected with the Slave Trade; he answered, without any reserve, + that he had not; for that he had now done with it. Never were + any words more welcome to my ears than these: "Yes—I have + done with the trade;"—and he said, also, that he was free to give + me information concerning it. Was he not then one of the very + persons, whom I had so long been seeking, but in vain? + + </p> + <p> + To detail the accounts which he gave me at this and at subsequent + interviews, relative to the different branches of this trade, + would fill no ordinary volume. Suffice it to say, in general terms, + + as far as relates to the slaves, that he confirmed the various violent + and treacherous methods of procuring them in their own country; + their wretched condition, in consequence of being crowded together + in the passage; their attempts to rise in defence of their own + freedom, and, when this was impracticable, to destroy themselves + by the refusal of sustenance, by jumping overboard into the sea, + and in other ways; the effect also of their situation upon their + minds, by producing insanity and various diseases; and the cruel + manner of disposing of them in the West Indies, and of separating + relatives and friends. + + </p> + <p> + With respect to the seamen employed in this trade, he commended + Captain Frazer for his kind usage to them, under whom + he had so long served. The handsome way in which he spoke + of the latter pleased me much, because I was willing to deduce + from it his own impartiality, and because I thought I might + infer from it, also, his regard to truth as to other parts of his narrative. + Indeed I had been before acquainted with this circumstance. + Thompson, of the Seven Stars, had informed me that + Frazer was the only man sailing out of that port for slaves who + had not been guilty of cruelty to his seamen: and Mr. Burges + alluded to it, when he gave me advice not to proceed against the + captain of the Alfred; for he then said, as I mentioned in a + former chapter, "that he knew but one captain in the trade, + who did not deserve long ago to be hanged." Mr. Falconbridge, + however, stated, that though he had been thus fortunate in the + Tartar and Emilia, he had been as unfortunate in the Alexander; + for he believed there were no instances upon naval record, taken + altogether, of greater barbarity, than of that which had been + exercised towards the seamen in this voyage. In running over + these, it struck me that I had heard of the same from some other + quarter, or at least that these were so like the others, that I was + surprised at their coincidence. On taking out my notes, I looked + for the names of those whom I recollected to have been used in + this manner; and on desiring Mr. Falconbridge to mention the + names of those, also, to whom he alluded, they turned out to be + the same. The mystery, however, was soon cleared up, when I + told him from whom I had received my intelligence: for Mr. + + Arnold, the last-mentioned person in the last chapter, had been + surgeon's mate under Mr. Falconbridge in the same vessel. + + </p> + <p> + There was one circumstance of peculiar importance, but quite + new to me, which I collected from the information which Mr. + Falconbridge had given me. This was, that many of the seamen, + who left the slave-ships in the West Indies, were in such a weak, + ulcerated, and otherwise diseased state, that they perished there. + Several, also, of those who came home with the vessels were in + the same deplorable condition. This was the case, Mr. Falconbridge + said, with some who returned in the Alexander. It was + the case, also, with many others; for he had been a pupil for + twelve months in the Bristol Infirmary, and had had ample + means of knowing the fact. The greatest number of seamen, at + almost all times, who were there, were from the slave-vessels. + These, too, were usually there on account of disease, whereas + those from other ships were usually there on account of accidents. + The health of some of the former was so far destroyed, that they + were never wholly to be restored. This information was of + great importance; for it showed that they who were reported + dead upon the muster-rolls, were not all that were lost to the + country by the prosecution of this wicked trade. Indeed, it was + of so much importance, that in all my future interviews with + others, which were for the purpose of collecting evidence, I never + forgot to make it a subject of inquiry. + + </p> + <p> + I can hardly say how precious I considered the facts with + which Mr. Falconbridge had furnished me from his own experience, + relative to the different branches of this commerce. They + were so precious, that I began now to be troubled lest I should + lose them. For, though he had thus privately unbosomed himself + to me, it did not follow that he would come forward as a + public evidence. I was not a little uneasy on this account. I + was fearful lest, when I should put this question to him, his + future plan of life, or some little narrow consideration of future + interest, would prevent him from giving his testimony, and I + delayed asking him for many days. During this time, however, + I frequently visited him; and at length, when I thought I was + better acquainted, and probably in some little estimation, with + + him, I ventured to open my wishes on this subject. He answered + me boldly, and at once, that he had left the trade upon principle, + and that he would state all he knew concerning it, either publicly + or privately, and at any time when he should be called upon to + do it. This answer produced such an effect upon me, after all + my former disappointments, that I felt it all over my frame. It + operated like a sudden shock, which often disables the impressed + person for a time. So the joy I felt rendered me quite useless, + as to business, for the remainder of the day. + + </p> + <p> + I began to perceive in a little time the advantage of having + cultivated an acquaintance with Thompson of the Seven Stars. + For nothing could now pass in Bristol, relative to the seamen + employed in this trade, but it was soon brought to me. If there + was anything amiss, I had so arranged matters that I was sure + to hear of it. He sent for me one day to inform me that several + of the seamen, who had been sent out of Marsh Street into the + Prince, which was then at Kingroad, and on the point of sailing + to Africa for slaves, had, through fear of ill usage on the voyage, + taken the boat and put themselves on shore. He informed me, + at the same time, that the seamen of the Africa, which was lying + there also, and ready to sail on a like voyage, were not satisfied, + for that they had been made to sign their articles of agreement + without being permitted to see them. To this he added, that + Mr. Sheriff, one of the mates of the latter vessel, was unhappy, + also, on this account. Sheriff had been a mate in the West India + trade, and was a respectable man in his line. He had been + enticed by the captain of the Africa, under the promise of peculiar + advantages, to change his voyage. Having a wife and family at + Bristol, he was willing to make a sacrifice on their account: but + when he himself was not permitted to read the articles, he began + to suspect bad work, and that there would be nothing but misery + in the approaching voyage. Thompson entreated me to extricate + him if I could. He was sure, he said, if he went to the coast + with that man, meaning the captain, that he would never return + alive. + + </p> + <p> + I was very unwilling to refuse anything to Thompson. I was + deeply bound to him in gratitude for the many services he had + + rendered me, but I scarcely saw how I could serve him on this + occasion. I promised, however, to speak to him in an hour's + time. I consulted my friend Truman Harford in the interim; + and the result was, that he and I should proceed to Kingroad in + a boat, go on board the Africa, and charge the captain in person + with what he had done, and desire him to discharge Sheriff, as + no agreement, where fraud or force was used in the signatures, + could be deemed valid. If we were not able to extricate Sheriff + by these means, we thought that at least we should know, by + inquiring of those whom we should see on board, whether the + measure of hindering the men from seeing their articles on signing + them had been adopted. It would be useful to ascertain this + because such a measure had been long reported to be usual in + this, but was said to be unknown in any other trade. + + </p> + <p> + Having passed the river's mouth, and rowed towards the sea, + we came near the Prince first, but pursued our destination to the + Africa. Mr. Sheriff was the person who received us on board. + I did not know him till I asked his name. I then told him my + errand, with which he seemed to be much pleased. On asking + him to tell the captain that I wished to speak with him, he + replied that he was on shore. This put me to great difficulty, + as I did not know then what to do. I consulted with Truman + Harford, and it was our opinion that we should inquire of the + seamen, but in a very quiet manner, by going individually to + each, if they had ever demanded to see the articles on signing + them, and if they had been refused. We proposed this question + to them. They replied, that the captain had refused them in a + savage manner, making use of threats and oaths. There was not + one contradictory voice on this occasion. We then asked Mr. + Sheriff what we were to do. He entreated us by all means to + take him on shore. He was sure that under such a man as the + captain, and particularly after the circumstance of our coming on + board should be made known to him, he would never come from + the coast of Africa alive. Upon this, Truman Harford called me + aside, and told me the danger of taking an officer from the ship; + for that, if any accident should happen to her, the damage might + all fall upon me. I then inquired of Mr. Sheriff if there was any + + officer on board who could manage the ship. He pointed one + out to me, and I spoke to him in the cabin. This person told + me I need be under no apprehension about the vessel, but that + every one would be sorry to lose Mr. Sheriff. Upon this ground, + Truman Harford, who had felt more for me than for himself, + became now easy. We had before concluded, that the obtaining + any signature by fraud or force would render the agreement + illegal. We therefore joined in opinion, that we might take + away the man. His chest was accordingly put into our boat. + We jumped into it with our rowers, and he followed us, surrounded + by the seamen, all of whom took an affectionate leave + of him, and expressed their regret at parting. Soon after this + there was a general cry of "Will you take me, too?" from the + deck; and such a sudden movement appeared there, that we + were obliged to push off directly from the side, fearing that many + would jump into our boat and go with us. + + </p> + <p> + After having left the ship, Sheriff corroborated the desertion + of the seamen from the Prince, as before related to me by Thompson. + He spoke also of the savage disposition of his late captain, + which he had even dared to manifest through lying in an English + port. I was impressed by this account of his rough manners; + and the wind having risen before and the surf now rolling heavily, + I began to think what an escape I might have had; how easy it + would have been for the savage captain, if he had been on board, + or for any one at his instigation, to have pushed me over the + ship's side. This was the first time I had ever considered the + peril of the undertaking. But we arrived safe; and though on + the same evening I left my name at the captain's house, as that + of the person who had taken away his mate, I never heard more + about it. + + </p> + <p> + In pursuing my inquiries into the new topic suggested by + Mr. Falconbridge, I learnt that two or three of the seamen of the + ship Thomas, which had arrived now nearly a year from the + Coast, were in a very crippled and deplorable state; I accordingly + went to see them. One of them had been attacked by a fever, + arising from circumstances connected with these voyages. The + inflammation, which had proceeded from it, had reached his eyes; + + it could not be dispersed; and the consequence was, that he was + then blind. The second was lame; he had badly ulcerated legs, + and appeared to be very weak. The third was a mere spectre; I + think he was the most pitiable object I ever saw. I considered + him as irrecoverably gone. They all complained to me of their + bad usage on board the Thomas. They said they had heard, of + my being in Bristol, and they hoped I would not leave it without + inquiring into the murder of William Lines. + + </p> + <p> + On inquiring who William Lines was, they informed me that + he had been one of the crew of the same ship, and that all on + board believed that he had been killed by the chief mate; but + they themselves had not been present when the blows were given + him; they had not seen him till afterwards; but their shipmates + had told them of his cruel treatment, and they knew that soon + afterwards he had died. + + </p> + <p> + In the course of the next day, the mother of Lines, who lived + in Bristol, came to me and related the case. I told her there was + no evidence as to the fact, for that I had seen three seamen, who + could not speak to it from their own knowledge. She said, there + were four others then in Bristol who could; I desired her to fetch + them. When they arrived I examined each separately, and + cross-examined them in the best manner I was able; I could find + no variation in their account, and I was quite convinced that the + murder had taken place. The mother was then importunate that + I should take up the case. I was too much affected by the narration + I had heard to refuse her wholly, and yet I did not promise + that I would; I begged a little time to consider of it. During + this I thought of consulting my friend Burges, but I feared he + would throw cold water upon it, as he had done in the case of + the captain of the Alfred. I remembered well what he had then + said to me, and yet I felt a strong disposition to proceed, for the + trade was still going on. Every day, perhaps, some new act of + barbarity was taking place; and one example, if made, might + counteract the evil for a time. I seemed therefore to incline to + stir in this matter, and thought, if I should get into any difficulty + about it, it would be better to do it without consulting + Mr. Burges, than, after having done it, to fly as it were in his + + face. I then sent for the woman, and told her that she might + appear with the witnesses at the Common Hall, where the + magistrates usually sat on a certain day. + + </p> + <p> + We all met at the time appointed, and I determined to sit as + near to the mayor as I could get. The hall was unusually crowded. + One or two slave-merchants, and two or three others, who were + largely concerned in the West India trade, were upon the bench; + for I had informed the mayor the day before of my intention, + and he, it appeared, had informed them. I shall never forget the + savage looks which these people gave me; which indeed were so + remarkable, as to occasion the eyes of the whole court to be turned + upon me. They looked as if they were going to speak to me, and + the people looked as if they expected me to say something in + return. They then got round the mayor, and began to whisper + to him, as I supposed, on the business before it should come on. + One of them, however, said aloud to the former, but fixing his + eyes upon me, and wishing me to overhear him, "Scandalous + reports had lately been spread, but sailors were not used worse + in Guineamen than in other vessels." This brought the people's + eyes upon me again; I was very much irritated, but I thought it + improper to say anything. Another, looking savagely at me, + said to the mayor, "that he had known Captain Vicars a long + time; that he was an honourable man<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXVI_1"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXVI_1"></a>, and would not allow + such usage in his ship. There were always vagabonds to hatch + up things;" and he made a dead point at me, by putting himself + into a posture which attracted the notice of those present, and by + staring me in the face. I could now no longer restrain myself, + and I said aloud, in as modest manner as I could, "You, sir, + may know many things which I do not; but this I know, that if + you do not do your duty, you are amenable to a higher court." + The mayor upon this looked at me, and directly my friend + + Mr. Burges, who was sitting as the clerk to the magistrates, went + to him and whispered something in his ear; after which all private + conversation between the mayor and others ceased, and the + hearing was ordered to come on. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXVI_1"></a><a href="#FootXVI_1">A</a>: We may well + imagine what this person's notion of another man's honour + was; for he was the purser of the Brothers and of the Alfred, who, as before + mentioned, sent the captains of those ships out a second voyage; after knowing + their barbarities in the former; and he was also the purser of this very ship + Thomas, where the murder had been committed. I by no means, however, wish + by these observations to detract from the character of Captain Vicars, as he + had no concern in the cruel deed. + </p> + <p> + I shall not detain the reader by giving an account of the + evidence which then transpired. The four witnesses were examined, + and the case was so far clear; Captain Vicars, however, + was sent for. On being questioned, he did not deny that there + had been bad usage, but said that the young man had died of the + flux. But this assertion went for nothing when balanced against + the facts which had come out; and this was so evident, that an + order was made out for the apprehension of the chief mate. He + was accordingly taken up. The next day, however, there was a + rehearing of the case, when he was returned to the gaol, where + he was to lie till the Lords of the Admiralty should order a + sessions to be held for the trial of offences committed on the + high seas. + + </p> + <p> + This public examination of the case of William Lines, and + the way in which it ended, produced an extraordinary result; for + after this time the slave-captains and mates who used to meet + me suddenly, used as suddenly to start from me, indeed to the + other side of the pavement, as if I had been a wolf, or tiger, + or some dangerous beast of prey. Such of them as saw me + beforehand used to run up the cross streets or lanes, which were + nearest to them, to get away. Seamen, too, came from various + quarters to apply to me for redress. One came to me who had + been treated ill in the Alexander, when Mr. Falconbridge had + been the surgeon of her. Three came to me who had been ill-used + in the voyage which followed, though she had then sailed + under a new captain. Two applied to me from the Africa, who + had been of her crew in the last voyage. Two from the Fly. + Two from the Wasp. One from the Little Pearl, and three + from the Pilgrim or Princess, when she was last upon the coast. + + </p> + <p> + The different scenes of barbarity which these represented to + me, greatly added to the affliction of my mind. My feelings became + now almost insupportable. I was agonized to think that this + trade should last another day. I was in a state of agitation from + + morning till night. I determined I would soon leave Bristol. I + saw nothing but misery in the place. I had collected now, I + believed, all the evidence it would afford; and to stay in it a day + longer than was necessary, would be only an interruption for so + much time both of my happiness and of my health. I determined + therefore to do only two or three things, which I thought + to be proper, and to depart in a few days. + + </p> + <p> + And first I went to Bath, where I endeavoured to secure the + respectable paper belonging to that city in favour of the abolition + of the Slave Trade. This I did entirely to my satisfaction, by + relating to the worthy editor all the discoveries I had made, and + by impressing his mind in a forcible manner on the subject. And + it is highly to the honour of Mr. Crutwell, that from that day he + never ceased to defend our cause; that he never made a charge + for insertions of any kind; but that he considered all he did + upon this occasion in the light of a duty, or as his mite given in + charity to a poor and oppressed people. + + </p> + <p> + The next attempt was to lay the foundation of a committee + in Bristol, and of a petition to Parliament from it for the abolition + of the Slave Trade. I had now made many friends. A + gentleman of the name of Paynter had felt himself much interested + in my labours. Mr. Joseph Harford, a man of fortune, + of great respectability of character, and of considerable influence, + had attached himself to the cause. Dr. Fox had assisted me in + it. Mr. Hughes, a clergyman of the baptist church, was anxious + and ready to serve it. Dr. Camplin, of the establishment, with + several of his friends, continued steady. Matthew Wright, James + Harford, Truman Harford, and all the Quakers to a man, were + strenuous, and this on the best of principles, in its support. To + all these I spoke, and I had the pleasure of seeing that my + wishes were likely in a short time to be gratified in both these + cases. + + </p> + <p> + It was now necessary that I should write to the committee in + London. I had written to them only two letters during my + absence; for I had devoted myself so much to the great object I + had undertaken, that I could think of little else. Hence some of + my friends among them were obliged to write to different persons + + at Bristol, to inquire if I was alive, I gave up a day or two + therefore, to this purpose. I informed the committee of all my + discoveries in the various branches to which my attention had + been directed, and desired them in return to procure me various + official documents for the port of London, which I then specified. + Having done this, I conferred with Mr. Falconbridge, relative to + being with me at Liverpool. I thought it right to make him + no other offer than that his expenses should be paid. He acceded + to my request on these disinterested terms; and I took my + departure from Bristol, leaving him to follow me in a few days. + + </p> + + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + <h2><a name="chap17"></a>CHAPTER XVII. + </h2> + <p><b>Author secures the Gloucester paper, and lays the foundation of a petition from + that city; does the same at Worcester, and at Chester.—Arrives at + Liverpool.—Collects specimens of African produce; also imports and + exports, and muster-rolls, and accounts of dock duties, and iron instruments + used in the Slave Trade.—His introduction to Mr. Norris, and + others.—Author and his errand become known.—People visit him out of + curiosity.—Frequent controversies on the subject of the Slave Trade.</b></p> + + <p> + On my arrival at Gloucester, I waited upon my friend Dean + Tucker. He was pleased to hear of the great progress I had + made since he left me. On communicating to him my intention + of making interest with the editors of some provincial papers, to + enlighten the public mind, and with the inhabitants of some + respectable places, for petitions to Parliament, relative to the + abolition of the Slave Trade, he approved of it, and introduced + me to Mr. Raikes, the proprietor of the respectable paper belonging + to that city. Mr. Raikes acknowledged, without any hesitation, + the pleasure he should have in serving such a noble cause; + and he promised to grant me, from time to time, a corner in his + paper, for such things as I might point out to him for insertion. + This promise he performed afterwards, without any pecuniary + consideration, and solely on the ground of benevolence. He promised + also his assistance as to the other object, for the promotion + of which I left him several of my <em>Summary View</em> to distribute. + + </p> + <p> + At Worcester I trod over the same ground, and with the + same success. Timothy Bevington, of the religious society of + the Quakers, was the only person to whom I had an introduction + there: he accompanied me to the mayor, to the editor of the + Worcester paper, and to several others, before each of whom + I pleaded the cause of the oppressed Africans in the best manner + I was able. I dilated both on the inhumanity and on the + impolicy of the trade, which I supported by the various facts + recently obtained at Bristol. I desired, however, as far as + petitions were concerned, (and this desire I expressed on all other + + similar occasions,) that no attempt should be made to obtain + these, till such information had been circulated on the subject, + that every one, when called upon, might judge, from his knowledge + of it, how far he would feel it right to join in it. For this + purpose I left also here several of my <em>Summary View</em> for + distribution. + + </p> + <p> + After my arrival at Chester, I went to the bishop's residence, + but I found he was not there. Knowing no other person in the + place, I wrote a note to Mr. Cowdroy, whom I understood to be + the editor of the Chester paper, soliciting an interview with him, + I explained my wishes to him on both subjects. He seemed to + be greatly rejoiced, when we met, that such a measure as that of + the abolition of the Slave Trade was in contemplation. Living + at so short a distance from Liverpool, and in a country from + which so many persons were constantly going to Africa, he was + by no means ignorant, as some were, of the nature of this cruel + traffic; but yet he had no notion that I had probed it so deeply, + or that I had brought to light such important circumstances + concerning it, as he found by my conversation. He made me a + hearty offer of his services on this occasion, and this expressly + without fee or reward. I accepted them most joyfully and + gratefully. It was, indeed, a most important thing, to have a + station so near the enemy's camp, where we could watch their + motions, and meet any attack which might be made from it. + And this office of a sentinel Mr. Cowdroy performed with great + vigilance; and when he afterwards left Chester for Manchester, + to establish a paper there, he carried with him the same friendly + disposition towards our cause. + + </p> + <p> + My first introduction at Liverpool was to William Rathbone, + a member of the religious society of the Quakers. He was the same + person who, before the formation of our committee, had procured + me copies of several of the muster-rolls of the slave-vessels + belonging to that port, so that, though we were not personally + known, yet we were not strangers to each other. Isaac Hadwen, + a respectable member of the same society, was the person whom + I saw next. I had been introduced to him, previously to my + journey, when he was at London, at the yearly meeting of the + + Quakers, so that no letter to him was necessary. As Mr. Roscoe + had generally given the profits of <em>The Wrongs of Africa</em> to our + committee, I made no scruple of calling upon him. His reception + of me was very friendly, and he introduced me afterwards to Dr. + Currie, who had written the preface to that poem. There was + also a fourth upon whom I called, though I did not know him. + His name was Edward Rushton: he had been an officer in a + slave-ship, but had lost his sight, and had become an enemy to + that trade. On passing through Chester, I had heard, for the + first time, that he had published a poem called <em>West Indian + Eclogues</em>, with a view of making the public better acquainted + with the evil of the Slave Trade, and of exciting their indignation + against it. Of the three last it may be observed, that, + having come forward thus early, as labourers, they deserve to be + put down, as I have placed them in the map, among the forerunners + and coadjutors in this great cause, for each published his + work before any efforts were made publicly, or without knowing + that any were intended. Rushton, also, had the boldness, though + then living in Liverpool, to affix his name to his work. These + were the only persons whom I knew for some time after my + arrival in that place. + + </p> + <p> + It may not, perhaps, be necessary to enter so largely into + my proceedings at Liverpool as at Bristol. The following + account, therefore, may suffice:— + + </p> + <p> + In my attempts to add to my collection of specimens of African + produce, I was favoured with a sample of gum ruber + astringents, of cotton from the Gambia, of indigo and musk, of + long pepper, of black pepper from Whidàh, of mahogany from + Calabar, and of cloths of different colours, made by the natives, + which, while they gave other proofs of the quality of their own + cotton, gave proofs, also, of the variety of their dyes. + + </p> + <p> + I made interest at the Custom-house for various exports and + imports, and for copies of the muster-rolls of several slave-vessels, + besides those of vessels employed in other trades. + + </p> + <p> + By looking out constantly for information on this great subject, + I was led to the examination of a printed card or table of + the dock duties of Liverpool, which was published annually. + + The town of Liverpool had so risen in opulence and importance + from only a fishing-village, that the corporation seemed to have a + pride in giving a public view of this increase. Hence they + published and circulated this card. Now the card contained one, + among other facts, which was almost as precious, in a political + point of view, as any I had yet obtained. It stated that in the + year 1772, when I knew that a hundred vessels sailed out of + Liverpool for the coast of Africa, the dock-duties amounted to + 4552<i>l.</i>, and that in 1779, when I knew that, in consequence of + the war, only eleven went from thence to the same coast, they + amounted to 4957<i>l</i>. From these facts put together, two conclusions + were obvious. The first was, that the opulence of Liverpool, + as far as the entry of vessels into its ports, and the dock-duties + arising from thence, were concerned, was not indebted to + the Slave Trade; for these duties were highest when it had only + eleven ships in that employ. The second was, that there had + been almost a practical experiment with respect to the abolition + of it; for the vessels in it had been gradually reduced from one + hundred to eleven, and yet the West Indians had not complained + of their ruin, nor had the merchants or manufacturers suffered, + nor had Liverpool been affected by the change. + + </p> + <p> + There were specimens of articles in Liverpool, which I entirely + overlooked at Bristol, and which I believed I should have overlooked + here also, had it not been for seeing them at a window in + a shop; I mean those of different iron instruments used in this + cruel traffic. I bought a pair of the iron hand-cuffs with which + the men-slaves are confined. The right-hand wrist of one, and + the left of another, are almost brought into contact by these, and + fastened together, as the figure A in the annexed plate represents, + by a little bolt with a small padlock at the end of it. + + </p><span class="center"><img src="images/234-1.png" alt="Handcuffs"></span><p> + Figure 5. HANDCUFFS + </p> + <p> + I bought also a pair of shackles for the legs. These are + represented by the figure B. + + </p> + <p> + The right ancle of one man is fastened to the left of another, + as the reader will observe, by similar means. I bought these, + not because it was difficult to conceive how the unhappy victims + of this execrable trade were confined, but to show the fact that + they were so. For what was the inference from it, but that they + did not leave their own country willingly; that, when they were + in the holds of the slave-vessels, they were not in the Elysium + which had been represented; and that there was a fear either + that they would make their escape, or punish their oppressors? + + </p><span class="center"><img src="images/235-1.png" alt="Shackles for the legs"></span><p> + Figure 6. SHACKLES FOR THE LEGS + </p> + <p> + I bought also a thumb-screw at this shop. The thumbs are put + into this instrument through the two circular holes at the top of + it. By turning a key, a bar rises up by means of a screw from C + to D, and the pressure upon them becomes painful. By turning + it further you may make the blood start from the ends of them. + By taking the key away, as at E, you leave the tortured person + in agony, without any means of extricating himself, or of being + extricated by others. This screw, as I was then informed, was + applied by way of punishment, in case of obstinacy in the slaves, + or for any other reputed offence, at the discretion of the captain. + + </p> + <p> + At the same place I bought another instrument which I saw. + It was called a speculum oris. The dotted lines in the figure on + the right hand of the screw represent it when shut, the black + lines when open. It is opened, as at G H, by a screw below with + + a nob at the end of it. This instrument is known among surgeons, + having been invented to assist them in wrenching open the + mouth as in the case of a locked jaw; but it had got into use in + this trade. + + </p><span class="center"><img src="images/236-1.png" alt="Thumb screw"></span><p> + Figure 7. THUMB SCREW + </p><span class="center"><img src="images/236-2.png" alt="Speculum oris"></span><p> + Figure 8. SPECULUM ORIS + </p> + <p> + On asking the seller of the instruments on what occasion it + was used there, he replied that the slaves were frequently so + sulky as to shut their mouths against all sustenance, and this with + a determination to die; and that it was necessary their mouths + should be forced open to throw in nutriment, that they who had + purchased them might incur no loss by their death. + + </p> + <p> + The town-talk of Liverpool was much of the same nature + as that at Bristol on the subject of this trade. Horrible facts + concerning it were in everybody's mouth; but they were more + numerous, as was likely to be the case where eighty vessels were + employed from one port, and only eighteen from the other. The + people, too, at Liverpool seemed to be more hardened, or they + related them with more coldness or less feeling. This may be + accounted for from the greater number of those facts, as just + related, the mention of which, as it was of course more frequent, + occasioned them to lose their power of exciting surprise. All + this I thought in my favour, as I should more easily, or with less + obnoxiousness, come to the knowledge of what I wanted to + obtain. + + </p> + <p> + My friend William Rathbone, who had been looking out to + supply me with intelligence, but who was desirous that I should + + not be imposed upon, and that I should get it from the fountainhead, + introduced me to Mr. Norris for this purpose. Norris had + been formerly a slave-captain, but had quitted the trade, and + settled as a merchant in a different line of business. He was a + man of quick penetration, and of good talents, which he had + cultivated to advantage, and he had a pleasing address both as to + speech and manners. He received me with great politeness, and + offered me all the information I desired. I was with him five or + six times at his own house for this purpose. The substance of + his communications on these occasions I shall now put down, and + I beg the reader's particular attention to it, as he will be referred + to it in other parts of this work. + + </p> + <p> + With respect to the produce of Africa, Mr. Norris enumerated + many articles in which a new and valuable trade might be + opened, of which he gave me one, namely, the black pepper from + Whidàh before mentioned. This he gave me, to use his own + expressions, as one argument among many others of the impolicy + of the Slave Trade, which, by turning the attention of the inhabitants + to the persons of one another for sale, hindered foreigners + from discovering, and themselves from cultivating, many of the + valuable productions of their own soil. + + </p> + <p> + On the subject of procuring slaves, he gave it as his decided + opinion that many of the inhabitants of Africa were kidnapped + by each other, as they were travelling on the roads, or fishing in + the creeks, or cultivating their little spots. Having learned + their language, he had collected the fact from various quarters, + but more particularly from the accounts of slaves whom he had + transported in his own vessels. With respect, however, to + Whidàh, many came from thence who were reduced to slavery + in a different manner. The king of Dahomey, whose life (with + the wars and customs of the Dahomans) he said he was then + writing, and who was a very despotic prince, made no scruple of + seizing his own subjects, and of selling them, if he was in want + of any of the articles which the slave-vessels would afford him. + The history of this prince's life he lent me afterwards to read, + while it was yet in manuscript, in which I observed that he had + recorded all the facts now mentioned. Indeed he made no hesitation + + to state them, either when we were by ourselves, or when + others were in company with us. He repeated them at one time + in the presence both of Mr. Cruden and Mr. Coupland. The + latter was then a slave-merchant at Liverpool. He seemed to be + fired at the relation of these circumstances. Unable to restrain + himself longer, he entered into a defence of the trade, both as to + the humanity and the policy of it; but Mr. Norris took up his + arguments in both these cases, and answered them in a solid + manner. + + </p> + <p> + With respect to the Slave Trade as it affected the health of + our seamen, Mr. Norris admitted it to be destructive; but I did + not stand in need of this information, as I knew this part of the + subject, in consequence of my familiarity with the muster-rolls, + better than himself. + + </p> + <p> + He admitted it also to be true, that they were too frequently + ill-treated in this trade. A day or two after our conversation on + this latter subject he brought me the manuscript journal of a voyage + to Africa, which had been kept by a mate, with whom he + was then acquainted. He brought it to me to read, as it might + throw some light upon the subject on which we had talked last. + In this manuscript various instances of cruel usage towards seamen + were put down, from which it appeared that the mate, who + wrote it, had not escaped himself. + + </p> + <p> + At the last interview we had, he seemed to be so satisfied of + the inhumanity, injustice, and impolicy of the trade, that he + made me a voluntary offer of certain clauses, which he had been + thinking of, and which, he believed, if put into an Act of Parliament, + would judiciously effect its abolition. The offer of these + clauses I embraced eagerly. He dictated them, and I wrote. I + wrote them in a small book which I had then in my pocket. + They were these:— + + </p> + <p> + No vessel, under a heavy penalty, to supply foreigners with + slaves. + + </p> + <p> + Every vessel to pay to government a tax for a register on + clearing out to supply our own islands with slaves. + + </p> + <p> + Every such vessel to be prohibited from purchasing or bringing + home any of the productions of Africa. + + </p> + <p> + Every such vessel to be prohibited from bringing home a passenger, + or any article of produce, from the West Indies. + + </p> + <p> + A bounty to be given to every vessel trading in the natural + productions of Africa. This bounty to be paid in part out of the + tax arising from the registers of the slave-vessels. + + </p> + <p> + Certain establishments to be made by government in Africa, + in the Bananas, in the Isles de Los, on the banks of the Camaranca, + and in other places, for the encouragement and support of + the new trade to be substituted there. + + </p> + <p> + Such then were the services, which Mr. Norris, at the + request of William Rathbone, rendered me at Liverpool, during + my stay there; and I have been very particular in detailing + them, because I shall be obliged to allude to them, as I have + before observed, on some important occasions in a future part of + the work. + + </p> + <p> + On going my rounds one day, I met accidentally with Captain + Chaffers. This gentleman either was or had been in the West + India employ. His heart had beaten in sympathy with mine, + and he had greatly favoured our cause. He had seen me at Mr. + Norris's, and learned my errand there. He told me he could + introduce me in a few minutes, as we were then near at hand, to + Captain Lace, if I chose it. Captain Lace, he said, had been + long in the Slave Trade, and could give me very accurate information + about it. I accepted his offer. On talking to Captain + Lace, relative to the productions of Africa, he told me that mahogany + grew at Calabar. He began to describe a tree of that + kind, which he had seen there. This tree was from about + eighteen inches to two feet in diameter, and about sixty feet high, + or, as he expressed it, of the height of a tall chimney. As soon + as he mentioned Calabar, a kind of horror came over me. His + name became directly associated in my mind with the place. It + almost instantly occurred to me, that he commanded the Edgar + out of Liverpool, when the dreadful massacre there, as has been + related, took place. Indeed I seemed to be so confident of it, + that, attending more to my feelings than to my reason at this + moment, I accused him with being concerned in it. This produced + great confusion among us. For he looked incensed at + + Captain Chaffers, as if he had introduced me to him for this purpose. + Captain Chaffers again seemed to be all astonishment that + I should have known of this circumstance, and to be vexed that + I should have mentioned it in such a manner. I was also in a + state of trembling myself. Captain Lace could only say it was a + bad business. But he never defended himself, nor those concerned + in it. And we soon parted, to the great joy of us all. + + </p> + <p> + Soon after this interview, I began to perceive that I was + known in Liverpool, as well as the object for which I came. Mr. + Coupland, the slave-merchant, with whom I had disputed at + Mr. Norris's house, had given the alarm to those who were concerned + in the trade, and Captain Lace, as may be now easily + imagined, had spread it. This knowledge of me and of my errand + was almost immediately productive of two effects, the first of + which I shall now mention. + + </p> + <p> + I had a private room at the King's Arms tavern, besides my + bed-room, where I used to meditate and to write; but I generally + dined in public. The company at dinner had hitherto varied but + little as to number, and consisted of those, both from the town + and country, who had been accustomed to keep up a connexion + with the house. But now things were altered, and many people + came to dine there daily with a view of seeing me, as if I had + been some curious creature imported from foreign parts. They + thought, also, they could thus have an opportunity of conversing + with me. Slave-merchants and slave-captains came in among + others for this purpose. I had observed this difference in the + number of our company for two or three days. Dale, the master + of the tavern, had observed it also, and told me in a good-natured + manner, that many of these were my visitors, and that I was + likely to bring him a great deal of custom. In a little time, however, + things became serious; for they, who came to see me, + always started the abolition of the Slave Trade as the subject for + conversation. Many entered into the justification of this trade + with great warmth, as if to ruffle my temper, or at any rate to + provoke me to talk. Others threw out, with the same view, that + men were going about to abolish it, who would have done much + better if they had stayed at home. Others said they had heard + + of a person turned mad, who had conceived the thought of + destroying Liverpool, and all its glory. Some gave as a toast, + Success to the trade, and then laughed immoderately, and + watched me when I took my glass to see if I would drink it. I + saw the way in which things were now going, and I believed it + would be proper that I should come to some fixed resolutions; + such as, whether I should change my lodgings, and whether I + should dine in private; and if not, what line of conduct it would + become me to pursue on such occasions. With respect to changing + my lodgings and dining in private, I conceived, if I were to + do either of these things, that I should be showing an unmanly + fear of my visiters, which they would turn to their own advantage. + I conceived too, that, if I chose to go on as before, and to + enter into conversation with them on the subject of the abolition + of the Slave Trade, I might be able, by having such an assemblage + of persons daily, to gather all the arguments which they + could collect on the other side of our question, an advantage + which I should one day feel in the future management of the + cause. With respect to the line, which I should pursue in the + case of remaining in the place of my abode and in my former + habits, I determined never to start the subject of the abolition + myself—never to abandon it when started—never to defend it but + in a serious and dignified manner—and never to discover any + signs of irritation, whatever provocation might be given me. By + this determination I abided rigidly. The King's Arms became + now daily the place for discussion on this subject. Many tried to + insult me, but to no purpose. In all these discussions I found + the great advantage of having brought Mr. Falconbridge with + me from Bristol; for he was always at the table; and when my + opponents, with a disdainful look, tried to ridicule my knowledge, + among those present, by asking me if I had ever been on the + coast of Africa myself, he used generally to reply, "But I have. + I know all your proceedings there, and that his statements are + true." These and other words put in by him, who was an athletic + and resolute-looking man, were of great service to me. All + disinterested persons, of whom there were four or five daily in the + room, were uniformly convinced by our arguments, and took our + + part, and some of them very warmly. Day after day we beat + our opponents out of the field, as many of the company acknowledged, + to their no small notification, in their presence. Thus, + while we served the cause by discovering all that could be said + against it, we served it by giving numerous individuals proper + ideas concerning it, and of interesting them in our favour. + + </p> + <p> + The second effect which I experienced was, that from this + time I could never get any one to come forward as an evidence to + serve the cause. There were, I believe, hundreds of persons in + Liverpool, and in the neighbourhood of it, who had been concerned + in this traffic, and who had left it, all of whom could have + given such testimony concerning it as would have insured its + abolition. But none of them would now speak out. Of these, + indeed, there were some, who were alive to the horrors of it, and + who lamented that it should still continue. But yet even these were + backward in supporting me. All that they did was just privately + to see me, to tell me that I was right, and to exhort me to persevere: + but as to coming forward to be examined publicly, my + object was so unpopular, and would become so much more so + when brought into parliament, that they would have their houses + pulled down, if they should then appear as public instruments in + the annihilation of the trade. With this account I was obliged + to rest satisfied; nor could I deny, when I considered the spirit, + which had manifested itself, and the extraordinary number of + interested persons in the place, that they had some reason for + their fears; and that these fears were not groundless, appeared + afterwards; for Dr. Binns, a respectable physician belonging to + the religious society of the Quakers, and to whom Isaac Hadwen + had introduced me, was near falling into a mischievous plot, + which had been laid against him, because he was one of the + subscribers to the institution for the abolition of the Slave Trade, + and because he was suspected of having aided me in promoting + that object. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + + <h2><a name="chap18"></a>CHAPTER XVIII. + </h2> + <p><b>Hostile disposition towards the author increases, on account of his known + patronage of the seamen employed in the Slave Trade; manner of procuring + and paying them at Liverpool; their treatment and mortality.—Account + of the murder of Peter Green; trouble taken by the author to trace it; + his narrow escape.—Goes to Lancaster, but returns to Liverpool; leaves + the latter place.</b></p> + + <p> + It has appeared that a number of persons used to come and see + me, out of curiosity, at the King's Arms tavern; and that these + manifested a bad disposition towards me, which was near breaking + out into open insult. Now the cause of all this was, as I have + observed, the knowledge which people had obtained relative to + my errand at this place. But this hostile disposition was increased + by another circumstance, which I am now to mention. I had + been so shocked at the treatment of the seamen belonging to the + slave-vessels at Bristol, that I determined, on my arrival at + Liverpool, to institute an inquiry concerning it there also. I + had made considerable progress in it, so that few seamen were + landed from such vessels, but I had some communication with + them; and though no one else would come near me, to give me + any information about the trade, these were always forward to + speak to me, and to tell me their grievances, if it were only with + the hope of being able to get redress. The consequence of this + was, that they used to come to the King's Arms tavern to see + me. Hence, one, two, and three, were almost daily to be found + about the door; and this happened quite as frequently after the + hostility just mentioned had shown itself, as before. They, + therefore, who came to visit me out of curiosity, could not help + seeing my sailor visiters; and on inquiring into their errand, + they became more than ever incensed against me. + + </p> + <p> + The first result of this increased hostility towards me was an + application from some of them to the master of the tavern, that + he would not harbour me. This he communicated to me in a + friendly manner, but he was by no means desirous that I should + + leave him. On the other hand, he hoped I would stay long + enough to accomplish my object. I thought it right, however, + to take the matter into consideration; and having canvassed it, + I resolved to remain with him, for the reasons mentioned in the + former chapter. But, that I might avoid doing anything that + would be injurious to his interest, as well as in some measure + avoid giving unnecessary offence to others, I took lodgings in + Williamson Square, where I retired to write, and occasionally to + sleep, and to which place all seamen, desirous of seeing me, were + referred. Hence I continued to get the same information as + before, but in a less obnoxious and injurious manner. + + </p> + <p> + The history of the seamen employed in the slave-vessels + belonging to the port of Liverpool, I found to be similar to that + of those from Bristol. + + </p> + <p> + They who went into this trade were of two classes. The first + consisted of those who were ignorant of it, and to whom generally + improper representations of advantage had been made, for the + purpose of enticing them into it. The second consisted of those + who, by means of a regular system, kept up by the mates and + captains, had been purposely brought by their landlords into + distress, from which they could only be extricated by going into + this hateful employ. How many have I seen, with tears in + their eyes, put into boats, and conveyed to vessels, which were + then lying at the Black Rock, and which were only waiting to + receive them to sail away! + + </p> + <p> + The manner of paying them in the currency of the islands + was the same as at Bristol. But this practice was not concealed + at Liverpool, as it was at the former place. The articles of + agreement were printed, so that all who chose to buy might read + them. At the same time it must be observed, that seamen were + never paid in this manner in any other employ; and that the + African wages, though nominally higher for the sake of procuring + hands, were thus made to be actually lower than in other trades. + + </p> + <p> + The loss by death was so similar, that it did not signify + whether the calculation on a given number was made either at + this or the other port. I had, however, a better opportunity at + this than I had at the other, of knowing the loss, as it related to + + those whose constitutions had been ruined, or who had been + rendered incapable by disease, of continuing their occupation at + sea. For the slave-vessels which returned to Liverpool, sailed + immediately into the docks, so that I saw at once their sickly + and ulcerated crews. The number of vessels, too, was so much + greater from this, than from any other port, that their sick made + a more conspicuous figure in the infirmary; and they were seen + also more frequently in the streets. + + </p> + <p> + With respect to their treatment, nothing could be worse. It + seemed to me to be but one barbarous system from the beginning + to the end. I do not say barbarous, as if premeditated, but it + became so in consequence of the savage habits gradually formed + by a familiarity with miserable sights, and with a course of action + inseparable from the trade. Men in their first voyages usually + disliked the traffic; and if they were happy enough then to + abandon it, they usually escaped the disease of a hardened heart. + But if they went a second and a third time, their disposition + became gradually changed. It was impossible for them to be + accustomed to carry away men and women by force, to keep + them in chains, to see their tears, to hear their mournful lamentations, + to behold the dead and the dying, to be obliged to keep up + a system of severity amidst all this affliction,—in short, it was + impossible for them to be witnesses, and this for successive + voyages, to the complicated mass of misery passing in a slave-ship, + without losing their finer feelings, or without contracting those + habits of moroseness and cruelty which would brutalize their + nature. Now, if we consider that persons could not easily become + captains (and to these the barbarities were generally chargeable + by actual perpetration, or by consent) till they had been two or + three voyages in this employ, we shall see the reason why it + would be almost a miracle, if they, who were thus employed in + it, were not rather to become monsters, than to continue to be + men. + + </p> + <p> + While I was at Bristol, I heard from an officer of the Alfred, + who gave me the intelligence privately, that the steward of a + Liverpool ship, whose name was Green, had been murdered in + that ship. The Alfred was in Bonny river at the same time, and + + his own captain, (so infamous for his cruelty, as has been before + shown,) was on board when it happened. The circumstances, + he said, belonging to this murder, were, if report were true, of a + most atrocious nature, and deserved to be made the subject of + inquiry. As to the murder itself, he observed, it had passed as a + notorious and uncontradicted fact. + + </p> + <p> + This account was given me just as I had made an acquaintance + with Mr. Falconbridge, and I informed him of it; he said + he had no doubt of its truth; for in his last voyage he went to + Bonny himself, where the ship was then lying, in which the transaction + happened: the king and several of the black traders told him + of it. The report then current was simply this, that the steward + had been barbarously beaten one evening; that after this he was + let down with chains upon him into a boat, which was alongside + of the ship, and that the next morning he was found dead. + + </p> + <p> + On my arrival at Liverpool, I resolved to inquire into the + truth of this report. On looking into one of the wet docks, I saw + the name of the vessel alluded to; I walked over the decks of + several others, and got on board her. Two people were walking + up and down her, and one was leaning upon a rail by the side. + I asked the latter how many slaves this ship had carried in her + last voyage; he replied he could not tell; but one of the two persons + walking about could answer me, as he had sailed out and + returned in her. This man came up to us, and joined in conversation. + He answered my questions and many others, and would + have shown me the ship, but on asking him how many seamen + had died on the voyage, he changed his manner, and said, with + apparent hesitation, that he could not tell. I asked him next, + what had become, of the steward Green. He said he believed he + was dead. I asked how the seamen had been used. He said, + not worse than others. I then asked whether Green had been + used worse than others. He replied, he did not then recollect. + I found that he was now quite upon his guard, and as I could + get no satisfactory answer from him I left the ship. + + </p> + <p> + On the next day I looked over the muster-roll of this vessel; + on examining it, I found that sixteen of the crew had died; I + found also the name of Peter Green; I found, again, that the + + latter had been put down among the dead. I observed, also, + that the ship had left Liverpool on the 5th of June, 1786, and + had returned on the 5th of June, 1787, and that Peter Green + was put down as having died on the 19th of September; from all + which circumstances it was evident that he must, as + my Bristol informant asserted, have died upon the Coast. + + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding this extraordinary coincidence of name, mortality, time, + and place, I could gain no further intelligence about the affair till + within about ten days before I left Liverpool; when among the seamen, + who came to apply to me in Williamson Square was George Ormond. He + came to inform me of his own ill-usage; from which circumstance I found + that he had sailed in the same ship with Peter Green. This led me to + inquire into the transaction in question, and I received from him the + following account. + + </p> + <p> + Peter Green had been shipped as steward. A black woman, + of the name of Rodney, went out in the same vessel; she belonged + to the owners of it, and was to be an interpretess to the slaves + who should be purchased. About five in the evening, some time + in the month of September, the vessel then lying in Bonny river, + the captain, as was his custom, went on shore. In his absence, + Rodney, the black woman, asked Green for the keys of the pantry, + which he refused her, alleging that the captain had already beaten + him for having given them to her on a former occasion, when she + drank the wine. The woman, being passionate, struck him, and + a scuffle ensued, out of which Green extricated himself as well as + he could. + + </p> + <p> + When the scuffle was over the woman retired to the cabin, + and appeared pensive. Between eight and nine in the evening, + the captain, who was attended by the captain of the Alfred, came + on board; Rodney immediately ran to him, and informed him + that Green had made an assault upon her. The captain, without + any inquiry, beat him severely, and ordered his hands to be made + fast to some bolts on the starboard side of the ship and under the + half deck, and then flogged him himself, using the lashes of the + cat-of-nine-tails upon his back at one time, and the double walled + knot at the end of it upon his head at another; and stopping to + + rest at intervals, and using each hand alternately, that he might + strike with the greater severity. + + </p> + <p> + The pain had now become so very severe, that Green cried + out, and entreated the captain of the Alfred, who was standing + by, to pity his hard case, and to intercede for him. But the + latter replied, that he would have served me in the same manner. + Unable to find a friend here, he called upon the chief mate; but + this only made matters worse, for the captain then ordered + the latter to flog him also; which he did for some time, using + however only the lashes of the instrument. Green then called in + his distress upon the second mate to speak for him; but the + second mate was immediately ordered to perform the same cruel + office, and was made to persevere in it till the lashes were all + worn into threads. But the barbarity did not close here; for the + captain, on seeing the instrument now become useless, ordered + another, with which he flogged him as before, beating him at + times over the head with the double-walled knot, and changing + his hands, and cursing his own left hand for not being able to + strike so severe a blow as his right. + + </p> + <p> + The punishment, as inflicted by all parties, had now lasted + two hours and a half, when George Ormond was ordered to cut + down one of the arms, and the boatswain the other, from the + places of their confinement; this being done, Green lay motionless + on the deck. He attempted to utter something, Ormond understood + it to be the word water; but no water was allowed him. The + captain, on the other hand, said he had not yet done with him, + and ordered him to be confined with his arms across, his right + hand to his left foot, and his left hand to his right foot. For this + purpose the carpenter brought shackles, and George Ormond was + compelled to put them on. The captain then ordered some + tackle to be made fast to the limbs of the said Peter Green, in + which situation he was then hoisted up, and afterwards let down + into a boat, which was lying alongside the ship. Michael + Cunningham was then sent to loose the tackle, and to leave + him there. + + </p> + <p> + In the middle watch, or between one and two next morning, + George Ormond looked out of one of the port-holes, and called to + + Green, but received no answer. Between two and three, Paul + Berry, a seaman, was sent down into the boat, and found him + dead. He made his report to one of the officers of the ship. + About five in the morning the body was brought up, and laid on + the waist near the half-deck door. The captain on seeing the body + when he rose, expressed no concern, but ordered it to be knocked out + of irons, and to be buried at the usual place of interment for + seamen, or Bonny Point. I may now observe, that the deceased + was in good health before the punishment took place, and in high + spirits; for he played upon the flute only a short time before + Rodney asked him for the keys, while those seamen, who were in + health, danced. + + </p> + <p> + On hearing this cruel relation from George Ormond, who was + throughout a material witness to the scene, I had no doubt in my own + mind of the truth of it; but I thought it right to tell him at + once that I had seen a person, about four weeks ago, who had + been the same voyage with him and Peter Green, but yet who + had no recollection of these circumstances. Upon this he looked + quite astonished, and began to grow angry; he maintained he had + seen the whole; he had also held the candle himself during the + whole punishment. He asserted that one candle and half of + another were burnt out while it lasted. He said also that, while + the body lay in the waist, he had handled the abused parts, and + had put three of his fingers into a hole, made by the double walled + knot, in the head, from whence a quantity of blood and, he + believed, brains issued. He then challenged me to bring the man, + before him; I desired him upon this to be cool, and to come to + me the next day, and I would then talk with him again upon the + subject. + + </p> + <p> + In the interim I consulted the muster-roll of the vessel again; + I found the name of George Ormond; he had sailed in her out of + Liverpool, and had been discharged at the latter end of January + in the West Indies, as he had told me. I found also the names + of Michael Cunningham and of Paul Berry, whom he had mentioned. + It was obvious also that Ormond's account of the captain + of the Alfred being on board at the time of the punishment tallied + with that given me at Bristol by an officer of that vessel, and that + + his account of letting down Peter Green into the boat tallied with + that which Mr. Falconbridge, as I mentioned before, had heard + from the king and the black traders in Bonny river. + + </p> + <p> + When he came to me next day, he came in high spirits. He + said he had found out the man whom I had seen. The man, + however, when he talked to him about the murder of Peter + Green, acknowledged every thing concerning it. Ormond intimated + that this man was to sail again in the same ship under the + promise of being an officer, and that he had been kept on board, + and had been enticed to a second voyage, for no other purpose + than that he might be prevented from divulging the matter. I + then asked Ormond, whether he thought the man would acknowledge + the murder in my hearing. He replied, "that, if I were + present, he thought he would not say much about it, as he + was soon to be under the same captain, but that he would not + deny it. If, however, I were out of sight, though I might be in + hearing, he believed he would acknowledge the facts." + + </p> + <p> + By the assistance of Mr. Falconbridge, I found a public-house, + which had two rooms in it: nearly at the top of the partition + between them was a small window, which a person might + look through by standing upon a chair. I desired Ormond, one + evening, to invite the man into the larger room, in which he was + to have a candle, and, to talk with him on the subject. I proposed + to station myself in the smallest in the dark, so that by + looking through the window I could both see and hear him, and + yet be unperceived myself. The room, in which I was to be, was + one where the dead were frequently carried to be owned. We + were all in our places at the time appointed. I directly discovered + that it was the same man with whom I had conversed on + board the ship in the wet docks. I heard him distinctly relate many + of the particulars of the murder, and acknowledge them all. + Ormond, after having talked with him some time, said, "Well, + then, you believe Peter Green was actually murdered?" He + replied, "If Peter Green was not murdered, no man ever was." + What followed I do not know. I had heard quite enough; and + the room was so disagreeable in smell, that I did not choose to + stay in it longer than was absolutely necessary. + + </p> + <p> + I own I was now quite satisfied that the murder had taken + place, and my first thought was to bring the matter before the + mayor, and to take up three of the officers of the ship. But, in + mentioning my intention to my friends, I was dissuaded from it. + They had no doubt but that in Liverpool, as there was now a + notion that the Slave Trade would become a subject of parliamentary + inquiry, every, effort would be made to overthrow me. + They were of opinion also that such of the magistrates, as were + interested in the trade, when applied to for warrants of apprehension, + would contrive to give notice to the officers to escape. + In addition to this they believed, that so many in the town were + already incensed against me, that I should be torn to pieces, and + the house where I lodged burnt down, if I were to make the + attempt. I thought it right therefore to do nothing for the + present; but I sent Ormond to London, to keep him out of the + way of corruption, till I should make up my mind as to further + proceedings on the subject. + + </p> + <p> + It is impossible, if I observe the bounds I have prescribed + myself, and I believe the reader will be glad of it on account of + his own feelings, that I should lay open the numerous cases, + which came before me at Liverpool, relative to the ill-treatment + of the seamen in this wicked trade. It may be sufficient to say, + that they harassed my constitution, and affected my spirits daily. + They were in my thoughts on my pillow after I retired to rest, + and I found them before my eyes when I awoke. Afflicting, + however, as they were, they were of great use in the promotion + of our cause: for they served, whatever else failed, as a stimulus to + perpetual energy: they made me think light of former labours, + and they urged me imperiously to new. And here I may observe, + that among the many circumstances which ought to excite our + joy on considering the great event of the abolition of the Slave + Trade, which has now happily taken place, there are few for + which we ought to be more grateful, than that from this time our + commerce ceases to breed such abandoned wretches: while those, + who have thus been bred in it, and who may yet find employment + in other trades, will, in the common course of nature, be taken + off in a given time, so that our marine will at length be purified + + from a race of monsters, which have helped to cripple its strength, + and to disgrace its character. + + </p> + <p> + The temper of many of the interested people of Liverpool + had now become still more irritable, and their hostility more + apparent than before. I received anonymous letters, entreating + me to leave it, or I should otherwise never leave it alive. The + only effect which this advice had upon me, was to make me more + vigilant when I went out at night. I never stirred out at this + time without Mr. Falconbridge; and he never accompanied me + without being well armed. Of this, however, I knew nothing + until we had left the place. There was certainly a time when I + had reason to believe that I had a narrow escape. I was one day + on the pier-head with many others looking at some little boats + below at the time of a heavy gale. Several persons, probably + out of curiosity, were hastening thither. I had seen all I + intended to see, and was departing, when I noticed eight or nine + persons making towards me. I was then only about eight or + nine yards from the precipice of the pier, but going from it. I + expected that they would have divided to let me through them; + instead of which they closed upon me and bore me back. I was + borne within a yard of the precipice, when I discovered my + danger; and perceiving among them the murderer of Peter + Green, and two others who had insulted me at the King's Arms, + it instantly struck me that they had a design to throw me over + the pier-head; which they might have done at this time, and yet + have pleaded that I had been killed by accident. There was not + a moment to lose. Vigorous on account of the danger, I darted + forward. One of them, against whom I pushed myself, fell + down: their ranks were broken; and I escaped, not without + blows, amidst their imprecations and abuse. + + </p> + <p> + I determined now to go to Lancaster, to make some inquiries + about the Slave Trade there. I had a letter of introduction to + William Jepson, one of the religious society of the Quakers, for + this purpose. I found from him, that, though there were slave-merchants + at Lancaster, they made their outfits at Liverpool, as + a more convenient port. I learnt too from others, that the + captain of the last vessel, which had sailed out of Lancaster to + + the coast of Africa for slaves, had taken off so many of the + natives treacherously, that any other vessel known to come from + it would be cut off. There were only now one or two superannuated + captains living in the place. Finding I could get no oral + testimony, I was introduced into the Custom-house. Here I just + looked over the muster-rolls of such slave-vessels as had formerly + sailed from this port; and having found that the loss of seamen + was precisely in the same proportion as elsewhere, I gave myself + no further trouble, but left the place. + + </p> + <p> + On my return to Liverpool, I was informed by Mr. Falconbridge, + that a ship-mate of Ormond, of the name of Patrick + Murray, who had been discharged in the West Indies, had + arrived there. This man, he said, had been to call upon me in + my absence, to seek redress for his own bad usage; but in the + course of conversation he had confirmed all the particulars as + stated by Ormond, relative to the murder of Peter Green. On + consulting the muster-roll of the ship, I found his name, and that + he had been discharged in the West Indies on the 2nd of + February. I determined, therefore, to see him. I cross-examined + him in the best manner I could. I could neither make + him contradict himself, nor say anything that militated against + the testimony of Ormond. I was convinced, therefore, of the + truth of the transaction; and, having obtained his consent, I + sent him to London to stay with the latter, till he should hear + further from me. I learnt also from Mr. Falconbridge, that + visitors had continued to come to the King's Arms during + my absence; that they had been very liberal of their abuse + of me; and that one of them did not hesitate to say (which + is remarkable) that "I deserved to be thrown over the pierhead." + + </p> + <p> + Finding now that I could get no further evidence; that the + information which I had already obtained was + considerable<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXVIII_1"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXVIII_1"></a>; and that + the committee had expressed an earnest desire, in a + letter which I had received, that I would take into consideration + + the propriety of writing my Essay on the <em>Impolicy of the Slave + Trade</em> as soon as possible, I determined upon leaving Liverpool. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXVIII_1"></a><a href="#FootXVIII_1">A</a>: In London, Bristol, and Liverpool, + I had already obtained the names of more than 20,000 seamen, in different + voyages, knowing what had become of each. + </p> + <p> + I went round accordingly and took leave of my friends. The + last of these was William Rathbone, and I have to regret, that + it was also the last time I ever saw him. Independently of the + gratitude I owed him for assisting me in this great cause, I + respected him highly as a man: he possessed a fine understanding + with a solid judgment: he was a person of extraordinary simplicity + of manners. Though he lived in a state of pecuniary + independence, he gave an example of great temperance, as well + as of great humility of mind: but however humble he appeared, + he had always the courage to dare to do that which was right, + however it might resist the customs or the prejudices of men. + In his own line of trade, which was that of a timber-merchant on + an extensive scale, he would not allow any article to be sold for + the use of a slave-ship, and he always refused those, who applied + to him for materials for such purposes. But it is evident that it + was his intention, if he had lived, to bear his testimony still + more publicly upon this subject; for an advertisement, stating + the ground of his refusal to furnish anything for this traffic upon + Christian principles, with a memorandum for two advertisements + in the Liverpool papers, was found among his papers at his + decease. + + </p> + + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + <h2><a name="chap19"></a>CHAPTER XIX + </h2> + <p><b>Author proceeds to Manchester; finds a spirit rising among the people there + for the abolition of the Slave Trade; is requested to deliver a discourse + on the subject of the Slave Trade; heads of it, and extracts.—Proceeds + to Keddleston, and Birmingham; finds a similar spirit at the latter + place.—Revisits Bristol; new and difficult situation there.—Author + crosses the Severn at night; unsuccessful termination of his journey; + returns to London.</b></p> + + <p> + I now took my departure from Liverpool, and proceeded to Manchester, where + I arrived on the Friday evening. On the Saturday + morning, Mr. Thomas Walker, attended by Mr. Cooper and + Mr. Bayley of Hope, called upon me. They were then strangers + to me. They came, they said, having heard of my arrival, to + congratulate me on the spirit which was then beginning to show + itself among the people of Manchester, and of other places, on + the subject of the Slave Trade, and which would unquestionably + manifest itself further by breaking out into petitions to parliament + for its abolition. I was much surprised at this information. + I had devoted myself so entirely to my object, that I had never + had time to read a newspaper since I left London. I never + knew, therefore, till now, that the attention of the public had + been drawn to the subject in such a manner. And as to petitions, + though I myself had suggested the idea at Bridgewater, + Bristol, Gloucester, and two, or three other places, I had only + done it provisionally, and this without either the knowledge or + the consent of the committee. The news, however, as it astonished, + so it almost overpowered me with joy. I rejoiced in it, + because it was a proof of the general good disposition of my + countrymen; because it showed me that the cause was such as + needed only to be known, to be patronized; and because the + manifestation of this spirit seemed to me to be an earnest, that + success would ultimately follow. + + </p> + <p> + The gentleman now mentioned took me away with them, and + introduced me to Mr. Thomas Phillips. We conversed, at first, + + upon the discoveries made in my journey; but in a little time, + understanding that I had been educated as a clergyman, they + came upon me with one voice, as if it had been before agreed + upon, to deliver a discourse the next day, which was Sunday, on + the subject of the Slave Trade. I was always aware that it was + my duty to do all that I could with propriety to serve the cause + I had undertaken, and yet I found myself embarrassed at their + request. Foreseeing, as I have before related, that this cause + might demand my attention to it for the greatest part of my life, + I had given up all thoughts of my profession. I had hitherto + but seldom exercised it, and then only to oblige some friend. I + doubted, too, at the first view of the thing, whether the pulpit + ought to be made an engine for political purposes, though I could + not but consider the Slave Trade as a mass of crimes, and therefore + the effort to get rid of it as a Christian duty. I had an idea, + too, that sacred matters should not be entered upon without due + consideration, nor prosecuted in a hasty, but in a decorous and + solemn manner. I saw besides that, as it was then two o'clock + in the afternoon, and this sermon was to be forthcoming the + next day, there was not sufficient time to compose it properly. + All these difficulties I suggested to my new friends without any + reserve. But nothing that I could urge would satisfy them. + They would not hear of a refusal, and I was obliged to give my + consent, though I was not reconciled to the measure. + + </p> + <p> + When I went into the church it was so full that I could + scarcely get to my place; for notice had been publicly given, + though I knew nothing of it, that such a discourse would be + delivered. I was surprised, also, to find a great crowd of black + people standing round the pulpit. There might be forty or fifty + of them. The text that I took, as the best to be found in such a + hurry, was the following:—"Thou shalt not oppress a stranger, + for ye know the heart of a stranger, seeing ye were strangers in + the land of Egypt." + + </p> + <p> + I took an opportunity of showing, from these words, that + Moses, in endeavouring to promote among the children of Israel + a tender disposition towards those unfortunate strangers who had + come under their dominion, reminded them of their own state + + when strangers in Egypt, as one of the most forcible arguments + which could be used on such an occasion. For they could not + have forgotten that the Egyptians "had made them serve with + rigour; that they had made their lives bitter with hard bondage, + in mortar, and in brick, and in all manner of service in the field; + and that all the service, wherein they made them serve, was with + rigour." The argument, therefore, of Moses was simply this:—"Ye + knew well, when ye were strangers in Egypt, the nature of + your own feelings. Were you not made miserable by your + debased situation there? But if so, you must be sensible that + the stranger, who has the same heart, or the same feelings with + yourselves, must experience similar suffering, if treated in a similar + manner. I charge you, then, knowing this, to stand clear of + the crime of his oppression." + + </p> + <p> + The law, then, by which Moses commanded the children of + Israel to regulate their conduct with respect to the usage of the + stranger, I showed to be a law of universal and eternal obligation, + and for this, among other reasons, that it was neither more nor + less than the Christian law, which appeared afterwards, that we + should not do that to others which we should be unwilling to + have done unto ourselves. + + </p> + <p> + Having gone into these statements at some length, I made an + application of them in the following words:— + + </p> + <p> + "This being the case, and this law of Moses being afterwards + established into a fundamental precept of Christianity, I must + apply it to facts of the present day, and I am sorry that I must + apply it to—ourselves. + + </p> + <p> + "And first,—Are there no strangers whom we oppress? I + fear the wretched African will say, that he drinks the cup of + sorrow, and that he drinks it at our hands. Torn from his Native + soil, and from his family and friends, he is immediately forced + into a situation, of all others the most degrading, where he and + his progeny are considered as cattle, as possessions, and as the + possessions of a man to whom he never gave offence. + + </p> + <p> + "It is a melancholy fact, but it can be abundantly proved, + that great numbers of the unfortunate strangers, who are carried + from Africa to our colonies, are fraudulently and forcibly taken + + from their native soil. To descant but upon a single instance of + the kind must be productive of pain to the ear of sensibility and + freedom. Consider the sensations of the person, who is thus + carried off by the ruffians, who have been lurking to intercept + him. Separated from everything which he esteems in life, without + the possibility even of bidding his friends adieu, beheld him + overwhelmed in tears—wringing his hands in despair—looking + backwards upon the spot where all his hopes and wishes lay;—while + his family at home are waiting for him with anxiety and + suspense—are waiting, perhaps, for sustenance—are agitated + between hope and fear—till length of absence confirms the latter, + and they are immediately plunged into inconceivable misery and + distress. + + </p> + <p> + "If this instance, then, is sufficiently melancholy of itself, + and is at all an act of oppression, how complicated will our guilt + appear who are the means of snatching away thousands annually + in the same manner, and who force them and their families into + the same unhappy situation, without either remorse or shame!" + + </p> + <p> + Having proceeded to show, in a more particular manner than + I can detail here, how, by means of the Slave Trade, we oppressed + the stranger, I made an inquiry into the other branch of the subject, + or how far we had a knowledge of his heart. + + </p> + <p> + To elucidate this point, I mentioned several specific instances + out of those which I had collected in my journey, and which I + could depend upon as authentic, of honour—gratitude—fidelity—filial, + fraternal, and conjugal affection—and of the finest sensibility + on the part of those who had been brought into our colonies + from Africa in the character of slaves; and then I proceeded for + a while in the following words:— + + </p> + <p> + "If, then, we oppress the stranger, as I have shown, and if, + by a knowledge of his heart, we find that he is a person of the + same passions and feelings as ourselves, we are certainly breaking, + by means of the prosecution of the Slave Trade, that fundamental + principle of Christianity, which says, that we shall not do that + unto another which we wish should not be done unto ourselves, + and, I fear, cutting ourselves off from all expectation of the + Divine blessing. For how inconsistent is our conduct! We + + come into the temple of God; we fall prostrate before Him; we + pray to Him, that He will have mercy upon us. But how shall + He have mercy upon us, who have had no mercy upon others! + We pray to Him, again, that He will deliver us from evil. But + how shall He deliver us from evil, who are daily invading the + rights of the injured African, and heaping misery on his head!" + + </p> + <p> + I attempted, lastly, to show, that, though the sin of the Slave + Trade had been hitherto a sin of ignorance, and might, therefore, + have so far been winked at, yet as the crimes and miseries belonging + to it became known, it would attach even to those who had no + concern in it, if they suffered it to continue either without notice + or reproach, or if they did not exert themselves in a reasonable + manner for its suppression. I noticed particularly, the case of + Tyre and Sidon, which were the Bristol and the Liverpool of those + times. A direct judgment had been pronounced by the prophet + Joel against these cities, and, what is remarkable, for the prosecution + of this same barbarous traffic. Thus, "And what have + ye to do with me, O Tyre and Sidon, and all the coasts of Palestine? + Ye have cast lots for my people. Ye have sold a girl for + wine. The children of Judah, and the children of Jerusalem, + have ye sold unto the Grecians, that ye might remove them far + from their own border. Behold! I will raise them out of the + place whither ye have sold them, and will recompense your wickedness + on your own heads." Such was the language of the prophet; + and Tyre and Sidon fell, as he had pointed out, when the + inhabitants were either cut off, or carried into slavery. + + </p> + <p> + Having thrown out these ideas to the notice of the audience, + I concluded in the following words:— + + </p> + <p> + "If, then, we wish to avert the heavy national judgment which + is hanging over our heads, (for must we not believe that our + crimes towards the innocent Africans lie recorded against us in + heaven?) let us endeavour to assert their cause. Let us nobly + withstand the torrent of the evil, however inveterately it may be + fixed among the customs of the times; not, however, using our + liberty as a cloak of maliciousness against those, who, perhaps, + without due consideration, have the misfortune to be concerned + in it, but upon proper motives, and in a proper spirit, as the servants + + of God; so that if the sun should be turned into darkness, + and the moon into blood, and the very heaven should fall upon + us, we may fall in the general convulsion without dismay, conscious + that we have done our duty in endeavouring to succour + the distressed, and that the stain of the blood of Africa is not + upon us." + + </p> + <p> + From Manchester I proceeded to Keddleston in Derbyshire, to + spend a day with Lord Scarsdale, and to show him my little collection + of African productions, and to inform him of my progress + since I last saw him. Here a letter was forwarded to me from + the Reverend John Toogood, of Keington Magna in Dorsetshire, + though I was then unknown to him. He informed me that he + had addressed several letters to the inhabitants of his own + county, through their provincial paper, on the subject of the + Slave Trade, which letters had produced a considerable effect. It + appeared, however, that, when he began them, he did not know + of the formation of our committee, or that he had a single coadjutor + in the cause. + + </p> + <p> + From Keddleston I turned off to Birmingham, being desirous + of visiting Bristol in my way to London, to see if anything new + had occurred since I was there. I was introduced by letter, at + Birmingham, to Sampson and Charles Lloyd, the brothers of + John Lloyd, belonging to our committee, and members of the + religious society of the Quakers. I was highly gratified in finding + that these, in conjunction with Mr. Russell, had been attempting + to awaken the attention of the inhabitants to this great subject, + and that in consequence of their laudable efforts, a spirit was + beginning to show itself there, as at Manchester, in favour of the + abolition of the Slave Trade. The kind manner in which these + received me, and the deep interest which they appeared to take + in our cause, led me to an esteem for them, which, by means of + subsequent visits, grew into a solid friendship. + + </p> + <p> + At length I arrived at Bristol about ten o'clock on Friday + morning. But what was my surprise, when almost the first + thing I heard from my friend Harry Gandy was, that a letter + had been despatched to me to Liverpool, nearly a week ago, + requesting me immediately to repair to this place; for that in + + consequence of notice from the lords of the Admiralty, advertised + in the public papers, the trial of the chief mate, whom I + had occasioned to be taken up at Bristol, for the murder of + William Lines, was coming on at the Old Bailey, and that + not an evidence was to be found. This intelligence almost paralyzed + me. I cannot describe my feelings on receiving it. I + reproached myself with my own obstinacy for having resisted the + advice of Mr. Burges, as has been before explained. All his + words now came fresh into my mind. I was terrified, too, with + the apprehension that my own reputation was now at stake. I + foresaw all the calumnies which would be spread, if the evidences + were not forthcoming on this occasion. I anticipated, also, the + injury which the cause itself might sustain, if, at our outset, as it + were, I should not be able to substantiate what I had publicly + advanced; and yet the mayor of Bristol had heard and determined + the case,—he had not only examined, but re-examined, the + evidences,—he had not only committed, but re-committed, the + accused: this was the only consolation I had. I was sensible, + however, amidst all these workings of my mind, that not a moment + was to be lost, and I began, therefore, to set on foot an + inquiry as to the absent persons. + + </p> + <p> + On waiting upon the mother of William Lines, I learnt from + her, that two out of four of the witnesses had been bribed by the + slave-merchants, and sent to sea, that they might not be forthcoming + at the time of the trial; that the two others had been + tempted also, but that they had been enabled to resist the temptation; + that, desirous of giving their testimony in this cause, they + had gone into some coal-mine between Neath and Swansea, where + they might support themselves till they should be called for; and + that she had addressed a letter to them, at the request of Mr. + Gandy, above a week ago, in which she had desired them to come + to Bristol immediately, but that she had received no answer from + them. She then concluded, either that her letter had miscarried, + or that they had left the place. + + </p> + <p> + I determined to lose no time, after the receipt of this intelligence; + and I prevailed upon a young man, whom my friend + Harry Gandy had recommended to me, to set off directly, and to + + go in search of them. He was to travel all night, and to bring + them, or, if weary himself with his journey, to send them up, + without ever sleeping on the road. It was now between twelve + and one in the afternoon. I saw him depart. In the interim I + went to Thompson's, and other places, to inquire if any other of + the seamen, belonging to the Thomas, were to be found; but, + though I hunted diligently till four o'clock, I could learn nothing + satisfactory. I then went to dinner, but I grew uneasy. I was + fearful that my messenger might be at a loss, or that he might + want assistance on some occasion or other. I now judged that it + would have been more prudent if two persons had been sent, + who might have conferred with each other, and who might have + divided, when they had reached Neath, and gone to different + mines, to inquire for the witnesses. These thoughts disturbed + me. Those, also, which had occurred when I first heard of the + vexatious way in which things were situated, renewed themselves + painfully to my mind. My own obstinacy in resisting the advice + of Mr. Burges, and the fear of injury to my own reputation, and + to that of the cause I had undertaken, were again before my + eyes. I became still more uneasy: and I had no way of relieving + my feelings, but by resolving to follow the young man, and to + give him all the aid in my power. + + </p> + <p> + It was now near six o'clock. The night was cold and rainy + and almost dark. I got down, however, safe to the passage-house, + and desired to be conveyed across the Severn. The people in + the house tried to dissuade me from my design. They said no + one would accompany me, for it was quite a tempest. I replied + that I would pay those handsomely who would go with me. A + person present asked me if I would give him three guineas for a + boat. I replied I would. He could not for shame retract. He + went out, and in about half an hour brought a person with him. + We were obliged to have a lanthorn as far as the boat. We got + on board, and went off. But such a passage I had never before + witnessed. The wind was furious. The waves ran high. I + could see nothing but white foam. The boat, also, was tossed up + and down in such a manner that it was with great difficulty I + could keep my seat. The rain, too, poured down in such torrents + + that we were all of us presently wet through. We had been, I + apprehend, more than an hour in this situation, when the + boatmen began to complain of cold and weariness. I saw, also, that + they began to be uneasy, for they did not know where they were. + They had no way of forming any judgment about their course, + but by knowing the point from whence the wind blew, and by + keeping the boat in a relative position towards it. I encouraged + them as well as I could, though I was beginning to be uneasy + myself, and also sick. In about a quarter of an hour they began + to complain again. They said they could pull no longer. They + acknowledged, however, that they were getting nearer to the + shore, though on what part of it they could not tell. I could do + nothing but bid them hope. They then began to reproach themselves + for having come out with me. I told them I had not + forced them, but that it was a matter of their own choice. In the + midst of this conversation I informed them that I thought I saw + either a star or a light straight forward. They both looked at it + and pronounced it to be a light, and added with great joy that it + must be a light in the Passage-house; and so we found it; for + in about ten minutes afterwards we landed, and, on reaching the + house, learnt that a servant maid had been accidentally talking + to some other person on the stair-case, near a window, with a + candle in her hand, and that the light had appeared to us from + that circumstance. + + </p> + <p> + It was now near eleven o'clock. My messenger, it appeared, + had arrived safe about five in the evening, and had proceeded on his + route. I was very cold on my arrival, and sick also. There + seemed to be a chilliness all over me, both within and without. + Indeed I had not a dry thread about me. I took some hot + brandy and water, and went to bed; but desired, as soon as my + clothes were thoroughly dried, to be called up, that I might go + forward. This happened at about two in the morning, when I + got up. I took my breakfast by the fire-side. I then desired the + post-boy, if he should meet any persons on the road, to stop and + inform me, as I did not know whether the witnesses might not + be coming up by themselves, and whether they might not have + passed my messenger without knowing his errand. Having + + taken these precautions, I departed. I travelled on, but we met + no one. I traced, however, my messenger through Newport, + Cardiff, and Cowbridge. I was assured, also, that he had not + passed me on his return; nor had any of those passed me whom + he was seeking. At length, when I was within about two miles + of Neath I met him. He had both the witnesses under his care. + This was a matter of great joy to me. I determined to return + with them. It was now nearly two in the afternoon. I accordingly + went back, but we did not reach the Passage-house again + till nearly two the next morning. + + </p> + <p> + During our journey, neither the wind nor the rain had much + abated. It was quite dark on our arrival. We found only one + person, and he had been sitting up in expectation of us. It was + in vain that I asked him for a boat to put us across the water. + He said all the boatmen were in bed; and, if they were up, he + was sure that none of them would venture out. It was thought + a mercy by all of them that we were not lost last night. Difficulties + were also started about horses to take us another way. + Unable, therefore, to proceed, we took refreshment and went + to bed. + + </p> + <p> + We arrived at Bristol between nine and ten the next morning; + but I was so ill that I could go no further; I had been cold + and shivering ever since my first passage across the Severn; and + I had now a violent sore throat and a fever with it. All I could + do was to see the witnesses off for London, and to assign them to + the care of an attorney, who should conduct them to the trial. + For this purpose I gave them a letter to a friend of the name of + Langdale. I saw them depart. The mother of William Lines + accompanied them. By a letter received on Tuesday, I learnt + that they had not arrived in town till Monday morning at three + o'clock; that at about nine or ten they found out the office of + Mr. Langdale; that, on inquiring for him, they heard he was in + the country, but that he would be home at noon; that, finding + he had not then arrived, they acquainted his clerk with the + nature of their business, and opened my letter to show him the + contents of it; that the clerk went with them to consult some other + person on the subject, when he conveyed them to the Old Bailey; + + but that, on inquiring at the proper place about the introduction + of the witnesses, he learnt that the chief mate had been brought + to the bar in the morning, and, no person then appearing against + him, that he had been discharged by proclamation. Such was + the end of all my anxiety and labour in this affair. I was very + ill when I received the letter; but I saw the necessity of bearing + up against the disappointment, and I endeavoured to discharge + the subject from my mind with the following wish, that the narrow + escape which the chief mate had experienced, and which was + entirely owing to the accidental circumstances now explained, + might have the effect, under Providence, of producing in him a + deep contrition for his offence, and of awakening him to a serious + attention to his future life<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXIX_1"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXIX_1"></a>. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXIX_1"></a><a href="#FootXIX_1">A</a>: He had undoubtedly + a narrow escape; for Mr. Langdale's clerk + had learnt that he had no evidence to produce in his favour. The + slave-merchants, it seems, had counted most upon bribing those who were + to come against him, to disappear. + </p> + <p> + I was obliged to remain in Bristol a few days longer in consequence + of my illness; but as soon as I was able I reached + London, when I attended a sitting of the committee after an + absence of more than five months. At this committee it was + strongly recommended to me to publish a second edition of my + <em>Essay on the Slavery and Commerce of the Human Species</em>, and to + insert such of the facts in it in their proper places, out of those + collected in my late travels, as I might judge to be productive of + an interesting effect. There appeared, also, an earnest desire in + the committee, that, directly after this, I should begin my <em>Essay + on the Impolicy of the Slave Trade</em>. + + </p> + <p> + In compliance with their wishes, I determined upon both these + works; but I resolved to retire into the country, that, by being + subject to less interruption there, I might the sooner finish them. + It was proper, however, that I should settle many things in London + before I took my departure from it; and, among these, that + I should find out George Ormond and Patrick Murray, whom I + had sent from Liverpool on account of the information they had + given me relative to the murder of Peter Green. I saw no better + way than to take them before Sir Sampson Wright, who was + + then at the head of the police of the metropolis. He examined + and cross-examined them several times, and apart from each + other. He then desired their evidence to be drawn up in the + form of depositions, copies of which he gave to me. He had no + doubt that the murder would be proved. The circumstances of + the deceased being in good health at nine o'clock in the evening, + and of his severe sufferings till eleven, and of the nature of the + wounds discovered to have been made on his person, and of his + death by one in the morning, could never, he said, be done away + by any evidence who should state that he had been subject to + other disorders which might have occasioned his decease. He + found himself, therefore, compelled to apply to the magistrates of + Liverpool, for the apprehension of three of the principal officers + of the ship; but the answer was that the ship had sailed, and + that they whose names had been specified were then, none of + them, to be found in Liverpool. + + </p> + <p> + It was now for me to consider whether I would keep the two + witnesses, Ormond and Murray, for a year, or perhaps longer, at + my own expense, and run the hazard of the death of the officers + in the interim, and of other calculable events. I had felt so + deeply for the usage of the seamen in this cruel traffic, which + indeed had embittered all my journey, that I had no less than + nine prosecutions at law upon my hands on their account, and + nineteen witnesses detained at my own cost. The committee in + London could give me no assistance in these cases. They were + the managers of the public purse for the abolition of the Slave + Trade, and any expenses of this kind were neither within the + limits of their object, nor within the pale of their duty. From + the individuals belonging to it, I picked up a few guineas by way + of private subscription, and this was all. But a vast load still + remained upon me, and such as had occasioned uneasiness to my + mind. I thought it, therefore, imprudent to detain the evidences + for this purpose for so long a time, and I sent them back to + Liverpool. I commenced, however, a prosecution against the + captain at common law for his barbarous usage of them, and + desired that it might be pushed on as vigorously as possible; and + the result was, that his attorney was so alarmed, particularly after + + knowing what had been done by Sir Sampson Wright, that he + entered into a compromise to pay all the expenses of the suit + hitherto incurred, and to give Ormond and Murray a sum of + money as damages for the injury which they themselves had + sustained. This compromise was acceded to. The men received + the money, and signed the release, (of which I insisted upon a + copy,) and went to sea again in another trade, thanking me for + my interference in their behalf. But by this copy, which I have + now in my possession, it appears that care was taken by the + captain's attorney to render their future evidence in the case of + Peter Green almost impracticable; for it was there wickedly + stated, "that George Ormond and Patrick Murray did then and + there bind themselves in certain penalties that they would neither + encourage nor support any action at law against the said captain, + by or at the suit or prosecution of any other of the seamen now + or late on board the said ship, and that they released the said + captain also from all manner of actions, suits, and cause and + causes of action, informations, prosecutions, and other proceedings + which they then had, or ever had, or could or might have, + by reason of the said assaults upon their own persons, or <em>other + wrongs or injuries done by the said captain heretofore and to the + date of this release</em><a class="notelink" href="#NoteXIX_2"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXIX_2"></a>." + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXIX_2"></a><a href="#FootXIX_2">A</a>: None of the nine + actions before mentioned ever came to a trial; but they were all + compromised by paying sums to the injured parties. + </p> + + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + <h2><a name="chap20"></a>CHAPTER XX + </h2> + <p><b>Labours of the committee during the author's journey; Quakers the first to + notice its institution; General Baptists the next.—Correspondence opened + with American societies for Abolition.—First individual who addressed + the committee was Mr. William Smith.—Thanks voted to Ramsay.—Committee + prepares lists of persons to whom to send its publications; + Barclay, Taylor, and Wedgewood, elected members of the committee.—Letters + from Brissot and others.—Granville Sharp elected chairman,—Seal + ordered to be engraved.—Letters from different correspondents, as + they offered their services to the committee.</b></p> + + <p> + The committee, during my absence, had attended regularly at + their posts; they had been both vigilant and industrious; they + were, in short, the persons who had been the means of raising + the public spirit which I had observed first at Manchester, and + afterwards as I journeyed on. It will be proper, therefore, that + I should now say something of their labours, and of the fruits of + them: and if, in doing this, I should be more minute for a few + pages than some would wish, I must apologize for myself by + saying, that there are others who would be sorry to lose the + knowledge of the particular manner in which the foundation was + laid, and the superstructure advanced, of a work which will make + so brilliant an appearance in our history, as that of the abolition + of the Slave Trade. + + </p> + <p> + The committee having dispersed five hundred circular letters, + giving an account of their institution in London and its neighbourhood, + the Quakers were the first to notice it. This they did + in their yearly epistle, of which the following is an extract:—"We + have also thankfully to believe there is a growing attention + in many, not of our religious society, to the subject of negro + slavery; and that the minds of the people are more and more + enlarged to consider it as an aggregate of every species of evil, + and to see the utter inconsistency of upholding it by the authority + of any nation whatever, especially of such as punish, with loss of + life, crimes whose magnitude bears scarce any proportion to this + complicated iniquity." + + </p> + <p> + The General Baptists were the next; for on the 22nd of + June, Stephen Lowdell and Dan Taylor attended as a deputation + from the annual meeting of that religious body, to inform the + committee, that those whom they represented approved their + proceedings, and that they would countenance the object of their + institution. + + </p> + <p> + The first individual who addressed the committee was Mr. + William Smith, the late member for Norwich. In his letter, he + expressed the pleasure he had received in finding persons associated + in the support of a cause in which he himself had taken a + deep interest. He gave them advice as to their future plans. + He promised them all the co-operation in his power: and he + exhorted them not to despair, even if their first attempt should + be unsuccessful; "for consolation," says he, "will not be wanting. + You may rest satisfied that the attempt will be productive + of some good; that the fervent wishes of the righteous will + be on your side, and that the blessing of those who are ready + to perish will fall upon you." And as Mr. Smith was the first + person to address the committee as an individual after its + formation, so, next to Mr. Wilberforce and the members of it, + he gave the most time and attention to the promotion of the + cause. + + </p> + <p> + On the 5th of July, the committee opened a correspondence, + by means of William Dillwyn, with the societies of Philadelphia + and New York, of whose institution an account has been given. + At this sitting a due sense was signified of the services of Mr. + Ramsay, and a desire of his friendly communications when + convenient. + + </p> + <p> + The two next meetings were principally occupied in making + out lists of the names of persons in the country, to whom the + committee should send their publications for distribution. For + this purpose, every member was to bring in an account of those + whom he knew personally, and whom he believed not only to be + willing, but qualified on account of their judgment and the + weight of their character, to take an useful part in the work + which was to be assigned to them. It is a remarkable circumstance, + that when the lists were arranged, the committee, few as + + they were, found they had friends in no less than thirty-nine + counties<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXX_1"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXX_1"></a>, in each of which there were several, so that a knowledge + of their institution could now be soon diffusively spread. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXX_1"></a><a href="#FootXX_1">A</a>: The Quakers, by means of their + discipline, have a greater personal knowledge + of each other, than the members of any other religious society. But + two-thirds of the committee were Quakers, and hence the circumstance is + explained. Hence also nine-tenths of our first coadjutors were + Quakers. + </p> + <p> + The committee having now fixed upon their correspondents, + ordered five hundred of the circular letters which have been before + mentioned, and five thousand of the <em>Summary View</em>, an account + of which has been given also, to be printed. + + </p> + <p> + On account of the increase of business, which was expected + in consequence of the circulation of the preceding publications, + Robert Barclay, John Vickris Taylor, and Josiah Wedgewood, + Esq., were added to the committee; and it was then resolved, + that any three members might call a meeting when necessary. + + </p> + <p> + On the 27th of August, the new correspondents began to + make their appearance. This sitting was distinguished by the + receipt of letters from two celebrated persons. The first was + from Brissot, dated Paris, August the 18th, who, it may be recollected, + was an active member of the National Convention of + France, and who suffered in the persecution of Robespierre. The + second was from Mr. John Wesley, whose useful labours as a + minister of the Gospel, are so well known to our countrymen. + + </p> + <p> + Brissot, in his letter, congratulated the members of the committee, + on having come together for so laudable an object. He + offered his own assistance towards the promotion of it. He + desired, also, that his valuable friend Claviere (who suffered also + under Robespierre) might be joined to him, and that both might + be acknowledged by the committee, as associates in what he + called this heavenly work. He purposed to translate and circulate + through France such publications as they might send him from + time to time; and to appoint bankers in Paris, who might receive + subscriptions, and remit them to London, for the good of their + common cause. In the mean time, if his own countrymen should + be found to take an interest in this great cause, it was not improbable + that a committee might be formed in Paris, to endeavour + + to secure the attainment of the same object from the government + in France. + + </p> + <p> + The thanks of the committee were voted to Brissot for this + disinterested offer of his services, and he was elected an honorary + and corresponding member. In reply, however, to his letter, it + was stated that, as the committee had no doubt of procuring from + the generosity of their own nation sufficient funds for effecting + the object of their institution, they declined the acceptance of + any pecuniary aid from the people of France; but recommended + him to attempt the formation of a committee in his own country, + and to inform them of his progress, and to make to them such + other communications as he might deem necessary upon the + subject from time to time. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Wesley, whose letter was read next, informed the committee + of the great satisfaction which he also had experienced, + when he heard of their formation. He conceived that their + design, while it would destroy the Slave Trade, would also strike + at the root of the shocking abomination of slavery also. He + desired to forewarn them that they must expect difficulties and + great opposition from those who were interested in the system; + that these were a powerful body; and that they would raise all + their forces, when they perceived their craft to be in danger. + They would employ hireling writers, who would have neither + justice nor mercy. But the committee were not to be dismayed + by such treatment, nor even if some of those who professed goodwill + towards them, should turn against them. As for himself, + he would do all he could to promote the object of their institution. + He would reprint a new and large edition of his <em>Thought on + Slavery</em>, and circulate it among his friends in England and Ireland, + to whom he would add a few words in favour of their design. + And then he concluded in these words: "I commend you to + Him who is able to carry you through all opposition, and support + you under all discouragements." + + </p> + <p> + On the 4th, 11th, and 18th of September, the committee + were employed variously. Among other things, they voted their + thanks to Mr. Leigh, a clergyman of the Established Church, + for the offer of his services for the county of Norfolk. They + + ordered, also, one thousand of the circular letters to be additionally + printed. + + </p> + <p> + At one of these meetings a resolution was made, that Granville + Sharp, Esq. be appointed chairman. This appointment, + though now first formally made in the minute book, was always + understood to have taken place; but the modesty of Mr. Sharp + was such that, though repeatedly pressed, he would never consent + to take the chair; and he generally refrained from coming into + the room till after he knew it to be taken. Nor could he be + prevailed upon, even after this resolution, to alter his conduct: + for though he continued to sign the papers, which were handed + to him by virtue of holding this office, he never was once seated + as the chairman, during the twenty years in which he attended + at these meetings. I thought it not improper to mention this + trait in his character. Conscious that he engaged in the cause of + his fellow-creatures, solely upon the sense of his duty as a Christian, + he seems to have supposed either that he had done nothing + extraordinary to merit such a distinction, or to have been fearful + lest the acceptance of it should bring a stain upon the motive, on + which alone he undertook it. + + </p> + <p>On the 2nd and 16th of October two sittings took place; at + the latter of which a sub-committee, which had been appointed + for the purpose, brought in a design for a seal. An African was + seen, (as in the figure<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXX_2"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXX_2"></a>,) in chains, in a + supplicating posture,<span class="center"><img src="images/272-1.png" alt="Seal"></span> + kneeling with one knee upon the ground, and with both his hands + lifted up to heaven, and round the seal was observed the + + following motto, as if he was uttering the words himself,—"Am + I not a Man and a Brother?" The design having been approved + of, a seal was ordered to be engraved from it. I may mention + here that this seal, simple as the design was, was made to + contribute largely, as will be shown in its proper place, towards + turning the attention of our countrymen to the case of the injured + Africans, and of procuring a warm interest in their favour. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXX_2"></a><a href="#FootXX_2">A</a>: The figure is rather + larger than that in the seal. + </p> + <p> + On the 30th of October several letters were read: one of + these was from Brissot and Claviere conjointly; in this they + acknowledged the satisfaction they had received on being considered + as associates in the humane work of the abolition of + the Slave Trade, and correspondents in France for the promotion + of it. They declared it to be their intention to attempt + the establishment of a committee there, on the same principles + as that in England; but, in consequence of the different constitutions + of the two governments, they gave the committee reason + to suppose, that their proceedings must be different, as well as + slower than those in England, for the same object. + + </p> + <p> + A second letter was read from Mr. John Wesley. He said + that he had now read the publications which the committee had + sent him, and that he took, if possible, a still deeper interest in + their cause. He exhorted them to more than ordinary diligence + and perseverance; to be prepared for opposition; to be cautious + about the manner of procuring information and evidence, that + no stain might fall upon their character; and to take care that + the question should be argued, as well upon the consideration of + interest as of humanity and justice, the former of which he feared + would have more weight than the latter; and he recommended + them and their glorious concern, as before, to the protection of + Him who was able to support them. + + </p> + <p> + Letters were read from Dr. Price, approving the institution + of the committee; from Charles Lloyd of Birmingham, stating + the interest which the inhabitants of that town were taking in + it; and from William Russell, Esq. of the same place, stating + the same circumstance, and that he would co-operate with the + former in calling a public meeting, and in doing whatever else + + was necessary for the promotion of so good a cause. A letter was + read also from Manchester, signed conjointly by George Barton + Thomas Cooper, John Ferriar, Thomas Walker, Thomas Phillips, + Thomas Butterworth Bayley, and George Lloyd, Esqrs., + promising their assistance from that place. Two others were + read from John Kerrich, Esq., of Harleston, and from Joshua + Grigby, Esq., of Drinkston, each tendering their services, one for + the county Of Norfolk, and the other for the county of Suffolk. + The latter concluded by saying, "With respect to myself, in no + possible instance of my public conduct can I receive so much + sincere satisfaction, as I shall, by the vote I will most assuredly + give in parliament, in support of this most worthy effort to + suppress a traffic, which is contrary to all the feelings of humanity, + and the laws of our religion." + + </p> + <p> + A letter was read also at this sitting from Major Cartwright, + of Marnham, in which he offered his own services, in conjunction + with those of the Rev. John Charlesworth, of Ossington, for the + county of Nottingham. + + </p> + <p> + "I congratulate you," says he, in this letter, "on the happy + prospect of some considerable step at least being taken, towards + the abolition of a traffic, which is not only impious in itself, but + of all others tends most to vitiate the human mind. + + </p> + <p> + "Although procrastination is generally pernicious in cases + depending upon the feelings of the heart, I should almost fear + that, without very uncommon exertions, you will scarcely be + prepared early in the next sessions, for bringing the business into + parliament with the greatest advantage. But, be that as it may, + let the best use be made of the intermediate time; and then, if + there be a superintending Providence, which governs everything + in the moral world, there is every reason to hope for a blessing + on this particular work." + + </p> + <p> + The last letter was from Robert Boucher Nickolls, dean of + Middleham, in Yorkshire. In this he stated that he was a native + of the West Indies, and had travelled on the continent of + America. He then offered some important information to the + committee as his mite, towards the abolition of the Slave Trade, + + and as an encouragement to them to persevere. He attempted + to prove, that the natural increase of the negroes already in the + West Indian islands would be fully adequate to the cultivation + of them, without any fresh supplies from Africa; and that such + natural increase would be secured by humane treatment. With + this view, he instanced the two estates of Mr. MacMahon and + of Dr. Mapp, in the island of Barbados. The first required + continual supplies of new slaves, in consequence of the severe and + cruel usage adopted upon it. The latter overflowed with labourers + in consequence of a system of kindness, so that it almost peopled + another estate. Having related these instances, he cited others + in North America, where, though the climate was less favourable + to the constitution of the Africans, but their treatment better, + they increased also. He combated, from his own personal + knowledge, the argument, that self-interest was always sufficient + to insure good usage, and maintained that there was only one + way of securing it, which was the entire abolition of the Slave + Trade. He showed in what manner the latter measure would + operate to the desired end: he then dilated on the injustice and + inconsistency of this trade, and supported the policy of the abolition + of it, both to the planter, the merchant, and the nation. + + </p> + <p> + This letter of the Dean of Middleham, which was a little + Essay of itself, was deemed of so much importance by the + committee, but particularly as it was the result of local knowledge, + that they not only passed a resolution of thanks to him for + it, but desired his permission to print it. + + </p> + <p> + The committee sat again on the 13th and 22nd of November. + At the first of these sittings, a letter was read from Henry + Grimston, Esq., of Whitwell Hall, near York, offering his services + for the promotion of the cause in his own county. At the second, + the Dean of Middleham's answer was received. He acquiesced + in the request of the committee; when five thousand of his + letters were ordered immediately to be printed. + + </p> + <p> + On the 22nd a letter was read from Mr. James Mackenzie, + of the town of Cambridge, desiring to forward the object of the + institution there. Two letters were read also, one from the late Mr. + + Jones, tutor of Trinity College, and the other from Mr. William + Frend, fellow of Jesus College. It appeared from these, that the + gentlemen of the University of Cambridge were beginning to + take a lively interest in the abolition of the Slave Trade, among + whom Dr. Watson, the bishop of Llandaff, was particularly + conspicuous. At this committee two thousand new <em>Summary + View</em> were ordered to be printed, and the circular letter to be + prefixed to each. + + </p> + + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + <h2><a name="chap21"></a>CHAPTER XXI. + </h2> + <p><b>Labours of the committee continued to February, 1788.—Committee elect new + members; vote thanks to Falconbridge and others; receive letters from + Grove and others; circulate numerous publications; make a report; send + circular letters to corporate bodies; release negroes unjustly detained; + find new correspondents in Archdeacon Paley, the Marquis de la Fayette, + Bishop of Cloyne, Bishop of Peterborough, and in many others.</b></p> + + <p> + The labours of the committee, during my absence, were as I have + now explained them; but as I was obliged, almost immediately, + on joining them, to retire into the country to begin my new work, + I must give an account of their further services till I joined them + again, or till the middle of February, 1788. + + </p> + <p> + During sittings which were held from the middle of December, + 1787, to the 18th of January, 1788, the business of the committee + had so increased, that it was found proper to make an + addition to their number. Accordingly James Martin and William + Morton Pitt, Esquires, members of parliament, and Robert Hunter, + and Joseph Smith, Esquires, were chosen members of it. + + </p> + <p> + The knowledge also of the institution of the society had + spread to such an extent, and the eagerness among individuals to + see the publications of the committee had been so great, that the + press was kept almost constantly going during the time now + mentioned. No fewer than three thousand lists of the subscribers, + with a circular letter prefixed to them, explaining the object of + the institution, were ordered to be printed within this period, + to which are to be added fifteen hundred of BENEZET'S <em>Account of + Guinea</em>, three thousand of the DEAN of MIDDLEHAM'S <em>Letters</em>, + five thousand <em>Summary View,</em> and two thousand of a new edition of + the <em>Slavery and Commerce of the Human Species</em>, which I had + enlarged before the last of these sittings from materials collected + in my late tour. + + </p> + <p> + The thanks of the committee were voted during this period to + Mr. Alexander Falconbridge, for the assistance he had given me + in my inquiries into the nature of the Slave Trade. + + </p> + <p> + As Mr. Falconbridge had but lately returned from Africa, + and as facts and circumstances, which had taken place but a + little time ago, were less liable to objections (inasmuch as they + proved the present state of things) than those which happened in + earlier times, he was prevailed upon to write an account of what + he had seen during the four voyages he had made to that continent; + and accordingly, within the period which has been mentioned, + he began his work. + + </p> + <p> + The committee, during these sittings, kept up a correspondence + with those gentlemen who were mentioned in the last + chapter to have addressed them. But, besides these, they found + other voluntary correspondents in the following persons, Capell + Lofft, Esq., of Troston, and the Reverend B. Brome, of Ipswich, + both in the county of Suffolk. These made an earnest tender of + their services for those parts of the county in which they resided. + Similar offers were made by Mr. Hammond, of Stanton, near + St. Ives, in the county of Huntingdon, by Thomas Parker, Esq., + of Beverly, and by William Grove, Esq., of Litchfield, for their + respective towns and neighbourhoods. + + </p> + <p> + A letter was received also within this period from the society + established at Philadelphia, accompanied with documents in + proof of the good effects of the manumission of slaves, and with + specimens of writing and drawing by the same. In this letter + the society congratulated the committee in London on its formation, + and professed its readiness to co-operate in any way in which + it could me made useful. + + </p> + <p> + During these sittings, a letter was also read from Dr. Bathurst, + afterwards bishop of Norwich, dated Oxford, December 17th, in + which he offered his services in the promotion of the cause. + + </p> + <p> + Another was read, which stated that Dr. Home, president + of Magdalen College in the same university, and afterwards bishop + of the same see as the former, highly favoured it. + + </p> + <p> + Another was read from Mr. Lambert, fellow of Trinity College, + Cambridge, in which he signified to the committee the great + desire he had to promote the object of their institution. He had + drawn up a number of queries relative to the state of the unhappy + slaves in the islands, which he had transmitted to a friend, who + + had resided in them, to answer. These answers he purposed to + forward to the committee on their arrival. + + </p> + <p> + Another was read from Dr. Hinchliffe, bishop of Peterborough, + in which he testified his hearty approbation of the institution, + and of the design of it, and his determination to support the + object of it in parliament. He gave in at the same time a plan, + which he called <em>Thoughts on the Means of Abolishing the Slave + Trade in Great Britain and in our West Indian Islands</em>, for the + consideration of the committee. + + </p> + <p> + At the last of these sittings, the committee thought it right + to make a report to the public relative to the state and progress + of their cause; but as this was composed from materials which + the reader has now in his possession, it may not be necessary to + produce it. + + </p> + <p> + On the 22nd and 29th of January, and on the 5th and 12th + of February, 1788, sittings were also held. During these, the + business still increasing, John Maitland, Esq., was elected a + member of the committee. + + </p> + <p> + As the correspondents of the committee were now numerous, + and as these solicited publications for the use of those who applied + to them, as well as of those to whom they wished to give a knowledge + of the subject, the press was kept in constant employ during + this period also. Five thousand two hundred and fifty additional + <em>Reports</em> were ordered to be printed, and also three thousand of + FALCONBRIDGE'S <em>Account of the Slave Trade</em>, the manuscript of + which was now finished. At this time, Mr. Newton, rector of + St. Mary Woolnoth in London, who had been in his youth + to the coast of Africa, but who had now become a serious and + useful divine, felt it his duty to write his <em>Thoughts on the African + Slave Trade</em>. The committee, having obtained permission, + printed three thousand copies of these also. + + </p> + <p> + During these sittings, the chairman was requested to have + frequent communication with Dr. Porteus, bishop of London, as + he had expressed his desire of becoming useful to the institution. + + </p> + <p> + A circular letter also, with the report before mentioned, was + ordered to be sent to the majors of several corporate towns. + + </p> + <p> + A case also occurred, which it may not be improper to notice. + + The treasurer reported that he had been informed by the chairman, + that the captain of the Albion, merchant ship, trading to + the Bay of Honduras, had picked up at sea, from a Spanish ship, + which had been wrecked, two black men, one named Henry + Martin Burrowes, a free native of Antigua, who had served in + the royal navy, and the other named Antonio Berrat, a Spanish + negro; that the said captain detained these men on board his + ship, then lying in the river Thames, against their will; and that, + he would not give them up. Upon this report, it was resolved + that the cause of these unfortunate captives should be espoused + by the committee. Mr. Sharp accordingly caused a writ of + habeas-corpus to be served upon them; soon after which he had + the satisfaction of reporting, that they had been delivered from + the place of their confinement. + + </p> + <p> + During these sittings the following letters were read also: + + </p> + <p> + One from Richard How, of Apsley, offering his services to + the committee. + + </p> + <p> + Another from the Reverend Christopher Wyvill, of Burton + Hall, in Yorkshire, to the same effect. + + </p> + <p> + Another from Archdeacon Plymley, (afterwards Corbett,) in + which he expressed the deep interest he took in this cause of + humanity and freedom, and the desire he had of making himself + useful as far as he could towards the support of it; and he wished + to know, as the Clergy of the diocese of Lichfield and Coventry + were anxious to espouse it also, whether a petition to parliament + from them, as a part of the Established Church, would not be + desirable at the present season. + + </p> + <p> + Another from Archdeacon Paley, containing his sentiments + on a plan for the abolition of the Slave Trade, and the manumission + of slaves in our islands, and offering his future services, + and wishing success to the undertaking. + + </p> + <p> + Another from Dr. Sharp, prebendary of Durham, inquiring + into the probable amount of the subscriptions which might be + wanted, and for what purposes, with a view of serving the cause. + + </p> + <p> + Another from Dr. Woodward, bishop of Cloyne, in which he + approved of the institution of the committee. He conceived the + Slave Trade to be no less disgraceful to the legislature and injurious + + to the true commercial interests of the country, than it was + productive of unmerited misery to the unhappy objects of it, and + repugnant both to the principles and the spirit of the Christian + religion. He wished to be placed among the assertors of the + liberty of his fellow-creatures, and he was therefore desirous of + subscribing largely, as well as of doing all he could, both in England + and Ireland, for the promotion of such a charitable work. + + </p> + <p> + A communication was made, soon after the reading of the + last letter, through the medium of the Chevalier de Ternant, + from the celebrated Marquis de la Fayette of France. The Marquis + signified the singular pleasure he had received on hearing of + the formation of a committee in England for the abolition of the + Slave Trade, and the earnest desire he had to promote the object + of it. With this view, he informed the committee that he should + attempt the formation of a similar society in France. This he + conceived to be one of the most effectual measures he could devise + for securing the object in question; for he was of opinion, that if + the two great nations of France and England were to unite in + this humane and Christian work, the other European nations + might be induced to follow the example. + + </p> + <p> + The committee, on receiving the two latter communications, + resolved, that the chairman should return their thanks to the + Bishop of Cloyne, and the Marquis de la Fayette, and the Chevalier + de Ternant, and that he should inform them, that they were + enrolled among the honorary and corresponding members of the + society. + + </p> + <p> + The other letters read during these sittings were to convey + information to the committee, that people in various parts of the + kingdom had then felt themselves so deeply interested in behalf + of the injured Africans, that they had determined either on public + meetings, or had come to resolutions, or had it in contemplation + to petition parliament, for the abolition of the Slave Trade. Information + was signified to this effect by Thomas Walker, Esquire, + for Manchester; by John Hoyland, William Hoyles, Esquire, and + the Reverend James Wilkinson, for Sheffield; by William Tuke, + and William Burgh, Esquire, for York; by the Reverend Mr. + Foster, for Colchester; by Joseph Harford and Edmund Griffith, + + Esquires, for Bristol; by William Bishop, Esquire, the mayor, for + Maidstone; by the Reverend R. Brome and the Reverend J. + Wright, for Ipswich; by James Clarke, Esquire, the mayor, for + Coventry; by Mr. Jones, of Trinity College, for the University + of Cambridge; by Dr. Schomberg, of Magdalen College, for the + University of Oxford; by Henry Bullen, Esquire, for Bury St. + Edmunds; by Archdeacon Travis, for Chester; by Mr. Hammond, + for the county of Huntingdon; by John Flint, Esquire, + (afterwards Corbett,) for the town of Shrewsbury and county of + Salop; by the Reverend Robert Lucas, for the town and also for + the county of Northampton; by Mr. Winchester, for the county + of Stafford; by the Reverend William Leigh, for the county of + Norfolk; by David Barclay, for the county of Hertford; and by + Thomas Babington, Esquire, for the county of Leicester. + + </p> + + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + <h2><a name="chap22"></a>CHAPTER XXII. + </h2> + <p><b>Further progress to the middle of May.—Petitions begin to be sent to + parliament.—The king orders the privy council to inquire into the Slave + Trade.—Author called up to town; his interviews with Mr. Pitt, and with + Mr.(afterwards Lord) Grenville.—Liverpool delegates examined first; these + prejudice the council; this prejudice at length counteracted.—Labours of + the committee in the interim.—Public anxious for the introduction of the + question into parliament.—Message of Mr. Pitt to the committee concerning + it.—Day fixed for the motion.—Substance of the debate which + followed.—Discussion of the general question deferred till the next sessions.</b></p> + + <p> + By this time the nature of the Slave Trade had, in consequence + of the labours of the committee and of their several correspondents, + become generally known throughout the kingdom. It + had excited a general attention, and there was among the people + a general feeling in behalf of the wrongs of Africa. This feeling + had also, as may be collected from what has been already mentioned, + broken out into language: for not only had the traffic + become the general subject of conversation, but public meetings + had taken place, in which it had been discussed, and of which the + result was, that an application to parliament had been resolved + upon in many places concerning it. By the middle of February + not fewer than thirty-five petitions had been delivered to the + Commons, and it was known that others were on their way to the + same house. + + </p> + <p> + This ferment in the public mind, which had shown itself in + the public prints even before the petitions had been resolved upon, + had excited the attention of government. To coincide with the + wishes of the people on this subject, appeared to those in authority + to be a desirable thing. To abolish the trade, replete as it + was with misery, was desirable also; but it was so connected + with the interest of individuals, and so interwoven with the commerce + and revenue of the country, that a hasty abolition of it + without a previous inquiry appeared to them to be likely to be + productive of as much misery as good. The king, therefore, by + an order of council dated February the eleventh, 1788, directed + + that a committee of Privy Council should sit as a board of trade, + "to take into their consideration the present state of the African + Trade, particularly as far as related to the practice and manner of + purchasing or obtaining slaves on the coast of Africa, and the importation + and sale thereof, either in the British colonies and + settlements, or in the foreign colonies and settlements in America + or the West-Indies; and also as far as related to the effects and + consequences of the trade both in Africa and in the said colonies + and settlements, and to the general commerce of this kingdom; + and that they should report to him in council the result of their + inquiries, with such observations as they might have to offer + thereupon." + + </p> + <p> + Of this order of council Mr. Wilberforce, who had attended + to this great subject, as far as his health would permit, since I left + him, had received notice; but he was then too ill himself to take + any measures concerning it. He therefore wrote to me, and + begged of me to repair to London immediately, in order to get + such evidence ready as we might think it eligible to introduce + when the council sat. At that time, as appears from the former + chapter, I had finished the additions to my <em>Essay on the Slavery + and Commerce of the Human Species</em>, and I had now proceeded + about half way in that of the Impolicy of it. This summons, + however, I obeyed, and returned to town on the fourteenth of + February, from which day to the twenty-fourth of May I shall + now give the history of our proceedings. + + </p> + <p> + My first business in London was to hold a conversation with + Mr. Pitt previously to the meeting of the council, and to try to + interest him, as the first minister of state, in our favour. For + this purpose Mr. Wilberforce had opened the way for me, and an + interview took place. We were in free conversation together for + a considerable time, during which we went through most of the + branches of the subject. Mr. Pitt appeared to me to have + but little knowledge of it. He had also his doubts, which he + expressed openly, on many points. He was at a loss to conceive + how private interest should not always restrain the master of the + slave from abusing him. This matter I explained to him as well + as I could; and if he was not entirely satisfied with my interpretation + + of it, he was at least induced to believe that cruel + practices were more probable than he had imagined. A second + circumstance, of the truth of which he doubted, was the mortality + and usage of seamen in this trade; and a third was the statement + by which so much had been made of the riches of Africa, and of + the genius and abilities of her people; for he seemed at a loss to + comprehend, if these things were so, how it happened that they + should not have been more generally noticed before. I promised + to satisfy him upon these points, and an interview was fixed for + this purpose the next day. + + </p> + <p> + At the time appointed, I went with my books, papers, and + African productions. Mr. Pitt examined the former himself. + He turned over leaf after leaf, in which the copies of the muster-rolls + were contained, with great patience; and when he had + looked over above a hundred pages accurately, and found the + name of every seaman inserted, his former abode or service, the + time of his entry, and what had become of him, either by death, + discharge, or desertion, he expressed his surprise at the great + pains which had been taken in this branch of the inquiry; and + confessed, with some emotion, that his doubts were wholly + removed with respect to the destructive nature of this employ; + and he said, moreover, that the facts contained in these documents, + if they had been but fairly copied, could never be disproved. + He was equally astonished at the various woods and + other productions of Africa, but most of all at the manufactures + of the natives in cotton, leather, gold, and iron, which were laid + before him. These he handled and examined over and over + again. Many sublime thoughts seemed to rush in upon him at + once at the sight of these, some of which he expressed with + observations becoming a great and a dignified mind. He thanked + me for the light I had given him on many of the branches of this + great question. And I went away under a certain conviction + that I had left him much impressed in our favour. + + </p> + <p> + My next visit was to Mr. (afterwards Lord) Grenville. I + called upon him at the request of Mr. Wilberforce, who had previously + written to him from Bath, as he had promised to attend + the meetings of the privy council during the examinations which + + were to take place. I found, in the course of our conversation, + that Mr. Grenville had not then more knowledge of the subject + than Mr. Pitt; but I found him differently circumstanced in + other respects, for I perceived in him a warm feeling in behalf of + the injured Africans, and that he had no doubt of the possibility + of all the barbarities which had been alleged against this traffic. + I showed him all my papers and some of my natural productions, + which he examined. I was with him the next day, and once + again afterwards, so that the subject was considered in all its + parts. The effect of this interview with him was of course different + from that upon the minister. In the former case I had + removed doubts, and given birth to an interest in favour of our + cause. But I had here only increased an interest, which had + already been excited, I had only enlarged the mass of feeling, + or added zeal to zeal, or confirmed resolutions and reasonings. + Disposed in this manner originally himself, and strengthened + by the documents with which I had furnished him, Mr. Grenville + contracted an enmity to the Slave Trade, which was never afterwards + diminished<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXXII_1"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXXII_1"></a>. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXXII_1"></a><a href="#FootXXII_1">A</a>: I have not mentioned the difference + between these two eminent persons, with a view of drawing any invidious + comparisons, but because, as these statements + are true, such persons as have a high opinion of the late Mr. Pitt's + judgment, may see that this great man did not espouse the cause hastily, or + merely as a matter of feeling, but upon the conviction of his own + mind. + </p> + <p> + A report having gone abroad that the committee of privy + council would only examine those who were interested in the + continuance of the trade, I found it necessary to call upon Mr. Pitt + again, and to inform him of it, when I received an assurance + that every person whom I chose to send to the council in behalf + of the committee should be heard. This gave rise to a conversation + relative to those witnesses whom we had to produce on the + side of the abolition. And here I was obliged to disclose our + weakness in this respect. I owned with sorrow that, though I + had obtained specimens and official documents in abundance to + prove many important points, yet I had found it difficult to prevail + upon persons to be publicly examined on this subject. The + only persons we could then count upon, were Mr. Ramsay, Mr. + + H. Gandy, Mr. Falconbridge, Mr. Newton, and the Dean of + Middleham. There was one, however, who would be a host of + himself, if we could but gain him. I then mentioned Mr. Norris. + I told Mr. Pitt the nature<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXXII_2"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXXII_2"></a> and value of the testimony which he + had given me at Liverpool, and the great zeal he had discovered + to serve the cause. I doubted, however, if he would come to + London for this purpose, even if I wrote to him; for he was + intimate with almost all the owners of slave-vessels in Liverpool, + and, living among these, he would not like to incur their resentment + by taking a prominent part against them. I therefore + entreated Mr. Pitt to send him a summons of council to attend, + hoping that Mr. Norris would then be pleased to come up, as he + would be enabled to reply to his friends that his appearance had + not been voluntary. Mr. Pitt, however, informed me, that a + summons from a committee of privy council, sitting as a board, + was not binding upon the subject; and therefore that I had no + other means left, but of writing to him, and he desired me to do + this by the first post. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXXII_2"></a><a href="#FootXXII_2">A</a>: See his evidence, + <a href="#chap17" >Chap. XVII</a>. + </p> + <p> + This letter I accordingly wrote, and sent it to my friend + William Rathbone, who was to deliver it in person, and to use + his own influence at the same time; but I received for answer, + that Mr. Norris was then in London. Upon this I tried to find + him out, to entreat him to consent to an examination before the + council. At length I found his address; but before I could see + him, I was told by the Bishop of London that he had come up + as a Liverpool delegate in support of the Slave Trade. Astonished + at this information, I made the bishop acquainted with + the case, and asked him how it became me to act; for I was + fearful lest, by exposing Mr. Norris, I should violate the rights + of hospitality on the one hand, and by not exposing him that I + should not do my duty to the cause I had undertaken on the + other. His advice was, that I should see him, and ask him to + explain the reasons of his conduct. I called upon him for this + purpose, but he was out. He sent me, however, a letter soon + afterwards, which was full of flattery; and in which, after having + paid high compliments to the general force of my arguments, and + + the general justice and humanity of my sentiments on this great + question, which had made a deep impression upon his mind, he + had found occasion to differ from me, since we had last parted, on + particular points, and that he had therefore less reluctantly yielded + to the call of becoming a delegate,—though notwithstanding he + would gladly have declined the office if he could have done it + with propriety. + + </p> + <p> + At length the council began their examinations. Mr. Norris, + Lieutenant Matthews, of the navy, who had just left a slave + employ in Africa, and Mr. James Penny, formerly a slave captain, + and then interested as a merchant in the trade, (which three + were the delegates from Liverpool,) took possession of the ground + first. Mr. Miles, Mr. Weuves, and others, followed them on the + same side. The evidence which they gave, as previously concerted + between themselves, may be shortly represented thus:—They + denied that kidnapping either did or could take place in + Africa, or that wars were made there for the purpose of procuring + slaves. Having done away these wicked practices from their + system, they maintained positions which were less exceptionable, + as that the natives of Africa generally became slaves in consequence + of having been made prisoners in just wars, or in consequence + of their various crimes. They then gave a melancholy + picture of the despotism and barbarity of some of the African + princes, among whom the custom of sacrificing their own subjects + prevailed. But, of all others, that which was afforded by Mr. + Norris on this ground was the most frightful. The King of + Dahomey, he said, sported with the lives of his people in the + most wanton manner. He had seen at the gates of his palace + two piles of heads, like those of shot in an arsenal. Within the + palace, the heads of persons, newly put to death, were strewed at + the distance of a few yards in the passage, which led to his + apartment. This custom of human sacrifice by the King of Dahomey + was not on one occasion only, but on many; such as on the + reception of messengers from neighbouring states, or of white + merchants, or on days of ceremonial. But the great carnage was + once a year, when the poll-tax was paid by his subjects. A thousand + persons, at least, were sacrificed annually on these different + + occasions. The great men, too, of the country, cut off a few + heads on festival-days. From all these particulars the humanity + of the Slave Trade was inferred, because it took away the inhabitants + of Africa into lands where no such barbarities were known. + But the humanity of it was insisted upon by positive circumstances + also; namely, that a great number of the slaves were prisoners + of war, and that in former times all such were put to + death, whereas now they were saved: so that there was a great + accession of happiness to Africa since the introduction of the trade. + + </p> + <p> + These statements, and those of others on the same side of the + question, had a great effect, as may easily be conceived, upon the + feelings of those of the council who were present. Some of them + began immediately to be prejudiced against us. There were + others who even thought that it was almost unnecessary to proceed + in the inquiry, for that the trade was actually a blessing. + They had little doubt that all our assertions concerning it would + be found false. The Bishop of London himself was so impressed + by these unexpected accounts, that he asked me if Falconbridge, + whose pamphlet had been previously sent by the committee to + every member of the council, was worthy of belief, and if he + would substantiate publicly what he had thus written: but these + impressions unfortunately were not confined to those who had + been present at the examinations. These could not help communicating + them to others. Hence, in all the higher circles + (some of which I sometimes used to frequent) I had the mortification + to hear of nothing but the Liverpool evidence, and of our + own credulity, and of the impositions which had been practised + upon us: of these reports the planters and merchants did not fail + to avail themselves. They boasted that they would soon do away + all the idle tales which had been invented against them. They + desired the public only to suspend their judgment till the privy + council report should be out, when they would see the folly and + wickedness of all our allegations. A little more evidence, and all + would be over. On the 22nd of March, though the committee + council had not then held its sittings more than a month, and + these only twice or thrice a week, the following paragraph was + seen in a morning paper:—"The report of the committee of + + privy council will be ready in a few days. After due examination + it appears that the major part of the complaints against this trade + are ill-founded. Some regulations, however, are expected to take + place, which may serve in a certain degree to appease the cause of + humanity." + + </p> + <p> + But while they, who were interested, had produced this outcry + against us, in consequence of what had fallen from their own + witnesses in the course of their examinations, they had increased + it considerably by the industrious circulation of a most artful + pamphlet among persons of rank and fortune at the west end of + the metropolis, which was called, <em>Scriptural Researches on the + Licitness of the Slave Trade</em>. This they had procured to be + written by R. Harris, who was then clerk in a slave-house in + Liverpool, but had been formerly a clergyman and a Jesuit. As + they had maintained in the first instance, as has been already + shown, the humanity of the traffic, so, by means of this pamphlet + they asserted its consistency with revealed religion. That + such a book should have made converts in such an age is surprising; + and yet many, who ought to have known better, were + carried away by it; and we had now absolutely to contend, and + almost degrade ourselves by doing so, against the double argument + of the humanity and the holiness of the trade. + + </p> + <p> + By these means, but particularly by the former, the current of + opinion in particular circles ran against us for the first month, + and so strong, that it was impossible for us to stem it at once; + but as some of the council recovered from their panic, and their + good sense became less biassed by their feelings, and they were + in a state to hear reason, their prejudices began to subside. It + began now to be understood among them, that almost all the + witnesses were concerned in the continuance of the trade. It + began to be known also, (for Mr. Pitt and the Bishop of London + took care that it should be circulated,) that Mr. Norris had but + a short time before furnished me at Liverpool with information, + all of which he had concealed<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXXII_3"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXXII_3"></a> from the council, but all of which + + made for the abolition of it. Mr. Devaynes also, a respectable + member of parliament, who had been in Africa, and who had + been appealed to by Mr. Norris, when examined before the privy + council, in behalf of his extraordinary facts, was unable, when + summoned, to confirm them to the desired extent. From this + evidence the council collected, that human sacrifices were not + made on the arrival of White traders, as had been asserted; that + there was no poll-tax in Dahomey at all; and that Mr. Norris + must have been mistaken on these points, for he must have been + there at the time of the ceremony of watering the graves, when + about sixty persons suffered. This latter custom moreover appeared + to have been a religious superstition of the country, such + as at Otaheite, or in Britain in the time of the Druids, and to + have had nothing to do with the Slave + Trade<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXXII_4"><sup>B</sup></a><a name="FootXXII_4"></a>. With respect to + prisoners of war, Mr. Devaynes allowed that the old, the lame, + and the wounded, were often put to death on the spot; but this + was to save the trouble of bringing them away. The young and + the healthy were driven off for sale; but if they were not sold when + offered, they were not killed, but reserved for another market, or + became house-slaves to the conquerors. Mr. Devaynes also maintained, + contrary to the allegations of the others, that a great + number of persons were kidnapped in order to be sold to the + ships; and that the government, where this happened, was not + strong enough to prevent it. But besides these drawbacks from + the weight of the testimony which had been given, it began to be + perceived by some of the lords of the council, that the cruel + superstitions which had been described, obtained only in one or + two countries in Africa, and these of insignificant extent; whereas + at the time, when their minds were carried away, as it were by + their feelings, they had supposed them to attach to the whole of + that vast continent. They perceived also, that there were circumstances + related in the evidence by the delegates themselves, + by means of which, if they were true, the inhumanity of the + trade might be established, and this to their own disgrace. They + + had all confessed that such slaves, as the White traders refused to + buy, were put to death; and yet that these traders, knowing that + this would be the case, had the barbarity uniformly to reject those + whom it did not suit them to purchase. Mr. Matthews had + rejected one of this description himself, whom he saw afterwards + destroyed. Mr. Penny had known the refuse thrown down + Melimba rock. Mr. Norris himself, when certain prisoners of + war were offered to him for sale, declined buying them because + they appeared unhealthy; and though the king then told him + that he would put them to death, he could not be prevailed upon + to take them but left them to their hard fate; and he had the + boldness to state afterwards, that it was his belief that many of + them actually suffered. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXXII_3"></a><a href="#FootXXII_3">A</a>: This was also + the case with another witness, + Mr. Weuves. He had given me accounts, before any stir was made + about the Slave Trade, relative to it, all of which he kept back + when he was examined there. + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXXII_4"></a><a href="#FootXXII_4">B</a>: Being a religion custom, it would still + have gone on, though the Slave Trade had been abolished: nor could the + merchants at any time have bought off a single victim. + </p> + <p> + These considerations had the effect of diminishing the prejudices + of some of the council on this great question: and when + this was perceived to be the case, it was the opinion of Mr. Pitt, + Mr. Grenville, and the Bishop of London, that we should send + three or four of our own evidences for examination, who might + help to restore matters to an equilibrium. Accordingly, Mr. + Falconbridge, and some others, all of whom were to speak to the + African part of the subject, were introduced. These produced a + certain weight in the opposite scale. But soon after these had + been examined, Dr. Andrew Spaarman, professor of physic, and + inspector of the museum of the royal academy at Stockholm, + and his companion, C.B. Wadstrom, chief director of the assay-office + there, arrived in England. These gentlemen had been + lately sent to Africa by the late king of Sweden, to make discoveries + in botany, mineralogy, and other departments of science. + For this purpose the Swedish ambassador at Paris had procured + them permission from the French government to visit the countries + bordering on the Senegal, and had insured them protection + there. They had been conveyed to the place of their destination, + where they had remained from August 1787, to the end of + January 1788; but meeting with obstacles which they had not + foreseen, they had left it, and had returned to Havre de Grace, + from whence they had just arrived in London, on their way home. + It so happened, that by means of George Harrison, one of our + + committee, I fell in unexpectedly with these gentlemen. I had + not long been with them, before I perceived the great treasure + I had found. They gave me many beautiful specimens of African + produce. They showed me their journals, which they had regularly + kept from day to day. In these I had the pleasure of seeing + a number of circumstances minuted down, all relating to the + Slave Trade, and even drawings on the same subject. I obtained + a more accurate and satisfactory knowledge of the manners and + customs of the Africans from these, than from all the persons put + together whom I had yet seen. I was anxious, therefore, to take + them before the committee of council, to which they were pleased + to consent; and as Dr. Spaarman was to leave London in a few + days, I procured him an introduction first. His evidence went + to show, that the natives of Africa lived in a fruitful and + luxuriant country, which supplied all their wants, and that they + would be a happy people, if it were not for the existence of the + Slave Trade. He instanced wars which he knew to have been + made by the Moors upon the Negroes, (for they were entered + upon wholly at the instigation of the White traders,) for the + purpose of getting slaves, and he had the pain of seeing the + unhappy captives brought in on such occasions, and some of them + in a wounded state. Among them, were many women and + children, and the women were in great affliction. He saw also + the king of Barbesin send out his parties on expeditions of + a similar kind, and he saw them return with slaves. The king + had been made intoxicated on purpose, by the French agents, or + he would never have consented to the measure. He stated also, + that in consequence of the temptations held out by slave-vessels + coming upon the coast, the natives seized one another in the + night, when they found opportunity; and even invited others to + their houses, whom they treacherously detained, and sold at these + times; so that every enormity was practised in Africa, in consequence + of the existence of the trade. These specific instances + made a proper impression upon the lords of the council in their + turn; for Dr. Spaarman was a man of high character; he + possessed the confidence of his sovereign; he had no interest + whatever in giving his evidence on this subject, either on one or + + the other side; his means of information too had been large; he + had also recorded the facts which had come before him, and he + had his journal, written in the French language, to produce. + The tide, therefore, which had run so strongly against us, began + now to turn a little in our favour. + + </p> + <p> + While these examinations were going on, petitions continued + to be sent to the House of Commons, from various parts of the + kingdom. No less than one hundred and three were presented + in this session. The city of London, though she was drawn the + other way by the cries of commercial interest, made a sacrifice to + humanity and justice: the two universities applauded her conduct + by their own example. Large manufacturing towns, and whole + counties, expressed their sentiments and wishes in a similar + manner. The Established Church in separate dioceses, and the + Quakers and other dissenters, as separate religious bodies, joined + in one voice upon this occasion. + + </p> + <p> + The committee, in the interim, were not unmindful of the + great work they had undertaken, and they continued to forward + it in its different departments. They kept up a communication + by letter with most of the worthy persons, who have been + mentioned to have written to them, but particularly with Brissot + and Claviere; from whom they had the satisfaction of learning, + that a society had at length been established at Paris, for the + abolition of the Slave Trade in France. The learned Marquis de + Condorcet had become the president of it. The virtuous Duc de + la Rochefoucauld and the Marquis de la Fayette had sanctioned + it by enrolling their names as the two first members. Petion, + who was placed afterwards among the mayors of Paris, followed. + Women also were not thought unworthy of being honorary and + assistant members of this humane institution; and among these + were found the amiable Marchioness of la Fayette, Madame de + Poivre, widow of the late intendant of the Isle of France, and + Madame Necker, wife of the first minister of state. + + </p> + <p> + The new correspondents, who voluntarily offered their services + to the committee, during the first part of the period now under + consideration, were S. Whitcomb, Esq., of Gloucester; the Rev. + D. Watson, of Middleton Tyas, Yorkshire; John Murlin, Esq., + + of High Wycomb; Charles Collins, Esq., of Swansea; Henry + Tudor, Esq., of Sheffield; the Rev. John Hare, of Lincoln; + Samuel Tooker, Esq., of Moorgate, near Rotherham; the Rev. + G. Walker, and Francis Wakefield, Esq., of Nottingham; the + Rev. Mr. Hepworth, of Burton-upon-Trent; the Rev. H. + Dannett, of St. John's, Liverpool; the Rev. Dr. Oglander, of + New College, Oxford; the Rev. H. Coulthurst, of Sidney + College, Cambridge; R. Selfe, Esq., of Cirencester; Morris + Birkbeck, of Hanford, Dorsetshire; William Jepson, of Lancaster; + B. Kaye, of Leeds: John Patison, Esq., of Paisley; + J.E. Dolben, Esq., of Northamptonshire; the Rev. Mr. Smith, + of Wendover; John Wilkinson, Esq., of Woodford; Samuel + Milford, Esq., of Exeter; Peter Lunel, Esq., treasurer of the + committee at Bristol; James Pemberton, of Philadelphia; and + the president of the Society at New York. + + </p> + <p> + The letters from new correspondents during the latter part of + this period, were the following:— + + </p> + <p> + One from Alexander Alison, Esq., of Edinburgh, in which + he expressed it to be his duty to attempt to awaken the inhabitants + of Scotland to a knowledge of the monstrous evil of the + Slave Trade, and to form a committee there, to act in union with + that of London, in carrying the great object of their institution + into effect. + + </p> + <p> + Another from Elhanan Winchester, offering the committee + one hundred of his sermons, which he had preached against the + Slave Trade, in Fairfax county, in Virginia, so early as in the + year 1774. + + </p> + <p> + Another from Dr. Frossard, of Lyons, in which he offered + his services for the South of France, and desired different publications + to be sent him, that he might be better qualified to take + a part in the promotion of the cause. + + </p> + <p> + Another from Professor Bruns, of Helmstadt, in Germany, in + which he desired to know the particulars relative to the institution + of the committee, as many thousands upon the continent + were then beginning to feel for the sufferings of the oppressed + African race. + + </p> + <p> + Another from Rev. James Manning, of Exeter, in which + + he stated himself to be authorized by the dissenting ministers of + Devon and Cornwall, to express their high approbation of the + conduct of the committee, and to offer their services in the + promotion of this great work of humanity and religion. + + </p> + <p> + Another from William Senhouse, Esq., of the island of + Barbados. In this he gave the particulars of two estates, one of + them his own, and the other belonging to a nobleman, upon each + of which the slaves, in consequence of humane treatment, had + increased by natural population only. Another effect of this + humane treatment had been, that these slaves were among the + most orderly and tractable in that island. From these and other + instances he argued, that if the planters would, all of them, take + proper care of their slaves, their humanity would be repaid in a + few years, by a valuable increase in their property, and they + would never want supplies from a traffic, which had been so + justly condemned. + + </p> + <p> + Two others, the one from Travers Hartley, and the other + from Alexander Jaffray, Esqrs., both of Dublin, were read. + These gentlemen sent certain resolutions, which had been agreed + upon by the chamber of commerce and by the guild of merchants + there, relative to the abolition of the Slave Trade. They rejoiced, + in the name of those whom they represented, that Ireland had + been unspotted by a traffic, which they held in such deep abhorrence; + and promised, if it should be abolished in England, to take + the post active measures to prevent it from finding an asylum in + the ports of that kingdom. + + </p> + <p> + The letters of William Senhouse, and of Travers Hartley, + and of Alexander Jaffray, Esqrs., were ordered to be presented to + the committee of privy council, and copies of them to be left + there. + + </p> + <p> + The business of the committee having almost daily increased + within this period, Dr. Baker and Bennet Langton, Esq., who + were the two first to assist me in my early labours, and who have + been mentioned among the forerunners and coadjutors of the + cause, were elected members of it. Dr. Kippis also was added + to the list. + + </p> + <p> + The honorary and corresponding members, elected within the + + same period, were the Dean of Middleham; T.W. Coke, Esq., + member of parliament, of Holkham, in Norfolk; and the Rev. + William Leigh, who has been before mentioned, of Little + Plumstead, in the same county. The latter had published several + valuable letters in the public papers, under the signature of + Africanus: these had excited great notice, and done much good. + The worthy author had now collected them into a publication, + and had offered the profits of it to the committee. Hence this + mark of their respect was conferred upon him. + + </p> + <p> + The committee ordered a new edition of three thousand of the + Dean of Middleham's Letters to be printed. Having approved of + a manuscript, written by James Field Stanfield, a mariner, + containing observations upon a voyage which he had lately made + to the coast of Africa for slaves, they ordered three thousand of + these to be printed also. By this time, the subject having been + much talked of, and many doubts and difficulties having been + thrown in the way of the abolition, by persons interested in the + continuance of the trade, Mr. Ramsay, who has been often so + honourably mentioned, put down upon paper all the objections + which were then handed about, and also those answers to each, + which he was qualified, from his superior knowledge of the subject, + to suggest. This he did, that the members of the legislature + might see the more intricate parts of the question unravelled, and + that they might not be imposed upon by the spurious arguments + which were then in circulation concerning it. Observing also + the poisonous effect which <em>The Scriptural Researches on the + Licitness of the Slave Trade</em> had produced upon the minds of + many, he wrote an answer on scriptural grounds to that pamphlet. + These works were sent to the press, and three thousand copies of + each of them were ordered to be struck off. + + </p> + <p> + The committee, in their arrangement of the distribution of + their books, ordered NEWTON'S <em>Thoughts</em>, and RAMSAY'S <em>Objections + and Answers</em>, to be sent to each member of both houses of parliament. + + </p> + <p> + They appointed also three sub-committees for different purposes: + one to draw up such facts and arguments respecting the + Slave Trade, with a view of being translated into other languages, + + as should give foreigners a suitable knowledge of the subject; + another to prepare an answer to certain false reports which had + been spread relative to the object of their institution, and to + procure an insertion of it in the daily papers; and a third to draw + up rules for the government of the society. + + </p> + <p> + By the latter end of the month of March, there was an + anxious expectation in the public, notwithstanding the privy + council had taken up the subject, that some notice should be + taken, in the lower house of parliament, of the numerous petitions + which had been presented there. There was the same expectation + in many of the members of it themselves. Lord Penrhyn, one + of the representatives for Liverpool, and a planter also, had anticipated + this notice, by moving for such papers relative to ships + employed, goods exported, produce imported, and duties upon the + same, as would show the vast value of the trade, which it was in + contemplation to abolish. But at this time Mr. Wilberforce was + ill, and unable to gratify the expectations which had been thus + apparent. The committee, therefore, who partook of the anxiety + of the public, knew not what to do. They saw that two-thirds + of the session had already passed. They saw no hope of Mr. + Wilberforce's recovery for some time. Rumours too were afloat, + that other members, of whose plans they knew nothing, and who + might even make emancipation their object, would introduce the + business into the house. Thus situated, they waited, as patiently + as they could, till the 8th of + April<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXXII_5"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXXII_5"></a>, when they resolved to write + to Mr. Wilberforce, to explain to him their fears and wishes, and + to submit it to his consideration, whether, if he were unable + himself, he would appoint some one in whom he could confide, to + make some motion in parliament on the subject. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXXII_5"></a><a href="#FootXXII_5">A</a>: Brissot attended in person at this + committee in his way to America, which it was then an object with + him to visit. + </p> + <p> + But the public expectation became now daily more visible. + The inhabitants of Manchester, many of whom had signed the + petition for that place, became impatient, and they appointed + Thomas Walker and Thomas Cooper, Esquires, as their delegates, + to proceed to London to communicate with the committee on this + subject, to assist them in their deliberations upon it, and to + + give their attendance while it was under discussion by the legislature. + + </p> + <p> + At the time of the arrival of the delegates, who were received + as such by the committee, a letter came from Bath, in which it + was stated that Mr. Wilberforce's health was in such a precarious + state, that his physicians dared not allow him to read any letter + which related to the subject of the Slave Trade. + + </p> + <p> + The committee were now again at a loss how to act, when + they were relieved from this doubtful situation by a message from + Mr. Pitt, who desired a conference with their chairman. Mr. + Sharp accordingly went, and on his return made the following + report: "He had a full opportunity," he said, "of explaining to + Mr. Pitt that the desire of the committee went to the entire + abolition of the Slave Trade. Mr. Pitt assured him that his + heart was with the committee as to this object, and that he + considered himself pledged to Mr. Wilberforce, that the cause + should not sustain any injury from his indisposition; but at the + same time observed, that the subject was of great political + importance, and it was requisite to proceed in it with temper and + prudence. He did not apprehend, as the examinations before the + privy council would yet take up some time, that the subject + could be fully investigated in the present session of parliament; + but said he would consider whether the forms of the house would + admit of any measures that would be obligatory on them to take + it up early in the ensuing session." + + </p> + <p> + In about a week after this conference, Mr. Morton Pitt was + deputed by the minister to write to the committee, to say that + he had found precedents for such a motion as he conceived to be + proper, and that he would submit it to the House of Commons in + a few days. + + </p> + <p> + At the next meeting, which was on the 6th of May, and at + which Major Cartwright and the Manchester delegates assisted, + Mr. Morton Pitt attended as a member of the committee, and + said that the minister had fixed his motion for the 9th. It was + then resolved, that deputations should be sent to some of the + leading members of parliament, to request their support of the + approaching motion. I was included in one of these, and in that + + which was to wait upon Mr. Fox. We were received by him in + a friendly manner. On putting the question to him, which + related to the object of our mission, Mr. Fox paused for a little + while, as if in the act of deliberation; when he assured us unequivocally, + and in language which could not be misunderstood, + that he would support the object of the committee to its fullest + extent, being convinced that there was no remedy for the evil, but + in the total abolition of the trade. + + </p> + <p> + At length, the 9th, or the day fixed upon, arrived, when this + important subject was to be mentioned in the House of Commons + for the first time<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXXII_6"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXXII_6"></a>, with a view to the public + discussion of it. It is impossible for me to give, within the narrow limits + of this work, all that was then said upon it; and yet as the debate + which ensued was the first which took place upon it, I should + feel inexcusable if I were not to take some notice of it. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXXII_6"></a><a href="#FootXXII_6">A</a>: David Hartley made a + motion some years before in the same + house, as has been shown in a former part of this work; but this was only + to establish a proposition, That the Slave Trade was contrary to the Laws + of God and the Rights of Man. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Pitt rose. He said he intended to move a resolution + relative to a subject which was of more importance than any + which had ever been agitated in that house. This honour he + should not have had, but for a circumstance which he could not + but deeply regret, the severe indisposition of his friend Mr. Wilberforce, + in whose hands every measure which belonged to justice, + humanity, and the national interest, was peculiarly well placed. + The subject in question was no less than that of the Slave Trade. + It was obvious from the great number of petitions which had + been presented concerning it, how much it had engaged the + public attention, and consequently how much it deserved the + serious notice of that house, and how much it became their duty + to take some measure concerning it. But whatever was done on + such a subject, every one would agree, ought to be done with + the maturest deliberation. Two opinions had prevailed without + doors, as appeared from the language of the different petitions. + It had been pretty generally thought that the African Slave + Trade ought to be abolished. There were others, however, who + + thought that it only stood in need of regulations. But all had + agreed that it ought not to remain as it stood at present. But + that measure which it might be the most proper to take, could + only be discovered by a cool, patient, and diligent examination of + the subject in all its circumstances, relations, and consequences. + This had induced him to form an opinion that the present was + not the proper time for discussing it; for the session was now far + advanced, and there was also a want of proper materials for the + full information of the house. It would, he thought, be better + discussed, when it might produce some useful debate, and when + that inquiry which had been instituted by His Majesty's Ministers, + (he meant the examination by a committee of privy council,) + should be brought to such a state of maturity as to make it fit + that the result of it should be laid before the house. That + inquiry, he trusted, would facilitate their investigation, and + enable them the better to proceed to a decision which should be + equally founded on principles of humanity, justice, and sound + policy. As there was not a probability of reaching so desirable + an end in the present state of the business, he meant to move a + resolution to pledge the house to the discussion of the question + early in the next session. If by that time his honourable friend + should be recovered, which he hoped would be the case, then he + (Mr. Wilberforce) would take the lead in it; but should it + unfortunately happen otherwise, then he (the Chancellor of the + Exchequer) pledged himself to bring forward some proposition + concerning it. The house, however, would observe, that he had + studiously avoided giving any opinion of his own on this great + subject. He thought it wiser to defer this till the time of the + discussion should arrive. He concluded with moving, after having + read the names of the places from whence the different petitions + had come, "That this house will, early in the next session of + parliament, proceed to take into consideration the circumstances + of the Slave Trade complained of in the said petitions, and what + may be fit to be done thereupon." + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Fox began by observing, that he had long taken an interest + in this great subject, which he had also minutely examined, + and that it was his intention to have brought something forward + + himself in parliament respecting it; but when he heard that + Mr. Wilberforce had resolved to take it up, he was unaffectedly + rejoiced, not only knowing the purity of his principles and character, + but because, from a variety of considerations as to the + situations in which different men stood in the house, there was + something that made him honestly think it was better that the + business should be in the hands of that gentleman than in his + own. Having premised this, he said that, as so many petitions, + and these signed by such numbers of persons of the most respectable + character, had been presented, he was sorry that it had been + found impossible that the subject of them could be taken up this + year, and more particularly as he was not able to see, as the + Chancellor of the Exchequer had done, that there were circumstances, + which might happen by the next year, which would + make it more advisable and advantageous to take it up then, than + it would have been to enter upon it in the present session. For + certainly there could be no information laid before the house, + through the medium of the lords of the council, which could not + more advantageously have been obtained by themselves, had they + instituted a similar inquiry. It was their duty to advise the king, + and not to ask his advice. This the constitution had laid down + as one of its most essential principles; and though in the present + instance he saw no cause for blame, because he was persuaded His + Majesty's Ministers had not acted with any ill intention, it was still + a principle never to be departed from, because it never could be + departed from without establishing a precedent which might lead + to very serious abuses. He lamented that the privy council, who + had received no petitions from the people on the subject, should + have instituted an inquiry, and that the House of Commons, the + table of which had been loaded with petitions from various parts of + the kingdom, should not have instituted any inquiry at all. He + hoped these petitions would have a fair discussion in that house, + independently of any information that could be given to it by His + Majesty's Ministers. He urged again the superior advantage of an + inquiry into such a subject carried on within those walls over any + inquiry carried on by the lords of the council. In inquiries carried + on in that house, they had the benefit of every circumstance of publicity; + + which was a most material benefit indeed, and that which + of all others made the manner of conducting the parliamentary + proceedings of Great Britain the envy and the admiration of the + world. An inquiry there was better than an inquiry in any other + place, however respectable the persons before and by whom it + was carried on. There, all that could be said for the abolition or + against it might be said. In that house every relative fact would + have been produced, no information would have been withheld, + no circumstance would have been omitted, which was necessary + for elucidation; nothing would have been kept back. He was + sorry, therefore, that the consideration of the question, but more + particularly where so much human suffering was concerned, + should be put off to another session, when it was obvious that no + advantage could be gained by the delay. + + </p> + <p> + He then adverted to the secrecy which the Chancellor of the + Exchequer had observed relative to his own opinion on this important + subject. Why did he refuse to give it? Had Mr. Wilberforce + been present, the house would have had a great advantage + in this respect, because doubtless he would have stated in + what view he saw the subject, and in a general way described the + nature of the project he meant to propose. But now they were + kept in the dark as to the nature of any plan, till the next + session. The Chancellor of the Exchequer had indeed said, that + it had been a very general opinion that the African Slave Trade + should be abolished. He had said again, that others had not + gone so far, but had given it as their opinion, that it required to + be revised and regulated. But why did he not give his own + sentiments boldly to the world on this great question? As for + himself, he (Mr. Fox) had no scruple to declare at the outset, + that the Slave Trade ought not to be regulated, but destroyed. + To this opinion his mind was made up; and he was persuaded + that, the more the subject was considered, the more his opinion + would gain ground; and it would be admitted, that to consider it + in any other manner, or on any other principles than those of + humanity and justice, would be idle and absurd. If there were + any such men, and he did not know but that there were those, + who, led away by local and interested considerations, thought the + + Slave Trade might still continue under certain modifications, + these were the dupes of error, and mistook what they thought + their interest, for what he would undertake to convince them was + their loss. Let such men only hear the case further, and they + would find the result to be, that a cold-hearted policy was folly + when it opposed the great principles of humanity and justice. + + </p> + <p> + He concluded by saying that he would not oppose the resolution, + if other members thought it best to postpone the consideration + of the subject; but he should have been better pleased if it had + been discussed sooner; and he certainly reserved to himself the + right of voting for any question upon it that should be brought + forward by any other member in the course of the present session. + + </p> + <p> + The Chancellor of the Exchequer said, that nothing he had + heard had satisfied him of the propriety of departing from the rule + he had laid down for himself, of not offering, but of studiously + avoiding to offer, any opinion upon the subject till the time should + arrive when it could be fully argued. He thought that no discussion + which could take place that session, could lead to any + useful measure, and therefore, he had wished not to argue it till + the whole of it could be argued. A day would come, when + every member would have an opportunity of stating his opinion; + and he wished it might be discussed with a proper spirit on all + sides, on fair and liberal principles, and without any shackles + from local and interested considerations. + + </p> + <p> + With regard to the inquiries instituted before the committee + of privy council, he was sure, as soon as it became obvious that + the subject must undergo a discussion, it was the duty of His + Majesty's Ministers to set those inquiries on foot, which should + best enable them to judge in what manner they could meet or + offer any proposition respecting the Slave Trade. And although + such previous examinations by no means went to deprive that + house of its undoubted right to institute those inquiries; or to + preclude them, they would be found greatly to facilitate them. + But, exclusive of this consideration, it would have been utterly + impossible to have come to any discussion of the subject, that + could have been brought to a conclusion in the course of the + present session. Did the inquiry then before the privy council + + prove a loss of time? So far from it, that, upon the whole, time + had been gained by it. He had moved the resolution, therefore, + to pledge the house to bring on the discussion early in the next + session, when they would have a full opportunity of considering + every part of the subject: first, whether the whole of the trade + ought to be abolished; and, if so, how and when. If it should be + thought that the trade should only be put under certain regulations, + what those regulations ought to be, and when they should + take place. These were questions which must be considered; + and therefore he had made his resolution as wide as possible, that + there might be room for all necessary considerations to be taken + in. He repeated his declaration, that he would reserve his sentiments + till the day of discussion should arrive; and again declared, + that he earnestly wished to avoid an anticipation of the debate + upon the subject. But if such debate was likely to take place, + he would withdraw his motion, and offer it another day. + + </p> + <p> + A few words then passed between Mr. Pitt and Mr. Fox in + reply to each other; after which Lord Penrhyn rose. He said + there were two classes of men, the African merchants, and the + planters, both of whose characters had been grossly calumniated. + These wished that an inquiry might be instituted, and this immediately, + conscious that the more their conduct was examined the + less they would be found to merit the opprobrium with which + they had been loaded. The charges against the Slave Trade + were either true or false. If they were true, it ought to be + abolished; but if upon inquiry they were found to be without + foundation, justice ought to be done to the reputation of those + who were concerned in it. He then said a few words, by which + he signified, that, after all, it might not be an improper measure + to make regulations in the trade. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Burke said, the noble lord, who was a man of honour + himself, had reasoned from his own conduct, and, being conscious + of his own integrity, was naturally led to imagine that other men + were equally just and honourable. Undoubtedly the merchants + and planters had a right to call for an investigation of their + conduct, and their doing so did them great credit. The Slave + Trade also ought equally to be inquired into. Neither did he + + deny that it was right his Majesty's ministers should inquire into + its merits for themselves. They had done their duty; but that + House, who had the petitions of the people on their table, + neglected it, by having so long deferred an inquiry of their own. + If that House wished to preserve their functions, their understandings, + their honour, and their dignity, he advised them to + beware of committees of privy council. If they suffered their + business to be done by such means, they were abdicating their + trust and character, and making way for an entire abolition of + their functions, which they were parting with one after another, + Thus:— + + </p> + <div class="poem"> + + <div class="lg">Star after star goes out, and all is night.<br><br></div> + </div> + <p> + If they neglected the petitions of their constituents, they must + fall, and the privy-counsel be instituted in their stead. What + would be the consequence? His Majesty's Ministers, instead of + consulting them, and giving them the opportunity of exercising + their functions of deliberation and legislation, would modify the + measures of government elsewhere, and bring down the edicts of + the privy council to them to register. Mr. Burke said, he was + one of those who wished for the abolition of the Slave Trade. + He thought it ought to be abolished, on principles of humanity + and justice. If, however, opposition of interests should render + its total abolition impossible, it ought to be regulated, and that + immediately. They need not send to the West Indies to know + the opinions of the planters on the subject. They were to consider + first of all, and abstractedly from all political, personal, and + local considerations, that the Slave Trade was directly contrary + to the principles of humanity and justice, and to the spirit of the + British constitution; and that the state of slavery, which followed + it, however mitigated, was a state so improper, so degrading, + and so ruinous to the feelings and capacities of human nature, that + it ought not to be suffered to exist. He deprecated delay in this + business, as well for the sake of planters as of the slaves. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Gascoyne, the other member for Liverpool, said he had + no objection that the discussion should stand over to the next + session of parliament, provided it could not come on in the + present, because he was persuaded it would ultimately be found + + that his constituents, who were more immediately concerned in + the trade, and who had been so shamefully calumniated, were + men of respectable character. He hoped the privy council would + print their Report when they had brought their inquiries to a + conclusion, and that they would lay it before the House and the + public, in order to enable all concerned to form a judgment of + what was proper to be done relative to the subject next session. + With respect, however, to the total abolition of the Slave Trade, + he must confess that such a measure was both unnecessary, + visionary, and impracticable; but he wished some alterations or + modifications to be adopted. He hoped that, when the House + came to go into the general question, they would not forget the + trade, commerce, and navigation of the country. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rolle said, he had received instruction from his constituents + to inquire if the grievances, which had been alleged to result + from the Slave Trade, were well founded; and, if it + appear that they were, to assist in applying a remedy. He was + glad the discussion had been put off till next session, as it would + give all of them an opportunity of considering the subject with + more mature deliberation. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Martin desired to say a few words only. He put the + case, that, supposing the slaves were treated ever so humanely, + when they were carried to the West Indies, what compensation + could be made them for being torn from their nearest relations, + and from everything that was dear to them in life? He hoped + no political advantage, no national expediency, would be allowed + to weigh in the scale against the eternal rules of moral rectitude. + As for himself, he had no hesitation to declare, in this early stage + of the business, that he should think himself a wicked wretch if + he did not do everything in his power to put a stop to the Slave + Trade. + + </p> + <p> + Sir William Dolben said, that he did not then wish to enter + into the discussion of the general question of the abolition of the + Slave Trade, which the Chancellor of the Exchequer was so + desirous of postponing; but he wished to say a few words on + what he conceived to be a most crying evil, and which might be + immediately remedied, without infringing upon the limits of that + + question. He did not allude to the sufferings of the poor Africans + in their own country, nor afterwards in the West India islands, + but to that intermediate state of tenfold misery which they + underwent in their transportation. When put on board the + ships, the poor unhappy wretches were chained to each other, + hand and foot, and stowed so close, that they were not allowed + above a foot and a half for each individual in breadth. Thus + crammed together like herrings in a barrel, they contracted putrid + and fatal disorders; so that they who came to inspect them in a + morning had occasionally to pick dead slaves out of their rows, + and to unchain their carcasses from the bodies of their wretched + fellow-sufferers, to whom they had been fastened. Nor was it + merely to the slaves that the baneful effects of the contagion thus + created were confined. This contagion affected the ships' crews, + and numbers of the seamen employed in the horrid traffic perished. + This evil, he said, called aloud for a remedy, and that remedy + ought to be applied soon; otherwise no less than ten thousand + lives might be lost between this and next session. He wished + therefore this grievance to be taken into consideration, independently + of the general question; and that some regulations, such + as restraining the captains from taking above a certain number of + slaves on board, according to the size of their vessels, and obliging + them to let in fresh air, and provide better accommodation for + the slaves during their passage, should be adopted. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Young wished the consideration of the whole subject to + stand over to the next session. + + </p> + <p> + Sir James Johnstone, though a planter, professed himself a + friend to the abolition of the Slave Trade. He said it was highly + necessary that the House should do something respecting it; but + whatever was to be done should be done soon, as delay might be + productive of bad consequences in the islands. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. L. Smith stood up a zealous advocate for the abolition of + the Slave Trade. He said that even Lord Penrhyn and Mr. + Gascoyne, the members for Liverpool, had admitted the evil of + it to a certain extent; for regulations or modifications, in which + they seemed to acquiesce, were unnecessary where abuses did not + really exist. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Grigby thought it his duty to declare, that no privy + council report, or other mode of examination, could influence + him. A traffic in the persons of men was so odious, that it + ought everywhere, as soon as ever it was discovered, to be + abolished. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Bastard was anxious that the House should proceed to + the discussion of the subject in the present session. The whole + country, he said, had petitioned; and was it any satisfaction to + the country to be told, that the committee of privy council were + inquiring? Who knew anything of what was doing by the committee + of privy council, or what progress they were making? + The inquiry ought to have been instituted in that House, and in + the face of the public, that everybody concerned might know + what was going on. The numerous petitions of the people ought + immediately to be attended to. He reprobated delay on this + occasion; and as the honourable baronet, Sir William Dolben, + had stated facts which were shocking to humanity, he hoped he + would move that a committee might be appointed to inquire into + their existence, that a remedy might be applied, if possible, before + the sailing of the next ships for Africa. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Whitbread professed himself a strenuous advocate for the + total and immediate abolition of the Slave Trade. It was contrary + to nature, and to every principle of justice, humanity, and + religion. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Pelham stated, that he had very maturely considered the + subject of the Slave Trade; and had he not known that the + business was in the hands of an honourable member, (whose absence + from the house, and the cause of it, no man lamented more + sincerely than he did,) he should have ventured to propose something + concerning it himself. If it should be thought that the + trade ought not to be entirely done away, the sooner it was regulated + the better. He had a plan for this purpose, which appeared + to him to be likely to produce some salutary effects. He wished + to know if any such thing would be permitted to be proposed in + the course of the present session. + + </p> + <p> + The Chancellor of the Exchequer said he should be happy, if + he thought the circumstances of the house were such as to enable + + them to proceed to an immediate discussion of the question; but + as that did not appear, from the reasons he had before stated, to + be the case, he could only assure the honourable gentleman, that + the same motives which had induced him to propose an inquiry + into the subject early in the next session of parliament, would + make him desirous of receiving any other light which could be + thrown upon it. + + </p> + <p> + The question having been then put, the resolution was agreed + to unanimously. Thus ended the first debate that ever took place + in the Commons, on this important subject. This debate, though + many of the persons concerned in it abstained cautiously from + entering into the merits of the general question, became interesting, + in consequence of circumstances attending it. Several rose + up at once to give relief, as it were, to their feelings by utterance; + but by so doing they were prevented, many of them, from being + heard. They who were heard, spoke with peculiar energy, as if + warmed in an extraordinary manner by the subject. There was + an apparent enthusiasm in behalf of the injured Africans. It was + supposed by some, that there was a moment, in which, if the + Chancellor of the Exchequer had moved for an immediate abolition + of the trade, he would have carried it that night; and both + he and others, who professed an attachment to the cause, were + censured for not having taken a due advantage of the disposition + which was so apparent. But independently of the inconsistency + of doing this on the part of the ministry, while the privy council + were in the midst of their inquiries, and of the improbability that + the other branches of the legislature would have concurred in so + hasty a measure; what good would have accrued to the cause, if + the abolition had been then carried? Those concerned in the + cruel system would never have rested quietly under the stigma + under which they then laboured. They would have urged, that + they had been condemned unheard. The merchants would have + said, that they had had no notice of such an event, that they + might prepare, a way for their vessels in other trades. The planters + would have said, that they had had no time allowed them to provide + such supplies from Africa as might enable them to keep up + their respective stocks. They would, both of them, have called + + aloud for immediate indemnification. They would have decried + the policy of the measure of the abolition; and where had it been + proved? They would have demanded a reverse of it; and might + they not in cooler moments have succeeded? Whereas, by entering + into a patient discussion of the merits of the question; by + bringing evidence upon it; by reasoning upon that evidence night + after night, and year after year, and thus by disputing the ground + inch as it were by inch, the abolition of the Slave Trade stands + upon a rock, upon which it never can be shaken. Many of those + who were concerned in the cruel system have now given up their + prejudices, because they became convinced in the contest. A + stigma too has been fixed upon it, which can never be erased: and + in a large record, in which the cruelty and injustice of it have + been recognised in indelible characters, its impolicy also has been + eternally enrolled. + + </p> + + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + <h2><a name="chap23"></a>CHAPTER XXIII. + </h2> + <p><b>Continuation to the middle of July.—Anxiety of Sir William Dolben to + lessen the horrors of the Middle Passage till the great question should + be discussed; brings in a bill for that purpose; debate upon it.—Evidence + examined against it; its inconsistency and falsehoods.—Further debate + upon it.—Bill passed, and carried to the Lords; vexatious delays and + opposition there; carried backwards and forwards to both houses.—At + length finally passed.—Proceedings of the committee in the interim; + effects of them.</b></p> + + <p> + It was supposed, after the debate, of which the substance has been + just given, that there would have been no further discussion of + the subject till the next year; but Sir William Dolben became + more and more affected by those considerations which he had + offered to the house on the ninth of May. The trade, he found, + was still to go on. The horrors of the transportation, or Middle + Passage, as it was called, which he conceived to be the worst in + the long catalogue of evils belonging to the system, would of + course accompany it. The partial discussion of these, he believed, + would be no infringement of the late resolution of the house. He + was desirous, therefore, of doing something in the course of the + present session, by which the miseries of the trade might be + diminished as much as possible, while it lasted, or till the + legislature could take up the whole of the question. This desire he + mentioned to several of his friends; and as these approved of his + design, he made it known on the twenty-first of May in the + House of Commons. + + </p> + <p> + He began by observing, that he would take up but little of + their time. He rose to move for leave to bring in a bill for the + relief of those unhappy persons, the natives of Africa, from the + hardships to which they were usually exposed in their passage + from the coast of Africa to the colonies. He did not mean, by + any regulations he might introduce for this purpose, to countenance + or sanction the Slave Trade, which, however modified, + would be always wicked and unjustifiable. Nor did he mean, by + + introducing these, to go into the general question which the house + had prohibited. The bill which he had in contemplation, went + only to limit the number of persons to be put on board to the + tonnage of the vessel which was to carry them, in order to prevent + them from being crowded too closely together; to secure to them + good and sufficient provisions; and to take cognizance of other + matters, which related to their health and accommodation; and + this only till parliament could enter into the general merits of the + question. This humane interference he thought no member + would object to. Indeed, those for Liverpool had both of them + admitted, on the ninth of May, that regulations were desirable; + and he had since conversed with them, and was happy to learn + that they would not oppose him on this occasion. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Whitbread highly approved of the object of the worthy + baronet, which was to diminish the sufferings of an unoffending + people. Whatever could be done to relieve them in their hard + situation, till parliament could take up the whole of their case, + ought to be done by men living in a civilized country, and professing + the Christian religion: he therefore begged leave to second + the motion which had been made. + + </p> + <p> + General Norton was sorry that he had not risen up sooner. + He wished to have seconded this humane motion himself. It + had his most cordial approbation. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Burgess complimented the worthy baronet on the honour + he had done himself on this occasion, and congratulated the house + on the good, which they were likely to do by acceding, as he was + sure they would, to his proposition. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Joliffe rose, and said that the motion in question should + have his strenuous support. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Gascoyne stated, that having understood from the + honourable baronet that he meant only to remedy the evils, which + were stated to exist in transporting the inhabitants of Africa to + the West Indies, he had told them that he would not object to + the introduction of such a bill. Should it however interfere with + the general question, the discussion of which had been prohibited, + he would then oppose it. He must also reserve another case for + his opposition; and this would be, if the evils of which it took + + cognizance should appear not to have been well founded. He + had written to his constituents to be made acquainted with this + circumstance, and he must be guided by them on the subject. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Martin was surprised how any person could give an + opposition to such a bill. Whatever were the merits of the + great question, all would allow, that if human beings were to be + transported across the ocean, they should be carried over with as + little suffering as possible to themselves. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hamilton deprecated the subdivision of this great and + important question, which the house had reserved for another + session. Every endeavour to meddle with one part of it, before + the whole of it could be taken into consideration, looked rather + as if it came from an enemy than from a friend. He was fearful + that such a bill as this would sanction a traffic, which should + never be viewed but in a hostile light, or as repugnant to the + feelings of our nature, and to the voice of our religion. + + </p> + <p> + Lord Frederic Campbell was convinced that the postponing of + all consideration of the subject till the next session was a wise + measure. He was sure that neither the house nor the public + were in a temper sufficiently cool to discuss it properly. There + was a general warmth of feeling, or an enthusiasm about it, + which ran away with the understandings of men, and disqualified + them from judging soberly concerning it. He wished, therefore, + that the present motion might be deferred. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. William Smith said, that if the motion of the honourable + Baronet had trespassed upon the great question reserved for + consideration, he would have opposed it himself; but he conceived + the subject which it comprehended might with propriety + be separately considered; and if it were likely that a hundred, + but much more a thousand, lives would be saved by this bill, it + was the duty of that house to adopt it without delay. + + </p> + <p> + The Chancellor of the Exchequer, though he meant still to + conceal his opinion as to the general merits of the question, could + not be silent, here. He was of opinion that he could very consistently + give this motion his support. There was a possibility + (and a bare possibility was a sufficient ground with him) that in + consequence of the resolution lately come to by the house, and + + the temper then manifested in it, those persons who were concerned + in the Slave Trade might put the natives of Africa in a + worse situation, during their transportation to the colonies, even + than they were in before, by cramming additional numbers on + board their vessels, in order to convey as many as possible to the + West Indies before parliament ultimately decided on the subject. + The possibility, therefore, that such a consequence might grow + out of their late resolution during the intervening months between + the end of the present and the commencement of the next + session, was a good and sufficient parliamentary ground for them + to provide immediate means to prevent the existence of such an + evil. He considered this as an act of indispensable duty, and + on that ground the bill should have his support. + + </p> + <p> + Soon after this the question was put, and leave was given for + the introduction of the bill. + + </p> + <p> + An account of these proceedings of the house having been + sent to the merchants of Liverpool, they held a meeting, and + came to resolutions on the subject. They determined to oppose + the bill in every stage in which it should be brought forward, + and, what was extraordinary, even the principle of it. Accordingly, + between the 21st of May and the 2nd of June, on which + latter day the bill having been previously read a second time + was to be committed, petitions from interested persons had been + brought against it, and consent had been obtained, that both + council and evidence should be heard. + + </p> + <p> + The order of the day having been read on the 2nd of June + for the house to resolve itself into a committee of the whole + house, a discussion took place relative to the manner in which + the business was to be conducted. This being over, the counsel + began their observations; and, as soon as they had finished, + evidence was called to the bar in behalf of the petitions which + had been delivered. + + </p> + <p> + From the 2nd of June to the 17th the house continued to + hear the evidence at intervals, but the members for Liverpool + took every opportunity of occasioning delay. They had recourse + twice to counting out the house; and at another time, though + complaint had been made of their attempts to procrastinate, they + + opposed the resuming of their own evidence with the same view; + and this merely for the frivolous reason, that, though there was + then a suitable opportunity, notice had not been previously given. + But in this proceeding, other members feeling indignant at their + conduct, they were overruled. + + </p> + <p> + The witnesses brought by the Liverpool merchants against + this humane bill were the same as they had before sent for examination + to the privy council, namely, Mr. Norris, Lieutenant + Matthews, and others. On the other side of the question it was + not deemed expedient to bring any. It was soon perceived that + it would be possible to refute the former out of their own mouths, + and to do this seemed more eligible than to proceed in the other + way. Mr. Pitt, however, took care to send Captain Parrey, of + the Royal Navy, to Liverpool, that he might take the tonnage + and internal dimensions of several slave-vessels, which were then + there, supposing that these, when known, would enable the house + to detect any misrepresentations, which the delegates from that + town might be disposed to make upon this subject. + + </p> + <p> + It was the object of the witnesses, when examined, to prove + two things: first, that regulations were unnecessary, because the + present mode of the transportation was sufficiently convenient for + the objects of it, and was well adapted to preserve their comfort + and their health. They had sufficient room, sufficient air, and + sufficient provisions. When upon deck, they made merry and + amused themselves with dancing. As to the mortality, or the loss + of them by death in the course of their passage, it was trifling. + In short, the voyage from Africa to the West Indies "was one + of the happiest periods of a Negro's life." + + </p> + <p> + Secondly, that if the merchants were hindered from taking + less that two full sized, or three smaller Africans, to a ton, then + the restrictions would operate not as the regulation, but as the + utter ruin of the trade. Hence the present bill, under the + specious mask of a temporary interference, sought nothing less + than its abolition. + + </p> + <p> + These assertions having been severally made, by the former of + which it was insinuated that the African, unhappy in his own + country, found in the middle passage, under the care of the + + merchants, little less than an Elysian retreat, it was now proper + to institute a severe inquiry into the truth of them. Mr. + Pitt, Sir Charles Middleton, Mr. William Smith, and Mr. + Beaufoy, took a conspicuous part on this occasion, but particularly + the two latter, to whom much praise was due for the + constant attention they bestowed upon this subject. Question + after question was put by these to the witnesses; and from their + own mouths they dragged out, by means of a cross-examination + as severe as could be well instituted, the following melancholy + account:— + + </p> + <p> + Every slave, whatever his size might be, was found to have + only five feet and six inches in length, and sixteen inches in + breadth, to lie in. The floor was covered with bodies stowed or + packed according to this allowance: but between the floor and + the deck or ceiling were often platforms or broad shelves in the + mid-way, which were covered with bodies also. The height from + the floor to the ceiling, within which space the bodies on the floor + and those on the platforms lay, seldom exceeded five feet eight + inches, and in some cases it did not exceed four feet. + + </p> + <p> + The men were chained two and two together by their hands + and feet, and were chained also by means of ring-bolts, which + were fastened to the deck. They were confined in this manner + at least all the time they remained upon the coast, which was + from six weeks to six months as it might happen. + + </p> + <p> + Their allowance consisted of one pint of water a day to each + person, and they were fed twice a day with yams and horsebeans. + + </p> + <p> + After meals they jumped up in their irons for exercise. This + was so necessary for their health, that they were whipped if they + refused to do it; and this jumping had been termed dancing. + + </p> + <p> + They were usually fifteen and sixteen hours below deck out + of the twenty-four. In rainy weather they could not be brought + up for two or three days together. If the ship was full, their + situation was then distressing. They sometimes drew their + breath with anxious and laborious efforts, and some died of + suffocation. + + </p> + <p> + With respect to their health in these voyages, the mortality, + + where the African constitution was the strongest, or on the windward + coast, was only about five in a hundred. In thirty-five + voyages, an account of which was produced, about six in a hundred + was the average number lost. But this loss was still greater at + Calabar and Bonny, which were the greatest markets for slaves. + This loss, too, did not include those who died, either while the + vessels were lying upon the Coast, or after their arrival in the + West Indies, of the disorders which they had contracted upon + the voyage. Three and four in a hundred had been known to + die in this latter case. + + </p> + <p> + But besides these facts, which were forced out of the witnesses + by means of the cross-examination which took place, they were + detected in various falsehoods. + + </p> + <p> + They had asserted that the ships in this trade were peculiarly + constructed, or differently from others, in order that they might + carry a great number of persons with convenience; whereas Captain + Parrey asserted, that out of the twenty-six, which he had + seen, ten only had been built expressly for this employ. + + </p> + <p> + They had stated the average height between decks at about + five feet and four inches. But Captain Parrey showed, that out + of the nine he measured, the height in four of the smallest was + only four feet eight inches, and the average height in all of them + was but five feet two. + + </p> + <p> + They had asserted that vessels under two hundred tons had + no platforms. But by his account the four just mentioned were + of this tonnage, and yet all of them had platforms either wholly + or in part. + + </p> + <p> + On other points they were found both to contradict themselves + and one another. They had asserted, as before mentioned, that + if they were restricted to less than two full-grown slaves to a ton, + the trade would be ruined. But in examining into the particulars + of nineteen vessels, which they produced themselves, five + of them only had cargoes equal to the proportion which they + stated to be necessary to the existence of the trade. The other + fourteen carried a less number of slaves (and they might have + taken more on board if they had pleased); so that the average + number in the nineteen was but one man and four-fifths to a ton, + + or ten in a hundred below their lowest + standard<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXXIII_1"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXXIII_1"></a>. One again + said, that no inconvenience arose in consequence of the narrow + space allowed to each individual in these voyages. Another + said, that smaller vessels were more healthy than larger, because, + among other reasons, they had a less proportion of slaves as to + number on board. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXXIII_1"></a><a href="#FootXXIII_1">A</a>: The falsehood of their statements in + this respect was proved again afterwards by facts. For, after the regulation + had taken place, they lost fewer slaves and made greater + profits. + </p> + <p> + They were found also guilty of a wilful concealment of such + facts, as they knew, if communicated, would have invalidated + their own testimony. I was instrumental in detecting them on + one of these occasions myself. When Mr. Dalzell was examined, + he was not wholly unknown to me; my Liverpool muster-rolls + told me that he had lost fifteen seamen out of forty in his last + voyage. This was a sufficient ground to go upon; for generally, + where the mortality of the seamen has been great, it may be laid + down that the mortality of the slaves has been considerable also. + I waited patiently till his evidence was nearly closed, but he had + then made no unfavourable statements to the house. I desired, + therefore, that a question might be put to him, and in such a + manner, that he might know that they, who put it, had got a + clue to his secrets. He became immediately embarrassed; his + voice faltered; he confessed with trembling that he had lost a + third of his sailors in his last voyage. Pressed hard immediately + by other questions, he then acknowledged that he had lost one + hundred and twenty, or a third of his slaves, also. But would he + say that these were all he had lost in that voyage? No; twelve + others had perished by an accident, for they were drowned. But + were no others lost beside the one hundred and twenty and the + twelve? None, he said, upon the voyage, but between twenty + and thirty before he left the Coast. Thus this champion of the + merchants, this advocate for the health and happiness of + slaves in the middle passage, lost nearly a hundred and sixty of + the unhappy persons committed to his superior care, in a single + voyage! + + </p> + <p> + The evidence, on which I have now commented, having been + + delivered, the counsel summed up on the 17th of June, when the + committee proceeded to fill up the blanks in the bill. Mr. Pitt + moved that the operation of it be retrospective, and that it commence + from the 10th instant. This was violently opposed by + Lord Penrhyn, Mr. Gascoyne, and Mr. Brickdale, but was at + length acceded to. + + </p> + <p> + Sir William Dolben then proposed to apportion five men to + every three tons in every ship under one hundred and fifty tons + burden, which had the space of five feet between the decks, and + three men to two tons in every vessel beyond one hundred and + fifty tons burden, which had equal accommodation in point of + height between the decks. This occasioned a very warm dispute, + which was not settled for some time, and which gave rise + to some beautiful and interesting speeches on the subject. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. William Smith pointed out in the clearest manner many + of the contradictions, which I have just stated in commenting + upon the evidence; indeed he had been a principal means of + detecting them. He proved how little worthy of belief the witnesses + had shown themselves, and how necessary they had made + the present bill by their own confession. The worthy baronet, + indeed, had been too indulgent to the merchants, in the proportion + he had fixed of the number of persons to be carried to the tonnage + of their vessels. He then took a feeling view of what would be + the wretched state of the poor Africans on board, even if the bill + passed as it now stood; and conjured the house, if they would not + allow them more room, at least not to infringe upon that which + had been proposed. + + </p> + <p> + Lord Belgrave (afterwards Grosvenor) animadverted with + great ability upon the cruelties of the trade, which he said had + been fully proved at the bar. He took notice of the extraordinary + opposition which had been made to the bill then before them, + and which he believed every gentleman, who had a proper feeling + of humanity, would condemn. If the present mode of carrying + on the trade received the countenance of that house, the poor + unfortunate African would have occasion doubly to curse his fate. + He would not only curse the womb that brought him forth, but + the British nation also, whose diabolical avarice had made his + + cup of misery still more bitter. He hoped that the members for + Liverpool would urge no further opposition to the bill, but that + they would join with the house in an effort to enlarge the empire + of humanity; and that, while they were stretching out the strong + arm of justice to punish the degraders of British honour and + humanity in the East, they would with equal spirit exert their + powers to dispense the blessings of their protection to those + unhappy Africans, who were to serve them in the West. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Beaufoy entered minutely into an examination of the + information, which had been given by the witnesses, and which + afforded unanswerable arguments for the passing of the bill. He + showed the narrow space which they themselves had been made + to allow for the package of a human body, and the ingenious + measures they were obliged to resort to for stowing this living + cargo within the limits of the ship. He adverted next to the + case of Mr. Dalzell, and showed how one dismal fact after another, + each making against their own testimony, was extorted from him. + He then went to the trifling mortality said to be experienced in + these voyages, upon which subject he spoke in the following + words: "Though the witnesses are some of them interested in + the trade, and all of them parties against the bill, their confession + is, that of the negroes of the windward coast, who are men of the + strongest constitution which Africa affords, no less on an average + than five in each hundred perish in the voyage,—a voyage, it must + be remembered but of six weeks. In a twelvemonth, then, what + must be the proportion of the dead? No less than forty-three in + a hundred, which is seventeen times the usual rate of mortality; + for all the estimates of life suppose no more than a fortieth of the + people, or two and a half in the hundred, to die within the space + of a year. Such then is the comparison. In the ordinary course + of nature the number of persons, (including those in age and + infancy, the weakest periods of existence,) who perish in the + space of a twelvemonth, is at the rate of but two and a half in a + hundred; but in an African voyage, notwithstanding the old are + excluded and few infants admitted, so that those who are shipped + are in the firmest period of life, the list of deaths, presents an + annual mortality of forty-three in a hundred. It presents this + + mortality even in vessels from the windward coast of Africa; but + in those which sail to Bonny, Benin, and the Calabars, from + whence the greatest proportion of the slaves are brought, this + mortality is increased by a variety of causes, (of which the greater + length of the voyage is one,) and is said to be twice as large + which supposes that in every hundred the deaths annually amount + to no less than eighty-six. Yet even the former comparatively + low mortality; of which the counsel speaks with so much satisfaction, + as a proof of the kind and compassionate treatment of the + slaves, even this indolent and lethargic destruction gives to the + march of death seventeen times its usual speed. It is a destruction, + which, if general but for ten years, would depopulate the world, + blast the purposes of its creation, and extinguish the human race." + + </p> + <p> + After having gone with great ability through the other + branches of the subject, he concluded in the following manner:—"Thus + I have considered the various objections which have been + stated to the bill, and am ashamed to reflect that it could be + necessary to speak so long in defence of such a cause; for what, + after all, is asked by the proposed regulations? On the part of + the Africans, the whole of their purport is, that they whom you + allow to be robbed of all things but life, may not unnecessarily + and wantonly be deprived of life also. To the honour; to the + wisdom, to the feelings of the house, I now make my appeal, perfectly + confident that you will not tolerate, as senators, a traffic + which, as men, you shudder to contemplate, and that you will + not take upon yourselves the responsibility of this waste of + existence. To the memory of former parliaments the horrors of this + traffic will be an eternal reproach; yet former parliaments have + not known, as you on the clearest evidence now know, the dreadful + nature of this trade. Should you reject this bill, no exertions + of yours to rescue from oppression the suffering inhabitants of + your eastern empire; no records of the prosperous state to which, + after a long and unsuccessful war, you have restored your native + land; no proofs; however splendid, that under your guidance + Great Britain has recovered her rank, and is again the arbitress + of nations, will save your names from the stigma of everlasting + dishonour. The broad mantle of this one infamy will cover with + + substantial blackness the radiance of your glory, and change to + feelings of abhorrence the present admiration of the world. But + pardon the supposition of so impossible an event. I believe that + justice and mercy may be considered as the attributes of your + character, and that you will not tarnish their lustre on this occasion." + + </p> + <p> + The Chancellor of the Exchequer rose next; and after having + made some important observations on the evidence (which took + up much time), he declared himself most unequivocally in favour + of the motion made by the honourable baronet. He was convinced + that the regulation proposed would not tend to the abolition + of the trade; but if it even went so far, he had no hesitation + openly and boldly to declare, that if it could not be carried on in + a manner different from that stated by the members for Liverpool, + he would retract what he had said on a former day against + going into the general question; and, waving every other discussion + than what had that day taken place, he would give his vote + for the utter annihilation of it at once. It was a trade, which it + was shocking to humanity to hear detailed. If it were to be carried, + on as proposed by the petitioners, it would, besides its own + intrinsic baseness, be contrary to every humane and Christian + principle, and to every sentiment that ought to inspire the breast of man; + and would reflect the greatest dishonour on the British + senate and the British nation. He, therefore, hoped that the + house, being now in possession of such information as never + hitherto had been brought before them, would in some measure + endeavour to extricate themselves from that guilt, and from that + remorse, which every one of them ought to feel for having + suffered such monstrous cruelties to be practised upon an helpless + and unoffending part of the human race. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Martin complimented Mr. Pitt in terms of the warmest + panegyric on his noble sentiments, declaring that they reflected + the greatest honour upon him both as an Englishman and as a man. + + </p> + <p> + Soon after this the house divided upon the motion of Sir + William Dolben. Fifty-six appeared to be in favour of it, and + only five against it. The latter consisted of the two members + for Liverpool and three other interested persons. This was the + first division which ever took place on this important subject. + + The other blanks were then filled up, and the bill was passed + without further delay. + + </p> + <p> + The next day, or on the 18th of June, it was carried up to + the House of Lords. The slave-merchants of London, Liverpool, + and Bristol, immediately presented petitions against it, as they + had done in the lower house. They prayed that counsel might + open their case; and though they had been driven from the Commons + on account of their evidence, with disgrace, they had the + effrontery to ask that they might call witnesses here also. + + </p> + <p> + Counsel and evidence having been respectively heard, the bill + was ordered to be committed the next day. The Lords attended + according to summons. But on a motion by Dr. Warren, the + Bishop of Bangor, who stated that the Lord Chancellor Thurlow + was much indisposed, and that he wished to be present when the + question was discussed, the committee was postponed. + + </p> + <p> + It was generally thought that the reason for this postponement, + and particularly as it was recommended by a prelate, was + that the Chancellor might have an opportunity of forwarding + this humane bill. But it was found to be quite otherwise. It + appeared that the motive was, that he might give to it, by his + official appearance as the chief servant of the crown in that + house, all the opposition in his power. For when the day arrived + which had been appointed for the discussion, and when the Lords + Bathurst and Hawkesbury (afterwards Liverpool) had expressed + their opinions, which were different, relative to the time when + the bill should take place, he rose up and pronounced a bitter and + vehement oration against it. He said, among other things, that + it was full of inconsistency and nonsense from the beginning to + the end. The French had lately offered large premiums for the + encouragement of this trade. They were a politic people, and + the presumption was, that we were doing politically wrong by + abandoning it. The bill ought not to have been brought forward + in this session. The introduction of it was a direct violation of + the faith of the other house. It was unjust, when an assurance + had been given that the question should not be agitated till next + year, that this sudden fit of philanthropy, which was but a few + days old, should be allowed to disturb the public mind, and + + to become the occasion of bringing men to the metropolis with + tears in their eyes and horror in their countenances, to deprecate + the ruin of their property, which they had embarked on the + faith of parliament. + + </p> + <p> + The extraordinary part which the Lord Chancellor Thurlow + took upon this occasion, was ascribed at the time by many who + moved in the higher circles, to a shyness or misunderstanding + which had taken place between him and Mr. Pitt on other + matters; when, believing this bill to have been a favourite measure + with the latter, he determined to oppose it. But whatever + were his motives (and let us hope that he could never have been + actuated by so malignant a spirit as that of sacrificing the happiness + of forty thousand persons for the next year to spite the + gratification of an individual), his opposition had a mischievous + effect, on account of the high situation in which he stood; for he + not only influenced some of the Lords themselves, but, by taking + the cause of the slave-merchants so conspicuously under his wing, + he gave them boldness to look up again under the stigma of their + iniquitous calling, and courage even to resume vigorous operations + after their disgraceful defeat. Hence arose those obstacles which + will be found to have been thrown in the way of the passing of + the bill from this period. + + </p> + <p> + Among the Lords who are to be particularly noticed as having + taken the same side as the Lord Chancellor in this debate, were + the Duke of Chandos and the Earl of Sandwich. The former + foresaw nothing but insurrections of the slaves in our islands, and + the massacre of their masters there, in consequence of the agitation + of this question. The latter expected nothing less than the + ruin of our marine. He begged the house to consider how, by + doing that which might bring about the abolition of this traffic, + they might lessen the number of British sailors; how, by throwing + it into the hands of France they might increase those of a + rival nation; and how, in consequence, the flag of the latter + might ride triumphant on the ocean. The Slave Trade was + undoubtedly a nursery for our seamen. All objections against it + in this respect were ill-founded. It was as healthy as the + Newfoundland and many other trades. + + </p> + <p> + The debate having closed, during which nothing more was + done than filling up the blanks with the time when the bill was + to begin to operate, the committee was adjourned. But the bill + after this dragged on so heavily, that it would be tedious to + detail the proceedings upon it from day to day. I shall, therefore, + satisfy myself with the following observations concerning them:—The + committee sat not less than five different times, which consumed + the space of eight days, before a final decision took place. + During this time, so much was it an object to throw in obstacles + which might occupy the little remaining time of the session, that + other petitions were presented against the bill, and leave was + asked, on new pretences contained in these, that counsel might + be heard again. Letters also were read from Jamaica, about the + mutinous disposition of the slaves there, in consequence of the + stir which had been made about the abolition; and also from + merchants in France, by which large offers were made to the + British merchants to furnish them with slaves. Several regulations + also were proposed in this interval, some of which were + negatived by majorities of only one or two voices. Of the regulations + which were carried, the most remarkable were those + proposed by Lord Hawkesbury (afterwards Liverpool); namely, + that no insurance should be made on the slaves, except against + accidents by fire and water; that persons should not be appointed + as officers of vessels transporting them, who had not been a certain + number of such voyages before; that a regular surgeon only + should be capable of being employed in them; and that both the + captain and surgeon should have bounties, if, in the course of the + transportation, they had lost only two in a hundred slaves. The + Duke of Chandos again, and Lord Sydney, were the more conspicuous + among the opposers of the humane bill; and the Duke of + Richmond, the Marquis Townshend, the Earl of Carlisle, the + Bishop of London, and Earl Stanhope, among the most strenuous + supporters of it. At length it passed by a majority of nineteen + to eleven votes. + + </p> + <p> + On the 4th of July, when the bill had been returned to the + Commons, it was moved, that the amendments made in it by the + Lords should be read; but as it had become a money-bill in + + consequence of the bounties to be granted, and as new regulations + were to be incorporated in it, it was thought proper that it should + be wholly done away. Accordingly Sir William Dolben moved, + that the further consideration of it should be put off till that day + three months. This having been agreed upon, he then moved + for leave to bring in a new bill. This was accordingly introduced, + and an additional clause was inserted in it, relative to + bounties, by Mr. Pitt. But on the second reading, that no + obstacle might be omitted which could legally be thrown in the + way of its progress, petitions were presented against it, both by + the Liverpool merchants and the agent for the island of Jamaica, + under the pretence that it was a new bill. Their petitions, + however, were rejected, and it was committed and passed through + its regular stages, and sent up to the Lords. + + </p> + <p> + On its arrival there on the 5th of July, petitions from London + and Liverpool still followed it. The prayer of these was against + the general tendency of it, but it was solicited also that counsel + might be heard in a particular case; the solicitation was complied + with; after which the bill was read a second time, and + ordered to be committed. + + </p> + <p> + On the 7th, when it was taken next into consideration, two + other petitions were presented against it. But here so many + objections were made to the clauses of it as they then stood, and + such new matter suggested that the Duke of Richmond, who + was a strenuous supporter of it, thought it best to move that the + committee then sitting should be deferred till that day seven-night, + in order to give time for another more perfect to originate + in the lower house. + + </p> + <p> + This motion having been acceded to, Sir William Dolben + introduced a new one for the third time into the Commons. + This included the suggestions which had been made in the + Lords. It included also a regulation, on the motion of Mr. + Sheridan, that no surgeon should be employed as such in the + slave-vessels, except he had a testimonial that he had passed a + proper examination at Surgeon's Hall. The amendments were + all then agreed to, and the bill was passed through its several + stages. + + </p> + <p> + On the 10th of July, being now fully amended it came for + a third time before the Lords; but it was no sooner brought + forward than it met with the same opposition as it had experienced + before. Two new petitions appeared against it; one + from a certain class of persons in Liverpool, and another from + Miles Peter Andrews, Esq., stating that if it passed into a law + it would injure the sale of his gunpowder, and that he had rendered + great services to the government during the last war, by + his provision of that article. But here the Lord Chancellor + Thurlow reserved himself for an effort, which, by occasioning + only a day's delay, would, in that particular period of the session + have totally prevented the passing of the bill. He suggested + certain amendments for consideration and discussion which, if + they had agreed upon, must have been carried again to the lower + House, and sanctioned there before the bill could have been + complete. But it appeared afterwards, that there would have + been no time for the latter proceeding. Earl Stanhope, therefore, + pressed this circumstance peculiarly upon the lords who were + present. He observed that the king was to dismiss the parliament + next day, and therefore they must adopt the bill as it stood, + or reject it altogether. There was no alternative, and no time + was to be lost: accordingly, he moved for an immediate division + on the first of the amendments proposed by Lord Thurlow. This + having taken place, it was negatived. The other amendments + shared the same fate; and thus, at length, passed through the + Upper House, as through an ordeal as it were of fire, the first bill + that ever put fetters upon that barbarous and destructive monster, + the Slave Trade. + + </p> + <p> + The next day, or on Friday, July the 11th, the king gave + his assent to it, and, as Lord Stanhope had previously asserted in + the House of Lords, concluded the session. + + </p> + <p> + While the legislature was occupied in the consideration of + this bill, the lords of the council continued their examinations, + that they might collect as much light as possible previously to + the general agitation of the question in the next session of parliament. + Among others I underwent an examination: I gave my + testimony first, relative to many of the natural productions of + + Africa, of which I produced the specimens. These were such as + I had collected in the course of my journey to Bristol and Liverpool, + and elsewhere. I explained, secondly, the loss and usage + of seamen in the Slave Trade. To substantiate certain points, + which belonged to this branch of the subject, I left several + depositions and articles of agreement for the examination of the + council. With respect to others, as it would take a long time to + give all the data upon which calculations had been made, and + the manner of making them, I was desired to draw up a statement + of particulars, and to send it to the council at a future + time. I left also depositions with them, relative to certain + instances of the mode of procuring and treating slaves. + + </p> + <p> + The committee also for effecting the abolition of the Slave + Trade continued their attention, during this period, towards the + promotion of the different objects which came within the range + of the institution. + + </p> + <p> + They added the Rev. Dr. Coombe, in consequence of the great + increase of their business, to the list of their members. + + </p> + <p> + They voted thanks to Mr. Hughes, vicar of Ware, in Hertfordshire, + for his excellent answer to Harris's <em>Scriptural + Researches on the Licitness of the Slave Trade</em>, and they enrolled + him among their honorary and corresponding members. Also + thanks to William Roscoe, Esq., for his Answer to the same. + Mr. Roscoe had not affixed his name to this pamphlet any more + than to his poem of <em>The Wrongs of Africa</em>; but he made himself + known to the committee as the author of both. Also thanks to + William Smith and Henry Beaufoy, Esqrs., for having so successfully + exposed the evidence offered by the slave merchants against + the bill of Sir William Dolben, and for having drawn out of it + so many facts, all making for their great object the abolition of + the Slave Trade. + + </p> + <p> + As the great question was to be discussed in the approaching + sessions, it was moved in the committee to consider of the propriety + of sending persons to Africa and the West Indies, who + should obtain information relative to the different branches of the + system as they existed in each of these countries, in order that + they might be able to give their testimony, from their own experience, + + before one or both of the houses of parliament, as it might + be judged proper. This proposition was discussed at two or + three several meetings. It was, however, finally rejected, and + principally on the following grounds—First, It was obvious that + persons sent out upon such an errand would be exposed to such + dangers from varying causes, that it was not improbably that + both they and their testimony might be lost. Secondly, Such + persons would be obliged to have recourse to falsehoods, that is, + to conceal or misrepresent the objects of their destination, that + they might get their intelligence with safety; which falsehoods + the committee could not countenance. To which it was added, + that few persons would go to these places, except they were + handsomely rewarded for their trouble; but this reward would + lessen the value of their evidence, as it would afford a handle + to the planters and slave-merchants to say that they had been + bribed. + + </p> + <p> + Another circumstance which came before the committee was the + following:—Many arguments were afloat at this time relative + to the great impolicy of abolishing the Slave Trade, the principal + of which was, that, if the English abandoned it, other foreign + nations would take it up; and thus, while they gave up certain + national profits themselves, the great cause of humanity would + not be benefited, nor would any moral good be done by the + measure. Now there was a presumption that, by means of the + society instituted in Paris, the French nation might be awakened + to this great subject; and that the French government might in + consequence, as well as upon other considerations, be induced to + favour the general feeling upon this occasion. But there was no + reason to conclude, either than any other maritime people, who + had been engaged in the Slave Trade, would relinquish it, or + that any other, who had not yet been engaged in it, would not + begin it when our countrymen should give it up. The consideration + of these circumstances occupied the attention of the + committee; and as Dr. Spaarman, who was said to have been + examined by the privy council, was returning home, it was + thought advisable to consider whether it would not be proper + for the committee to select certain of their own books on the + + subject of the Slave Trade, and send them by him, accompanied + by a letter, to the King of Sweden, in which they should entreat + his consideration of this powerful argument which now stood in + the way of the cause of humanity, with a view that, as one of + the princes of Europe, he might contribute to obviate it, by preventing + his own subjects, in case of the dereliction of this commerce + by ourselves, from embarking in it. The matter having + been fully considered, it was resolved that the proposed measure + would be proper, and it was accordingly adapted. By a letter + received afterwards from Dr. Spaarman, it appeared that both + the letter and the books had been delivered, and received graciously; + and that he was authorized to say, that, unfortunately, + in consequence of those hereditary possessions which had devolved + upon His Majesty, he was obliged to confess that he was the sovereign + of an island which had been principally peopled by African + slaves, but that he had been frequently mindful of their hard case. + With respect to the Slave Trade, he never heard of an instance + in which the merchants of his own native realm had embarked + in it; and as they had preserved their character pure in this + respect, he would do all he could that it should not be sullied + in the eyes of the generous English nation, by taking up, in the + case which had been pointed out to him, such an odious concern. + + </p> + <p> + By this time I had finished my <em>Essay on the Impolicy of the + Slave Trade</em>, which I composed from materials collected chiefly + during my journey to Bristol, Liverpool, and Lancaster. These + materials I had admitted with great caution and circumspection; + indeed I admitted none for which I could not bring official and + other authentic documents, or living evidences if necessary, whose + testimony could not reasonably be denied; and when I gave + them to the world, I did it under the impression that I ought to + give them as scrupulously as if I were to be called upon to substantiate + them upon oath. It was of peculiar moment that this + book should make its appearance at this time. First, Because + it would give the lords of the council, who were then sitting, an + opportunity of seeing many important facts, and of inquiring into + their authenticity; and it might suggest to them, also, some new + points, or such as had not fallen within the limits of the arrangement + + they had agreed upon for their examinations on this subject: + and secondly, Because, as the members of the House of + Commons were to take the question into consideration early in + the next sessions, it would give them, also, new light and information + upon it before this period. Accordingly the committee + ordered two thousand copies of it to be struck off, for these and + other objects; and though the contents of it were most diligently + sifted by the different opponents of the cause, they never even + made an attempt to answer it. It continued, on the other hand, + during the inquiry of the legislature, to afford the basis or grounds + upon which to examine evidences on the political part of the + subject; and evidences thus examined continued in their turn to + establish it. + + </p> + <p> + Among the other books ordered to be printed by the committee + within the period now under our consideration, were a + new edition of two thousand of the DEAN OF MIDDLEHAM'S <em>Letter</em>, + and another of three thousand of FALCONBBIDGE'S <em>Account of the + Slave Trade</em>. + + </p> + <p> + The committee continued to keep ups, during the same period, + a communication with many of their old correspondents, whose + names have been already mentioned. But they received, also, + letters from others, who had not hitherto addressed them: namely, + from Ellington Wright, of Erith; Dr. Franklin, of Philadelphia; + Eustace Kentish, Esq., high sheriff for the county of Huntingdon; + Governor Bouchier; the Reverend Charles Symmons, of Haverfordwest; + and from John York and William Downes, Esquires, + high sheriffs for the counties of York and Hereford. + + </p> + <p> + A letter, also, was read in this interval from Mr. Evans, a + dissenting clergyman, of Bristol, stating that the elders of several + Baptist churches, forming the western Baptist association, who + had met at, Portsmouth Common, had resolved to recommend it + to the ministers and members of the same, to unite with the + committee in the promotion of the great object of their institution. + + </p> + <p> + Another from Mr. Andrew Irvin, of the Island of Grenada, + in which he confirmed the wretched situation of many of the + slaves there, and in which he gave the outlines of a plan for + + bettering their condition, as well as that of those in the other + islands. + + </p> + <p> + Another from I.L. Wynne, Esq., of Jamaica. In this he + gave an afflicting account of the suffering and unprotected state + of the slaves there, which it was high time to rectify. He congratulated + the committee on their institution, which he thought + would tend to promote so desirable an end; but desired them not + to stop short of the total abolition of the Slave Trade, as no other + measure would prove effectual against the evils of which he complained. + This trade, he said, was utterly unnecessary, as his + own plantation, on which his slaves had increased rapidly by + population, and others which he knew to be similarly circumstanced, + would abundantly testify. He concluded by promising + to give the committee such information from time to time as + might be useful on this important subject. + + </p> + <p> + The session of parliament having closed, the committee + thought it right to make a report to the public: in which they + gave an account of the great progress of their cause since the last; + of the state in which they then were; and of the unjustifiable + conduct of their opponents, who industriously misrepresented + their views, but particularly by attributing to them the design + of abolishing slavery: and they concluded by exhorting their + friends not to relax their endeavours on account of favourable + appearances; but to persevere, as if nothing had been done, under + the pleasing hope of an honourable triumph. + + </p> + <p> + And now having given the substance of the labours of the + committee from its formation to the present time, I cannot conclude + this chapter without giving to the worthy members of it + that tribute of affectionate and grateful praise, which is due to + them for their exertions in having forwarded the great cause + which was intrusted to their care. And this I can do with more + propriety, because, having been so frequently absent from them + when they were engaged in the pursuit of this their duty, I cannot + be liable to the suspicion, that in bestowing commendation + upon them I am bestowing it upon myself. From about the end + of May, 1787, to the middle of July, 1788, they had no less than + fifty-one committees. These generally occupied them from about + + six in the evening till about eleven at night. In the intervals + between the committees they were often occupied, having each + of them some object committed to his charge. It is remarkable, + too, that though they were all, except one, engaged in, business or + trade, and though they had the same calls as other men for innocent + recreation, and the same interruptions of their health, there + were individuals who were not absent more than five or six times + within this period. In the course of the thirteen months, during + which they had exercised this public trust, they had printed, and + afterwards distributed, not at random, but judiciously, and + through, respectable channels, (besides 26,526 reports, accounts + of debates in parliament, and other small papers,) no less than + 51,432 pamphlets, or books. + + </p> + <p> + Nor, was the effect, produced within this short period otherwise + than commensurate with the efforts used. In May, 1787, the + only public notice taken of this great cause was by this committee + of twelve individuals, of whom all were little known to the world + except Mr. Granville Sharp. But in July, 1788, it had attracted + the notice of several distinguished individuals in France and + Germany; and in our own country it had come within the notice + of the government, and a branch of it had undergone a parliamentary + discussion and restraint. It had arrested, also, the + attention of the nation, and it had produced a kind of holy flame, + or enthusiasm, and this to a degree and to an extent never before + witnessed. Of the purity of this flame no better proof can be + offered, than that even Bishops deigned to address an obscure + committee, consisting principally of Quakers; and that Churchmen + and Dissenters forgot their difference of religious opinions, + and joined their hands, all over the kingdom, in its support. + + </p> + + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + <h2><a name="chap24"></a>CHAPTER XXIV. + </h2> + <p><b>Continuation from June 1788 to July 1789.—Author travels to + collect further evidence; great difficulties in obtaining it; + forms committees on his tour.—Privy council resume the + examinations; inspect cabinet of African productions; obliged + to leave many of the witnesses in behalf of the abolition + unexamined; prepare their report—Labours of the committee + in the interim.—Proceedings of the planters and others.—Report + laid on the table of the House of Commons.—Introduction of the + question, and debate there; twelve propositions deduced from the + report and reserved for future discussion; day of discussion arrives; + opponents refuse to argue from the report; require new evidence; this + granted and introduced; further consideration of the subject + deferred to the next session.—Renewal of Sir William Dolben's + bill.—Death and character of Ramsay.</b></p> + + <p> + Matters had now become serious. The gauntlet had been + thrown down and accepted. The combatants had taken their + stations, and the contest was to be renewed, which was to be + decided soon on the great theatre of the nation. The committee + by the very act of their institution had pronounced the Slave + Trade to be criminal. They, on the other hand, who were concerned + in it, had denied the charge. It became the one to prove, + and the other to refute it, or to fall in the ensuing session. + + </p> + <p> + The committee, in this perilous situation, were anxious to + find out such other persons as might become proper evidences + before the privy council. They had hitherto sent there only nine + or ten, and they had then only another, whom they could count + upon for this purpose, in their view. The proposal of sending + persons to Africa, and the West Indies, who might come back + and report what they had witnessed, had already been negatived. + The question then was, what they were to do. Upon this they + deliberated, and the result was an application to me to undertake + a journey to different parts of the kingdom for this purpose. + + </p> + <p> + When this determination was made, I was at Teston, writing + a long letter to the privy council on the ill usage and mortality of + the seamen employed in the Slave Trade, which it had been previously + agreed should be received as evidence there. I thought it + + proper, however, before I took my departure, to form a system of + questions upon the general subject. These I divided into six + tables. The first related to the productions of Africa, and the + dispositions and manners of the natives. The second, to the + methods of reducing them to slavery. The third, to the manner + of bringing them to the ships, their value, the medium of + exchange, and other circumstances. The fourth, to their transportation. + The fifth, to their treatment in the colonies. The + sixth, to the seamen employed in the trade. These tables contained + together one hundred and forty-five questions. My idea + was that they should be printed on a small sheet of paper, which + should be folded up in seven or eight leaves, of the length and + breadth of a small almanac, and then be sent in franks to our + different correspondents. These, when they had them, might + examine persons capable of giving evidence, who might live in + their neighbourhoods, or fall in their way, and return us their + examinations by letter. + + </p> + <p> + The committee having approved and printed the tables of + questions, I began my tour. I had selected the southern counties + from Kent to Cornwall for it. I had done this, because these + included the great stations of the ships of war in ordinary; and + as these were all under the superintendence of Sir Charles + Middleton, as comptroller of the navy, I could get an introduction + to those on board them. Secondly, because sea-faring people, + when they retire from a marine life, usually settle in some town + or village upon the coast. + + </p> + <p> + Of this tour I shall not give the reader any very particular + account. I shall mention only those things which are most + worthy of his notice in it. At Poole, in Dorsetshire, I laid the + foundation of a committee, to act in harmony with that of + London for the promotion of the cause. Moses Neave, of the + respectable society of the Quakers, was the chairman; Thomas + Bell, the secretary; and Ellis B. Metford and the Reverend Mr. + Davis and others the committee. This was the third committee + which had been instituted in the country for this purpose. That + at Bristol, under Mr. Joseph Harford as chairman, and Mr. + Lunell as secretary, had been the first: and that at Manchester, + + under Mr. Thomas Walker as chairman, and Mr. Samuel + Jackson as secretary, had been the second. + + </p> + <p> + As Poole was a great place for carrying on the trade to Newfoundland, + I determined to examine the assertion of the Earl of + Sandwich in the House of Lords, when he said, in the debate on + Sir William Dolben's bill, that the Slave Trade was not more + fatal to seamen than the Newfoundland and some others. This + assertion I knew at the time to be erroneous, as far as my own + researches had been concerned: for out of twenty-four vessels, + which had sailed out of the port of Bristol in that employ, only + two sailors were upon the dead list. In sixty vessels from Poole, + I found but four lost. At Dartmouth, where I went afterwards + on purpose, I found almost a similar result. On conversing, + however, with Governor Holdsworth, I learnt that the year 1786 + had been more fatal than any other in this trade. I learnt that in + consequence of extraordinary storms and hurricanes, no less than + five sailors had died and twenty-one had been drowned in eighty-three + vessels from that port. Upon this statement I determined + to look into the muster-rolls of the trade there for two or three + years together. I began by accident with the year 1769, and I + went on to the end of 1772. About eighty vessels on an average + had sailed thence in each of these years. Taking the loss in + these years, and compounding it with that in the fatal year, three + sailors had been lost; but taking it in these four years by themselves, + only two had been lost in twenty-four vessels so employed. + On comparison with the Slave Trade, the result would be, that + two vessels to Africa would destroy more seamen than eighty-three + sailing to Newfoundland. There was this difference also to + be noted, that the loss in the one trade was generally by the + weather or by accident, but in the other by cruel treatment or + disease; and that they who went out in a declining state of + health in the one, came home generally recovered; whereas they, + who went out robust in the other, came home in a shattered + condition. + + </p> + <p> + At Plymouth I laid the foundation of another committee. + The late William Cookworthy, the late John Prideaux, and + James Fox, all of the society of the Quakers, and Mr. George + + Leach, Samuel Northcote and John Saunders, had a principal + share in forming it. Sir William Ellford was chosen chairman. + + </p> + <p> + From Plymouth I journeyed on to Falmouth, and from thence + to Exeter, where having meetings with the late Mr. Samuel + Milford, the late Mr. George Manning, the Reverend James + Manning, Thomas Sparkes, and others, a desire became manifest + among them of establishing a committee there. This was afterwards + effected; and Mr. Milford, who at a general meeting of + the inhabitants of Exeter, on the 10th of June, on this great + subject, had been called by those present to the chair, was + appointed the chairman of it. + + </p> + <p> + With respect to evidence, which was the great object of this + tour, I found myself often very unpleasantly situated in collecting + it. I heard of many persons capable of giving it to our advantage, + to whom I could get no introduction. I had to go after + these many miles out of my established route. Not knowing me, + they received me coldly, and even suspiciously; while I fell in + with others, who, considering themselves, on account of their + concerns and connexions, as our opponents, treated me in an + uncivil manner. + + </p> + <p> + But the difficulties and disappointments in other respects + which I experienced in this tour,—even where I had an introduction, + and where the parties were not interested in the continuance + of the Slave Trade,—were greater than people in general would + have imagined. One would have thought, considering the great + enthusiasm of the nation on this important subject, that they + who could have given satisfactory information upon it, would + have rejoiced to do it. But I found it otherwise; and this frequently + to my sorrow. There was an aversion in persons to + appear before such a tribunal as they conceived the privy council + to be. With men of shy or timid character this operated as an + insuperable barrier in their way. But it operated more or less + upon all. It was surprising to see what little circumstances + affected many. When I took out my pen and ink to put down + the information which a person was giving me, he became + evidently embarrassed and frightened. He began to excuse + himself from staying, by alleging that he had nothing more to + + communicate, and he took himself away as quickly as he could + with decency. The sight of the pen and ink had lost me so many + good evidences, that I was obliged wholly to abandon the use of + them, and to betake myself to other means. I was obliged for + the future to commit my tables of questions to memory; and + endeavour by practice to put down, after the examination of a + person, such answers as he had given me to each of them. + + </p> + <p> + Others went off, because it happened that immediately on my + interview, I acquainted them with the nature of my errand and + solicited their attendance in London. Conceiving that I had no + right to ask them such a favour, or terrified at the abruptness and + apparent awfulness of my request some of them gave me an + immediate denial, which they would never afterwards retract. I + began to perceive in time that it was only by the most delicate + management that I could get forward on these occasions. I + resolved, therefore, for the future, except in particular cases, that + when I should be introduced to persons who had a competent + knowledge of this trade, I would talk with them upon it as upon + any ordinary subject, and then leave them without saying anything + about their becoming evidences. I would take care, however, + to commit all their conversation to writing when it was + over; and I would then try to find out that person among their + relations or friends, who could apply to them for this purpose, + with the least hazard of a refusal. + + </p> + <p> + There were others, also, who, though they were not so much + impressed by the considerations mentioned, yet objected to give + their public testimony. Those whose livelihood, or promotion, + or expectations, were dependent upon the government of the + country, were generally backward on these occasions. Though + they thought they discovered in the parliamentary conduct of + Mr. Pitt, a bias in favour of the cause, they knew to a certainty + that the Lord Chancellor Thurlow was against it. They conceived, + therefore, that the administration was at least divided + upon the question, and they were fearful of being called upon, + lest they should give offence, and thus injure their prospects in + life. This objection was very prevalent in that part of the + kingdom which I had selected for my tour. + + </p> + <p> + The reader can hardly conceive how my mind was agitated + and distressed on these different accounts. To have travelled + more than two months,—to have seen many who could have + materially served our cause,—and to have lost most of them,—was + very trying. And though it is true that I applied a remedy, I + was not driven to the adoption of it, till I had performed more + than half my tour. Suffice it to say, that after having travelled + upwards of sixteen hundred miles backwards and forwards, and + having conversed with forty-seven persons, who were capable of + promoting the cause by their evidence, I could only prevail upon + nine, by all the interest I could make, to be examined. + + </p> + <p> + On my return to London, whither I had been called up by + the committee, to take upon me the superintendence of the + evidence, which the privy council was now ready again to hear, + I found my brother: he was then a young officer in the navy; + and as I knew he felt as warmly as I did in this great cause, I + prevailed upon him to go to Havre de Grace, the great slave-port + in France, where he might make his observations for two or + three months, and then report what he had seen and heard; so + that we might have some one to counteract any false statement + of things, which might be made relative to the subject in that + quarter. + + </p> + <p> + At length the examinations were resumed, and with them + the contest, in which our own reputation and the fate of our + cause were involved. The committee for the abolition had discovered, + one or two willing evidences during my absence; and Mr. + Wilberforce, who was now recovered from his severe indisposition, + had found one or two others. These, added to my own, + made a respectable body; but we had sent no more than four or + five of these to the council, when the king's illness unfortunately + stopped our career. For nearly five weeks between the middle + of November and January, the examinations were interrupted or + put off, so that at the latter period we began to fear, that there + would be scarcely time to hear the rest; for not only the + privy council report was to be printed, but the contest itself was + to be decided by the evidence contained in it, in the existing + session. + + </p> + <p> + The examinations, however, went on; but they went on only + slowly, being still subject to interruption from the same unfortunate + cause. Among others I offered my mite of information + again. I wished the council to see more of my African productions + and manufactures, that they might really know what + Africa was capable of affording, instead of the Slave Trade; and + that they might make a proper estimate of the genius and talents + of the natives. The samples which I had collected, had been + obtained by great labour, and at no inconsiderable expense: for + whenever I had notice that a vessel had arrived immediately from + that continent, I never hesitated to go, unless under the most + pressing engagements elsewhere, even as far as Bristol, if I could + pick up but a single new article. The lords having consented, I + selected several things for their inspection out of my box,—of the + contents of which the following account may not be unacceptable + to the reader:— + + </p> + <p> + The first division of the box consisted of woods of about four + inches square, all polished. Among these were mahogany of + five different sorts, tulip-wood, satin-wood, cam-wood, bar-wood, + fustic, black and yellow ebony, palm-tree, mangrove, calabash, + and date. There were seven woods, of which the native names + were remembered; three of these, Tumiah, Samain, and Jimlake, + were of a yellow colour; Acajoú was of a beautiful deep crimson; + Bork and Quellé were apparently fit for cabinet work; and + Benten was the wood of which the natives made their canoes. + Of the, various other woods the names had been forgotten, nor + were they known in England at all. One of them was of a fine + purple; and from two others, upon which the privy council had + caused experiments to be made, a strong yellow, a deep orange, + and a flesh-colour were extracted. + + </p> + <p> + The second, division included ivory and musk; four species of + pepper, the long, the black, the Cayenne, and the Malaguetta; + three species of gum, namely, Senegal, Copal, and ruber astringens; + cinnamon, rice, tobacco, indigo, white and Nankin cotton, + Guinea corn, and millet; three species of beans, of which two + were used for food, and the other for dyeing orange; two species + of tamarinds, one for food, and the other to give whiteness to the + + teeth; pulse, seeds, and fruits of various kinds, some of the latter + of which Dr. Spaarman had pronounced; from a trial during his + residence in Africa, to be peculiarly valuable as drugs. + + </p> + <p> + The third division contained an African loom, and an African + spindle with spun cotton round it; cloths of cotton of various + kinds made by the natives, some white, but others dyed by them + of different colours, and others in which they had interwoven + European silk; cloths and bags made of grass, and fancifully + coloured; ornaments made of the same materials; ropes made + from a species of aloes and others, remarkably strong, from glass and + straw; fine string made from the fibres of the roots of trees; soap + of two kinds; one of which was formed from an earthy substance; + pipe-bowls made of clay, and of a brown red; one of these, which + came from the village of Dakard, was beautifully ornamented by + black devices burnt in, and was besides highly glazed; another + brought from Galam, was made of earth, which was richly + impregnated with little particles of gold; trinkets made by the + natives from their own gold; knives and daggers made by them from + our bar-iron; and various other articles, such as bags, + sandals, dagger-cases, quivers, grisgris, all made of leather of their + own manufacture, and dyed of various colours, and ingeniously + sewed together. + + </p> + <p> + The fourth division consisted of the thumb-screw, speculum oris, and + chains and shackles of different kinds, collected at + Liverpool. To these were added, iron neck-collars, and other + instruments of punishment and confinement used in the West + Indies, and collected at other places. The instrument also, by + which Charles Horseler was mentioned to have been killed, in + a former chapter, was to be seen among these. + + </p> + <p> + We were now advanced far into February, when we were + alarmed by the intelligence that the lords of the council were + going to prepare their report: At this time we had sent but few + persons to them to examine, in comparison with our opponents, + and we had yet eighteen to introduce: for answers had come into + my tables of questions from several places, and persons had been + pointed out to us by our correspondents, who had increased our + list of evidences to this number. I wrote therefore to them, at + + the desire of the committee for the abolition, and gave them the + names of the eighteen, and requested also, that they would order, for + their own inspection; certain muster-rolls of vessels from Poole and + Dartmouth, that they might be convinced that the objection which the Earl + of Sandwich had made in the House of Lords, against the abolition of + the Slave Trade, had no solid foundation. In reply to my first + request they informed me, that it was impossible, in the advanced + state of the session, (it being then the middle of March,) that + the examinations of so many could be taken; but I was at liberty, + in conjunction with the Bishop of London, to select eight for + this purpose. This occasioned me to address them again; and I + then found, to my surprise and sorrow, that even this last number + was to be diminished; for I was informed in writing, "that the + Bishop of London having laid my last letter before their lordships, + they had agreed to meet on the Saturday next, and on the Tuesday + following, for the purposes of receiving the evidence of some of + the gentlemen named in it. And it was their lordships' desire + that I would give notice to any three of them (whose information + I might consider the most material) of the above determination, + that they might attend the committee accordingly." + + </p> + <p> + This answer, considering the difficulties we had found in collecting + a body of evidence, and the critical situation in which we were, + was peculiarly distressing; but we had no remedy left us, nor could + we reasonably complain. Three therefore were selected, and they + were sent to deliver their testimony on their arrival in town. + + </p> + <p> + But before the last of these had left the council room, who should come + up to me but Dr. Arnold? He had but lately arrived at Bristol from + Africa; and having heard from our friends there that we had been daily + looking for him, he had come to us in London. He and Mr. Gardiner were + the two surgeons, as mentioned in the former chapter, who had promised + me, when I was in Bristol, in the year 1787, that they would keep a + journal of facts during the voyages they were then going to perform. + They had both kept this promise. Gardiner, I found, had died upon the + coast; and his journal, having been discovered + + at his death, had been buried with him in great triumph. + But Arnold had survived, and he came now to offer us his + services in the cause. + + </p> + <p> + As it was a pity that such correct information as that taken + down in writing upon the spot should be lost (for all the other + evidences, except Dr. Spaarman and Mr. Wadstrom, had spoken + from their memory only), I made all the interest I could to procure + a hearing for Mr. Arnold. Pleading now for the examination + of him only, and under these particular circumstances, I was + attended to. It was consented, in consequence of the little time + which was now left for preparing and printing the report, that I + should make out his evidence from his journal under certain heads. + This I did. Mr. Arnold swore to the truth of it, when so drawn + up, before Edward Montague, Esquire, a master in Chancery. He + then delivered the paper in which it was contained to the lords + of the council, who, on receiving it, read it throughout, and then + questioned him upon it. + + </p> + <p> + At this time, also, my brother returned with accounts and + papers relative to the Slave Trade from Havre de Grace; but as I + had pledged myself to offer no other person to be examined, his + evidence was lost. Thus, after all the pains we had taken, and + in a contest, too, on the success of which our own reputation and + the fate of Africa depended, we were obliged to fight the battle + with sixteen less than we could have brought into the field; while + our opponents, on the other hand, on account of their superior + advantages, had mustered all their forces, not having omitted a + single man. + + </p> + <p> + I do not know of any period of my life in which I suffered so + much, both in body and mind, as from the time of resuming these + public inquiries by the privy council, to the time when they + were closed. For I had my weekly duty to attend at the committee + for the abolition during this interval. I had to take down + the examinations of all the evidences who came to London, and + to make certain copies of these. I had to summon these to town, + and to make provision against all accidents; and here I was often + troubled, by means of circumstances, which unexpectedly occurred, + lest, when committees of the council had been purposely appointed + + to hear them, they should not be forthcoming at the time. I had + also a new and extensive correspondence to keep up; for the + tables of questions which had been sent down to our correspondents, + brought letters almost innumerable on this subject, and they + were always addressed to me. These not only required answers + of themselves, but as they usually related to persons capable of + giving their testimony, and contained the particulars of what they + could state, they occasioned fresh letters to be written to others. + Hence the writing often of ten or twelve daily became necessary. + + </p> + <p> + But the contents of these letters afforded the circumstances, + which gave birth to so much suffering. They contained usually + some affecting tale of woe. At Bristol my feelings had been + harassed by the cruel treatment of the seamen, which had come + to my knowledge there: but now I was doomed to see this treatment + over again in many other melancholy instances; and, additionally, + to take in the various sufferings of the unhappy slaves. + These accounts I could seldom get time to read till late in the + evening, and sometimes not till midnight, when the letters containing + them were to be answered. The effect of these accounts + was in some instances to overwhelm me for a time in tears, and + in others to produce a vivid indignation, which affected my whole + frame. Recovering from these, I walked up and down the room: + I felt fresh vigour, and made new determinations of perpetual + warfare against this impious trade. I implored strength that I + might succeed. I then sat down, and continued my work as + long as my wearied eyes would permit me to see. Having been + agitated in this manner, I went to bed; but my rest was frequently + broken by the visions which floated before me. When I awoke, + these renewed themselves to me, and they flitted about with me + for the remainder of the day. Thus I was kept continually + harassed: my mind was confined to one gloomy and heart-breaking + subject for months. It had no respite, and my health began + now materially to suffer. + + </p> + <p> + But the contents of these letters were particularly grievous, + on account of the severe labours which they necessarily entailed + upon me in other ways than those which have been mentioned. + It was my duty, while the privy council examinations went on, + + not only to attend to all the evidence which was presented to us + by our correspondents, but to find out and select the best. The + happiness of millions depended upon it. Hence I was often + obliged to travel during these examinations, in order to converse + with those who had been pointed out to us as capable of giving + their testimony; and, that no time might be lost, to do this in the + night. More than two hundred miles in a week were sometimes + passed over on these occasions. + + </p> + <p> + The disappointments too, which I frequently experienced in + journeys, increased the poignancy of the, suffering, which + arose from a contemplation of the melancholy cases which I had + thus travelled to bring forward to the public view. The reader + at present can have no idea of these. I have been sixty miles to + visit a person, of whom I had heard, not only as possessing important + knowledge, but as espousing our opinions on this subject. I + have at length seen him. He has applauded my pursuit at our + first interview. He has told me, in the course of our conversation, + that neither my own pen, nor that of any other man, could + describe adequately the horrors, of the Slave Trade, horrors which + he himself had witnessed. He has exhorted me to perseverance + in this noble cause. Could I have wished for a more favourable + reception!—But mark the issue. He was the nearest relation of + a rich person concerned in the traffic; and if he were to come + forward with his evidence publicly, he should ruin all his expectations + from that Quarter. In the same week I have visited + another at a still greater distance. I have met with similar + applause. I have heard him describe scenes of misery which he + had witnessed, and on the relation of which he himself almost + wept. But mark the issue again.—"I am a surgeon," says he; + "through that window you see a spacious house; it is occupied + by a West Indian. The medical attendance upon his family is + of considerable importance to the temporal interests of mine. If + I give you my evidence I lose his patronage. At the house above + him lives a East Indian. The two families are connected: I + fear, if I lose the support of one, I shall lose that of the other also: + but I will give you privately all the intelligence in my power." + + </p> + <p> + The reader may now conceive the many miserable hours I + + must have spent, after such visits, in returning home; and how + grievously my heart must have been afflicted by these cruel + disappointments, but more particularly where they arose from causes + inferior to those which have been now mentioned, or from little + frivolous excuses, or idle and unfounded conjectures, unworthy of + beings expected to fill a moral station in life. Yes, O man! often + in these solitary journeyings have I exclaimed against the baseness + of thy nature, when reflecting on the little paltry considerations + which have smothered thy benevolence, and hindered thee + from succouring an oppressed brother. And yet, on a further + view of things, I have reasoned myself into a kinder feeling + towards thee. For I have been obliged to consider ultimately, + that there were both lights and shades in the human character; + and that, if the bad part of our nature was visible on these occasions, + the nobler part of it ought not to be forgotten. While I + passed a censure upon those, who were backward in serving this + great cause of humanity and justice, how many did I know, who + were toiling in the support of it! I drew also this consolation + from my reflections, that I had done my duty; that I had left + nothing untried or undone; that amidst all these disappointments + I had collected information, which might be useful at a future + time; and that such disappointments were almost inseparable from + the prosecution of a cause of such magnitude, and where the + interests of so many were concerned:— + + </p> + <p> + Having now given a general account of my own proceedings, + I shall state those of the committee; or show how they contributed, + by fulfilling the duties of their several departments, to + promote the cause in the interim. + + </p> + <p> + In the first place they completed the rules, or code of laws, + for their own government. + + </p> + <p> + They continued to adopt and circulate books, that they might + still enlighten the public mind on the subject, and preserve + it interested in favour of their institution. They kept the press indeed + almost constantly going for this purpose. They printed, within the + period mentioned, RAMSAY'S, <em>Address on the proposed Bill for the + Abolition; The Speech of Henry Beaufoy, Esq., on Sir William + Dolben's Bill</em>, of which an extract is given in <a href="#chap23" >Chap. xxiii.</a>; <em>Notes by + + a Planter on the two Reports from the Committee of the Honourable + House of Assembly of Jamaica</em>; <em>Observations on the Slave Trade</em> + by Mr. Wadstrom; and DICKSON'S <em>Letters on Slavery.</em> These + were all new publications. To those they added others of less + note, with new editions of the old. + + </p> + <p> + They voted their thanks to the Rev. Mr. Clifford, for his + excellent Sermon on the Slave Trade; to the pastor and congregation + of the Baptist church at Maze Pond, Southwark, for their + liberal subscription; and to John Barton, one of their own members, + for the services he had rendered them. The latter, having + left his residence in town for one in the country, solicited permission + to resign, and hence this mark of approbation was given to + him. He was continued also as an honorary and corresponding + member. + + </p> + <p> + They elected David Hartley and Richard Sharpe, Esqs., into + their own body, and Alexander Jaffray, Esq., the Rev. Charles + Symmons, of Haverfordwest, and the Rev. T. Burgess (afterwards + bishop of Salisbury), as honorary and corresponding + members. The latter had written <em>Considerations on the Abolition + of Slavery and the Slave Trade, upon grounds of natural, + religious, and political Duty</em>, which had been of great service to + the cause. + + </p> + <p> + Of the new correspondents of the committee within this + period I may first mention Henry Taylor, of North Shields; + William Proud, of Hull; the Rev. T. Gisborne, of Yoxall + Lodge; and William Ellford, Esq., of Plymouth. The latter as + chairman of the Plymouth committee, sent up for inspection an + engraving of a plan and section of a slave-ship, in which the + bodies of the slaves were seen stowed in the proportion of rather + less than one to a ton. This happy invention gave all those who + saw it a much better idea, than they could otherwise have had, of + the horrors of their transportation, and contributed greatly, as will + appear, afterwards, to impress the public in favour of our cause. + + </p> + <p> + The next, whom I shall mention, was C.L. Evans, Esq., of + West Bromwich; the Rev. T. Clarke, of Hull; S.P. Wolferstan, + of Stratford, near Tamworth; Edmund Lodge, Esq., of Halifax; + the Rev. Caleb Rotheram, of Kendal; and Mr. Campbell Haliburton, + + of Edinburgh. The news which Mr. Haliburton sent + was very agreeable. He informed us that, in consequence + of the great exertions of Mr. Alison, an institution had been + formed in Edinburgh, similar to that in London, which would + take all Scotland under its care and management, as far as + related to this great subject. He mentioned Lord Gardenston as + the chairman; Sir William Forbes as the deputy-chairman; himself + as the secretary; and Lord Napier, Professor Andrew Hunter, + Professor Greenfield, and William Creech, Adam Rolland, Alexander + Ferguson, John Dickson, John Erskine, John Campbell, + Archibald Gibson, Archibald Fletcher, and Horatius Canning, + Esqrs., as the committee. + + </p> + <p> + The others were, the Rev. J. Bidlake, of Plymouth; Joseph + Storrs, of Chesterfield; William Fothergill, of Carr End, Yorkshire; + J. Seymour, of Coventry; Moses Neave, of Poole; + Joseph Taylor, of Scarborough; Timothy Clark, of Doncaster; + Thomas Davis, of Milverton; George Croker Fox, of Falmouth; + Benjamin Grubb, of Clonmell in Ireland; Sir William Forbes, of + Edinburgh; the Rev. J. Jamieson, of Forfar; and Joseph Gurney, + of Norwich; the latter of whom sent up a remittance, and intelligence + at the same time, that a committee, under Mr. Leigh, so + often before mentioned, had been formed in that + city<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXXIV_1"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXXIV_1"></a>. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXXIV_1"></a><a href="#FootXXIV_1">A</a>: On the removal of Mr. Leigh from Norwich, + Dr. Pretyman, precentor of Lincoln and a prebend of Norwich, succeeded + him. + </p> + <p> + But the committee in London, while they were endeavouring + to promote the object of their institution at home, continued their + exertions for the same purpose abroad within this period. + + </p> + <p> + They kept up a communication with the different societies + established in America. + + </p> + <p> + They directed their attention also to the continent of Europe. + They had already applied, as I mentioned before, to the king of + Sweden in favour of their cause, and had received a gracious answer. + They now attempted to interest other Potentates in it. For this + purpose they bound up in an elegant manner two sets of the + <em>Essays on the Slavery and Commerce of the Human Species, and + on the Impolicy of the Slave Trade</em>, and sent them to the Chevalier + de Pinto, in Portugal. They bound up in a similar manner + + three sets of the same, and sent them to Mr. Eden (afterwards + Lord Aukland), at Madrid, to be given to the king of Spain, the + Count d'Aranda, and the Marquis del Campomanes. + + </p> + <p> + They kept up their correspondence with the committee at + Paris, which had greatly advanced itself in the eyes of the French + nation; so that, when the different bailliages sent deputies to the + states-general, they instructed them to take the Slave Trade into + their consideration as a national object, and with a view to its + abolition. + + </p> + <p> + They kept up their correspondence with Dr. Frossard of + Lyons. He had already published in France on the subject of the + Slave Trade; and now he offered the committee to undertake the + task, so long projected by them, of collecting such arguments and + facts concerning it, and translating them into different languages, + as might be useful in forwarding their views in foreign parts. + + </p> + <p> + They addressed letters also to various individuals, to Monsieur + Snetlage, doctor of laws at Halle in Saxony; to Monsieur Ladebat, + of Bordeaux; to the Marquis de Feuillade d'Aubusson, at + Paris; and to Monsieur Necker. The latter in his answer replied + in part as follows: "As this great question," says he, "is not + in my department, but in that of the minister for the colonies, I + cannot interfere in it directly, but I will give indirectly all the + assistance in my power. I have for a long time taken an interest + in the general alarm on this occasion, and in the noble alliance of + the friends of humanity in favour of the injured Africans. Such + an attempt throws a new lustre over your nation. It is not yet, + however, a national object in France; but the moment may perhaps + come, and I shall think myself happy in preparing the way + for it. You must be aware, however, of the difficulties which we + shall have to encounter on our side of the water; for our colonies + are much more considerable than yours; so that in the view of + political interest we are not on an equal footing. It will therefore + be necessary to find some middle line at first, as it cannot be + expected that humanity alone will be the governing principle of + mankind." + + </p> + <p> + But the day was now drawing near, when it was expected + that this great contest would be decided. Mr. Wilberforce, on + + the 19th of March, rose up in the House of Commons and + desired the resolution to be read, by which the house stood + pledged to take the Slave Trade into their consideration in the + then session; He then moved that the house should resolve itself + into a committee of the whole house on Thursday the 23rd of + April, for this purpose. This motion was agreed to; after which + he moved for certain official documents necessary to throw light + upon the subject in the course of its discussion. + + </p> + <p> + This motion, by means of which the great day of trial was + now fixed, seemed to be the signal for the planters, merchants, + and other interested persons to begin a furious opposition. + Meetings were accordingly called by advertisement. At these + meetings much warmth and virulence were manifested in debate, + and propositions breathing a spirit of anger were adopted. It was + suggested there, in the vehemence of passion, that the islands + could exist independently of the mother country; nor were even + threats withheld to intimidate government from effecting the + abolition. + + </p> + <p> + From this time, also, the public papers began to be filled + with such statements as were thought most likely to influence + the members of the House of Commons, previously to the discussion + of the question. + + </p> + <p> + The first impression attempted to be made upon them was + with respect to the slaves themselves. It was contended, and + attempted to be shown by the revival of the old argument of + human sacrifices in Africa, that these were better off in the + islands than in their own country. It was contended, also, that + they were people of very inferior capacities, and but little removed + from the brute creation; whence an inference was drawn that + their treatment, against which so much clamour had arisen, was + adapted to their intellect and feelings. + + </p> + <p> + The next attempt was to degrade the abolitionists in the opinion + of the house, by showing the wildness and absurdity of their + schemes. It was again insisted upon that emancipation was the + real, object of the former; so that thousands of slaves would + be let loose in the islands to rob or perish, and who could never + be brought back again into habits of useful industry. + + </p> + <p> + An attempt was then made to excite their pity in behalf of + the planters. The abolition, it was said, would produce insurrections + among the slaves. But insurrections would produce the + massacre of their masters; and, if any of these should happily + escape from butchery, they would be reserved only for ruin. + + </p> + <p> + An appeal was then made to them on the ground of their + own interest and of that of the people whom they represented. + It was stated that the ruin of the islands would be the ruin of + themselves and of the country. Its revenue would be half annihilated; + its naval strength would decay. Merchants, manufacturers + and others would come to beggary. But in this deplorable + situation they would expect to be indemnified for their losses. + Compensation, indeed, must follow: it could not be withheld. + But what would be the amount of it? The country would have + no less than from eighty to a hundred millions to pay the + sufferers; and it would be driven to such distress in paying this + sum as it had never before experienced. + + </p> + <p> + The last attempt was to show them that a regulation of the + trade was all that was now wanted. While this would remedy + the evils complained of, it would prevent the mischief which + would assuredly follow the abolition. The planters had already + done their part. The assemblies of the different islands had most + of them made wholesome laws upon the subject. The very bills + passed for this purpose in Jamaica and Grenada had arrived in + England, and might be seen by the public; the great grievances + had been redressed; no slave could now be mutilated or wantonly + killed by his owner; one man could not now maltreat, or bruise, + or wound the slave of another; the aged could not now be turned + off to perish by hunger. There were laws, also, relative to the + better feeding and clothing of the slaves. It remained only that + the trade to Africa should be put under as wise and humane + regulations as the slavery in the islands had undergone. + + </p> + <p> + These different statements, appearing now in the public papers + from day to day, began, in this early stage of the question, when + the subject in all its bearings was known but to few, to make a + considerable impression upon those, who were soon to be called + to the decision of it. But that which had the greatest effect + + upon them, was the enormous amount of the compensation, + which, it was said, must be made. This statement against the + abolition was making its way so powerfully, that Archdeacon + Paley thought it his duty to write, and to send to the committee, + a little treatise called <em>Arguments against the unjust + Pretensions of Slave Dealers and Holders, to be indemnified by pecuniary + Allowances at the public expense, in case the Slave Trade should be + abolished</em>. This treatise, when the substance of it was detailed + in the public papers, had its influence upon several members of + the House of Commons; but there were others who had been, + as it were, panic-struck by the statement. These in their fright + seemed to have lost the right use of their eyes, or to have looked + through a magnifying glass. With these the argument of emancipation, + which they would have rejected at another time as ridiculous, + obtained now easy credit. The massacres too, and the + ruin, though only conjectural, they admitted also. Hence some + of them deserted our cause wholly, while others, wishing to do + justice as far as they could to the slaves on the one hand, and to + their own countrymen on the other, adopted a middle line of + conduct, and would go no further than the regulation of the trade. + + </p> + <p> + While these preparations were making by our opponents to + prejudice the minds of those who were to be the judges in this + contest, Mr. Pitt presented the privy council report at the bar of + the House of Commons; and as it was a large folio volume, and + contained the evidence upon which the question was to be + decided, it was necessary that time should be given to the members + to peruse it. Accordingly, the 12th of May was appointed, + instead of the 23rd of April, for the discussion of the question. + + </p> + <p> + This postponement of the discussion of the question gave + time to all parties to prepare themselves further. The merchants + and planters availed themselves of it to collect petitions to parliament + from interested persons, against the abolition of the + trade, to wait upon members of parliament by deputation, in + order to solicit their attendance in their favour, and to renew + their injurious paragraphs in the public papers. The committee + for the abolition availed themselves of it to reply to these; and + here Dr. Dickson, who had been secretary to Governor Hey, + + in Barbados, and who had offered the committee his <em>Letters on + Slavery</em> before mentioned, and his services also, was of singular + use. Many members of parliament availed themselves of it to + retire into the country to read the report. Among the latter + were Mr. Wilberforce and Mr. Pitt. In this retirement they + discovered, notwithstanding the great disadvantages under which + we had laboured with respect to evidence, that our cause was + safe, and that, as far as it was to be decided by reason and sound + policy, it would triumph. It was in this retirement that Mr. + Pitt made those able calculations which satisfied him for ever + after, as the minister of the country, as to the safety of the great + measure of the abolition of the Slave Trade; for he had clearly + proved, that not only the islands could go on in a flourishing + state without supplies from the coast of Africa, but that they + were then in a condition to do it. + + </p> + <p> + At length the 12th of May arrived. Mr. Wilberforce rose + up in the Commons and moved the order of the day for the house + to resolve itself into a committee of the whole house, to take + into consideration the petitions which had been presented against + the Slave Trade. + + </p> + <p> + This order having been read, he moved that the report of the + committee of privy council, that the acts passed in the islands + relative to slaves, that the evidence adduced last year on the + Slave Trade, that the petitions offered in the last session against + the Slave Trade, and that the accounts presented to the house in + the last and present session relative to the exports and imports of + Africa, be referred to the same committee. + + </p> + <p> + These motions having been severally agreed to, the House + immediately resolved itself into a committee of the whole house, + and Sir William Dolben was put into the chair. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Wilberforce began by declaring, that when he considered + how much discussion the subject, which he was about to explain + to the committee, had occasioned, not only in that House, but + throughout the kingdom, and throughout Europe; and when he + considered the extent and importance of it, the variety of interests + involved in it, and the consequences which might arise, he + owned he had been filled with apprehensions, lest a subject of + + such magnitude, and a cause of such weight, should suffer from + the weakness of its advocate; but when he recollected that, in + the progress of his inquiries, he had everywhere been received + with candour, that most people gave him credit for the purity of + his motives, and that, however many of these might then differ + from him, they were all likely to agree in the end, he had dismissed + his fears, and marched forward with a firmer step in this + cause of humanity, justice, and religion. He could not, however, + but lament that the subject had excited so much warmth. He + feared that too many on this account were but ill prepared to + consider it with impartiality. He entreated all such to endeavour + to be calm and composed. A fair and cool discussion was essentially + necessary. The motion he meant to offer, was as reconcilable + to political expediency as to national humanity. It belonged + to no party question. It would in the end be found serviceable to + all parties, and to the best interests of the country. He did not + come forward to accuse the West India planter, or the Liverpool + merchant, or indeed any one concerned in this traffic; but, if + blame attached anywhere, to take shame to himself in common, + indeed, with the whole parliament of Great Britain, who, having + suffered it to be carried on under their own authority, were all of + them participators in the guilt. + + </p> + <p> + In endeavouring to explain the great business of the day, he + said he should call the attention of the House only to the leading + features of the Slave Trade. Nor should he dwell long upon + these. Every one might imagine for himself what must be the + natural consequence of such a commerce with Africa. Was it + not plain that she must suffer from it? that her savage manners + must be rendered still more ferocious? and that a trade of this + nature, carried on round her coasts, must extend violence and + desolation to her very centre? It was well known that the + natives of Africa were sold as goods, and that numbers of them + were continually conveyed away from their country by the owners + of British vessels. The question then was, which way the latter + came by them. In answer to this question, the privy council + report, which was then on the table, afforded evidence the most + satisfactory and conclusive. He had found things in it, which + + had confirmed every proposition he had maintained before, whether + this proposition had been gathered from living information + of the best authority, or from the histories he had read. But it + was unnecessary either to quote the report, or to appeal to history + on this occasion. Plain reason and common sense would point + out how the poor Africans were obtained. Africa was a country + divided into many kingdoms, which had different governments + and laws. In many parts the princes were despotic. In others + they had a limited rule. But in all of them, whatever the nature + of the government was, men were considered as goods and property, + and, as such, subject to plunder in the same manner as + property in other countries. The persons in power there were + naturally fond of our commodities; and to obtain them, (which + could only be done by the sale of their countrymen,) they waged + war on one another, or even ravaged their own country, when + they could find no pretence for quarrelling with their neighbours: + in their courts of law many poor wretches, who were innocent, + were condemned; and to obtain these commodities in greater + abundance, thousands were kidnapped and torn from their families, + and sent into slavery. Such transactions, he said, were + recorded in every history of Africa, and the report on the table + confirmed them. With respect, however, to these he should + make but one or two observations. If we looked into the reign + of Henry the Eighth, we should find a parallel for one of them. + We should find that similar convictions took place; and that + penalties followed conviction. With respect to wars, the kings + of Africa were never induced to engage in them by public principles, + by national glory, and least of all by the love of their + people. This had been stated by those most conversant in the + subject, by Dr. Spaarman and Mr. Wadstrom. They had conversed + with these princes, and had learned from their own mouths + that to procure slaves was the object of their hostilities. Indeed, + there was scarcely a single person examined before the privy + council who did not prove that the Slave Trade was the source + of the tragedies acted upon that extensive continent. Some had + endeavoured to palliate this circumstance; but there was not one + who did not more or less admit it to be true. By one the Slave + + Trade was called the concurrent cause, by the majority it was + acknowledged to be the principal motive, of the African wars. + The same might be said with respect to those instances of + treachery and injustice, in which individuals were concerned. + And here he was sorry to observe that our own countrymen were + often guilty. He would only at present advert to the tragedy + at Calabar, where two-large African villages, having been for + some time at war, made peace. This peace was to have, been + ratified by intermarriages; but some of our captains, who were + there, seeing their trade would be stopped for a while, + sowed dissension again between them. They actually set one village + against the other, took a share in the contest, massacred many + of the inhabitants, and carried others of them away as slaves. + But shocking as this transaction might appear, there was not a + single history of Africa to be read, in which scenes of as atrocious + a nature were not related. They, he said, who defended this + trade, were warped and blinded by their own interests, and would + not be convinced of the miseries they were daily heaping on their + fellow creatures. By the countenance, they gave it, they had + reduced the inhabitants of Africa to a worse state than that of + the most barbarous nation. They had destroyed what ought to + have been the bond of union and safety among them; they had + introduced discord and anarchy among them; they had set kings + against their subjects, and subjects against each other; they had + rendered every private family wretched; they had, in short, given + birth to scenes of injustice and misery not to be found in any + other quarter of the globe. + + </p> + <p> + Having said thus much on the subject of procuring slaves in, + Africa, he would now go to that of the transportation of them. + And here he had fondly hoped, that when men with affections + and feelings like our own had been torn from their country, and + everything dear to them, he should have found some mitigation + of their sufferings; but the sad reverse was the case. This was + the most wretched part of the whole subject. He was incapable, + of impressing the House with what he felt upon it. A description + of their conveyance was impossible. So much misery condensed, + in so little room was more than the human imagination had ever + + before conceived. Think only of six hundred persons linked + together, trying to get rid of each other, crammed in a close + vessel with every object that was nauseous and disgusting, + diseased, and struggling with all the varieties of wretchedness. + It seemed impossible to add anything more to human misery. + Yet shocking as this description must be felt to be by every man, + the transportation had been described by several witnesses from + Liverpool to be a comfortable conveyance. Mr. Norris had + painted the accommodations on board a slave-ship in the most + glowing colours. He had represented them in a manner which + would have exceeded his attempts at praise of the most luxurious + scenes. Their apartments, he said, were fitted up as advantageously + for them as circumstances could possibly admit: they had + several meals a day; some of their own country provisions, with + the best sauces of African cookery; and, by way of variety, + another meal of pulse, according to the European taste. After + breakfast they had water to wash themselves, while their apartments + were perfumed with frankincense and lime-juice. Before + dinner they were amused after the manner of their country; + instruments of music were introduced; the song and the dance + were promoted; games of chance were furnished them; the men + played and sang, while the women and girls made fanciful ornaments + from beads, with which they were plentifully supplied. + They were indulged in all their little fancies, and kept in + sprightly humour. Another of them had said, when the sailors + were flogged, it was out of the hearing of the Africans, lest it + should depress their spirits. He by no means wished to say that + such descriptions were wilful misrepresentations. If they were + not, it proved that interest or prejudice was capable of spreading + a film over the eyes thick enough to occasion total blindness. + + </p> + <p> + Others, however, and these men of the greatest veracity, had + given a different account. What would the house think, when + by the concurring testimony of these the true history was laid + open? The slaves who had been described as rejoicing in their + captivity, were so wrung with misery at leaving their country, + that it was the constant practice to set sail in the night, lest they + should know the moment of their departure. With respect to + + their accommodation, the right ancle of one was fastened to the + left ancle of another by an iron fetter; and if they were turbulent, + by another on the wrists. Instead of the apartments + described, they were placed in niches, and along the decks, in + such a manner, that it was impossible for any one to pass among + them, however careful he might be, without treading upon them. + Sir George Yonge had testified, that in a slave-ship, on board of + which he went, and which had not completed her cargo by two + hundred and fifty, instead of the scent of frankincense being + perceptible to the nostrils, the stench was intolerable. The allowance + of water was, so deficient, that the slaves were, frequently + found gasping for life, and almost suffocated. The pulse with + which they had been said to be favoured, were absolutely English + horse-beans. The legislature of Jamaica had stated the scantiness + both of water and provisions, as a subject which called for + the interference of parliament. As Mr. Norris had said, the song + and the dance were promoted, he could not pass over these + expressions without telling the house what they meant. It would + have been much more fair if he himself had explained the word + <em>promoted</em>. The truth was, that, for the + sake of exercise, these miserable wretches, loaded with chains and + oppressed with disease, were forced to dance by the terror of the + lash, and sometimes by the actual use of it. "I" said one of the + evidences, "was employed to dance the men, while another person danced the + women." Such then was the meaning of the, word <em>promoted</em>; + and it might also be observed with respect to food, that instruments + were sometimes carried out in order to force them to eat; + which was the same sort of proof, how much they enjoyed themselves + in this instance also. With respect to their singing, it consisted + of songs, of lamentation for the loss of their country. While + they sung they were in tears: so that one of the captains, more + humane probably than the rest, threatened a woman with a + flogging because the mournfulness of her song was too painful for + his feelings. Perhaps he could not give a better proof of the + sufferings of these injured people during their passage, than by + stating the mortality which accompanied it. This was a species + of evidence, which was infallible on this occasion. Death was a + + witness which could not deceive them; and the proportion of + deaths would not only confirm, but, if possible, even aggravate + our suspicion of the misery of the transit. It would be found, + upon an average of all the ships, upon which evidence had been + given, that, exclusively of such as perished before they sailed + from Africa, not less than twelve and-a-half per cent died on + their passage: besides these, the Jamaica report stated that four + and-a-half per cent died while in the harbours, or on shore before + the day of sale, which was only about the space of twelve or + fourteen days after their arrival there; and one-third more died + in the seasoning: and this in a climate exactly similar to their + own, and where, as some of the witnesses pretended, they were + healthy and happy. Thus out of every lot of one hundred + shipped from Africa, seventeen died in about nine weeks, and + not more than fifty lived to become effective labourers in our + islands. + + </p> + <p> + Having advanced thus far in his investigation, he felt, he said, + the wickedness of the Slave Trade to be so enormous, so dreadful, + and irremediable, that he could stop at no alternative short of its + abolition, A trade founded on iniquity, and carried on with + such circumstances of horror, must be abolished, let the policy of + it be what it might; and he had from this time determined, + whatever were the consequences, that he would never rest till he + had effected that abolition. His mind had, indeed, been harassed + by the objections of the West India planters, who had asserted, + that the ruin of their property must be the consequence of such + a measure. He could not help, however, distrusting their + arguments. He could not believe that the Almighty Being, who had + forbidden the practice of rapine and bloodshed, had made rapine + and bloodshed necessary to any part of his universe. He felt a + confidence in this persuasion, and took the resolution to act upon + it. Light, indeed, soon broke in upon him. The suspicion of his + mind was every day confirmed by increasing information, and the + evidence he had now to offer upon this point was decisive and + complete. The principle upon which he founded the necessity + of the abolition was not policy, but justice: but though justice + were the principle of the measure, yet he trusted he should + + distinctly prove it to be reconcilable with our truest political + interest. + + </p> + <p> + In the first place, he asserted that the number of the slaves in + our West India islands might be kept up without the introduction + of recruits from Africa; and to prove this, he would enumerate + the different sources of their mortality. The first was the + disproportion of the sexes, there being, upon an average, about + five males imported to three females: but this evil, when the Slave Trade + was abolished, would cure itself. The second consisted in the + bad condition in which they were brought to the islands, and the + methods of preparing them for sale. They arrived frequently in + a sickly and disordered state, and then they were made up for the + market by the application of astringents, washes, mercurial ointments, + and repelling drugs, so that their wounds and diseases + might be hid. These artifices were not only fraudulent but fatal; + but these, it was obvious, would of themselves fall with the trade. + A third was, excessive labour joined with improper food; and a + fourth was, the extreme dissoluteness of their manners. These, + also, would both of them be counteracted by the impossibility of + getting further supplies: for owners, now unable to replace those + slaves whom they might lose, by speedy purchases in the markets, + would be more careful how they treated them in future, and a + better treatment would be productive of better morals. And + here he would just advert to an argument used against those who + complained of cruelty in our islands, which was, that it was the + interest of masters to treat their slaves with humanity: but surely + it was immediate and present, not future and distant interest, + which was the great spring of action in the affairs of mankind. + Why did we make laws to punish men? It was their interest + to be upright and virtuous: but there was a present impulse continually + breaking in upon their better judgment, and an impulse, + which was known to be contrary to their permanent advantage. + It was ridiculous to say that men would be bound by their + interest, when gain or ardent passion urged them. It might as + well be asserted, that a stone could not be thrown into the air, or + a body move from place to place, because the principle of gravitation + bound them to the surface of the earth. If a planter in + + the West Indies found himself reduced in his profits, he did not + usually dispose of any part of his slaves; and his own gratifications + were never given up, so long as there was a possibility of + making any retrenchment in the allowance of his slaves.—But + to return to the subject which he had left: he was happy to + state, that as all the causes of the decrease which he had stated + might be remedied, so, by the progress of light and reformation, + these remedies had been gradually coming into practice; and + that, as these had increased, the decrease of slaves had in an + equal proportion been lessened. By the gradual adoption of these + remedies, he could prove from the report on the table, that the + decrease of slaves in Jamaica had lessened to such a degree, that + from the year 1774 to the present it was not quite one in a hundred, + and that, in fact, they were at present in a state of increase; + for that the births in that island, at this moment, exceeded the + deaths by one thousand or eleven hundred per annum. Barbados, + Nevis, Antigua, and the Bermudas, were, like Jamaica, lessening + their decrease, and holding forth an evident and reasonable expectation + of a speedy state of increase by natural population. But + allowing the number of Negroes even to decrease for a time, + there were methods which would insure the welfare of the West + India islands. The lands there might be cultivated by fewer + hands, and this to greater advantage to the proprietors and to this + country, by the produce of cinnamon, coffee, and cotton, than by + that of sugar. The produce of the plantations might also be + considerably increased, even in the case of sugar, with less hands + than were at present employed, if the owners of them would but + introduce machines of husbandry. Mr. Long himself, long resident + as a planter, had proved, upon his own estate, that the + plough, though so little used in the West Indies, did the service + of a hundred slaves, and caused the same ground to produce three + hogsheads of sugar, which, when cultivated by slaves, would only + produce two. The division of work, which, in free and civilized + countries, was the grand source of wealth, and the reduction of + the number of domestic servants, of whom not less than from + twenty to forty were kept in ordinary families, afforded other + resources for this purpose. But, granting that all these suppositions + + should be unfounded, and that everyone of these substitutes + should fail for a time, the planters would be indemnified, as is the + case in all transactions of commerce, by the increased price of + their produce in the British market. Thus, by contending against + the abolition, they were defeated in every part of the argument. + But he would never give up the point, that the number of the + slaves could be kept up, by natural population, and without any + dependence whatever on the Slave Trade. He therefore called + upon the house again to abolish it as a criminal waste of life—it + was utterly unnecessary—he had proved it so by documents contained + in the report. The merchants of Liverpool, indeed, had + thought otherwise, but he should be cautious how he assented to + their opinions. They declared last year that it was a losing trade + at two slaves to a ton, and yet they pursued it when restricted to + five slaves to three tons. He believed, however, that it was upon + the whole a losing concern; in the same manner as the lottery + would be a losing adventure to any company who should buy all + the tickets. Here and there an individual gained a large prize, + but the majority of adventurers gained nothing. The same merchants, + too, had asserted, that the town of Liverpool would be + mined by the abolition. But Liverpool did not depend for its + consequence upon the Slave Trade. The whole export-tonnage + from that place amounted to no less than 170,000 tons; whereas + the export part of it to Africa amounted only to 13,000. Liverpool, + he was sure, owed its greatness to other and very different causes; + the Slave Trade bearing but a small proportion to its other + trade. + + </p> + <p> + Having gone through that part of the subject which related + to the slaves, he would now answer two objections which he had + frequently heard stated. The first of these was, that the abolition + of the Slave Trade would operate to the total ruin of our navy, + and to the increase of that of our rivals. For an answer to these + assertions, he referred to what he considered to be the most valuable + part of the report, and for which the House and the country + were indebted to the indefatigable exertions of Mr. Clarkson. + By the report it appeared, that, instead of the Slave Trade being + a nursery for British seamen, it was their grave. It appeared + + that more seamen died in that trade in one year than in the + whole remaining trade of the country in two. Out of 910 sailors + in it, 216 died in the year, while upon a fair average of the same + number of men employed in the trades to the East and West + Indies, Petersburgh, Newfoundland, and Greenland, no more + than eighty-seven died. It appeared also, that out of 3170, who + had left Liverpool in the slave-ships in the year 1787, only 1428 + had returned. And here, while he lamented the loss which the + country thus annually sustained in her seamen, he had additionally + to lament the barbarous usage which they experienced, and + which this trade, by its natural tendency to harden the heart, + exclusively produced. He would just read an extract of a letter + from Governor Parrey, of Barbados, to Lord Sydney, one of the + secretaries of state. The Governor declared he could no longer + contain himself on account of the ill treatment, which the British + sailors endured at the hands of their savage captains. These + were obliged to have their vessels strongly manned, not only on + account of the unhealthiness of the climate of Africa, but of the + necessity of guarding the slaves, and preventing and suppressing + insurrections; and when they arrived in the West Indies, and + were out of all danger from the latter, they quarrelled with their + men on the most frivolous pretences, on purpose to discharge + them, and thus save the payment of supernumerary wages home. + Thus many were left in a diseased and deplorable state; either to + perish by sickness, or to enter into foreign service; great numbers + of whom were for ever lost to their country. The Governor + concluded by declaring, that the enormities attendant on this + trade were so great, as to demand the immediate interference of + the legislature. + + </p> + <p> + The next objection to the abolition was, that if we were to + relinquish the Slave Trade, our rivals, the French, would take it + up; so that, while we should suffer by the measure, the evil + would still go on, and this even to its former extent. This was, + indeed, a very weak argument; and, if it would defend the + continuance of the Slave Trade, might equally be urged in favour of + robbery, murder, and every species of wickedness, which, if we + did not practise, others would commit. But suppose, for the sake + + of argument, that they were to take it up, what good would it do + them? What advantages, for instance, would they derive from + this pestilential commerce to their marine? Should not we, on + the other hand, be benefited by this change? Would they not + be obliged to come to us, in consequence of the cheapness of our + manufactures, for what they wanted for the African market? + But he would not calumniate the French nation so much as to + suppose that they would carry on the trade, if we were to relinquish + it. He believed, on the other hand, that they would + abolish it also. Mr. Necker, the minister of France, was a man + of religious principle; and, in his work upon the administration + of the finances, had recorded his abhorrence of this trade. He + was happy also to relate an anecdote of the king of France, + which proved that he was a friend to the abolition; for, being + petitioned to dissolve a society, formed at Paris, for the annihilation + of the Slave Trade, his majesty answered, that he would not, + and was happy to hear that so humane an association was formed + in his dominions. And here, having mentioned the society in + Paris, he could not help paying a due compliment to that established + in London for the same purpose, which had laboured + with the greatest assiduity to make this important subject understood, + and which had conducted itself with so much judgment + and moderation as to have interested men of all religions, and to + have united them in their cause. + + </p> + <p> + There was another topic which he would submit to the + notice of the House, before he concluded. They were perhaps + not aware that a fair and honourable trade might be substituted + in the natural productions of Africa, so that our connexion with + that continent in the way of commercial advantage need not be + lost. The natives had already made some advances in it; and if + they had not appeared so forward in raising and collecting their + own produce for sale as in some other countries, it was to be + imputed to the Slave Trade: but remove the cause, and Africa + would soon emerge from her present ignorant and indolent state. + Civilization would go on with her as well as with other nations. + Europe, three or four centuries ago, was in many parts as barbarous + as Africa at present, and chargeable with as bad practices. + + For what would be said, if, so late as the middle of the thirteenth + century, he could find a parallel there for the Slave Trade?—Yes. + This parallel was to be found even in England. The + people of Bristol, in the reign of Henry the Seventh, had a + regular market for children, which were bought by the Irish: + but the latter having experienced a general calamity, which they + imputed as a judgment from Heaven on account of this wicked + traffic, abolished it. The only thing, therefore, which he had + to solicit of the House, was to show that they were now as + enlightened as the Irish were four centuries back, by refusing to + buy the children of other nations. He hoped they would do it. + He hoped, too, they would do it in an unqualified manner. + Nothing less than a total abolition of the trade would do away + the evils complained of. The legislature of Jamaica, indeed, had + thought that regulations might answer the purpose. Their report + had recommended, that no person should be kidnapped, or permitted + to be made a slave, contrary to the customs of Africa. + But might he not be reduced to this state very unjustly, and yet + by no means contrary to the African laws? Besides, how could + we distinguish between those who were justly or unjustly + reduced to it? Could we discover them by their physiognomy?—But + if we could, who would believe that the British + captains would be influenced by any regulations; made in this + country, to refuse to purchase those who had not been fairly, + honestly? and uprightly enslaved? They who were offered to us + for sale, were brought, some of them, three or four thousand miles, + and exchanged like cattle from one hand to another, till they + reached the coast. But who could return these to their homes, + or make them compensation for their sufferings during their long + journeyings? He would now conclude by begging pardon of the + House for having detained them so long. He could indeed have + expressed his own conviction in fewer words. He needed only + to have made one or two short statements, and to have quoted + the commandment, "Thou shalt do no murder." But he thought + it his duty to lay the whole of the case, and the whole of its guilt, + before them. They would see now that no mitigations, no palliatives, + would either be efficient or admissible. Nothing short + + of an absolute abolition could be adopted. This they owed to + Africa: they owed it, too, to their own moral characters. And + he hoped they would follow up the principle of one of the + repentant African captains, who had gone before the committee + of privy council as a voluntary witness, and that they would + make Africa all the atonement in their power for the multifarious + injuries she had received at the hands of British subjects. With + respect to these injuries, their enormity and extent, it might be + alleged in their excuse, that they were not fully acquainted with + them till that moment, and therefore not answerable for their + former existence: but now they could no longer plead ignorance + concerning them. They had seen them brought directly before + their eyes, and they must decide for themselves, and must justify + to the world and their own consciences the facts and principles + upon which their decision was formed. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Wilberforce having concluded his speech, which lasted + three hours and a half, read, and laid on the table of the House, + as subjects for their future discussion, twelve propositions which + he had deduced from the evidence contained in the privy council + report, and of which the following is the abridged substance:— + + </p> + <p> + 1. That the number of slaves annually carried from the coast + of Africa, in British vessels, was about 38,000, of which, on an + average, 22,500 were carried to the British islands, and that of + the latter only 17,500 were retained there. + + </p> + <p> + 2. That these slaves, according to the evidence on the table, + consisted, first, of prisoners of war; secondly, of free persons sold + for debt, or on account of real or imputed crimes, particularly + adultery and witchcraft; in which cases they were frequently + sold with their whole families, and sometimes for the profit of + those by whom they were condemned; thirdly, of domestic slaves + sold for the profit of their masters, in some places at the will of + the masters, and in others, on being condemned by them for real + or imputed crimes; fourthly, of persons made slaves by various + acts of oppression, violence, or fraud, committed either by the + princes and chiefs of those countries on their subjects, or by + private individuals on each other; or, lastly, by Europeans + engaged in this traffic. + + </p> + <p> + 3. That the trade so carried on, had necessarily a tendency to + occasion frequent and cruel wars among the natives; to produce + unjust convictions and punishments for pretended or aggravated + crimes; to encourage acts of oppression, violence, and fraud, and + to obstruct the natural course of civilization and improvement in + those countries! + + </p> + <p> + 4. That Africa in its present state furnished several valuable + articles of commerce, which were partly peculiar to itself, but + that it was adapted to the production of others, with which we + were now either wholly or in great part supplied by foreign nations. + That an extensive commerce with Africa might be substituted in + these commodities, so as to afford a return for as many articles + as had annually been carried thither in British vessels: and, + lastly, that such a commerce might reasonably be expected to + increase, by the progress of civilization there. + + </p> + <p> + 5. That the Slave Trade was peculiarly destructive to the + seamen employed in it; and that the mortality there had been + much greater than in any British vessels employed upon the + same coast in any other service or trade. + + </p> + <p> + 6. That the mode of transporting the slaves from Africa to + the West Indies necessarily exposed them to many and grievous + sufferings, for which no regulations could provide an adequate + remedy; and that in consequence thereof a large proportion had + annually perished during the voyage. + + </p> + <p> + 7. That a large proportion had also perished in the harbours + in the West Indies, from the diseases contracted in the voyage, + and the treatment of the same, previously to their being sold; + and that this loss amounted to four and a half percent of the + imported slaves. + + </p> + <p> + 8. That the loss of the newly-imported slaves, within the + three first years after their importation, bore a large proportion to + the whole number imported. + + </p> + <p> + 9. That the natural increase of population among the slaves in + the islands appeared to have been impeded principally by the + following causes:—First, by the inequality of the sexes in the + importations from Africa. Secondly, by the general dissoluteness + of manners among the slaves, and the want of proper regulations + + for the encouragement of marriages, and of rearing children + among them. Thirdly, by the particular diseases which were + prevalent among them, and which were, in some instances, to be + attributed to too severe labour, or rigorous treatment; and in + others to insufficient or improper food. Fourthly, by those + diseases, which affected a large proportion of negro-children in + their infancy, and by those to which the negroes, newly imported + from Africa, had been found to be particularly liable. + + </p> + <p> + 10. That the whole number of the slaves in the island of + Jamaica, in 1768, was about 167,000, in 1774, about 193,000, + and in 1787, about 256,000: that by comparing these numbers + with the numbers imported and retained in the said island + during all these years, and making proper allowances, the annual + excess of deaths above births was in the proportion of about + seven-eighths per cent.; that in the first six years of this period + it was in the proportion of rather more than one on every + hundred; that in the last thirteen years of the same it was in + the proportion of about three-fifths on every hundred; and that + a number of slaves, amounting to fifteen thousand, perished + during the latter period, in consequence of repeated hurricanes, + and of the want of foreign supplies of provisions. + + </p> + <p> + 11. That the whole number of slaves in the island of + Barbados was, in the year, 1764, about 70,706; in 1774, about + 74,874; in 1780, about 68,270; in 1781, after the hurricane, + about 63,248, and in 1786, about 62,115; that, by comparing + these numbers with the number imported into this island, (not + allowing for any re-exportation,) the annual excess of deaths + above births in the ten years, from 1764 to 1774, was in, the + proportion of about five on every hundred; that in the seven + years, from 1774 to 1780, it was in the proportion of about one + and one-third on every hundred; that between the years 1780 + and 1781 there had been a decrease in the number of slaves, of + about 5000; that in the six years, from 1781 to 1786, the excess + of deaths was in the proportion of rather less than seven-eighths + on every hundred; that in the four years, from, 1783 to 1786, it + was in the proportion of rather less than one-third on every + + hundred; and that during the whole period, there was no doubt + that some had been exported from the island, but considerably + more in the first part of this period than in the last. + + </p> + <p> + 12. That the accounts from the Leeward Islands, and from + Dominica, Grenada, and St. Vincent's, did not furnish sufficient + grounds for comparing the state of population in the said islands, + at different periods, with the number of slaves, which had been + from time to time imported there, and exported therefrom; but + that from the evidence which had been received, respecting the + present state of these islands, as well as that of Jamaica and + Barbados, and from a consideration of the means of obviating the + causes, which had hitherto operated to impede the natural + increase of the slaves, and of lessening the demand for manual + labour, without diminishing the profit of the planters, no considerable + or permanent inconvenience would result from discontinuing the further + importation of African slaves. + + </p> + <p> + These propositions having been laid upon the table of the + House, Lord Penrhyn rose in behalf of the planters; and next, + after him, Mr. Gascoyne, (both members for Liverpool,) in behalf + of the merchants concerned in the latter place. They both + predicted the ruin and misery which would inevitably follow the + abolition of the trade. The former said, that no less than seventy + millions were mortgaged upon lands in the West Indies, all of + which would be lost. Mr. Wilberforce, therefore, should have + made a motion to pledge the House to the repayment of this sum, + before he had brought forward his propositions. Compensation + ought to have been agreed upon as a previous necessary measure. + The latter said, that in consequence of the bill of last year, many + ships were laid up, and many seamen out of employ. His constituents + had large capitals engaged in the trade, and, if it were to + be wholly done away, they would suffer from not knowing where + to employ them: they both joined in asserting, that Mr. Wilberforce + had made so many misrepresentations in all the branches + of this subject, that no reliance whatever was to be placed on the + picture, which he had chosen to exhibit. They should speak, however, + more fully to this point when the propositions were + discussed. + + </p> + <p> + The latter declaration called up Mr. Wilberforce again, who + observed that he had no intention of misrepresenting any fact: + he did not know that he had done it in any one instance; but, if + he had, it would be easy to convict him out of the report upon + the table. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Burke then rose. He would not, he said, detain the + committee long: indeed, he was not able, weary and indisposed + as he then felt himself, even if he had an inclination to do it; but + as on account of his other parliamentary duty, he might not + have it in his power to attend the business now before them in + its course, he would take that opportunity of stating his opinion + upon it. + + </p> + <p> + And, first, the House, the nation, and all Europe were under + great obligations to Mr. Wilberforce for having brought this + important subject forward. He had done it in a manner the + most masterly, impressive, and eloquent. He had laid down his + principles so admirably, and with so much order and force, that + his speech had equalled anything he had ever heard in modern + oratory, and perhaps it had not been excelled by anything to be + found in ancient times. As to the Slave Trade itself, there could + not be two opinions about it, where men were not interested. A + trade begun in savage war, prosecuted with unheard-of barbarity, + continued during the transportation with the most loathsome + imprisonment, and ending in perpetual exile and slavery, was a + trade so horrid in all in circumstances, that it; was impossible to + produce a single argument in its favour. On the ground of prudence, + nothing could be said in defence of it, nor could it be + justified by necessity. It was necessity alone that could be + brought to justify inhumanity; but no case of necessity could + be made out strong enough to justify this monstrous traffic. It + was therefore the duty of the House to put an end to it, and this + without further delay. This conviction, that it became them to + do it immediately, made him regret (and it was the only thing + he regretted in the admirable speech he had heard) that his + honourable friend should have introduced propositions on this + subject. He could have wished that the business had been + brought to a conclusion at once, without voting the propositions + + which had been read to them. He was not over fond of abstract + propositions; they were seldom necessary, and often occasioned + great difficulty, embarrassment, and delay. There was, besides, + no occasion whatever to assign detailed reasons for a vote, which + nature herself dictated, and which religion enforced. If it should + happen that the propositions were not carried in that House or + the other, such a complication of mischiefs might follow, as might + occasion them heartily to lament that they were ever introduced. + If the ultimate resolution should happen to be lost, he was afraid + the propositions would pass as waste paper, if not be injurious to + the cause at a future time. + + </p> + <p> + And now, as the House must bring this matter to an issue, he + would beg their attention to a particular point. He entreated + them to look further than the present moment, and to ask themselves + if they had fortified their minds sufficiently to bear the + consequences which might arise from the abolition of the Slave + Trade, supposing they should decide upon it. When they abandoned + it, other foreign powers might take it up, and clandestinely + supply our islands with slaves. Had they virtue enough to see + another country reaping profits, which they themselves had given + up; and to abstain from that envy natural to rivals, and firmly to + adhere to their determination? If so, let them thankfully proceed + to vote the immediate abolition of the Slave Trade. But if they + should repent of their virtue, (and he had known miserable instances + of such repentance,) all hopes of future reformation of this + enormous evil would be lost. They would go back to a trade they + had abandoned with redoubled attachment, and would adhere to + it with a degree of avidity and shameless ardour, to their own + humiliation, and to the degradation and disgrace of the nation in + the eyes of all Europe. These were considerations worth regarding, + before they took a decisive step in a business, in which they + ought not to move with any other determination than to abide + by the consequences at all hazards. The honourable gentleman + (who to his eternal honour had introduced this great subject to + their notice) had, in his eloquent oration, knocked at every door, + and appealed to every passion, well knowing that mankind were + governed by their sympathies. But there were other passions to + + be regarded; men were always ready to obey their sympathies + when it cost them nothing; but were they prepared to pay the price + of their virtue on this great occasion? This was the question. If + they were, they would do themselves immortal honour, and would + have the satisfaction of having done away a commerce, which, + while it was productive of misery not to be described, most of all + hardened the heart and vitiated the human character. + + </p> + <p> + With respect to the consequences mentioned by the two + members for Liverpool, he had a word or two to offer upon them. + Lord Penrhyn had talked of millions to be lost and paid for; + but seeing no probability of any loss ultimately, he could see no + necessity for compensation. He believed on the other hand, that + the planters would be great gainers by those wholesome regulations, + which they would be obliged to make, if the Slave Trade + were abolished. He did not however flatter them with the idea + that this gain would be immediate. Perhaps they might experience + inconveniences at first, and even some loss. But what then? + With their loss, their virtue would be the greater. And in this + light he hoped the House would consider the matter; for, if they + were called upon to do an act of virtuous energy and heroism, + they ought to think it right to submit to temporary disadvantages + for the sake of truth, justice, humanity, and the prospect of + greater happiness. + + </p> + <p> + The other member, Mr. Gascoyne, had said that his constituents, + if the trade were abolished, could not employ their capitals + elsewhere. But whether they could or not, it was the duty of + that House, if they put them into a traffic which was shocking + to humanity and disgraceful to the nation, to change their application, + and not to allow them to be used to a barbarous purpose. + He believed, however, that the merchants of Liverpool would + find no difficulty on this head. All capitals required active + motion; it was in their nature not to remain passive and unemployed; + they would soon turn them into other channels. This + they had done themselves during the American war; for the + Slave Trade was almost wholly lost, and yet they had their ships + employed, either as transports in the service of government or in + other ways. + + </p> + <p> + And as he now called upon the House not to allow any conjectural + losses to become impediments in the way of the abolition + of the Slave Trade, so he called upon them to beware how they + suffered any representations of the happiness of the state of + slavery in our islands to influence them against so glorious a + measure. Admiral Barrington had said in his testimony, that he + had often envied the condition of the slaves there. But surely, + the honourable admiral must have meant, that, as he had often + toiled like a slave in the defence of his country, (as his many + gallant actions had proved,) so he envied the day when he was to + toil in a similar manner in the same cause. If, however, his + words were to be taken literally, his sensations could only be + accounted for by his having seen the negroes in the hour of their + sports, when a sense of the misery of their condition was neither + felt by themselves not visible to others. But their appearance on + such occasions did by no means disprove their low and abject + state. Nothing made a happy slave but a degraded man. In + proportion as the mind grows callous to its degradation, and all + sense of manly pride is lost, the slave feels comfort. In fact, he + is no longer a man. If he were to define a man, he would say + with Shakespeare, + + </p> + <div class="poem"> + + <div class="lg">Man is a being holding large discourse,<br>Looking before and after.<br><br></div> + </div> + <p> + But, a slave was incapable of looking before and after; he had + no motive to do it; he was a mere passive instrument in the + hands of others to be used at their discretion. Though living, he + was, dead as to all voluntary agency; though moving amidst the + creation with an erect form, and with the shape and semblance of + a human being, he was a nullity as a man. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Pitt thanked his honourable friend Mr. Wilberforce for + having at length introduced this great and important subject to + the consideration of the House. He thanked him also for the + perspicuous, forcible, and masterly manner in which he had + treated it. He was sure that no argument compatible with any + idea of justice could be assigned for the continuation of the + Slave Trade. And at the same time that he was willing to + + listen with candour and attention to everything that could be + urged on the other side of the question, he was sure that the + principles, from which his opinion was deduced, were unalterable. + He had examined the subject with the anxiety which became + him, where the happiness and interests of so many thousands + were concerned, and with the minuteness which would be expected + of him, on account of, the responsible situation which he held; + and he averred that it was sophistry, obscurity of ideas, and + vagueness of reasoning, which alone could have hitherto prevented + all mankind (those immediately interested in the question + excepted) from agreeing in one and the same opinion upon the + subject. With respect to the propriety of introducing the individual + propositions which had been offered, he differed with + Mr. Burke, and he thanked his honourable friend Mr. Wilberforce + for having chosen the only way in which it could be made + obvious to the worlds that they were warranted on every ground + of reason and of fact in coming to that vote, which he trusted + would be the end of their proceeding. The grounds for the + attainment of this end were distinctly stated in the propositions. + Let the propositions be brought before the House, one by one, and + argued from the evidence, and it would then be seen that they + were such as no one, who was not deaf to the language of reason, + could deny. Let them be once entered upon the journals of that + House, and it was almost impossible they should fail. The abolition + must be voted; as to the mode of it, or how it should be + effected, they were not at present to discuss it; but he trusted it + would be such as would not invite foreign powers to supply our + islands with slaves by a clandestine trade. After a debt, founded + on the immutable principles of justice, was found to be due, it + was impossible but the country had means to cause it to be paid. + Should such an illicit proceeding be attempted; the only language + which it became us to adopt, was, that Great Britain had resources + to enable her to protect her islands, and to prevent that traffic + from being clandestinely carried on by them, which she had + thought fit from a regard to her character to abandon. It was + highly becoming Great Britain to take the lead of other nations + in such a virtuous and magnificent measure, and he could not but + + have confidence that they would he inclined to share the honour + with us, or be pleased to follow us as their example. If we were + disposed to set about this glorious work in earnest, they might he + invited to concur with us by a negotiation to be immediately + opened for that purpose. He would only now observe, before he + sat down, in answer to certain ideas thrown out, that he could + by no means acquiesce in any compensation for losses which + might be sustained by the people of Liverpool or by others in any + other part of the kingdom, in the execution of this just and + necessary undertaking. + + </p> + <p> + Sir William Yonge said, he wanted no inducement to concur + with the honourable mover of the propositions, provided the + latter could be fairly established, and no serious mischiefs were + to arise from the abolition. But he was apprehensive, that many + evils might follow in the case of any sudden or unlooked-for + decrease in the slaves. They might be destroyed by hurricanes. + They might be swept off by many fatal disorders. In these + cases, the owners of them would not be able to fill up their + places, and they who had lent money upon the lands, where the + losses had happened, would foreclose their mortgages. He was + fearful, also, that a clandestine trade would be carried on, and + then the sufferings of the Africans, crammed up in small vessels, + which would be obliged to be hovering about from day to day, to + watch an opportunity of landing, would be ten times greater than + any which they now experienced in the legal trade. He was + glad, however, as the matter was to be discussed, that it had been + brought forward in the shape of distinct propositions, to be + grounded upon the evidence in the privy council report. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Fox observed that he did not like, where he agreed as to + the substance of a measure, to differ with respect to the form of + it. If, however, he differed in any thing in the present case, it + was with a view rather to forward the business than to injure it, + or to throw anything like an obstacle in its way. Nothing like + either should come from him. What he thought was, that all + the propositions were not necessary to be voted previously to the + ultimate decision, though some of them undoubtedly were. He + considered them as of two classes: the one, alleging the grounds + + upon which it was proper to proceed to the abolition; such as + that the trade was productive of inexpressible misery, in various + ways, to the innocent natives of Africa; that it was the grave + of our seamen, and so on; the other merely answering objections + which might be started, and where there might be a difference of + opinion. He was, however, glad that the propositions were + likely to be entered upon the journals; since, if, from any + misfortune, the business should be deferred, it might succeed another + year. Sure he was that it could not fail to succeed sooner or + later. He highly approved of what Mr. Pitt had said relative to + the language it became us to hold out to foreign powers, in case + of a clandestine trade. With respect, however, to the assertion + of Sir William Yonge that a clandestine trade in slaves would + be worse than a legal one, he could not admit it. Such a trade, + if it existed at all, ought only to be clandestine. A trade in + human flesh and sinews was so scandalous, that it ought not + openly to be carried on by any government whatever, and much + less by that of a Christian country. With regard to the regulation + of the Slave Trade, he knew of no such thing as a regulation + of robbery and murder. There was no medium. The legislature + must either abolish it, or plead guilty of all the wickedness + which had been shown to attend it. He would now say a word + or two with respect to the conduct of foreign nations on this + subject. It was possible that these, when they heard that the + matter had been discussed in that House, might follow the + example, or they might go before us and set one themselves. If + this were to happen, though we might be the losers, humanity + would be the gainer. He himself had been thought sometimes + to use expressions relative to France, which were too harsh, and + as if he could only treat her as the enemy of this country. + Politically speaking, France was our rival. But he well knew the + distinction between political enmity and illiberal prejudice. If + there was any great and enlightened nation in Europe, it was + France, which was as likely as any country upon the face of the + globe to catch a spark from the light of our fire, and to act upon + the present subject with warmth and enthusiasm. France had + often been improperly stimulated by her ambition; and he had no + + doubt but that, in the present instance, she would readily follow + its honourable dictates. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. (afterwards Lord) Grenville would not detain the house + by going into a question which had been so ably argued; but he + should not do justice to his feelings, if he did not express publicly + to his honourable friend, Mr. Wilberforce, the pleasure he had + received from one of the most masterly and eloquent speeches he + had ever heard; a speech which, while it did honour to him, + entitled him to the thanks of the House, of the people of England, + of all Europe, and of the latest posterity. He approved of the + propositions as the best mode of bringing this great question to a + happy issue. He was pleased, also, with the language which had + been held out with respect to foreign nations, and with our determination + to assert our right of preventing our colonies from + carrying on any trade which we had thought it our duty to abandon. + + </p> + <p> + Aldermen Newnham, Sawbridge, and Watson, though they + wished well to the cause of humanity, could not, as representatives + of the city of London, give their concurrence to a measure + which would injure it so essentially as the abolition of the Slave + Trade. This trade might undoubtedly be put under wholesome + regulations, and made productive of great commercial advantages; + but, if it were abolished, it would render the city of London one + scene of bankruptcy and ruin. It became the house to take + care, while they were giving way to the goodness of their hearts, + that they did not contribute to the ruin of the mercantile interests + of their country. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Martin stated that he was so well satisfied with the + speech of the honourable gentleman who had introduced the propositions, + and with the language held out by other distinguished + members on this subject, that he felt himself more proud than + ever of being an Englishman. He hoped and believed that the + melancholy predictions of the worthy aldermen would not prove + true, and that the citizens of London would have too much public + spirit to wish that a great national object (which comprehended + the great duties of humanity and justice) should be set aside, + merely out of consideration to their own private interests. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Dempster expected, notwithstanding all he had heard, + + that the first proposition submitted to them would have been to + make good out of the public purse all the losses individuals were + liable to sustain from an abolition of the Slave Trade. This + ought to have been, as Lord Penrhyn had observed, a preliminary + measure. He did not like to be generous out of the pockets of + others. They were to abolish the trade, it was said, out of a + principle of humanity. Undoubtedly they owed humanity to all + mankind; but they also owed justice to those who were interested + in the event of the question, and had embarked their fortunes on + the faith of parliament. In fact he did not like to see men introducing + even their schemes of benevolence to the detriment of + other people; and much less did he like to see them going to the + colonies, as it were upon their estates, and prescribing rules to + them for their management. With respect to his own speculative + opinion, as it regarded cultivation, he had no objection to + give it. He was sure that sugar could be raised cheaper by free-men + than by slaves. This the practice in China abundantly + proved; but yet neither he, nor any other person, had a right to + force a system upon others. As to the trade itself, by which the + present labourers were supplied, it had been considered by that + House as so valuable that they had preferred it to all others, + and had annually voted a considerable sum towards carrying it + on. They had hitherto deemed it an essential nursery for our + seamen. Had it really been such as had been represented, our + ancestors would scarcely have encouraged it; and therefore, upon + these and other considerations, he could not help thinking + that they would be wanting in their duty if they abolished it + altogether. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. William Smith would not detain the House long at that + late hour upon this important subject; but he could not help + testifying the great satisfaction he felt at the manner, in which + the honourable gentleman who opened the debate (if it could be + so called) had treated it. He approved of the propositions as the + best mode of bringing the decision to a happy issue. He gave + Mr. Fox great credit for the open and manly way in which he + had manifested his abhorrence of this trade, and for the support + he meant to give to the total and unqualified abolition of it; for + + he was satisfied, that the more it was inquired into, the more it + would be found that nothing short of abolition would cure the + evil. With respect to certain assertions of the members for + Liverpool, and certain melancholy predictions about the consequences + of such an event, which others had held out, he desired + to lay in his claim for observation upon them when the great + question should come before the House. + + </p> + <p> + Soon after this the House broke up; and the discussion of + the propositions, which was the next parliamentary measure + intended, was postponed to a future day, which was sufficiently + distant to give all the parties concerned, time to make the necessary + preparations for it. + + </p> + <p> + Of this interval the committee for the abolition availed themselves, + to thank Mr. Wilberforce for the very able and satisfactory + manner in which he had stated to the House his propositions for + the abolition of the Slave Trade, and for the unparalleled assiduity + and perseverance with which he had all along endeavoured + to accomplish this object, as well as to take measures themselves + for the further promotion of it. Their opponents availed themselves + of this interval also. But that which now embarrassed them, + was the evidence contained in the privy council report. They + had no idea, considering the number of witnesses they had sent + to be examined, that this evidence, when duly weighed, could by + right reasoning have given birth to the sentiments which had + been displayed in the speeches of the most distinguished members + of the House of Commons, or to the contents of the propositions + which had been laid upon their table. They were thunderstruck + as it were by their own weakness; and from this time they were + determined, if possible, to get rid of it as a standard for decision, + or to interpose, every parliamentary delay in their power. + + </p> + <p> + On the 21st of May, the subject came again before the attention + of the House. It was ushered in, as was expected, by petitions + collected in the interim, and which were expressive of the + frightful consequences which would attend the abolition of the + Slave Trade. Alderman Newnham presented one from certain + merchants in London; Alderman Watson another from certain + merchants, mortgagees, and creditors of the sugar-islands; Lord + + Maitland, another from the planters of Antigua; Mr. Blackburne, + another from certain manufacturers of Manchester; Mr. Gascoyne, + another from the corporation of Liverpool; and Lord + Penrhyn, others from different interested bodies in the same town. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Wilberforce then moved the order of the day for the + House to go into a committee of the whole house on the report + of the privy council, and the several matters of evidence already + upon the table relative to the Slave Trade. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Alderman Sawbridge immediately arose, and asked + Mr. Wilberforce if he meant to adduce any other evidence, + besides that in the privy council report, in behalf of his propositions, + or to admit other witnesses, if such could be found, to + invalidate them. Mr. Wilberforce replied, that he was quite + satisfied with the report on the table. It would establish all his + propositions. He should call no witnesses himself; as to permission + to others to call them, that must be determined by the + House. + + </p> + <p> + This question and this answer gave birth immediately to great + disputes upon the subject. Aldermen Sawbridge, Newnham, + and Watson; Lords Penrhyn and Maitland; Messrs. Gascoyne, + Marsham, and others, spoke against the admission of the evidence + which had been laid upon the table. They contended that it was + insufficient, defective, and contradictory; that it + was <em>ex parte</em> evidence; that it had been + manufactured by ministers; that it was founded chiefly on hearsay, + and that the greatest part of it was false; that it had undergone + no cross-examination; that it was unconstitutional; and that, if they + admitted it, they would establish a dangerous precedent, and abandon + their rights. It was urged on the other hand by Mr. Courtenay, that it + could not be <em>ex parte</em> evidence, because it + contained testimony on both sides of the question. The circumstance, + also, of its being contradictory, + which had been alleged against it, proved that it was + the result of an impartial examination. Mr. Fox observed, that + it was perfectly admissible. He called upon those, who took the + other side of the question, to say why, if it was really inadmissible, + they had not opposed it at first. It had now been a long + time on the table, and no fault had been found with it. The + + truth was, it did not suit them; and they were determined by a + side-wind, as it were, to put an end to the inquiry. Mr. Pitt + observed, that, if parliament had previously resolved to receive no + evidence on a given subject but from the privy council, such a + resolution, indeed, would strike at the root of the privileges of + the House of Commons; but it was absurd to suppose that the + House could upon no occasion receive evidence, taken where it + was most convenient to take it, and subject throughout to new + investigation, if any one doubted its validity. The report of the + privy council consisted, first, of calculations and accounts from + the public offices; and, next, of written documents on the subject: + both of which were just as authentic as if they had been + laid upon the table of that House. The remaining part of it consisted + of the testimony of living witnesses, all of whose names + were published; so that if any one doubted their veracity, it was + open to him to re-examine all or each of them. It had been + said by adversaries that the report on the table was a weak and + imperfect report, but would not these have the advantage of its + weakness and imperfection? It was strange, when his honourable + friend, Mr. Wilberforce, had said, "Weak and imperfect + as the report may be thought to be, I think it strong enough to + bear me out in all my propositions," that they, who objected to + it, should have no better reason to give than this, "We object, + because the ground of evidence on which you rest is too weak to + support your cause." Unless it were meant to say (and the + meaning seemed to be but thinly disguised) that the House + ought to abandon the inquiry, he saw no reason whatever for not + going immediately into a committee; and he wished gentlemen + to consider whether it became the dignity of their proceedings to + obstruct the progress of an inquiry, which the House had pledged + itself to undertake. Their conduct, indeed, seemed extraordinary + on this occasion. It was certainly singular that; while the report + had been five weeks upon the table, no argument had been brought + against its sufficiency; but that on the moment when the House + was expected to come to an ultimate vote upon the subject, it + should be thought defective, contradictory, unconstitutional, and + otherwise objectionable. These objections, he was satisfied, + + neither did nor could originate with the country gentlemen; but + they were brought forward; for purposes not now to be concealed, + by the avowed enemies of this noble cause. + + </p> + <p> + In the course of the discussion which arose upon this subject, + every opportunity was taken to impress the House with the + dreadful consequences of the abolition! Mr. Heriniker read a + long letter from the King of Dahomey to George the First, which + had been found among the papers of James, first Duke of + Chandos, and which had remained in the family till that time. + In this, the King of Dahomey boasted of his victory over the + King of Ardrah and how he had ornamented the pavement and + walls of his palace with the heads of the vanquished. These + cruelties, Mr. Henniker said, were not imputable to the Slave + Trade. They showed the Africans to be naturally a savage + people, and that we did them a great kindness by taking them + from their country. Alderman Sawbridge maintained that, if + the abolition passed, the Africans who could not be sold as slaves + would be butchered at home; while those who had been carried, + to our islands would be no longer under control. Hence insurrections, + and the manifold evils which belonged to them. Alderman + Newnham was certain that the abolition would be the ruin + of the trade of the country. It would affect even the landed + interest and the funds. It would be impossible to collect money + to diminish the national debt. Every man in the kingdom + would feel the abolition come home to hit. Alderman Watson + maintained the same argument, and pronounced the trade under + discussion to be a merciful and humane trade. + + </p> + <p> + Compensation was also insisted upon by Mr. Drake, Alderman + Newnham, Mr. Senniker, Mr. Cruger, and others. This was + resisted by Mr. Burke; who said, that compensation in such a + case would be contrary to every principle of legislation. Government + gave encouragement to any branch of commerce while it + was regarded as conducive to the welfare of the community; or + compatible with humanity and justice; but they were competent + to withdraw their countenance from it, when it was found to + be immoral, and injurious, and disgraceful to the state: They + who engaged in it knew the terms under which they were + + placed, and adopted it with all the risks with which it was + accompanied; and of consequence it was but just, that they + should be prepared to abide by the loss which might accrue, + when the public should think it right no longer to support it. + But such a trade as this it was impossible any longer to support. + Indeed it was not a trade. It was a system of robbery. It was + a system, too, injurious to the welfare of other nations. How + could Africa ever be civilized under it? While we continued to + purchase the natives, they must remain in a state of barbarism. + It was impossible to civilize slaves. It was contrary to the system + of human nature. There was no country placed under + such disadvantageous circumstances, into which the shadow of + improvement had ever been introduced. + + </p> + <p> + Great pains were taken to impress the house with the propriety + of regulation. Sir Grey Cooper; Aldermen Sawbridge, + Watson, and Newnham; Mr. Marsham, and Mr. Cruger, contended + strenuously for it instead of abolition. It was also stated, + that the merchants would consent to any regulation of the trade + which might be offered to them. + + </p> + <p> + In the course of the debate much warmth of temper was + manifested on both sides. The expression of Mr. Fox in a + former debate, "that the Slave Trade could not be regulated, + because there could be no regulation of robbery and murder," + was brought up, and construed by planters in the house as a + charge of these crimes upon themselves. Mr. Fox, however, + would not retract the expression. He repeated it. He had no + notion, however, that any individual would have taken it to himself. + If it contained any reflection at all, it was on the whole + parliament, who had sanctioned such a trade. Mr. Molyneux + rose up, and animadverted severely on the character of Mr. + Ramsay, one of the evidences in the privy council report, during + his residence in the West Indies. This called up Sir William + Dolben and Sir Charles Middleton in his defence, the latter of + whom bore honourable testimony to his virtues from an intimate + acquaintance with him, and a residence in the same village with + him, for twenty years. Mr. Molyneux spoke also in angry terms + of the measure of abolition. To annihilate the trade, he said, + + and to make no compensation on account of it, was an act of + swindling. Mr. Macnamara called the measure hypocritical, + fanatic, and methodistical. Mr. Pitt was so irritated at the + insidious attempt to set aside the privy council report, when no + complaint had been alleged against it before, that he was quite + off his guard, and he thought it right afterwards to apologize for + the warmth into which he had been betrayed. The Speaker, too, + was obliged frequently to interfere. On this occasion no less + than thirty members spoke. And there had probably been few + seasons, when so much disorder had been discoverable in that + house. + + </p> + <p> + The result of the debate was, a permission to those interested + in the continuance of the Slave Trade to bring counsel to the bar + on the 26th of May, and then to introduce such witnesses, as + might throw further light on the propositions in the shortest + time: for Mr. Pitt only acquiesced in this new measure on a + supposition, "that there would be no unnecessary delay, as he + could by no means submit to the ultimate procrastination of + so important a business." He even hoped (and in this hope he + was joined by Mr. Fox) that those concerned would endeavour to + bring the whole of the evidence they meant to offer at the first + examination. + + </p> + <p> + On the day appointed, the house met for the purposes now + specified; when Alderman Newnham, thinking that such an important + question should not be decided but in a full assembly of + the representatives of the nation, moved for a call of the House on + that day fortnight. Mr. Wilberforce stated that he had no objection + to such a measure; believing the greater the number present the + more favourable it would be to his cause. This motion, however, + produced a debate and a division, in which it appeared that there + were one hundred and fifty-eight in favour of it, and twenty-eight + against it. The business of the day now commenced. The house + went into a committee, and Sir William Dolben was put into the + chair. Mr. Serjeant Le Blanc was then called in. He made an + able speech in behalf of his clients; and introduced John Barnes, + Esquire, as his first witness, whose examination took up the + remainder of the day. By this step they who were interested in + + the continuance of the trade, attained their wishes, for they had + now got possession of the ground with their evidence; and they + knew they could keep it, almost as long as they pleased, for the + purposes of delay. Thus they, who boasted, when the privy council + examinations began, that they would soon do away all the idle + tales which had been invented against them, and who desired + the public only to suspend their judgment till the report should + come out, when they would see the folly and wickedness of all + our allegations, dared not abide by the evidence which they + themselves had taught others to look up to as the standard by + which they were desirous of being judged: thus they, who had + advantages beyond measure in forming a body of evidence in their + own favour, abandoned that which they had collected. And here + it is impossible for me not to make a short comparative statement + on this subject, if it were only to show how little can be made + out, with the very best opportunities, against the cause of humanity + and religion. With respect to ourselves, we had almost all + our witnesses to seek. We had to travel after them for weeks + together. When we found them, we had scarcely the power of + choice. We where obliged to take them as they came. When + we found them, too, we had generally to implore them to come + forward in our behalf. Of those so implored, three out of four + refused, and the plea for this refusal was a fear lest they should + injure their own interests. The merchants, on the other hand, + had their witnesses ready on the spot. They had always ships in + harbour, containing persons who had a knowledge of the subject, + they had several also from whom to choose. If one man was + favourable to their cause in three of the points belonging to it, + but was unfavourable in the fourth, he could be put aside and + replaced. When they had thus selected them, they had not to + entreat, but to command their attendance. They had no fear, + again, when they thus commanded, of a refusal on the ground + of interest; because these were promoting their interest by obliging + these who employed them. Viewing these and other circumstances, + which might be thrown into this comparative + statement, it was some consolation to us to know, amidst the + disappointment which this new measure occasioned, and our + + apparent defeat in the eyes of the public, that we had really + beaten our opponents at their own weapons, and that, as this was + a victory in our own private feelings, so it was the presage to us of + a future triumph. + + </p> + <p> + On the 29th of May, Mr. Tierney made a motion to divide + the consideration of the Slave Trade into two heads, by separating + the African from the West Indian part of the question. This + he did for the more clear discussion of the propositions, as well as + to save time. This motion, however, was overruled by Mr. Pitt. + + </p> + <p> + At length, on the 9th of June, by which time it was supposed + that new light, and this in sufficient quantity, would have been + thrown upon the propositions, it appeared that only two witnesses + had been fully heard. The examinations, therefore, were continued, + and they went on till the 23rd. On this day, the order + for the call of the house, which had been prolonged, standing + unrepealed, there was a large attendance of members. A motion + was then made, to get rid of the business altogether, but it failed. + It was now seen, however, that it was impossible to bring the + question to a final decision in this session; for they who were + interested in it, affirmed that they had yet many important + witnesses to introduce. Alderman Newnham, therefore, by the + consent of Mr. Wilberforce, moved that "the further consideration + of the subject be deferred to the next session." On this + occasion, Mr. William Smith remarked, that though the decision + on the great question was thus to be adjourned, he hoped the + examinations at least would be permitted to go on. He had not + heard any good reason why they might not be carried on for + some weeks longer. It was known that the hearing of evidence + was, at all times thinly attended. If, therefore, the few members + who did attend, were willing to give up their time a little longer, + why should other members complain of an inconvenience in the + suffering of which they took no share? He thought that by this + the examination of witnesses on the part of the + merchants might be finished, and of consequence the business + brought into a very desirable state of forwardness against the + ensuing session. These observations had not the desired effect, + and the motion of Mr. Alderman Newnham was carried without + + a division. Thus the great question, for the elucidation of which + all the new evidences were to be heard at the very first examination, + in order that it might be decided by the 9th of June, was, + by the intrigue of our opponents, deferred to another year. + + </p> + <p> + The order of the day for going into the further consideration + of the Slave Trade having been discharged, Sir William Dolben + rose to state, that it was his intention to renew his bill of the + former year, relative to the conveyance of the unhappy Africans + from their own country to the West Indies, and to propose certain + alterations in it. He made a motion accordingly, which was + adopted; and he and Mr. Wilberforce were desired to prepare + the same. + + </p> + <p> + This bill he introduced soon afterwards, and it passed; but + not without opposition. It was a matter, however, of great + pleasure to find that the worthy baronet was enabled by the + assistance of Captain (afterwards Admiral) Macbride, and other + naval officers in the house, to carry such clauses, as provided in + some degree for the comfort of the poor seamen who were + seduced into this wicked trade. They could not, indeed, provide + against the barbarity of their captains; but they secured them a + space under the half deck in which to sleep. They prescribed a + form of muster-rolls, which they were to see and sign in the + presence of the clearing officer. They regulated their food, both + as to kind and quantity; and they preserved them from many of + the impositions to which they had been before exposed. + + </p> + <p> + From the time when Mr. Wilberforce gave his first notice + this session to the present, I had been variously employed, but + more particularly in the composition of a new work. It was soon + perceived to be the object of our opponents, to impress upon the + public the preference, of regulation to abolition. I attempted, + therefore, to show the fallacy and wickedness of this notion. I + divided the evils belonging to the Slave Trade into two kinds. + These I enumerated in their order. With respect to those of the + first kind, I proved that they were never to be remedied by any + acts of the British parliament. Thus, for instance, what bill + could alter the nature of the human passions? What bill could + prevent fraud and violence in Africa, while the Slave Trade + + existed there? What bill could prevent the miserable victims of + the trade from rising, when on board the ships, if they saw an + opportunity, and felt a keen sense of their oppression? Those of + the second I stated to admit of a remedy, and after making + accurate calculations on the subject of each, I showed that those + merchants who were to do them away effectually, would be ruined + by their voyages. The work was called <em>An Essay on the Comparative + Efficiency of Regulation or Abolition as applied to the + Slave Trade</em>. + + </p> + <p> + The committee, also, in this interval, brought out their famous + print of the plan and section of a slave-ship, which was designed + to give the spectator an idea of the sufferings of the Africans + in the Middle Passage, and this so familiarly, that he might + instantly pronounce upon the miseries experienced there. The + committee at Plymouth had been the first to suggest the idea; + but that in London had now improved it. As this print seemed + to make an instantaneous impression of horror upon all who saw + it, and as it was therefore very instrumental, in consequence of + the wide circulation given it, in serving the cause of the injured + Africans, I have given the reader a copy of it in the annexed + plate, and I will now state the ground or basis upon which it was + formed. + + </p> + <p> + It must be obvious that it became the committee to select + some one ship, which had been engaged in the Slave Trade, with + her real dimensions, if they meant to make a fair representation + of the manner of the transportation. When Captain Parrey, of + the royal navy, returned from Liverpool, to which place Government + had sent him, he brought with him the admeasurement of + several vessels which had been so employed, and laid them on the + table of the House of Commons. At the top of his list stood + the ship Brookes. The committee, therefore, in choosing a vessel + on this occasion, made use of the ship Brookes; and this they + did, because they thought it less objectionable to take the first + that came, than any other. The vessel, then, in the plate is the + vessel now mentioned, and the following is her admeasurement + as given in by Captain Parrey. + + </p> + <table> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class=""></td> + <td valign="top" class="">Ft.</td> + <td valign="top" class="">In.</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Length of the lower deck, gratings, and bulk heads included at A A</td> + <td valign="top" class="">100</td> + <td valign="top" class="">0</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Breadth of beam on the lower deck inside, B B</td> + <td valign="top" class="">25</td> + <td valign="top" class="">4</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Depth of hold ooo, from ceiling to ceiling</td> + <td valign="top" class="">10</td> + <td valign="top" class="">0</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Height between decks from deck to deck</td> + <td valign="top" class="">5</td> + <td valign="top" class="">8</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Length of the men's room, C C, on the lower deck</td> + <td valign="top" class="">46</td> + <td valign="top" class="">0</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Breadth of the men's room, C C, on the lower deck</td> + <td valign="top" class="">25</td> + <td valign="top" class="">4</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Length of the platform, D D, in the men's room</td> + <td valign="top" class="">46</td> + <td valign="top" class="">0</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Breadth of the platform in the men's room, on each side</td> + <td valign="top" class="">6</td> + <td valign="top" class="">0</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Length of the boys' room, E E</td> + <td valign="top" class="">13</td> + <td valign="top" class="">9</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Breadth of the boys' room</td> + <td valign="top" class="">25</td> + <td valign="top" class="">0</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Breadth of platform, F F, in boys' room</td> + <td valign="top" class="">6</td> + <td valign="top" class="">0</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Length of women's room, G G</td> + <td valign="top" class="">28</td> + <td valign="top" class="">6</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Breadth of women's room</td> + <td valign="top" class="">23</td> + <td valign="top" class="">6</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Length of platform, H H, in women's room</td> + <td valign="top" class="">28</td> + <td valign="top" class="">6</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Breadth of platform in women's room</td> + <td valign="top" class="">6</td> + <td valign="top" class="">0</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Length of the gun-room, I I, on the lower deck</td> + <td valign="top" class="">10</td> + <td valign="top" class="">6</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Breadth of the gun-room on the lower deck</td> + <td valign="top" class="">12</td> + <td valign="top" class="">0</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Length of the quarter-deck, K K</td> + <td valign="top" class="">33</td> + <td valign="top" class="">6</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Breadth of the quarter-deck</td> + <td valign="top" class="">19</td> + <td valign="top" class="">6</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Length of the cabin, L L</td> + <td valign="top" class="">14</td> + <td valign="top" class="">0</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Height of the cabin</td> + <td valign="top" class="">6</td> + <td valign="top" class="">2</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Length of the half-deck, M M</td> + <td valign="top" class="">16</td> + <td valign="top" class="">6</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Height of the half-deck</td> + <td valign="top" class="">6</td> + <td valign="top" class="">2</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Length of the platform, N N, on the half-deck</td> + <td valign="top" class="">16</td> + <td valign="top" class="">6</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Breadth of the platform on the half-deck</td> + <td valign="top" class="">6</td> + <td valign="top" class="">0</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Upper deck, P P</td> + <td valign="top" class=""></td> + <td valign="top" class=""></td> + </tr> + </table> + <p> + The committee, having proceeded thus far, thought that they + should now allow certain dimensions for every man, woman, and + child; and then see how many persons, upon such dimensions + and upon the admeasurements just given, could be stowed in this + vessel. They allowed, accordingly, to every man slave 6 ft. by + 1 ft. 4in. for room, to every woman 5 ft. by 1 ft. 4 in., to every + boy 5 ft. by 1 ft. 2 in., and to every girl 4 ft. 6 in. by 1 ft. They + then stowed them, and found them as in the annexed plate, that + is, they found, (deducting the women stowed in z of figures 6 and + 7, which spaces, being half of the half-deck, were allowed by + Sir William Dolben's last bill to the seamen,) that only 450 could + be stowed in her; and the reader will find, if he should think it + worthwhile to count the figures in the plate, that, on making the + deduction mentioned, they will amount to this number. + + </p> + <p> + The committee then thought it right to inquire how many + slaves the act of Sir William Dolben allowed this vessel to carry, + and they found the number to be 454; that is, they found it + <br><br> + <a name="slaveship"></a><span class="center"><img src="images/391-1.png" alt="Slave Ship"></span><span class="center"><img src="images/392-1.png" alt="Slave Ship"></span><span class="center"><img src="images/393-1.png" alt="Slave Ship"></span><span class="center"><img src="images/394-1.png" alt="Slave Ship"></span>allowed her to carry four more than could be put in without + trespassing upon the room allotted to the rest; for we see that + the bodies of the slaves, except just at the head of the vessel, + already touch each other, and that no deduction has been made + for tubs or stanchions to support the platforms and decks. + + </p> + <p> + Such was the picture which the committee were obliged to + draw, if they regarded mathematical accuracy, of the room + allotted to the slaves in this vessel. By this picture was + exhibited the nature of the Elysium which Mr. Norris and + others had invented for them during their transportation from + their own country. By this picture were seen also the advantages + of Sir William Dolben's bill; for many, on looking at the plate, + considered the regulation itself as perfect barbarism. The advantages, + however, obtained by it were considerable; for the Brookes + was now restricted to 450 slaves, whereas it was proved that she + carried 609 in a former voyage. + + </p> + <p> + The committee, at the conclusion of the session of parliament, + made a suitable report. It will be unnecessary to detail + this, for obvious reasons. There was, however, one thing contained + in it, which ought not to be omitted. It stated, with + appropriate concern, the death of the first controversial writer, + and of one of the most able and indefatigable labourers in their +cause. Mr. Ramsay had been for some time indisposed. The climate +of the West Indies, during a residence of twenty years, and the +agitation in which his mind had been kept for the last four years of +his life, in consequence of the virulent attacks on his word and +character by those interested in the continuance of the trade, had +contributed to undermine his constitution. During his whole illness he +was cheerful and composed; nor did he allow it to hinder him, severe +as it was, from taking any opportunity which offered, of serving those +unhappy persons for whose injuries he had so deeply felt. A few days +only before he died, I received from him probably the last letter he +ever wrote, of which the following is an extract:</p> + +<p>"My health has certainly taken a most alarming turn; and, if some +considerable alteration does not take place for the better in a very +little time, it will be all over with me: I mean as to the present +life. I have lost all appetite, and suffer grievously from an almost +continual pain in my stomach, which leaves me no enjoyment of myself, +but such as I can collect from my own reflections, and the comforts of +religion. I am glad the bill for the abolition is in such forwardness. +Whether it goes through the house or not, the discussion attending it +will have a most beneficial effect. The whole of this business I think +now to be in such a train, as to enable me to bid farewell to the +present scene with the satisfaction of not having lived in vain, and +of having done something towards the improvement of our common nature; +and this at no little expense of time and reputation. The little I +have now written is my utmost effort; yet yesterday I thought it +necessary to write an answer to a scurrilous libel in <i>The Diary</i> by +one Scipio. On my own account he should have remained unnoticed; but +our great cause must be kept unsullied."</p> + +<p>Mr. Ramsay was a man of active habit, of diligence and perseverance in +his undertakings, and of extraordinary application. He was of mild and +humble manners. He possessed a strong understanding, with great +coolness and courage. Patriotism and public spirit were striking +traits in his character. In domestic life he was amiable: in the +ministry, exemplary and useful; and he died to the great regret of his +parishioners; but most of all to that of those who moved with him in +his attempts to bring about the important event of the abolition of +the Slave Trade.</p> + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> + +<h2><a name="chap25" id="chap25"></a>CHAPTER XXV.</h2> + +<p><b>Continuation from July 1789 to July 1790.—Author travels to Paris to +promote the abolition in France; attends the committees of the Friends +of the Negroes.—Counter-attempts of the committee of White +Colonists.—An account of the deputies of Colour.—Meeting at the Duke +de la Rochefoucauld's.—Mirabeau espouses the cause; canvasses the +National Assembly.—Distribution of the section of the slave-ship +there.—Character of Brissot.—Author leaves Paris and returns to +England.—Examination of merchants' and planters' evidence resumed in +the House of Commons.—Author travels in search of evidence in favour +of the abolition; opposition to the hearing of it.—This evidence is +at length introduced.—Renewal of Sir William Dolben's +bill.—Distribution of the section of the slave-ship in England; and +of Cowper's Negro's Complaint; and of Wedgewood's Cameos.</b></p> + + + <p>We usually find, as we give ourselves up to reflection, some little + mitigation of the afflictions we experience; and yet of the + evils which come upon us, some are often so heavy as to overpower + the sources of consolation for a time, and to leave us wretched. + This was nearly our situation at the close of the last session of + parliament. It would be idle not to confess that circumstances + had occurred which wounded us deeply. Though we had foiled + our opponents at their own weapons, and had experienced the + uninterrupted good wishes and support of the public, we had the + great mortification to see the enthusiasm of members of parliament + beginning to cool; to see a question of humanity and + justice (for such it was when it was delivered into their hands) + verging towards that of commercial calculation; and finally to + see regulation, as it related to it, in the way of being substituted + for abolition; but most of all were we affected, knowing as we + did the nature and the extent of the sufferings belonging to the + Slave Trade, that these should be continued to another year. This + last consideration almost overpowered me. It had fallen to my + lot, more than to that of any other person, to know these evils, + and I seemed almost inconsolable at the postponement of the + question. I wondered how members of parliament, and these + Englishmen, could talk as they did on this subject; how they + could bear for a moment to consider their fellow-man as an article + of trade; and how they should not count even the delay of an + hour, which occasioned so much misery to continue, as one of the + most criminal actions of their lives. + + </p> + <p> + It was in vain, however, to sink under our burdens. Grief + could do no good; and if our affairs had taken an unfavourable + turn, the question was, how to restore them. It was sufficiently + obvious that, if our opponents were left to themselves, or without + any counteracting evidence, they would considerably soften down + the propositions, if not invalidate them in the minds of many. + They had such a power of selection of witnesses, that they could + bring men forward who might say with truth that they had seen + but very few of the evils complained of, and these in an inferior + degree. We knew, also, from the example of the Liverpool + delegates, how interest and prejudice could blind the eyes, and + how others might be called upon to give their testimony, who + would dwell upon the comforts of the Africans when they came + into our power; on the sprinkling of their apartments with + frankincense; on the promotion of music and the dance among them; + and on the health and festivity of their voyages. It seemed, + therefore, necessary that we should again be looking out for evidence + on the part of the abolition. Nor did it seem to me to be + unreasonable, if our opponents were allowed to come forward in + a new way, because it was more constitutional, that we should + be allowed the same privilege. By these means the evidence, of + which we had now lost the use, might be restored; indifference + might be fanned into warmth; commercial calculation might be + overpowered by justice; and abolition, rising above the reach of + the cry of regulation, might eventually triumph. + + </p> + <p> + I communicated my ideas to the committee, and offered to go + round the kingdom to accomplish this object. The committee + had themselves been considering what measures to take, and as + each in his own mind had come to conclusions similar with my + own, my proposal was no sooner made than adopted. + + </p> + <p> + I had not been long upon this journey when I was called + back. Mr. Wilberforce, always solicitous for the good of this + great cause, was of opinion that, as commotions had taken place + + in France, which then aimed at political reforms, it was possible + that the leading persons concerned in them might, if an application + were made to them judiciously, be induced to take the Slave + Trade into their consideration, and incorporate it among the + abuses to be done away. Such a measure, if realized, would not + only lessen the quantity of human suffering, but annihilate a powerful + political argument against us. He had a conference, therefore, + with the committee on this subject; and, as they accorded + with his opinion, they united with him in writing a letter to me, + to know if I would change my journey, and proceed to France. + + </p> + <p> + As I had no object in view but the good of the cause, it was + immaterial to me where I went, if I could but serve it; and + therefore, without any further delay, I returned to London. + + </p> + <p> + As accounts had arrived in England of the excesses which + had taken place in the city of Paris, and of the agitated state of + the provinces through which I was to pass, I was desired by + several of my friends to change my name. To this I could not + consent; and, on consulting the committee, they were decidedly + against it. + + </p> + <p> + I was introduced as quickly as possible, on my arrival at + Paris, to the friends of the cause there, to the Duke de la + Rochefoucauld, the Marquis de Condorcet, Messieurs Pétion de Villeneuve, + Clavière, and Brissot, and to the Marquis de la Fayette. + The latter received me with peculiar marks of attention. He + had long felt for the wrongs of Africa, and had done much to + prevent them. He had a plantation in Cayenne, and had devised + a plan, by which the labourers upon it should pass by degrees + from slavery to freedom! With this view he had there laid it + down as a principle, that all crimes were equal, whether they + were committed by Blacks or Whites, and ought equally to be + punished. As the human mind is of such a nature, as to be + acted upon by rewards as well as punishments, he thought it + unreasonable, that the slaves should have no advantage from a + stimulus from the former. He laid it down therefore as another + principle, that temporal profits should follow virtuous action. To + this he subjoined a reasonable education to be gradually given. + By introducing such principles, and by making various regulations + + for the protection and comforts of the slaves, he thought he + could prove to the planters, that there was no necessity for the + Slave Trade; that the slaves upon all their estates would increase + sufficiently by population; that they might be introduced gradually, + and without detriment, to a state of freedom; and that + then the real interests of all would be most promoted. This + system he had began to act upon two years before I saw him. + He had also, when the society was established in Paris, which + took the name of "The Friends of the Negroes," enrolled himself + a member of it. + + </p> + <p> + The first public steps taken after my arrival in Paris were at + a committee of the Friends of the Negroes, which was but thinly + attended. None of those mentioned, except Brissot, were present. + It was resolved there, that the committee should solicit an + audience of Mr. Necker; and that I should wait upon him, + accompanied by a deputation consisting of the Marquis de Condorcet, + Monsieur de Bourge, and Brissot de Warville: secondly, + that the committee should write to the president of the National + Assembly, and request the favour of him to appoint a day for + hearing the cause of the Negroes; and thirdly, that it should be + recommended to the committee in London to draw up a petition + to the National Assembly of France, praying for the abolition + of the Slave Trade by that country. This petition, it was + observed, was to be signed by as great a number of the friends to + the cause in England, as could be procured. It was then to be + sent to the committee at Paris, who would take it in a body to + the place of its destination. + + </p> + <p> + I found great delicacy as a stranger in making my observations + upon these resolutions, and yet I thought I ought not to + pass them over wholly in silence, but particularly the last. I + therefore rose up, and stated that there was one resolution, of + which I did not quite see the propriety; but this might arise + from my ignorance of the customs, as well as of the genius and + spirit of the French people. It struck me that an application + from a little committee in England to the National Assembly of + France was not a dignified measure, nor was it likely to have + weight with such a body. It was, besides, contrary to all the + + habits of propriety in which I had been educated. The British + Parliament did not usually receive petitions from the subjects of + other nations. It was this feeling which had induced me thus to + speak. + + </p> + <p> + To these observations it was replied, that the National Assembly + of France would glory in going contrary to the example + of other nations in a case of generosity and justice, and that + the petition in question, if it could be obtained, would have + an influence there, which the people of England, unacquainted + with the sentiments of the French nation, would hardly credit. + + </p> + <p> + To this I had only to reply, that I would communicate the + measure to the committee in London, but that I could not be + answerable for the part they would take in it. + + </p> + <p> + By an answer received from Mr. Necker, relative to the first + of these resolutions, it appeared that the desired interview had + been obtained; but he granted it only for a few minutes, and this + principally to show his good-will to the cause: for he was then so + oppressed with business in his own department, that he had but + little time for any other. He wrote to me, however, the next + day, and desired my company to dinner. He then expressed a + wish to me, that any business relative to the Slave Trade might + be managed by ourselves as individuals, and that I would take + the opportunity of dining with him occasionally for this purpose. + By this plan, he said, both of us would save time. Madame + Necker, also, promised to represent her husband, if I should call + in his absence, and to receive me, and converse with me on all + occasions in which this great cause of humanity and religion + might be concerned. + + </p> + <p> + With respect to the other resolutions, nothing ever came of + them; for we waited daily for an answer from the president + during the whole of his presidency, but we never received any; + and the committee in London, when they had read my letter, + desired me unequivocally to say, that they did not see the propriety + of the petition which it had been recommended to them + to obtain. + + </p> + <p> + At the next meeting it was resolved, that a letter should be + written to the new president for the same purpose as the former. + + This, it was said, was now rendered essentially necessary; for + the merchants, planters, and others interested in the continuance + of the Slave Trade, were so alarmed at the enthusiasm of the + French people in favour of the new order of things, and of any + change recommended to them, which had the appearance of prompting + the cause of liberty, that they held daily committees to + watch and to thwart the motions of the friends of the Negroes. + It was therefore thought proper, that the appeal to the Assembly + should be immediate on this subject, before the feelings of the + people should cool, or before they, who were thus interested, + should poison the minds by calculations of loss and gain. + The silence of the former president was already attributed to the + intrigues of the planters' committee. No time therefore was to + be lost. The letter was accordingly written, but as no answer + was ever returned to it, they attributed this second omission to + the same cause. + + </p> + <p> + I do not really know whether interested persons ever did, as + was suspected, intercept the letters of the committee to the two + presidents as now surmised; or whether they ever dissuaded + them from introducing so important a question for discussion, + when the nation was in such a heated state; but certain it is, that + we had many, and I believe barbarous, enemies to encounter. + At the very next meeting of the committee, Clavière produced + anonymous letters which he had received, and in which it was + stated that, if the society of the Friends of the Negroes did not + dissolve itself, he and the rest of them would be stabbed. It + was said that no less than three hundred persons had associated + themselves for this purpose. I had received similar letters + myself; and on producing mine, and comparing the handwriting + in both it appeared that the same persons had written. + + </p> + <p> + In a few days after this, the public prints were filled with the + most malicious representations of the views of the committee. + One of them was, that they were going to send twelve thousand + muskets to the Negroes in St. Domingo, in order to promote an + insurrection there. This declaration was so industriously circulated, + that a guard of soldiers was sent to search the committee-room; + + but these were soon satisfied when they found only two + or three books and some waste paper. Reports equally unfounded + and wicked were spread also in the same papers relative + to myself. My name was mentioned at full length, and the place + of my abode hinted at. It was stated at one time, that I had + proposed such wild and mischievous plans to the committee in + London relative to the abolition of the Slave Trade, that they + had cast me out of their own body, and that I had taken refuge + in Paris, where I now tried to impose equally on the French + nation. It was stated at another, that I was employed by the + British government as a spy, and that it was my object to try to + undermine the noble constitution which was then forming for + France. This latter report, at this particular time, when the + passions of men were so inflamed, and when the stones of Paris + had not been long purified from the blood of Foulon and + Berthier, might have cost me my life; and I mentioned it to + General la Fayette, and solicited his advice. He desired me to + make a public reply to it: which I did. He desired me also to + change my lodging to the Hotel de Yorck, that I might be nearer + to him; and to send to him if there should be any appearance of + a collection of people about the hotel, and I should have aid from + the military in his quarter. He said, also, that he would immediately + give in my name to the Municipality; and that he would + pledge himself to them, that my views were strictly honourable. + + </p> + <p> + On dining one day at the house of the Marquis de la Fayette, + I met the deputies of colour. They had arrived only the preceding + day from St. Domingo, I was desired to take my seat at + dinner in the midst of them. They were six in number; of a + sallow or swarthy complexion, but yet it was not darker than + that of some of the natives of the south of France. They were + already in the uniform of the Parisian National Guards; and one + of them wore the cross of St. Louis. They were men of genteel + appearance and modest behaviour. They seemed to be well + informed, and of a more solid cast than those whom I was in the + habit of seeing daily in this city. The account which they gave + of themselves was this. The white people of St. Domingo consisting + of less than ten thousand persons, had deputies then + + sitting in the National Assembly. The people of colour in the + same island greatly exceeded the whites in number. They + amounted to thirty thousand, and were generally proprietors of + lands. They were equally free by law with the former, and paid + their taxes to the mother-country in an equal proportion. But + in consequence of having sprung from slaves they had no legislative + power, and moreover were treated with great contempt. + Believing that the mother-country was going to make a change + in its political constitution, they had called a meeting on the + island, and this meeting had deputed them to repair to France, + and to desire the full rights of citizens, or that the free people of + colour might be put upon an equality with the whites. They + (the deputies) had come in consequence. They had brought + with them a present of six millions of livres to the National + Assembly, and an appointment to General la Fayette to be + commander-in-chief over their constituents, as a distinct body. This + command, they said, the general had accepted, though he had + declined similar honours from every town in France, except + Paris, in order to show that he patronized their cause. + + </p> + <p> + I was now very anxious to know the sentiments which these + gentlemen entertained on the subject of the Slave Trade. If they + were with us, they might be very useful to us; not only by their + votes in the Assembly, but by the knowledge of facts which + they would be able to adduce there in our favour. If they were + against us, it became me to be upon my guard against them, and + to take measures accordingly. I therefore stated to them at once + the nature of my errand to France, and desired their opinion + upon it. This they gave me without reserve. They broke out + into lavish commendations of my conduct, and called me their + friend. The Slave Trade, they said, was the parent of all the + miseries in St. Domingo, not only on account of the cruel treatment + it occasioned to the slaves, but on account of the discord + which it constantly kept up between the whites and people of + colour, in consequence of the hateful distinctions it introduced. + These distinctions could never be obliterated while it lasted. + Indeed both the trade and the slavery must fall, before the infamy, + now fixed upon a skin of colour, could be so done away, that + + whites and blacks could meet cordially, and look with respect + upon one another. They had it in their instructions, in case + they should obtain a seat in the Assembly, to propose, an immediate + abolition of the Slave Trade, and an immediate amelioration + of the state of slavery also, with a view to its final abolition in + fifteen years. + + </p> + <p> + But time was flying apace; I had now been nearly seven + weeks in Paris, and had done nothing. The thought of this + made me uneasy, and I saw no consoling prospect before me. I + found it even difficult to obtain a meeting of the Friends of the + Negroes. The Marquis de la Fayette had no time to attend. + Those of the committee, who were members of the National + Assembly, were almost constantly engaged at Versailles. Such + of them as belonged to the Municipality, had enough to do at the + Hotel deVille. Others were employed either in learning the + use of arms, or in keeping their daily and nightly guards. These + circumstances made me almost despair of doing anything for the + cause at Paris, at least in any reasonable time. But a new circumstance + occurred, which distressed me greatly; for I discovered, + in the most satisfactory manner, that two out of the six at the + last committee were spies. They had come into the society for + no other reason than to watch and report its motions; and they + were in direct correspondence with the slave-merchants at Havre + de Grace. This matter I brought home to them afterwards, and + I had the pleasure of seeing them excluded from all our future + meetings. + + </p> + <p> + From this time I thought it expedient to depend less upon + the committee, and more upon my own exertions; and I formed + the resolution of going among the members of the National + Assembly myself, and of learning from their own mouths the + hope I ought to entertain relative to the decision of our question. + In the course of my endeavours I obtained a promise from the + Duke de la Rochefoucauld, the Comte de Mirabeau the Abbé + Siéyes, Monsieur Bergasse, and Monsieur Pétion de Villeneuvé, + five of the most approved members of the National Assembly, + that they would meet me if I would fix a day. I obtained a + similar promise from the Marquis de Condorcet, and Clavière + + and Brissot, as members selected from the committee of the + Friends of the Negroes. And Messieurs de Roveray and Du + Monde, two Genevese gentlemen at Versailles, men of considerable + knowledge and interest, and who had heard of our intended + meeting, were to join us at their own request. The place chosen + was the house of the Bishop of Chartres at Versailles. + + </p> + <p> + I was now in hope that I should soon bring the question to + some issue; and on the 4th of October I went to dine with the + Bishop of Chartres to fix the day. We appointed the 7th. But + how soon, frequently, do our prospects fade! From the conversation + which took place at dinner, I began to fear that our meeting + would not be realised. About three days before, the officers + of the Garde du Corps had given the memorable banquet, + recorded in the annals of the revolution, to the officers of the + regiment of Flanders, which then lay at Versailles. This was a + topic on which the company present dwelt. They condemned + it as a most fatal measure in these heated times; and were + apprehensive that something would grow immediately out of it, which + might endanger the king's safety. In passing afterwards through + the streets of Versailles my fears increased. I met several of + that regiment in groups. Some were brandishing their swords. + Others were walking arm in arm, and singing tumultuously. + Others were standing and conversing earnestly together. Among + the latter I heard one declare with great vehemence, "that it + should not be; that the revolution must go on." On my arrival + at Paris in the evening, the Palais Royal was full of people; + and there were movements and buzzings among them, as if something + was expected to happen. The next day, when I went into + the streets, it was obvious what was going to take place. Suffice + it to say, that the next evening the king and queen were brought + prisoners into Paris. After this, things were in such an unsettled + state for a few days, and the members of the National Assembly + were so occupied in the consideration of the event itself, and of + the consequences which might attend it, that my little meeting, + of which it had cost me so much time and trouble to procure the + appointment, was entirely prevented. + + </p> + <p> + I had now to wait patiently till a new opportunity should + + occur. The Comte de Mirabeau, before the departure of the + king, had moved, and carried the resolution, that "the Assembly + was inseparable from his majesty's person." It was expected, + therefore, that the National Assembly would immediately transfer + its sittings to Paris. This took place on the 19th. It was now + more easy for me to bring persons together, than when I had to + travel backward and forward to Versailles. Accordingly, by + watching my opportunities, I obtained the promise of another + meeting. This was held afterwards at the Duke de la Rochefoucauld's. + The persons before mentioned were present; except + the Comte de Mirabeau, whose occupations at that moment made + it utterly impossible for him to attend. + + </p> + <p> + The duke opened the business in an appropriate manner; + and concluded, by desiring each person to give his opinion frankly + and unequivocally as to what might be expected of the National + Assembly relative to the great measure of the abolition of the + Slave Trade. + + </p> + <p> + The Abbé Siéyes rose up, and said it would probably bring + the business within a shorter compass if, instead of discussing + this proposition at large, I were to put to the meeting my own + questions. I accordingly accepted this offer, and began by asking + those present "how long it was likely that the present National + Assembly would sit?" After some conversation, it was replied + that "it would sit till it had completed the constitution, and + interwoven such fixed principles into it, that the legislature + which should succeed it might have nothing more to do than to + proceed on the ordinary business of the state. Its dissolution + would probably not take place till the month of March." + + </p> + <p> + I then asked them, "whether it was their opinion that the + National Assembly would feel itself authorized to take up such a + foreign question (if I might be allowed the expression) as that of + the abolition of the Slave Trade." The answer to this was, + "that the object of the National Assembly was undoubtedly the + formation of a constitution for the French people. With respect + to foreign possessions, it was very doubtful whether it were the + real interest of France to have any colonies at all; but while it + kept such colonies under its dominion, the assembly would feel + + that it had the right to take up this question; and that the question + itself would naturally spring out of the bill of rights, which + had already been adopted as the basis of the constitution." + + </p> + <p> + The next question I proposed was, "whether they were of + opinion that the National Assembly would do more wisely, in the + present situation of things, to determine upon the abolition of the + Slave Trade now, or to transfer it to the legislature, which was + to succeed it in the month of March." + + </p> + <p> + This question gave birth to a long discussion, during which + much eloquence was displayed; but the unanimous answer, with + the reasons for it, may be conveyed in substance as follows:—"It + would be most wise," it was said, "in the present Assembly, to + introduce the question to the notice of the nation, and this as + essentially connected with the bill of rights, but to transfer the + determination of it, in a way the best calculated to ensure success, + to the succeeding legislature. The revolution was of more + importance to Frenchmen than the abolition of the Slave Trade. + To secure this was their first object, and more particularly because + the other would naturally flow from it; but the revolution might + be injured by the immediate determination of the question. + Many persons in the large towns of Bourdeaux, Marseilles, + Rouen, Nantes, and Havre, who were now friends to it, might + be converted into enemies. It would also be held up by those + who wished to produce a counter-revolution, (and the ignorant + and prejudiced might believe it,) that the Assembly had made + a great sacrifice to England by thus giving her an opportunity of + enlarging her trade. The English House of Commons had taken + up the subject, but had done nothing; and though they, who + were then present, were convinced of the sincerity of the English + minister who had introduced it, and that the trade must ultimately + fall in England, yet it would not be easy to persuade + many bigoted persons in France of these truths. It would, + therefore, be most wise in the Assembly only to introduce the + subject as mentioned; but if extraordinary circumstances should + arise, such as a decree that the deputies of Colour should take + their seats in the Assembly, or that England should have begun + this great work, advantage might be taken of them, and the abolition + + of the Slave Trade might be resolved upon in the present + session." + + </p> + <p> + The last question I proposed was this:—"If the determination + of this great question should be proposed to the next legislature, + would it be more difficult to carry it then than now?" + + </p> + <p> + This question also produced much conversation; but the + answer was unanimous, "that there would be no greater difficulty + in the one than in the other case; for that the people would + daily more and more admire their constitution; that this constitution + would go down to the next legislature, from whence would + issue solid and fixed principles, which would be resorted to as a + standard for decision on all occasions. Hence the Slave Trade, + which would be adjudged by it also, could not possibly stand. + Add to which, that the most virtuous members in the present + would be chosen into the new legislature, which, if the constitution + were but once fairly established, would not regard the murmurs + of any town or province." After this a desultory conversation + took place, in which some were of opinion that it would be + proper, on the introduction of the subject into the Assembly, to + move for a committee of inquiry, which should collect facts and + documents against the time when it should be taken up with a + view to its final discussion. + + </p> + <p> + As it now appeared to me that nothing material would be + done with respect to our cause till after the election of the new + legislature, I had thoughts of returning to England to resume + my journey in quest of evidence; but I judged it right to communicate + first with the Comte de Mirabeau and the Marquis de + la Fayette, both of whom would have attended the meeting + just mentioned, if unforeseen circumstances had not prevented + them. + + </p> + <p> + On conversing with the first, I found that he differed from + those whom I had consulted. He thought that the question, on + account of the nature and urgency of it, ought to be decided in + the present legislature. This was so much his opinion, that he + had made a determination to introduce it there himself; and + had been preparing for his motion. He had already drawn up + the outlines of a speech for the purpose; but was in want of circumstantial + + knowledge to complete it. With this knowledge + he desired me to furnish him. He then put his speech into + my hand, and wished me to take it home and peruse it. He + wrote down, also, some questions, and he gave them to me + directly afterwards, and begged I would answer them at my + leisure. + + </p> + <p> + On conversing with the latter, he said, "that he believed with + those of the meeting that there would be no greater difficulty in + carrying the question in the succeeding than in the present legislature; + but this consideration afforded an argument for the immediate + discussion of it; for it would make a considerable difference + to suffering humanity whether it were to be decided now or then. + This was the moment to be taken to introduce it; nor did he + think that they ought to be deterred from doing it by any supposed + clamours from some of the towns in France. The great + body of the people admired the constitution, and would support + any decisions which were made in strict conformity to its principles. + With respect to any committee of inquiry, he deprecated + it. The Slave Trade, he said, was not a trade. It dishonoured + the name of commerce. It was piracy. But if so, the question + which it involved was a question of justice only; and it could + not be decided, with propriety by any other standard." I then + informed him that the Comte de Mirabeau had undertaken to + introduce it into the Assembly. At this he expressed his uneasiness. + "Mirabeau," says he, "is a host in himself; and I should + not be surprised if by his own eloquence and popularity only he + were to carry it; and yet I regret that he has taken the lead in + it. The cause is so lovely that even ambition, abstractedly considered, + is too impure to take it under its protection, and not to + sully it. It should have been placed in the hands of the most + virtuous man in France. This man is the Duc de la Rochefoucauld. + But you cannot alter things now. You cannot take it + out of his hands. I am sure he will be second to no one on this + occasion." + + </p> + <p> + On my return to my hotel, I perused the outlines of the + speech which the Comte de Mirabeau had lent me. It afforded + a masterly knowledge of the evils of the trade, as drawn from + + reason only. It was put together in the most striking and + affecting manner. It contained an almost irresistible appeal to + his auditors by frequent references to the ancient system of things + in France, and to their situation and prospects under the new. + It flowed at first gently like a river in a level country; but it + grew afterwards into a mountain-torrent, and carried everything + before it. On looking at the questions which he had written + down for me, I found them consist of three. 1. What are the + different ways of reducing to slavery the inhabitants of that part + of Africa which is under the dominion of France? 2. What + is the state of society there with respect to government, industry, + and the arts? 3. What are the various evils belonging to the + transportation of the Africans from their own country? + + </p> + <p> + It was peculiarly agreeable to me to find, on reading the first + two questions, that I had formed an acquaintance with Monsieur + Geoffroy de Villeneuve, who had been aide-du-camp to the + Chevalier de Boufflers at Goree; but who was then at his father's + house in Paris. This gentleman had entertained Dr. Spaarman + and Mr. Wadstrom; and had accompanied them up the Senegal, + when under the protection of the French government in Africa. + He had confirmed to me the testimony which they had given + before the privy council: but he had a fund of information on + this subject, which went far beyond what these possessed, or I + had ever yet collected from books or men. He had travelled all + over the kingdom of Cayor on foot; and had made a map of it. + His information was so important, that I had been with him for + almost days together to take it down. I determined, therefore, + to arrange the facts which I had obtained from him, of which I + had now a volume, that I might answer the two first questions, + which had been proposed to me; for it was of great importance + to the Comte de Mirabeau, that he should be able to appeal, in + behalf of the statements in his speech to the Assembly, to an + evidence on the spot. + + </p> + <p> + In the course of my correspondence with the Comte, which + continued with but little intermission for six weeks, many circumstances + took place, which were connected with the cause, and + which I shall now detail in their order. + + </p> + <p> + On waiting upon Mr. Necker, at his own request, he gave me + the pleasing intelligence, that the committee of finances, which + was then composed of members of the National Assembly, had + resolved, though they had not yet promulgated their resolution, + upon a total abolition of all the bounties then in existence in + favour of the Slave Trade. + + </p> + <p> + The Deputies of Colour now began to visit me at my own + hotel. They informed me, that they had been admitted, since + they had seen me, into the National Assembly. On stating their + claims, the president assured them, that they might take courage; + for that the assembly knew no distinction between Blacks and + Whites, but considered all men as having equal rights. This + speech of the president, they said, had roused all the White + Colonists in Paris. Some of these had openly insulted them. + They had held also a meeting on the subject of this speech; at + which they had worked themselves up so as to become quite + furious. Nothing but intrigue was now going forward among + them to put off the consideration of the claims of the free People + of Colour. They, the deputies, had been flattered by the prospect + of a hearing no less than six times; and, when the day + arrived, something had constantly occurred to prevent it. + + </p> + <p> + At a subsequent interview, they appeared to be quite disheartened; + and to be grievously disappointed as to the object of + their mission. They were now sure, that they should never be + able to make head against the intrigues and plots of the White + Colonists. Day after day had been fixed as before for the hearing + of their cause. Day after day it had been deferred in like + manner. They were now weary with waiting. One of them, + Ogé, could not contain himself, but broke out with great + warmth—"I begin," says he, "not to care whether the National Assembly + will admit us or not. But let it beware of the consequences. + We will no longer continue to be beheld in a degraded + light. Dispatches shall go directly to St. Domingo; and we will + soon follow them. We can produce as good soldiers on our + estates, as those in France. Our own arms shall make us independent + and respectable. If we are once forced to desperate + measures, it will be in vain that thousands will be sent across the + + Atlantic to bring us back to our former state." On hearing this, + I entreated the deputies, to wait with patience. I observed to + them, that in a great revolution, like that of France, things, but + more particularly such as might be thought external, could not + be discussed either so soon or so rapidly as men full of enthusiasm + would wish. France would first take care of herself. She + would then, I had no doubt, extend her care to her Colonies. + Was not this a reasonable conclusion, when they, the deputies, + had almost all the first men in the Assembly in their favour? + I entreated them therefore to wait patiently; as well as upon + another consideration, which was, that by an imprudent conduct + they might not only ruin their own cause in France, but bring + indescribable misery upon their native land. + + </p> + <p> + By this time a large packet, for which I had sent, from England + arrived. It consisted of above a thousand of the plan and + section of a slave-ship, with an explanation in French. It contained, + also, about five hundred coloured engravings, made from + two views, which Mr. Wadstrom had taken in Africa. The first + of these represented the town of Joal, and the king's military + on horseback returning to it, after having executed the great + pillage, with their slaves. The other represented the village of + Bain; from whence ruffians were forcing a poor woman and her + children to sell them to a ship, which was then lying in the + Roads. Both these scenes Mr. Wadstrom had witnessed. I + had collected, also, by this time, one thousand of my Essays on + the <em>Impolicy of the Slave Trade</em>, which had been translated into + the French language. These I now wished to distribute, as preparatory + to the motion of Mirabeau, among the National Assembly. + This distribution was afterwards undertaken and effected + by the Archbishop of Aix, the Bishop of Chartres, the Marquis + de la Fayette, the Duc de la Rochefoucauld, the Comte de Mirabeau, + Monsieur Necker, the Marquis de Condorcet, Messieurs + Pétion de Villeneuve, Bergasse, Clavière and Brissot, and by the + Marchioness de la Fayette, Madame Necker, and Madame de + Poivre, the latter of whom was the widow of the late intendant + of the Isle of France. + + </p> + <p> + This distribution had not been long begun, before I witnessed + + its effects. The virtuous Abbé Gregoire, and several members of + the National Assembly, called upon me. The section of the + slave-ship, it appeared, had been the means of drawing them + towards me. They wished for more accurate information concerning + it. Indeed, it made its impression upon all who saw it. + The Bishop of Chartres once told me, that, when he first espoused + our cause, he did it at once; for it seemed obvious to him that no + one could, under the Christian dispensation, hold another as his + slave; and it was no less obvious, where such an unnatural state + existed, that there would be great abuses; but that, nevertheless, + he had not given credit to all the tales which had been related of + the Slave Trade, till he had seen this plate; after which there + was nothing so barbarous which might not readily be believed. + The Archbishop of Aix, when I first showed him the same plate, + was so struck with horror, that he could scarcely speak: and + when Mirabeau first saw it, he was so impressed by it, that he + ordered a mechanic to make a model of it in wood, at a considerable + expense. This model he kept afterwards in his dining-room. + It was a ship in miniature, about a yard long, and little wooden + men and women, which were painted black to represent the + slaves, were seen stowed in their proper places. + + </p> + <p> + But while the distribution of these different articles thus contributed + to make us many friends, it called forth the extraordinary + exertions of our enemies. The merchants and others interested + in the continuance of the Slave Trade wrote letters to the Archbishop + of Aix, beseeching him not to ruin France; which he + would inevitably do, if, as then president, he were to grant a day + for hearing the question of the abolition. Offers of money were + made to Mirabeau from the same quarter, if he would totally + abandon his motion. An attempt was made to establish a + colonial committee, consisting of such planters as were members + of the National Assembly, upon whom it should devolve to + consider and report upon all matters relating to the Colonies, + before they could be determined there. Books were circulated in + abundance in opposition to mine. Resort was again had to the + public papers, as the means of raising a hue and cry against the + principles of the Friends of the Negroes. I was again denounced + + as a spy; and as one sent by the English minister to bribe + members in the Assembly to do that in a time of public agitation, + which in the settled state of France they could never + have been prevailed upon to accomplish. And as a proof that + this was my errand, it was requested of every Frenchman to put + to himself the following question, "How it happened that England, + which had considered the subject coolly and deliberately for + eighteen months, and this in a state of internal peace and + quietness, had not abolished the Slave Trade?" + + </p> + <p> + The clamour which was now made against the abolition + pervaded all Paris, and reached the ears of the king; Mr. Necker + had a long conversation with him upon it; the latter sent for me + immediately. He informed me that His Majesty was desirous of + making himself master of the question, and had expressed a wish + to see my <em>Essay on the Impolicy of the Slave Trade</em>; he desired + to have two copies of it, one in French, and the other in English, + and he would then take his choice as to which of them he would + read; he (Mr. Necker) was to present them. He would take + with him, also, at the same time, the beautiful specimens of the + manufactures of the Africans, which I had lent to Madame + Necker out of the cabinet of Monsieur Geoffroy de Villeneuve + and others; as to the section of the slave-ship, he thought it would + affect His Majesty too much, as he was then indisposed. All + these articles, except the latter, were at length presented; the + king bestowed a good deal of time upon the specimens; he admired + them, but particularly those in gold. He expressed his surprise + at the state of some of the arts in Africa. He sent them back on + the same day on which he had examined them, and commissioned + Mr. Necker to return me his thanks, and to say that he had been + highly gratified with what he had seen; and with respect to the + <em>Essay on the Impolicy of the Slave Trade</em>, that he would read it + with all the seriousness which such a subject deserved. + + </p> + <p> + My correspondence with the Comte de Mirabeau was now + drawing near to its close. I had sent him a letter every other + day for a whole month, which contained from sixteen to twenty + pages; he usually acknowledged the receipt of each; hence many + of his letters came into my possession: these were always interesting, + + on account of the richness of the expressions they contained. + Mirabeau even in his ordinary discourse was eloquent; it was his + peculiar talent to use such words, that they who heard them were + almost led to believe that he had taken great pains to cull them + for the occasion. But this his ordinary language was the language + also of his letters; and as they show a power of expression, by + which the reader may judge of the character of the eloquence of + one, who was then undoubtedly the greatest orator in France, I + have thought it not improper to submit one of them to his perusal + in the annexed note<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXXV_1"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXXV_1"></a>. I could have + wished, as far as it relates + to myself, that it had been less complimentary. It must be + observed, however, that I had already written to him more than + two hundred pages with my own hand; and as this was done at + no small expense, time, and trouble, and solely to qualify him for + the office of doing good, he could not but set some value upon my + labours. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXXV_1"></a><a href="#FootXXV_1">A</a>: Je fais toujours mille + remercimens plus empressés et plus affectueux à Monsieur Clarkson + pour la vertueuse profusion + de ses lumières, de ses recherches, et de ses travaux. Comme ma motion, + et tous ses développemens sont entièrement prêts, j'attends avec + une vive impatience ses nouvelles lettres, afin d'achever de classer + les faits et les raisonnemens de Monsieur Clarkson, et, cette + déduction entièrement finie, de commencer à manoeuvrer en tactique + le succès douteux de cette périlleuse proposition. J'aurai l'honneur + de le recevoir Dimanche depuis onze heures, et même dix du matin jusqu'à + midi, non seulement avec un vif plaisir, mais avec une sensible + reconnaissance. + 25<em>th</em><em>Décembre</em>, 1789. + </p> + <p> + When our correspondence was over, I had some conversation + with him relative to fixing a day for the motion. But he judged + it prudent, previously to this, to sound some of the members of + the Assembly on the subject of it. This he did, but he was greatly + disappointed at the result; there was not one member, out of all + those with whom he conversed, who had not been canvassed + by the planters' committee; and though most of them had been + proof against all its intrigues and artifices, yet many of them + hesitated respecting the abolition at that moment. There was + a fear in some that they should injure the revolution by adopting + it; others, who had no such fears, wished for the concurrence of + England in the measure, and suggested the propriety of a deputation + there for that purpose previously to the discussion of the + + question in France. While others maintained that, as England + had done nothing, after having had it so long under consideration, + it was fair to presume that she judged it impolitic to abandon the + Slave Trade; but if France were to give it up, and England to + continue it, how would humanity be the gainer? + + </p> + <p> + While the Comte de Mirabeau was continuing his canvass + among the members of the National Assembly, relative to his + motion, attempts were again made in the public papers to mislead + them; emancipation was now stated to be the object of the friends + of the negroes. This charge I repelled, by addressing myself to + Monsieur Beauvet. I explained to him the views of the different + societies which had taken up the cause of the Africans; and I + desired him to show my letter to the planters. I was obliged also + to answer publicly a letter by Monsieur Mosneron de Laung. + This writer professed to detail the substance of the privy council + report. He had the injustice to assert that three things had been + distinctly proved there: First, that slavery had always existed in + Africa; Secondly, that the natives were a bloody people, addicted + to human sacrifice, and other barbarous customs; and, Thirdly, + that their soil was incapable of producing any proper articles for + commerce. From these premises he argued, as if they had been + established by the unanimous and uncontradicted testimony of the + witnesses; and he drew the conclusion, that not only had England + done nothing in consequence, but that she never would do anything + which should affect the existence of this trade. + + </p> + <p> + But these letters had only just made their appearance in the + public papers, when I was summoned to England; parliament, + it appeared, had met, and I was immediately to leave Paris. + Among those of whom I had but just time to take leave, were the + deputies of colour. At this, my last conference with them, I + recommended moderation and forbearance, as the best gifts I + could leave them; and I entreated them rather to give up their + seats in the Assembly, than on that account to bring misery on + their country; for that with patience their cause would ultimately + triumph. They replied, that I had prescribed to them a most + difficult task; they were afraid that neither the conduct of the + white colonists nor of the National Assembly could be much + + longer borne; they thanked me, however, for my advice. One of + them gave me a trinket, by which I might remember him; and + as for himself, he said he should never forget one, who had taken + such a deep interest in the welfare of his + mother<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXXV_2"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXXV_2"></a>. I found, however, + notwithstanding all I said, that there was a spirit of dissatisfaction + in them, which nothing but a redress of their grievances + could subdue; and that, if the planters should persevere in their + intrigues, and the National Assembly in delay, a fire would be + lighted up in St. Domingo, which could not easily be extinguished. + This was afterwards realized: for Ogé, in about three + months from this time, left his companions, to report to his constituents + in St. Domingo the state of their mission; when hearing, on + his arrival in that island, of the outrageous conduct of the whites + of the committee of Aquin, who had begun a persecution of the + people of colour, for no other reason than that they had dared to + seek the common privileges of citizens, and of the murder of Ferrand + and Labadie, he imprudently armed his slaves. With a small but + faithful band he rushed upon superior numbers, and was defeated; + taking refuge at length in the Spanish part of St. Domingo, he + was given up, and his enemies, to strike terror into the people of + colour, broke him upon the wheel. From this time reconciliation + between the parties became impossible; a bloody war commenced, + and with it all those horrors which it has been our lot so frequently + to deplore. It must be remembered, however, that the Slave + Trade, by means of the cruel distinctions it occasioned, was the + original cause; and though the revolution of France afforded the + occasion, it was an occasion which would have been prevented, if + it had not been for the intrigues and injustice of the whites. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXXV_2"></a><a href="#FootXXV_2">A</a>: Africa. + </p> + <p> + Another upon whom I had time to call was the amiable bishop + of Chartres. When I left him, the Abbé Siéyes, who was with + him, desired to walk with me to my hotel; he there presented + me with a set of his works, which he sent for while he staid with + me; and, on parting, he made use of this complimentary expression, + in allusion, I suppose, to the cause I had undertaken,—"I + am pleased to have been acquainted with the friend of man." + + </p> + <p> + It was necessary that I should see the Comte de Mirabeau + + and the Marquis de la Fayette before I left Paris, I had written + to each of them to communicate the intelligence of my departure, + as soon as I received it. The comte, it appeared had nearly + canvassed the Assembly; he could count upon three hundred + members, who, for the sake of justice, and without any consideration + of policy or of consequences, would support his motion. But + alas! what proportion did this number bear to twelve hundred! + About five hundred more would support him, but only on one + condition, which was, if England would give an unequivocal + proof of her intention to abolish the trade. The knowledge of + these circumstances, he said, had induced him to write a letter to + Mr. Pitt. In this he had explained how far he could proceed without + his assistance, and how far with it. He had frankly developed + to him the mind and temper of the Assembly on this subject; + but his answer must be immediate, for the white colonists were + daily gaining such an influence there, that he forsaw that it + would be impossible to carry the measure, if it were long delayed. + On taking leave of him he desired me to be the bearer of the + letter, and to present it to Mr. Pitt. + + </p> + <p> + On conversing with the Marquis de la Fayette, he lamented + deeply the unexpected turn which the cause of the Negroes had + lately taken in the Assembly. It was entirely owing to the daily + intrigues of the White Colonists. He feared they would ruin + everything. If the Deputies of Colour had been heard on their + arrival, their rights would have been acknowledged. But now + there was little probability that they would obtain them. He foresaw + nothing but desolation in St. Domingo. With respect to the + abolition of the Slave Trade, it might be yet carried; but not unless + England would concur in the measure. On this topic he enlarged + with much feeling. He hoped the day was near at hand, when + two great nations, which had been hitherto distinguished only for + their hostility, one toward the other, would unite in so sublime a + measure; and that they would follow up their union by another, + still more lovely, for the preservation of eternal and universal + peace. Thus their future rivalships might have the extraordinary + merit of being rivalships in good. Thus the revolution of France, + through the mighty aid of England, might become the source of + + civilization, of freedom, and of happiness to the whole world. No + other nations were sufficiently enlightened for such an union, but + all other nations might be benefited by it. + + </p> + <p> + The last person whom I saw was Brissot. He accompanied + me to my carriage. With him, therefore, I shall end my French + account; and I shall end it in no way so satisfactory to myself, as + in a very concise vindication of his character, from actual knowledge, + against the attacks of those who have endeavoured to disparage + it; but who never knew him. Justice and truth, I am + convinced, demand some little declaration on this subject at my + hands. Brissot then was a man of plain and modest appearance. + His habits, contrary to those of his countrymen in general, were + domestic. In his own family he set an amiable example, both as + a husband and as a father. On all occasions he was a faithful + friend. He was particularly watchful over his private conduct. + From the simplicity of his appearance, and the severity of his + morals, he was called "The Quaker;" at least in all the circles + which I frequented. He was a man of deep feeling. He was + charitable to the poor as far as a slender income permitted him. + But his benevolence went beyond the usual bounds. He was no + patriot in the ordinary acceptation of the word; for he took the + habitable globe as his country and wished to consider every + foreigner as his brother. + + </p> + <p> + I left France, as it may be easily imagined, much disappointed, + that my labours, which had been of nearly six months + continuance, should have had no better success; nor did I see, in + looking forward, any circumstances that were consoling with + respect to the issue of them there; for it was impossible that + Mr. Pitt, even if he had been inclined to write to Mirabeau, + circumstanced as matters then were with respect to the hearing + of evidence, could have given him a promise, at least of a speedy + abolition; and, unless his answer had been immediate, it would + have arrived, seeing that the French planters were daily profiting + by their intrigues, too late to be effectual. + + </p> + <p> + I had but just arrived in England, when Mr. Wilberforce + made a new motion in the House of Commons on the subject of + the Slave Trade. In referring to the transactions of the last + + session, he found that twenty-eight days had been allotted to the + hearing of witnesses against the abolition, and that eleven persons + only had been examined in that time. If the examinations were + to go on in the same manner, they might be made to last for + years. He resolved, therefore, to move, that, instead of hearing + evidence in future in the house at large, members should hear it + in an open committee above stairs; which committee should sit + notwithstanding any adjournment of the house itself. This + motion he made; and in doing it he took an opportunity of + correcting an erroneous report; which was, that he had changed + his mind on this great subject. This was, he said, so far from + being the case, that the more he contemplated the trade, the + more enormous he found it, and the more he felt himself compelled + to persevere in endeavours for its abolition. + + </p> + <p> + One would have thought that a motion, so reasonable and so + constitutional, would have met with the approbation of all; but + it was vehemently opposed by Mr. Gascoyne, Alderman Newnham, + and others. The plea set up was, that there was no precedent + for referring a question of such importance to a committee. + It was now obvious, that the real object of our opponents in + abandoning decision by the privy council evidence was delay. + Unable to meet us there, they were glad to fly to any measure, + which should enable them to put off the evil day. This charge + was fixed upon them in unequivocal language by Mr. Fox; who + observed besides, that if the members of the house should then + resolve to hear evidence in a committee of the whole house as + before, it would amount to a resolution, that the question of the + abolition of the Slave Trade should be put by, or at least that it + should never be decided by them. After a long debate, the + motion of Mr. Wilberforce was voted without a division; and + the examination of witnesses proceeded in behalf of those who + were interested in the continuance of the trade. + + </p> + <p> + This measure having been resolved upon, by which despatch + in the examinations was promoted, I was alarmed lest we should + be called upon for our own evidence, before we were fully prepared. + The time which I had originally allotted for the discovery + of new witnesses, had been taken up, if not wasted, in + + France. In looking over the names of the sixteen, who were to + have been examined by the committee of privy council, if there + had been time, one had died, and eight, who were sea-faring + people, were out of the kingdom. It was time, therefore, to stir + immediately in this business. Happily, on looking over my + letters, which I found on my arrival in England, the names of + several had been handed to me, with the places of their abode, + who could give me information on the subject of our question. + All these I visited with the utmost despatch. I was absent only + three weeks. I had travelled a thousand miles in this time, had + conversed with seventeen persons, and had prevailed upon three + to be examined. + + </p> + <p> + I had scarcely returned with the addition of these witnesses + to my list, when I found it necessary to go out again upon the + same errand. This second journey arose in part from the following + circumstances. There was a matter in dispute relative to the + mode of obtaining slaves in the rivers of Calabar and Bonny. + It was usual, when the slave-ships lay there, for a number of + canoes to go into the inland country. These went in a fleet. + There might be from thirty to forty armed natives in each of + them. Every canoe, also, had a four or a six-pounder (cannon) + fastened to her bow. Equipped in this manner they departed; + and they were usually absent from eight to fourteen days. It + was said that they went to fairs, which were held on the banks + of these rivers, and at which there was a regular show of slaves. + On their return they usually brought down from eight hundred + to a thousand of these for the ships. These lay at the bottom of + the canoes; their arms and legs having been first bound by the + ropes of the country. Now the question was, how the people, + thus going up these rivers, obtained their slaves? + + </p> + <p> + It was certainly a very suspicious circumstance, that such a + number of persons should go out upon these occasions; and that + they should be armed in such a manner. We presumed, therefore, + that, though they might buy many of the slaves, whom they + brought down, at the fairs which have been mentioned, they + obtained others by violence, as opportunity offered. This inference + we pressed upon our opponents, and called upon them to + + show what circumstances made such warlike preparations necessary + on these excursions. To this they replied readily, "The + people in the canoes," said they, "pass through the territories of + different petty princes; to each of whom, on entering his territory, + they pay a tribute or toll. This tribute has been long fixed; but + attempts frequently have been made to raise it. They who + follow the trade cannot afford to submit to these unreasonable + demands; and therefore they arm themselves in case of any + determination on the part of these petty princes to enforce them." + This answer we never judged to be satisfactory. We tried + therefore, to throw light upon the subject, by inquiring if the + natives who went upon these expeditions usually took with them + as many goods as would amount to the number of the slaves they + were accustomed to bring back with them. But we could get no + direct answer, from any actual knowledge, to this question. All + had seen the canoes go out and return; but no one had seen them + loaded, or had been on board them. It appeared, however, from + circumstantial evidence, that though the natives on these occasions + might take some articles of trade with them, it was impossible + from appearances that they could take them in the proportion + mentioned. We maintained, then, our inference as before; + but it was still uniformly denied. + + </p> + <p> + How then were we to decide this important question? for it + was said that no white man was ever permitted by the natives + to go up in these canoes. On mentioning accidentally the circumstances + of the case, as I have now stated them, to a friend, + immediately on my return from my last journey, he informed me + that he himself had been in company, about a year before, with + a sailor, a very respectable-looking man, who had been up these + rivers. He had spent half an hour with him at an inn. He + described his person to me; but he knew nothing of his name, + or of the place of his abode. All he knew was, that he was + either going, or that he belonged to, some ship of war in ordinary; + but he could not tell at what port. I might depend upon + all these circumstances if the man had not deceived him; and he + saw no reason why he should. + + </p> + <p> + I felt myself set on fire, as it were, by this intelligence, deficient + + as it was; and I seemed to determine instantly that I would, + if it were possible, find him out. For if our suspicions were + true that the natives frequently were kidnapped in these expeditions, + it would be of great importance to the cause of the abolition + to have them confirmed; for as many slaves came annually + from these two rivers, as from all the coast of Africa besides. + But how to proceed on so blind an errand was the question. I + first thought of trying to trace the man by letter; but this might + be tedious. The examinations were now going on rapidly. We + should soon be called upon for evidence ourselves; besides, I + knew nothing of his name. I then thought it to be a more effectual + way to apply to Sir Charles Middleton, as comptroller of the + navy, by whose permission I could board every ship of war in + ordinary in England, and judge for myself. But here the undertaking + seemed very arduous, and the time it would consume + became an objection in this respect, that I thought I could not + easily forgive myself, if I were to fail in it. My inclination, + however, preponderated this way. At length I determined to + follow it; for, on deliberate consideration, I found that I could + not employ my time more advantageously to the cause; for as + other witnesses must be found out somewhere, it was highly probable + that, if I should fail in the discovery of this man, I should, + by moving among such a number of sea-faring people, find others + who could give their testimony in our favour. + + </p> + <p> + I must now inform the reader, that ships of war in ordinary, + in one of which this man was reported to be, are those which are + out of commission, and which are laid up in the different rivers + and waters in the neighbourhood of the king's dock-yards. + Every one of these has a boatswain, gunner, carpenter, and + assistants on board. They lie usually in divisions of ten or + twelve; and a master in the navy has a command over every + division. + + </p> + <p> + At length I began my journey. I boarded all the ships of + war lying in ordinary at Deptford, and examined the different + persons in each. From Deptford I proceeded to Woolwich, + where I did the same. Thence I hastened to Chatham, and + then, down the Medway, to Sheerness. I had now boarded + + above a hundred and sixty vessels of war. I had found out two + good and willing evidences among them; but I could gain no + intelligence of him who was the object of my search. + + </p> + <p> + From Chatham I made the best of my way to Portsmouth harbour. + A very formidable task presented itself here; but the + masters' boats were ready for me, and I continued my pursuit. + On boarding the Pegase, on the second day, I discovered a very + respectable person in the gunner of that ship. His name was + George Millar. He had been on board the Canterbury slaveship + at the dreadful massacre at Calabar. He was the only disinterested + evidence living, of whom I had yet heard. He + expressed his willingness to give, his testimony, if his presence + should be thought necessary in London. I then continued my + pursuit for the remainder of the day. On the next day I resumed + and finished it for this quarter. I had now examined the different + persons in more than a hundred vessels in this harbour, but I had + not discovered the person I had gone to seek. + + </p> + <p> + Matters now began to look rather disheartening, I mean as + far as my grand object was concerned. There was but one other + port left, and this was between two and three hundred miles + distant. I determined, however, to go to Plymouth. I had + already been more successful in this tour, with respect to obtaining + general evidences than in any other of the same length; and + the probability was, that as I should continue to move among the + same kind of people, my success would be in a similar proportion + according to the number visited. These were great encouragements + to me to proceed. At length I arrived at the place of my + last hope. On my first day's expedition I boarded forty vessels, + but found no one in these who had been on the coast of Africa + in the Slave Trade. One or two had been there in king's ships; + but they had never been on shore. Things were now drawing + near to a close; and, notwithstanding my success as to general + evidence in this journey, my heart began to beat. I was restless + and uneasy during the night. The next morning I felt agitated + again between the alternate pressure of hope and fear; and in + this state I entered my boat. The fifty-seventh vessel, which I + boarded in this harbour was the Melampus frigate. One person + + belonging to it, on examining him in the captain's cabin, said he + had been two voyages to Africa; and I had not long discoursed + with him before I found, to my inexpressible joy, that he was the + man. I found, too, that he unravelled the question in dispute + precisely as our inferences had determined it. He had been two + expeditions up the river Calabar in the canoes of the natives. In + the first of these, they came within a certain distance of a village. + They then concealed themselves under the bushes, which hung + over the water from the banks. In this position they remained + during day-light; but at night they went up to it armed, and + seized all the inhabitants, who had not time to make their escape. + They obtained forty-five persons in this manner. In the second, + they were out eight or nine days, when they made a similar + attempt, and with nearly similar success. They seized men, + women, and children, as they could find them in the huts. They + then bound their arms, and drove them before them to the + canoes. The name of the person, thus discovered on board the + Melampus, was Isaac Parker. On inquiring into his character + from the master of the division, I found it highly respectable. I + found, also, afterwards, that he had sailed with Captain Cook, + with great credit to himself, round the world. It was also + remarkable that my brother, on seeing him in London, when he + went to deliver his evidence, recognised him as having served + on board the Monarch man-of-war, and as one of the most + exemplary men in that ship. + + </p> + <p> + I returned now in triumph. I had been out only three weeks, + and I had found out this extraordinary person, and five respectable + witnesses besides. These, added to the three discovered + in the last journey, and to those provided before, made us more + formidable than at any former period; so that the delay of our + opponents, which we had looked upon as so great an evil, proved + in the end truly serviceable to our cause. + + </p> + <p> + On going into the committee-room of the House of Commons + on my return, I found that the examinations were still going on + in the behalf of those who were interested in the continuance of + the trade; and they went on beyond the middle of April, when + it was considered that they had closed. Mr. Wilberforce moved + + accordingly, on the 23rd of the same month, that Captain Thomas + Wilson, of the royal navy, and that Charles Berns Wadstrom + and Henry Hew Dalrymple, Esqrs., do attend as witnesses + on the behalf of the abolition. There was nothing now but + clamour from those on the opposite side of the question. They + knew well that there were but few members of the House of + Commons, who had read the privy council report. They knew, + therefore, that if the question were to be decided by evidence, it + must be decided by that which their own witnesses had given + before parliament. But this was the evidence only on one side. + It was certain, therefore, if the decision were to be made upon + this basis, that it must be entirely in their favour. Will it then + be believed that in an English House of Commons there could + be found persons, who could move to prevent the hearing of any + other witnesses on this subject; and, what is more remarkable, + that they should charge Mr. Wilberforce, because he proposed + the hearing of them, with the intention solely of delay? Yes, + such persons were found; but happily only among the friends of + the Slave Trade. Mr. Wilberforce, in replying to them, could + not help observing that it was rather extraordinary that they, + who had occasioned the delay of a whole year, should charge him + with that of which they themselves had been so conspicuously + guilty. He then commented for some time on the injustice of + their motion. He stated, too, that he would undertake to remove + from disinterested and unprejudiced persons many of the impressions + which had been made by the witnesses against the abolition; + and he appealed to the justice and honour of the house in behalf + of an injured people; under the hope that they would not allow + a decision to be made till they had heard the whole of the case. + These observations, however, did not satisfy all those who + belonged to the opposite party. Lord Penrhyn contended for a + decision without a moment's delay. Mr. Gascoyne relented; and + said, he would allow three weeks to the abolitionists, during + which their evidence might be heard. At length, the debate + ended; in the course of which Mr. Pitt and Mr. Fox powerfully + supported Mr. Wilberforce; when the motion was negatived + without any attempt at a division. + + </p> + <p> + The witnesses in behalf of the abolition of the Slave Trade + now took possession of the ground which those in favour of it + had left. But what was our surprise, when only three of them + had been heard, to find that Mr. Norris should come forward as + an evidence! This he did to confirm what he had stated to the + privy council as to the general question; but he did it more + particularly, as it appeared afterwards, in the justification of his + own conduct: for the part which he had taken at Liverpool, as + it related to me, had become a subject of conversation with + many. It was now well known what assistance he had given + me there in my pursuit; how he had even furnished me with + clauses for a bill, for the abolition of the trade; how I had written + to him, in consequence of his friendly co-operation, to come up + as an evidence in our favour; and how at that moment he had + accepted the office of a delegate on the contrary side. The noise + which the relation and repetition of these and other circumstances + had made, had given him, I believe, considerable pain. His + friends, too, had urged some explanation as necessary. But how + short-sighted are they who do wrong! By coming forward in + this imprudent manner, he fixed the stain only the more indelibly + on himself; for he thus imposed upon me the cruel necessity of + being examined against him; and this necessity was the more + afflicting, to me, because I was to be called upon not to state facts + relative to the trade, but to destroy his character as an evidence + in its support. I was to be called upon, in fact, to explain all + those communications which have been stated to have taken + place between us on this subject. Glad indeed should I have + been to have declined this painful interference. But no one + would hear of a refusal. The Bishop of London, Mr. Pitt, and + Mr. Wilberforce considered my appearance on this occasion as + an imperious duty to the cause of the oppressed. It may be + perhaps sufficient to say that I was examined; that Mr. Norris + was present all the time; that I was cross-examined by counsel; + and, that after this time, Mr. Norris seemed to have no ordinary + sense of his own degradation; for he never afterwards held up + his head or looked the abolitionists in the face, or acted with + energy as a delegate, as on former occasions. + + </p> + <p> + The hearing of evidence continued to go on in behalf of the + abolition of the trade. No less than twenty-four witnesses altogether + were heard in this session. And here it may not be + improper to remark, that during the examination of our own + witnesses, as well as the cross-examination of those of our opponents, + no counsel were ever employed. Mr. Wilberforce and Mr. + William Smith undertook this laborious department; and as + they performed it with great ability, so they did it with great + liberality towards those who were obliged to come under their + notice, in the course of this fiery ordeal. + + </p> + <p> + The bill of Sir William Dolben was now to be renewed. + On this occasion the enemies of the abolition became again + conspicuous; for on the 26th of May, they availed themselves of + a thin house to propose an amendment, by which they increased + the number of the slaves to the tonnage of the vessel. They + increased it, too, without taking into the account, as had hitherto + been done, the extent of the superficies of the vessels which were + to carry them. This was the third indecorous attempt against + what were only reasonable and expected proceedings in the present + session. But their advantage was of no great duration; for the + very next day, the amendment was rejected on the report by a + majority of ninety-five to sixty-nine, in consequence, principally, + of the private exertions of Mr. Pitt. Of this bill, though it was + renewed in other years besides the present, I shall say no more + in this <em>History</em>; because it has nothing to do with the general + question. Horrible as it yet left the situation of the poor slaves + in their transportation, (which the plate has most abundantly + shown,) it was the best bill which could be then obtained; and + it answered to a certain degree the benevolent wishes of the + worthy baronet who introduced it: for if we could conclude, that + these voyages were made more comfortable to the injured + Africans, in proportion as there was less mortality in them, he + had undoubtedly the pleasure of seeing the end, at least partially, + obtained; though he must always have felt a great + drawback from it, by reflecting that the survivors, however their + sufferings might have been a little diminished, were reserved for + slavery. + + </p> + <p> + The session was now near its close; and we had the sorrow + to find, though we had defeated our opponents in the three + instances which have been mentioned, that the tide ran decidedly + against us, upon the general question, in the House of Commons. + The same statements which had struck so many members with + panic in the former sessions, such as that of emancipation, of the + ruin and massacre of the planters, and of indemnification to the + amount of seventy millions, had been industriously kept up, and + this by a personal canvass among them. But this hostile disposition + was still unfortunately increased by considerations of + another sort. For the witnesses of our opponents had taken + their ground first. No less than eleven of them had been + examined in the last sessions. In the present, two-thirds of the + time had been occupied by others on the same side. Hence the + impression upon this ground also was against us; and we had yet + had no adequate opportunity of doing it away. A clamour was + also raised, where we thought it least likely to have originated. + They (the planters), it was said, had produced persons in elevated + life, and of the highest character, as witnesses; whereas we had + been obliged to take up with those of the lowest condition. This + idea was circulated directly after the introduction of Isaac Parker, + before mentioned, a simple mariner, and who was now contrasted + with the admirals on the other side of the question. This outcry + was not only ungenerous, but unconstitutional. It is the glory + of the English law, that it has no scale of veracity which it + adapts to persons, according to the station which they may be + found to occupy in life. In our courts of law, the poor are heard + as well as the rich; and if their reputation be fair, and they + stand proof against the cross-examinations they undergo, both the + judge and the jury must determine the matter in dispute by their + evidence. But the House of Commons was now called upon + by our opponents, to adopt the preposterous maxim of attaching + falsehood to poverty, or of weighing truth by the standard of + rank and riches. + + </p> + <p> + But though we felt a considerable degree of pain in finding + this adverse disposition among so many members of the Lower + House, it was some consolation to us to know that our cause had + + not suffered with their constituents,—the people. These were + still warmly with us. Indeed, their hatred of the trade had + greatly increased. Many circumstances had occurred in this + year to promote it. The committee, during my absence in + France, had circulated the plate of the slave-ship throughout all + England. No one saw it but he was impressed. It spoke to + him in a language which was at once intelligible and irresistible. + It brought forth the tear of sympathy in behalf of the sufferers, + and it fixed their sufferings in his heart. The committee, too, + had been particularly vigilant during the whole of the year with + respect to the public papers. They had suffered no statement in + behalf of those interested in the continuance of the trade to go + unanswered. Dr. Dickson, the author of the <em>Letters on Slavery</em>, + before mentioned, had come forward again with his services on + this occasion; and, by his active co-operation with a sub-committee + appointed for the purpose, the coast was so well cleared of + our opponents, that, though they were seen the next year again, + through the medium of the same papers, they appeared only in + sudden incursions, as it were, during which they darted a few + weapons at us; but they never afterward ventured upon the plain + to dispute the matter, inch by inch, or point by point, in an open + and manly manner. + + </p> + <p> + But other circumstances occurred to keep up a hatred of the + trade among the people in this interval, which, trivial as they + were, ought not to be forgotten. The amiable poet Cowper had + frequently made the Slave Trade the subject of his contemplation. + He had already severely condemned it in his valuable + poem <em>The Task</em>. But now he had written three little fugitive + pieces upon it. Of these, the most impressive was that which + he called <em>The Negro's Complaint</em>, and of which the following is + a copy:— + + </p> + <div class="poem"> + + <div class="lg">Forced from home and all its pleasures,<br> Afric's coast I left forlorn,<br>To increase a stranger's treasures,<br> O'er the raging billows borne;<br>Men from England bought and sold me,<br> Paid my price in paltry gold;<br>But, though theirs they have enroll'd me,<br> Minds are never to be sold.<br><br></div> + <div class="lg">Still in thought as free as ever,<br> What are England's rights, I ask,<br>Me from my delights to sever,<br> Me to torture, me to task?<br>Fleecy locks and black complexion<br> Cannot forfeit Nature's claim;<br>Skins may differ, but affection<br> Dwells in black and white the same.<br><br></div> + <div class="lg">Why did all-creating Nature<br> Make the plant, for which we toil?<br>Sighs must fan it, tears must water,<br> Sweat of ours must dress the soil.<br>Think, ye masters, iron-hearted,<br> Lolling at your jovial boards,<br>Think, how many backs have smarted<br> For the sweets your cane affords.<br><br></div> + <div class="lg">Is there, as you sometimes tell us,<br> Is there one, who rules on high;<br>Has he bid you buy and sell us,<br> Speaking from his throne, the sky?<br>Ask him, if your knotted scourges,<br> Fetters, blood-extorting screws,<br>Are the means, which duty urges<br> Agents of his will to use?<br><br></div> + <div class="lg">Hark! he answers. Wild tornadoes,<br> Strewing yonder sea with wrecks,<br>Wasting towns, plantations, meadows,<br> Are the voice with which he speaks.<br>He, foreseeing what vexations<br> Afric's sons should undergo,<br>Fixed their tyrants' habitations<br> Where his whirlwinds answer—No.<br><br></div> + <div class="lg">By our blood in Afric wasted,<br> Ere our necks received the chain;<br>By the miseries, which we tasted<br> Crossing, in your barks, the main;<br>By our sufferings, since you brought us<br> To the man-degrading mart,<br>All-sustained by patience, taught us<br> Only by a broken heart:<br><br></div> + <div class="lg">Deem our nation brutes no longer,<br> Till some reason you shall find<br>Worthier of regard, and stronger,<br> Than the colour of our kind.<br>Slaves of gold! whose sordid dealings<br> Tarnish all, your boasted powers,<br>Prove that you have human feelings,<br> Ere you proudly question ours.<br><br></div> + </div> + <p> + This little piece Cowper presented in manuscript to some of + his friends in London; and these, conceiving it to contain a + powerful appeal in behalf of the injured Africans, joined in + printing it. Having ordered it on the finest hot-pressed paper, + and folded it up in a small and neat form, they gave it the printed + title of <em>A Subject for Conversation at the Tea-table</em>. + After this, + they sent many thousand copies of it in franks into the country. + From one it spread to another, till it travelled almost over the + whole island. Falling at length into the hands of the musician, + it was set to music; and it then found its way into the streets, + both of the metropolis and of the country, where it was sung as a + ballad; and where it gave a plain account of the subject, with an + appropriate feeling, to those who heard it. + + </p> + <p> + Nor was the philanthropy of the late Mr. Wedgewood less + instrumental in turning the popular feeling in our favour. He + made his own manufactory contribute to this end. He took the + seal of the committee, as exhibited in <a href="#chap20" >Chap. XX.</a>, for his model; + and he produced a beautiful cameo, of a less size, of which the + ground was a most delicate white, but the Negro, who was seen + imploring compassion in the middle of it, was in his own native + colour. Mr. Wedgewood made a liberal donation of these, when + finished, among his friends. I received from him no less than + five hundred of them myself. They, to whom they were sent, + did not lay them up in their cabinets, but gave them away likewise. + They were soon, like <em>The Negro's Complaint</em>, in different + parts of the kingdom. Some had them inlaid in gold on the lid + of their snuff-boxes. Of the ladies, several wore them in bracelets, + and others had them fitted up in an ornamental manner as pins + for their hair. At length the taste for wearing them became + general; and thus fashion, which usually confines itself to worthless + things, was seen for once in the honourable office of promoting + the cause of justice, humanity, and freedom. + + </p> + <p> + I shall now only state that the committee took as members + within its own body, in the period of time which is included in + this chapter, the Reverend Mr. Ormerod, chaplain to the Bishop + of London, and Captain James Bowen, of the royal navy; that + they elected the Honourable Nathaniel Curzon (afterwards Lord + + Scarsdale), Dr. Frossard, of Lyons, and Benjamin Garlike, Esq., + then secretary to the English embassy at the Hague, honorary + and corresponding members; and that they concluded their + annual labours with a suitable report, in which they noticed the + extraordinary efforts of our opponents to injure our cause in the + following manner:—"In the progress of this business, a powerful + combination of interest has been excited against us. The African + trader, the planter, and the West India merchant, have united + their forces to defend the fortress, in which their supposed treasures + lie. Vague calculations and false alarms have been thrown + out to the public, in order to show that the constitution, and even + the existence, of this free and opulent nation depend on its + depriving the inhabitants of a foreign country of those rights and + of that liberty which we ourselves so highly and so justly prize. + Surely, in the nature of things, and in the order of Providence, + it cannot be so. England existed as a great nation long before + the African commerce was known amongst us, and it is not to + acts of injustice and violence that she owes her present rank in + the scale of nations." + + </p> + + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + <h2><a name="chap26"></a>CHAPTER XXVI. + </h2> + <p><b>—Continuation from July, 1790, to July, 1791.—Author + travels again throughout the kingdom; object of his journey.—Motion + in the House of Commons to resume the hearing of evidence in + favour of the abolition; list of all those examined on this side of + the question; machinations of interested persons, and cruel + circumstances of the times previously to the day of decision.—Motion + at length made for stopping all further importation of Slaves + from Africa; debates upon it; motion lost.—Resolutions of the committee + for the Abolition of the Slave Trade.—Establishment of the Sierra + Leone Company.</b></p> + + <p> + It was a matter of deep affliction to us to think, that the crimes + and sufferings inseparable from the Slave Trade were to be continued + to another year. And yet it was our duty, in the present + moment, to acquiesce in the postponement of the question. This + postponement was not now for the purpose of delay, but of + securing victory. The evidence, on the side of the abolition, + was, at the end of the last session, but half finished. It was + impossible, for the sake of Africa, that we could have then closed + it. No other opportunity might offer in parliament for establishing + an indelible record in her favour, if we were to neglect + the present. It was our duty, therefore, even to wait to complete + it, and to procure such a body of evidence, as should not only + bear us out in the approaching contest, but such as, if we were + to fail, would bear out our successors also. It was possible, + indeed, if the inhabitants of our islands were to improve in + civilization, that the poor slaves might experience gradually an + improved treatment with it; and so far testimony now might + not be testimony for ever; but it was utterly impossible, while + the Slave Trade lasted, and the human passion continued to be + the same, that there should be any change for the better in Africa; + or that any modes, less barbarous, should come into use for procuring + slaves. Evidence, therefore, if once collected on this + subject, would be evidence for posterity. In the midst of these + thoughts another journey occurred to me as necessary for this + + purpose; and I prayed, that I might have strength to perform + it in the most effectual manner; and that I might be daily + impressed, as I travelled along, with the stimulating thought, + that the last hope for millions might possibly rest upon my own + endeavours. + + </p> + <p> + The committee highly approved of this journey; Mr. Wilberforce + saw the absolute necessity of it also, and had prepared a + number of questions, with great ingenuity, to be put to such + persons as might have information to communicate. These I + added to those in the tables, which have been already mentioned, + and they made together a valuable collection on the subject. + + </p> + <p> + This tour was the most vexatious of any I had yet undertaken; + many still refused to come forward to be examined, and some on + the most frivolous pretences, so that I was disgusted, as I journeyed + on, to find how little men were disposed to make sacrifices + for so great a cause. In one part of it I went over nearly two + thousand miles, receiving repeated refusals; I had not secured + one witness within this distance; this was truly disheartening. I + was subject to the whims and caprice of those whom I solicited + on these occasions[A]; to these I was obliged to accommodate myself. + When at Edinburgh, a person who could have given me material + information declined seeing me, though he really wished well to + the cause; when I had returned southward as far as York, he + changed his mind, and he would then see me; I went back that + I might not lose him. When I arrived, he would give me only + private information. Thus I travelled, backwards and forwards, + four hundred miles to no purpose. At another place a circumstance + almost similar happened, though with a different issue. I + had been for two years writing about a person, whose testimony + was important. I had passed once through the town in which + he lived, but he would not then see me; I passed through it now, + but no entreaties of his friends could make him alter his resolution. + He was a man highly respectable as to situation in life, + but of considerable vanity. I said therefore to my friend, on + leaving the town, You may tell him that I expect to be at Nottingham + + in a few days, and though it be a hundred and fifty miles + distant, I will even come back to see him if he will dine with me + on my return. A letter from my friend announced to me, when + at Nottingham, that his vanity had been so gratified by the + thought of a person coming expressly to visit him from such a + distance, that he would meet me according to my appointment; + I went back; we dined together; he yielded to my request; I + was now repaid, and I returned towards Nottingham in the + night. These circumstances I mention, and I feel it right to + mention them, that the reader may be properly impressed with + the great difficulties we found in collecting a body of evidence in + comparison with our opponents. They ought never to be forgotten; + for if with the testimony, picked up as it were under all + these disadvantages, we carried our object against those who had + almost numberless witnesses to command, what must have been + the merits of our cause! No person can indeed judge of the severe + labour and trials in these journeys. In the present, I was out + four months; I was almost over the whole island; I intersected it + backwards and forwards both in the night and in the day; I + travelled nearly seven thousand miles in this time, and I was + able to count upon twenty new and willing evidences. + + </p> + <p> + Having now accomplished my object, Mr. Wilberforce moved + on the 4th of February in the House of Commons, that a committee + be appointed to examine further witnesses in behalf of the + abolition of the Slave Trade, This motion was no sooner made, + than Mr. Cawthorne rose, to our great surprise, to oppose it. + He took upon himself to decide that the House had heard + evidence enough. This indecent motion was not without its + advocates. Mr. Wilberforce set forth the injustice of this attempt, + and proved, that out of eighty-one days which had been given up + to the hearing of evidence, the witnesses against the abolition + had occupied no less than fifty-seven. He was strenuously supported + by Mr. Burke, Mr. Martin, and other respectable members. + At length the debate ended in favour of the original + motion, and a committee was appointed accordingly. + + </p> + <p> + The examinations began again on February 7th, and continued + till April 5th, when they were finally closed. In this, as + + in the former session, Mr. Wilberforce and Mr. William Smith + principally conducted them; and indeed it was necessary that + they should have been present at these times; for it is perhaps + difficult to conceive the illiberal manner in which our witnesses + were treated by those on the other side of the question. Men + who had left the trade upon principle, and who had come forward, + against their apparent interest, to serve the cause of humanity and + justice, were looked upon as mercenaries and culprits, or as men + of doubtful and suspicious character; they were brow-beaten; + unhandsome questions were put to them; some were kept for four + days under examination. It was however highly to their honour + that they were found in no one instance to prevaricate, nor to + waver as to the certainty of their facts. + + </p> + <p> + But this treatment, hard as it was for them to bear, was + indeed good for the cause; for, coming thus pure out of the fire, + they occasioned their own testimony, when read, to bear stronger + marks of truth than that of the generality of our opponents; nor + was it less superior when weighed by other considerations. For + the witnesses, against the abolition were principally interested; + they, who were not, had been hospitably received at the planters' + tables. The evidence, too, which they delivered, was almost + wholly negative. They had not seen such and such evils; but + this was no proof that the evils did not exist. The witnesses, on + the other hand, who came up in favour of the abolition, had no + advantage in making their several assertions. In some instances + they came up against their apparent interest, and, to my knowledge, + suffered persecution for so doing. The evidence also which + they delivered was of a positive nature. They gave an account of + specific evils, which had come under their own eyes; these evils + were never disproved; they stood therefore on a firm basis, as on + a tablet of brass. Engraved there in affirmative characters, a + few of them were of more value than all the negative and airy + testimony which had been advanced on the other side of the + question. + + </p> + <p> + That the public may judge, in some measure, of the respectability + of the witnesses in favour of the abolition, and that they + may know also to whom Africa is so much indebted for her + + deliverance, I shall subjoin their names in the three following + lists. The first will contain those who were examined by the + privy council only; the second those who were examined by the + privy council and the House of Commons also; and the third + those who were examined-by the House of Commons only. + + </p> + <p> + LIST I. + + </p> + <ul> + <li><a name="d0e4636"></a> + Andrew Spaarman, physician, botanist, and successor to Linnaeus, traveller on discovery in Africa for the king of Sweden. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4638"></a> + Rev. Isham Baggs, chaplain for two voyages to Africa in H.M. ship Grampus. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4640"></a> + Captain James Bowen, of the royal navy, one voyage to Africa. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4642"></a> + Mr. William James, a master in the royal navy, three voyages, as mate of + a slave-vessel. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4644"></a> + Mr. David Henderson, gunner of H.M. ship Centurion, three voyages to + Africa. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4646"></a> + Harry Gandy, two voyages to Africa, as captain of a slave-vessel. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4648"></a> + Thomas Eldred, two voyages there, as mate. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4650"></a> + James Arnold, three voyages there, as surgeon and surgeon's mate. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4652"></a> + Thomas Deane, two voyages there, as captain of a wood and ivory ship. + + </li> + </ul> + <p> + LIST II. + + </p> + <ul> + <li><a name="d0e4657"></a> + Major-General Rooke, commander of Goree, in Africa. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4659"></a> + Henry Hew Dalrymple, Esq., lieutenant of the 75th regiment at Goree, and + afterwards in all the West Indian islands. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4661"></a> + Thomas Willson, Esq., naval commander at Goree. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4663"></a> + John Hills, Esq., captain of H.M. ship Zephyr, on the African station. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4665"></a> + Sir George Yonge, two voyages as lieutenant, and two as captain, + of a ship of war, on the African station. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4667"></a> + Charles Berns Wadstrom, Esq., traveller on discovery in Africa for + the King of Sweden. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4669"></a> + Rev. John Newton, five voyages to Africa in a slave-vessel, and resident + eighteen months there. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4671"></a> + Captain John Ashley Hall, in the merchant service, two voyages + in a slave-vessel as a mate. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4673"></a> + Alexander Falconbridge, four voyages in a slave-vessel as surgeon and + surgeon's mate. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4675"></a> + Captain John Samuel Smith, of the royal navy, on the West India station. + + </li> + </ul> + <p> + LIST III. + + </p> + <ul> + <li><a name="d0e4680"></a> + Anthony Pantaleo How, Esq., employed by government as a botanist in Africa. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4682"></a> + Sir Thomas Bolton Thompson, two voyages as a lieutenant, and two as + commander of a ship of war on the African station. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4684"></a> + Lieutenant John Simpson, of the marines, two voyages in a ship of war + on the African station. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4686"></a> + Lieutenant Richard Storey, of the royal navy, four years on the slave + employ all over the coast. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4688"></a> + Mr. George Miller, gunner of H.M. ship Pegase, one voyage in a slave-ship. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4691"></a> + "Mr. James Morley, gunner of H.M. ship Medway, six voyages in a slave-ship. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4693"></a> + Mr. Henry Ellison, gunner of H.M. ship Resistance, eleven years in + the Slave Trade. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4695"></a> + Mr. James Towne, carpenter of H.M. ship Syren, two voyages in a slave-ship. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4697"></a> + Mr. John Douglas, boatswain of H.M. ship Russell, one voyage in a slave-ship. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4699"></a> + Mr. Isaac Parker, shipkeeper of H.M. ship Melampus, two voyages in + a slaveship. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4701"></a> + Thomas Trotter, Esq., M.D., one voyage as surgeon of a slave-ship. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4703"></a> + Mr. Isaac Wilson, one voyage as surgeon of a slave-ship. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4705"></a> + Mr. Ecroyde Claxton, one voyage as surgeon of a slave-ship. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4707"></a> + James Kiernan, Esq., resident four years on the banks of the Senegal. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4709"></a> + Mr. John Bowman, eleven years in the slave-employ as mate, and as a + factor in the interior of Africa. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4711"></a> + Mr. William Dove, one voyage for slaves, and afterwards resident in America. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4713"></a> + Major-General Tottenham, two years resident in the West Indies. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4715"></a> + Captain Giles, 19th regiment, seven years quartered in the West Indies. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4717"></a> + Captain Cook, 89th regiment, two years quartered in the West Indies. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4719"></a> + Lieutenant Baker Davison, 79th regiment, twelve years quartered in the + West Indies. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4721"></a> + Captain Hall, of the royal navy, five years on the West India station. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4723"></a> + Captain Thomas Lloyd, of the royal navy, one year on the West India station. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4725"></a> + Captain Alexander Scott, of the royal navy, one voyage to Africa and the + West Indies. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4727"></a> + Mr. Ninian Jeffreys, a master in the royal navy, five years mate of a West + Indiaman, and for two years afterwards in the islands in a + ship-of-war. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4729"></a> + Rev. Thomas Gwynn Rees, chaplain of H.M. ship Princess Amelia, in the + West Indies. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4731"></a> + Rev. Robert Boucher Nicholls, dean of Middleham, many years resident + in the West Indies. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4733"></a> + Hercules Ross, Esq., twenty-one years a merchant in the West Indies. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4735"></a> + Mr. Thomas Clappeson, fifteen years in the West Indies as a wharfinger + and pilot. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4737"></a> + Mr. Mark Cook, sixteen years in the West Indies, first in the planting + business, and then as clerk and schoolmaster. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4739"></a> + Mr. Henry Coor, a millwright for fifteen years in the West Indies. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4741"></a> + Rev. Mr. Davies, resident fourteen years in the West Indies. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4743"></a> + Mr. William Duncan, four years in the West Indies, first as a clerk, + and then as an overseer. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4745"></a> + Mr. William Fitzmaurice, fifteen years, first as a book-keeper, and then + as an overseer, in the West Indies. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4747"></a> + Mr. Robert Forster, six years first in a store, then as second master + and pilot of a ship-of-war in the West Indies. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4749"></a> + Mr. Robert Ross, twenty-four years, first as a book-keeper, then as an + overseer, and afterwards as a planter, in the West Indies. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4751"></a> + Mr. John Terry, fourteen years an overseer or manager in the West Indies. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4753"></a> + Mr. Matthew Terry, twelve years resident, first as a book-keeper and + overseer, then as a land-surveyor in the king's service, and afterwards + as a colony surveyor, in the West Indies. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4755"></a> + George Woodward, Esq., an owner and mortgagee of property, and + occasionally a resident in the West Indies. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4758"></a> + Mr. Joseph Woodward, three years resident in the West Indies. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4760"></a> + Henry Botham, Esq., a director of sugar-works both in the East and West + Indies. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4762"></a> + Mr. John Giles, resident twelve years in the West Indies and America. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4764"></a> + J. Harrison, Esq., M.D., twenty-three years resident, in the medical line, in + the West Indies and America. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4766"></a> + Robert Jackson, Esq., M.D., four years resident in the West Indies in the + medical line, after which he joined his regiment, in the same profession, + in America. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4768"></a> + Thomas Woolrich, Esq., twenty years a merchant in the West Indies, but in + the interim was twice in America. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4770"></a> + Rev. James Stuart, two years in the West Indies, and twenty in America. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4772"></a> + George Baillie, Esq., one year in the West Indies, and twenty-five in America. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4774"></a> + William Beverley, Esq., eighteen years in America. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4776"></a> + John Clapham, Esq., twenty years in America. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4778"></a> + Robert Crew, Esq., a native of America, and long resident there. + + </li> + <li><a name="d0e4780"></a> + John Savage, Esq., forty-six years resident in America. + + </li> + </ul> + <p> + The evidence having been delivered on both sides, and then + printed, it was judged expedient by Mr. Wilberforce, seeing that + it filled three folio volumes, to abridge it. This abridgement was + made by the different friends of the cause. William Burgh, Esq., + of York; Thomas Babington, Esq., of Rothley Temple; the + Rev. Thomas Gisborne, of Yoxall Lodge; Mr. Campbell Haliburton, + of Edinburgh; George Harrison, with one or two others + of the committee, and myself, were employed upon it. The + greater share, however, of the labour, fell upon Dr. Dickson. + That no misrepresentation of any person's testimony might be + made, Matthew Montagu, Esq., and the Honourable E.J. Elliott, + members of Parliament, undertook to compare the abridged + manuscripts with the original text, and to strike out or correct + whatever they thought to be erroneous, and to insert whatever + they thought to have been omitted. The committee for the + abolition, when the work was finished, printed it at their own + expense, Mr. Wilberforce then presented it to the House of + Commons, as a faithful abridgement of the whole evidence. + Having been received as such, under the guarantee of Mr. + Montague and Mr. Elliott, the committee sent it to every individual + member of that House. + + </p> + <p> + The book having been thus presented, and a day fixed for the + final determination of the question, our feelings became almost + insupportable; for we had the mortification to find, that our + + cause was going down in estimation, where it was then most + important that it should have increased in favour. Our opponents + had taken advantage of the long delay which the examination of + evidence had occasioned, to prejudice the minds of many of the + members of the House of Commons against us. The old arguments + of emancipation, massacre, ruin, and indemnification, had + been kept up; but, as the day of final decision approached, they + had been increased. Such was our situation at this moment, + when the current was turned still more powerfully against us by + the peculiar circumstances of the times. It was, indeed, the + misfortune of this great cause to be assailed by every weapon + which could be turned against it. At this time, Thomas Paine + had published his <em>Rights of Man</em>. This had been widely + circulated. At this time, also, the French revolution had existed + nearly two years. The people of England had seen, during this + interval, a government as it were dissected. They had seen an + old constitution taken down, and a new one put up, piece by + piece, in its stead. The revolution, therefore, in conjunction + with the book in question, had had the effect of producing + dissatisfaction among thousands; and this dissatisfaction was + growing, so as to alarm a great number of persons of property in + the kingdom, as well as the government itself. Now will it be + believed that our opponents had the injustice to lay hold of these + circumstances, at this critical moment, to give a death-blow to the + cause of the abolition? They represented the committee, though + it had existed before the French revolution, or + the <em>Rights of Man</em> + were heard of, as a nest of Jacobins; and they held up the cause, + sacred as it was, and though it had the support of the minister, + as affording an opportunity of meeting for the purpose of overthrowing + the state. Their cry succeeded. The very book of the + abridgment of the evidence was considered by many members as + poisonous as that of the <em>Rights of Man</em>. It was too profane for + many of them to touch; and they who discarded it, discarded + the cause also. + + </p> + <p> + But these were not the only circumstances which were used + as means, at this critical moment, to defeat us. News of the + revolution, which had commenced in St. Domingo, in consequence + + of the disputes between the whites and the people of colour, had, + long before this, arrived in England. The horrible scenes which + accompanied it, had been frequently published as so many arguments + against our cause. In January, new insurrections were + announced as having happened in Martinique. The negroes + there were described as armed, and the planters as having + abandoned their estates for fear of massacre. Early in the month + of March, insurrections in the smaller French islands were + reported. Every effort was then made to represent these as the + effects of the new principles of liberty, and of the cry for abolition. + But what should happen, just at this moment, to increase the + clamour against us? Nothing less than an insurrection in + Dominica.—Yes!—An insurrection in a British island. This was the + very event for our opponents. "All the predictions of the planters + had now become verified. The horrible massacres were + now realizing at home." To give this news still greater effect, a + meeting of our opponents was held at the London Tavern. By + a letter read there, it appeared that "the ruin of Dominica was + now at hand." Resolutions were voted, and a memorial presented + to government, "immediately to despatch such a military force + to the different islands, as might preserve the whites from + destruction, and keep the negroes in subjection during the present + critical state of the slave bill." This alarm was kept up till the + 7th of April, when another meeting took place, to receive the answer + of government to the memorial. It was there resolved that, "as it + was too late to send troops to the islands, the best way of preserving + them would be to bring the question of the Slave Trade + to an immediate issue; and that it was the duty of the government, + if they regarded the safety of the islands, to oppose the + abolition of it." Accounts of all these proceedings were inserted + in the public papers. It is needless to say that they were injurious + to our cause. Many looked upon the abolitionists as monsters. + They became also terrified themselves. The idea with these was, + that unless the discussion on this subject was terminated, all + would be lost. Thus, under a combination of effects, arising + from the publication of the <em>Rights of Man</em>, the rise and + progress of the French revolution, and the insurrections of the negroes in + + the different islands, no one of which events had anything to do + with the abolition of the Slave Trade, the current was turned + against us; and in this unfavourable frame of mind many members + of parliament went into the House, on the day fixed for the + discussion, to discharge their duty with respect to this great + question. + + </p> + <p> + On the 18th of April, Mr. Wilberforce made his motion. He + began by expressing a hope, that the present debate, instead of + exciting asperity and confirming prejudice, would tend to produce + a general conviction of the truth of what in fact was incontrovertible; + that the abolition of the Slave Trade was indispensably + required of them, not only by morality and religion, but by sound + policy. He stated that he should argue the matter from evidence. + He adverted to the character, situation, and means of + information of his own witnesses; and having divided his subject + into parts, the first of which related to the manner of reducing + the natives of Africa to a state of slavery, he handled it in the + following manner:— + + </p> + <p> + He would begin, he said, with the first boundary of the trade. + Captain Wilson and Captain Hills, of His Majesty's navy, and + Mr. Dalrymple, of the land service, had concurred in stating, that + in the country contiguous to the river Senegal, when slave-ships + arrived there, armed parties were regularly sent out in the evening, + who scoured the country, and brought in their prey. The + wretched victims were to be seen in the morning bound back to + back in the huts on shore, whence they were conveyed, tied hand + and foot, to the slave-ships. The design of these ravages was + obvious, because, when the Slave Trade was stopped, they ceased. + Mr. Kiernan spoke of the constant depredations by the Moors to + procure slaves. Mr. Wadstrom confirmed them. The latter + gentleman showed also that they were excited by presents of + brandy, gunpowder, and such other incentives; and that they + were not only carried on by one community against another, but + that the kings were stimulated to practise them in their territories, + and on their own subjects: and in one instance a chieftain, + who, when intoxicated, could not resist the demands of the slave + merchants, had expressed, in a moment of reason, a due sense of + + his own crime, and had reproached his Christian seducers. + Abundant also were the instances of private rapine. Individuals + were kidnapped, whilst in their fields and gardens. There was + an universal feeling of distrust and apprehension there. The + natives never went any distance from home without arms; and + when Captain Wilson asked them the reason of it, they pointed + to a slave-ship then lying within sight. + + </p> + <p> + On the windward coast, it appeared from Lieutenant Story + and Mr. Bowman, that the evils just mentioned existed, if possible, + in a still higher degree. They had seen the remains of + villages, which had been burnt, whilst the fields of corn were still + standing beside them, and every other trace of recent desolation. + Here an agent was sent to establish a settlement in the country, + and to send to the ships such slaves as he might obtain. The + orders he received from his captain were, that "he was to + encourage the chieftains by brandy and gunpowder to go to war, + to make slaves." This he did. The chieftains performed their + part in return. The neighbouring villages were surrounded and + set on fire in the night. The inhabitants were seized when + making their escape; and, being brought to the agent, were by + him forwarded to his principal on the coast. Mr. How, a + botanist in the service of Government, stated, that on the arrival + of an order for slaves from Cape Coast Castle, while he was + there, a native chief immediately sent forth armed parties, who + brought in a supply of all descriptions in the night. + + </p> + <p> + But he would now mention one or two instances of another + sort, and these merely on account of the conclusion, which was to + be drawn from them. When Captain Hills was in the river + Gambia, he mentioned accidentally to a Black pilot, who was in + the boat with him, that he wanted a cabin-boy. It so happened + that some youths were then on the shore with vegetables to sell. + The pilot beckoned to them to come on board; at the same time + giving Captain Hills to understand, that he might take his choice + of them; and when Captain Hills rejected the proposal with + indignation, the pilot seemed perfectly at a loss to account for his + warmth; and drily observed, that the slave-captains would not + have been so scrupulous. Again, when General Rooke commanded + + at Goree, a number of the natives, men, women, and + children, came to pay him a friendly visit. All was gaiety and + merriment. It was a scene to gladden the saddest, and to soften + the hardest, heart. But a slave-captain was not so soon thrown + off his guard. Three English barbarians of this description had + the audacity jointly to request the general, to seize the whole + unsuspicious multitude and sell them. For this they alleged the + precedent of a former governor. Was not this request a proof + of the frequency of such acts of rapine? for how familiar must + such have been to slave-captains, when three of them dared to + carry a British officer of rank such a flagitious proposal! This + would stand in the place of a thousand instances. It would give + credibility to every other act of violence stated in the evidence, + however enormous it might appear. + + </p> + <p> + But he would now have recourse for a moment to circumstantial + evidence. An adverse witness, who had lived on the + Gold Coast, had said that the only way in which children could + he enslaved, was by whole families being sold when the principals + had been condemned for witchcraft. But he said at the same + time, that few were convicted of this crime, and that the younger + part of a family in these cases was sometimes spared. But if + this account were true, it would follow that the children in the + slave-vessels would be few indeed. But it had been proved, that + the usual proportion of these was never less than a fourth of the + whole cargo on the coast, and also, that the kidnapping of + children was very prevalent there. + + </p> + <p> + All these atrocities, he said, were fully substantiated by the + evidence; and here he should do injustice to his cause, if he were + not to make a quotation from the speech of Mr. B. Edwards in + the Assembly of Jamaica, who, though he was hostile to his + propositions, had yet the candour to deliver himself in the following + manner there. "I am persuaded," says he, "that Mr. + Wilberforce has been rightly informed as to the manner in which + slaves are generally procured. The intelligence I have collected + from my own negroes abundantly confirms his account; and I + have not the smallest doubt, that in Africa the effects of this + trade are precisely such as he has represented them. The whole, + + or the greatest part, of that immense continent is a field of warfare + and desolation; a wilderness, in which the inhabitants are wolves + towards each other. That this scene of oppression, fraud, + treachery, and bloodshed, if not originally occasioned, is in part + (I will not say wholly) upheld by the Slave Trade, I dare not dispute. + Every man in the Sugar Islands may be convinced that it + is so, who will enquire of any African negroes, on their first + arrival, concerning the circumstances of their captivity. The + assertion that it is otherwise, is mockery and insult." + + </p> + <p> + But it was not only by acts of outrage that the Africans were + brought into bondage. The very administration of justice was + turned into an engine for that end. The smallest offence was + punished by a fine equal to the value of a slave. Crimes were + also fabricated; false accusations were resorted to; and persons + were sometimes employed to seduce the unwary into practices + with a view to the conviction and the sale of them. + + </p> + <p> + It was another effect of this trade, that it corrupted the morals + of those who carried it on. Every fraud was used to deceive the + ignorance of the natives by false weights and measures, adulterated + commodities, and other impositions of a like sort. These + frauds were even acknowledged by many who had themselves + practised them, in obedience to the orders of their superiors. For + the honour of the mercantile character of the country, such a + traffic ought immediately to be suppressed. + + </p> + <p> + Yet these things, however clearly proved by positive testimony, + by the concession of opponents, by particular inference, by + general reasoning, by the most authentic histories of Africa, by + the experience of all countries and of all ages,—these things, and + (what was still more extraordinary) even the possibility of them, + were denied by those who had been brought forward on the other + side of the question. These, however, were chiefly persons who + had been trading-governors of forts in Africa, or who had long + commanded ships in the Slave Trade. As soon as he knew the + sort of witnesses which was to be called against him, he had been + prepared to expect much prejudice. But his expectations had + been greatly surpassed by the testimony they had given. He did + not mean to impeach their private characters, but they certainly + + showed themselves under the influence of such gross prejudices, + as to render them incompetent judges of the subject they came to + elucidate. They seemed (if he might so say) to be enveloped by + a certain atmosphere of their own; and to see, as it were, through + a kind of African medium. Every object which met their eyes + came distorted and turned from its true direction. Even the + declarations, which they made on other occasions, seemed wholly + strange to them. They sometimes not only forgot what they had + seen, but what they had said; and when to one of them his own + testimony to the privy council was read, he mistook it for that of + another, whose evidence he declared to be "the merest burlesque + in the world." + + </p> + <p> + But the House must be aware that there was not only an + African medium, but an African logic. It seemed to be an + acknowledged axiom in this, that every person who offered a + slave for sale had a right to sell him, however fraudulently he + might have obtained him. This had been proved by the witnesses + who opposed him. "It would have stopped my trade," + said one of them, "to have asked the broker how he came by the + person he was offering me for sale."—"We always suppose," said + another, "the broker has a right to sell the person he offers + us."—"I never heard of such a question being asked," said a third; + "a man would be thought a fool who should put such a question."—He + hoped the House would see the practical utility of + this logic. It was the key-stone which held the building together. + By means of it, slave-captains might traverse the whole + coast of Africa, and see nothing but equitable practices. They + could not, however, be wholly absolved, even if they availed + themselves of this principle to its fullest extent; for they had + often committed depredations themselves; especially when they + were passing by any part of the coast, where they did not mean + to continue or to go again. Hence it was (as several captains of + the navy and others had declared on their examination), that the + natives, when at sea in their canoes, would never come near the + men-of-war, till they knew them to be such. But finding this, + and that they were not slave-vessels, they laid aside their fears, + and came and continued on board with unsuspecting cheerfulness. + + With respect to the miseries of the Middle Passage, he had + said so much on a former occasion, that he would spare the feelings + of the committee as much as he could. He would therefore + simply state that the evidence, which was before them, confirmed + all those scenes of wretchedness which he had then described: + the same suffering from a state of suffocation, by being crowded + together; the same dancing in fetters; the same melancholy + singing; the same eating by compulsion; the same despair; the + same insanity; and all the other abominations which characterized + the trade. New instances however had occurred, where + these wretched men had resolved on death to terminate their + woes. Some had destroyed themselves by refusing sustenance, + in spite of threats and punishments. Others had thrown themselves + into the sea; and more than one, when in the act of + drowning, were seen to wave their hands in triumph, "exulting" + (to use the words of an eye-witness) "that they had escaped." + Yet these and similar things, when viewed through the African + medium he had mentioned, took a different shape and colour. + Captain Knox, an adverse witness, had maintained, that slaves + lay during the night in tolerable comfort. And yet he confessed, + that in a vessel of one hundred and twenty tons, in which he + had carried two hundred and ninety slaves, the latter had not all + of them room to lie on their backs. How comfortably, then, + must they have lain in his subsequent voyages! for he carried + afterwards, in a vessel of a hundred and eight tons, four hundred + and fifty; and in a vessel of one hundred and fifty tons, no less + than six hundred slaves. Another instance of African deception + was to be found in the testimony of Captain Frazer, one of the + most humane captains in the trade. It had been said of him, + that he had held hot coals to the mouth of a slave, to compel him + to eat. He was questioned on this point; but not admitting, in + the true spirit of African logic, that he who makes another + commit a crime is guilty of it himself, he denied the charge + indignantly, and defied a proof. But it was said to him, "Did + you never order such a thing to be done?" His reply was, + "Being sick in my cabin, I was informed that a man-slave + would neither eat, drink, nor speak. I desired the mate and + + surgeon to try to persuade him to speak. I desired that the + slaves might try also. When I found he was still obstinate, not + knowing whether it was from sulkiness or insanity, I ordered a + person to present him with a piece of fire in one hand, and a + piece of yam in the other, and to tell me what effect this had + upon him. I learnt that he took the yam and began to eat it, + but he threw the fire overboard." Such was his own account of + the matter. This was eating by duresse, if anything could be + called so. The captain, however, triumphed in his expedient; + and concluded by telling the committee, that he sold this very + slave at Grenada for forty pounds. Mark here the moral of the + tale, and learn the nature and the cure of sulkiness. + + </p> + <p> + But upon whom did the cruelties, thus arising out of the prosecution + of this barbarous traffic, fall? Upon a people with feeling + and intellect like ourselves. One witness had spoken of the + acuteness of their understandings; another, of the extent of their + memories; a third, of their genius for commerce: a fourth, of + their proficiency in manufactures at home. Many had admired + their gentle and peaceable disposition, their cheerfulness, and + their hospitality. Even they who were nominally slaves, in + Africa lived a happy life. A witness against the abolition had + described them as sitting and eating with their masters in the + true style of patriarchal simplicity and comfort. Were these, + then, a people incapable of civilization? The argument that they + were an inferior species had been proved to be false. + + </p> + <p> + He would now go to a new part of the subject. An opinion + had gone forth that the abolition of the trade would be the ruin + of the West India Islands. He trusted he should prove that the + direct contrary was the truth; though, had he been unable to do + this, it would have made no difference as to his own vote. In + examining, however, this opinion; he should exclude the subject + of the cultivation of new lands by fresh importations of slaves. + The impolicy of this measure, apart from its inhumanity, was + indisputably clear. Let the committee consider the dreadful + mortality which attended it. Let them look to the evidence of + Mr. Woolrich, and there see a contrast drawn between the slow, + but sure, progress of cultivation carried on in the natural way, + + and the attempt to force improvements, which, however flattering + the prospect at first, soon produced a load of debt, and inextricable + embarrassments. He might even appeal to the statements + of the West Indians themselves, who allowed that more than + twenty millions were owing to the people of this country, to show + that no system could involve them so deeply as that on which + they had hitherto gone. But he would refer them to the accounts + of Mr. Irving, as contained in the evidence. Waving, then, the + consideration of this part of the subject, the opinion in question + must have arisen from a notion, that the stock of slaves, now in + the islands, could not be kept up by propagation; but that it + was necessary, from time to time, to recruit them with imported + Africans. In direct refutation of this position he should prove: + First, that, in the condition and treatment of the Negroes, there + were causes sufficient to afford us reason to expect a considerable + decrease, but particularly that their increase had not been a + serious object of attention: Secondly, that this decrease was in + fact, notwithstanding, very trifling; or rather, he believed, he + might declare it had now actually ceased: and, Thirdly, he + should urge many direct and collateral facts and arguments, constituting + on the whole an irresistible proof, that even a rapid + increase might henceforth be expected. + + </p> + <p> + He wished to treat the West Indians with all possible candour: + but he was obliged to confess, in arguing upon these points, + that whatever splendid instances there might be of kindness + towards their slaves, there were some evils of almost universal + operation, which were necessarily connected with the system of + slavery. Above all, the state of degradation to which they were + reduced, deserved to be noticed, as it produced an utter inattention + to them as moral agents; they were kept at work under the + whip like cattle; they were left totally ignorant of morality and + religion; there was no regular marriage among them; hence promiscuous + intercourse, early prostitution, and excessive drinking, + were material causes of their decrease. With respect to the + instruction of the slaves in the principles of religion, the happiest + effects had resulted, particularly in Antigua, where, under the + Moravians and Methodists, they had so far profited, that the + + planters themselves confessed their value as property had been + raised one-third by their increased habits of regularity and + industry. + + </p> + <p> + Whatever might have been said to the contrary, it was plainly + to be inferred from the evidence that the slaves were not protected + by law. Colonial statutes had indeed been passed, but they were + a dead letter; since, however ill they were treated, they were not + considered as having a right to redress. An instance of astonishing + cruelty by a Jew had been mentioned by Mr. Ross; it was + but justice to say, that the man was held in detestation for it, but + yet no one had ever thought of calling him to a legal account. + Mr. Ross conceived a master had a right to punish his slave in + whatever manner he might think proper; the same was declared + by numberless other witnesses. Some instances indeed had lately + occurred of convictions. A master had wantonly cut the mouth + of a child, of six months old, almost from ear to ear. But did not + the verdict of the jury show, that the doctrine of calling masters + to an account was entirely novel, as it only pronounced him + "Guilty, subject to the opinion of the court, if immoderate correction + of a slave by his master be a crime indictable!" The court + determined in the affirmative; and what was the punishment of + this barbarous act?—A fine of forty shillings currency, equivalent + to about twenty-five shillings sterling. + + </p> + <p> + The slaves were but ill off in point of medical care. Sometimes + four or five, and even eight or nine thousand of them, were + under the care of one medical man; which, dispersed on different + and distant estates, was a greater number than he could possibly + attend to. + + </p> + <p> + It was also in evidence that they were in general under-fed; they + were supported partly by the produce of their own provision-ground, + and partly by an allowance of flour and grain from their masters. + In one of the islands, where provision-ground did not answer one + year in three, the allowance to a working Negro was but from + five to nine pints of grain per week: in Dominica, where it + never failed, from six to seven quarts: in Nevis and St. Christopher's, + where there was no provision-ground, it was but eleven + pints. Add to this, that it might be still less, as the circumstances + + of their masters might become embarrassed, and in this + case both an abridgment of their food and an increase of their + labour would follow. + + </p> + <p> + But the great cause of the decrease of the slaves was in the + non-residence of the planters. Sir George Yonge, and many + others, had said, they had seen the slaves treated in a manner + which their owners would have resented if they had known it. + Mr. Orde spoke in the strongest terms of the misconduct of + managers. The fact was, that these in general sought to establish + their characters by producing large crops at a small immediate + expense; too little considering how far the slaves might suffer + from ill-treatment and excessive labour. The pursuit of such a + system was a criterion for judging of their characters, as both + Mr. Long and Mr. Ottley had confessed. + + </p> + <p> + But he must contend, in addition to this, that the object of + keeping up the stock of slaves by breeding had never been seriously + attended to. For this he might appeal both to his own + witnesses and to those of his opponents, but he would only notice + one fact. It was remarkable that, when owners and managers + were asked about the produce of their estates, they were quite at + home as to the answer; but when they were asked about the + proportion of their male and female slaves, and their infants, they + knew little about the matter. Even medical men were adepts in + the art of planting, but when they were asked the latter questions, + as connected with breeding and rearing, they seemed quite + amazed, and could give no information upon the subject of them. + + </p> + <p> + Persons, however, of great respectability had been called as + witnesses who had not seen the treatment of the Negroes as he + had now described it. He knew what was due to their characters, + but yet he must enter a general protest against their + testimony. "I have often," says Mr. Ross, "attended both + governors and admirals upon tours in the island of Jamaica, but + it was not likely that these should see much distress upon these + occasions. The white people and drivers would take care not to + harrow up the feelings of strangers of distinction by the exercise + of the whip, or the infliction of punishments, at that particular + time; and, even if there were any disgusting objects, it was + + natural to suppose that they would then remove them." But in + truth these gentlemen had given proofs that they were under the + influence of prejudice. Some of them had declared the abolition + would ruin the West Indies; but this, it was obvious, must + depend upon the practicability of keeping up the stock without + African supplies; and yet, when they were questioned upon this + point, they knew nothing about it; hence they had formed a conclusion + without premises. Their evidence, too, extended through + a long series of years; they had never seen one instance of + ill-treatment in the time, and yet, in the same breath, they talked of + the amended situation of the slaves, and that they were now far + better off than formerly. One of them, to whom his country + owed much, stated that a master had been sentenced to death for + the murder of his own slave; but his recollection must have failed + him, for the murder of a slave was not then a capital crime. A + respectable governor also had delivered an opinion to the same + effect; but, had he looked into the statute-book of the island, he + would have found his error. + + </p> + <p> + It had been said that the slaves were in a better state than + the peasantry of this country; but when the question was put to + Mr. Ross, did he not answer, "that he would not insult the + latter by a comparison!" + + </p> + <p> + It had been said again, that the Negroes were happier as + slaves than they would be if they were to be made free. But + how was this reconcilable with facts? If a Negro under extraordinary + circumstances had saved money enough, did he not + always purchase his release from this situation of superior happiness + by the sacrifice of his last shilling? Was it not also notorious, + that the greatest reward which a master thought he could + bestow upon his slave for long and faithful services was his + freedom. + + </p> + <p> + It had been said again, that Negroes, when made free, never + returned to their own country. But was not the reason obvious? + If they could even reach their own homes in safety, their kindred + and connexions might be dead. But would they subject themselves + to be kidnapped again; to be hurried once more on board + a slave-ship, and again to endure and survive the horrors of the + + passage? Yet the love of their native country had been proved + beyond a doubt; many of the witnesses had heard them talk of it + in terms of the strongest affection. Acts of suicide, too, were + frequent in the islands, under the notion that these afforded + them the readiest means of getting home. Conformably with + this, Captain Wilson had maintained that the funerals, which + in Africa were accompanied with lamentations and cries of + sorrow, were attended, in the West Indies with every mark + of joy. + + </p> + <p> + He had now, he said, made good his first proposition—that in + the condition of the slaves there were causes, which should lead + us to expect, that there would be a considerable decrease among + them. This decrease in the island of Jamaica was but trifling, + or, rather, it had ceased some years ago; and if there was a + decrease, it was only on the imported slaves. It appeared from + the privy council report, that from 1698 to 1730 the decrease was + three and a-half per cent.; from 1730 to 1755 it was two and a-half + per cent.; from 1755 to 1768 it was lessened to one and + three-quarters; and from 1768 to 1788 it was not more than one + per cent. This last decrease was not greater than could be + accounted for from hurricanes and consequent famines, and from + the number of imported Africans who perished in the seasoning. + The latter was a cause of mortality, which, it was evident, would + cease with the importations. This conclusion was confirmed in + part by Dr. Anderson, who, in his testimony to the Assembly of + Jamaica, affirmed that there was a considerable increase on the + properties of the island, and particularly in the parish in which + he resided. + + </p> + <p> + He would now proceed to establish his second proposition, + that from henceforth a very considerable increase might be + expected. This he might support by a close reasoning upon the + preceding facts; but the testimony of his opponents furnished + him with sufficient evidence. He could show, that wherever the + slaves were treated better than ordinary, there was uniformly an + increase in their number. Look at the estates of Mr. Willock, + Mr. Ottley, Sir Ralph Payne, and others. In short, he should + weary the committee, if he were to enumerate the instances of + + plantations, which were stated in the evidence to have kept up + their numbers only from a little variation in their treatment. A + remedy also had been lately found for a disorder, by which vast + numbers of infants had been formerly swept away. Mr. Long, + also, had laid it down, that whenever the slaves should bear a + certain proportion to the produce, they might be expected to keep + up their numbers; but this proportion they now exceeded. The + Assembly of Jamaica had given it also as their opinion, "that + when once the sexes should become nearly equal in point of + number, there was no reason to suppose, that the increase of the + Negroes by generation would fall short of the natural increase of + the labouring poor in Great Britain." But the inequality, here + spoken of, could only exist in the case of the African Negroes, of + whom more males were imported than females; and this inequality + would be done away soon after the trade should cease. + + </p> + <p> + But the increase of the Negroes, where their treatment was + better than ordinary, was confirmed in the evidence by instances + in various parts of the world. From one end of the continent of + America to the other, their increase had been undeniably established; + and this to a prodigious extent, though they had to contend + with the severe cold of the winter, and in some parts with + noxious exhalations in the summer. This was the case, also, in + the settlement of Bencoolen in the East Indies. It appeared + from the evidence of Mr. Botham, that a number of Negroes, + who had been imported there in the same disproportion of the + sexes as in West Indian cargoes, and who lived under the same + disadvantages, as in the islands, of promiscuous intercourse and + general prostitution, began, after they had been settled a short + time, annually to increase. + + </p> + <p> + But to return to the West Indies.—A slave-ship had been, + many years ago, wrecked near St. Vincent's. The slaves on + board, who escaped to the island, were without necessaries; and, + besides, were obliged to maintain a war with the native Caribbs: + yet they soon multiplied to an astonishing number; and, according + to Mr. Ottley, they were now on the increase. From Sir + John Dalrymple's evidence it appeared that the domestic slaves + in Jamaica, who were less worked than those in the field, + + increased; and from Mr. Long, that the free Blacks and + Mulattoes there increased also. + + </p> + <p> + But there was an instance which militated against these + facts (and the only one in the evidence), which he would now + examine. Sir Archibald Campbell had heard that the Maroons + in Jamaica, in the year 1739, amounted to three thousand men + fit to carry arms. This supposed their whole number to have + been about twelve thousand; but in the year 1782, after a real + muster by himself, he found, to his great astonishment, that the + fighting men did not then amount to three hundred. Now the + fact was, that Sir Archibald Campbell's first position was founded + upon rumour only, and was not true; for, according to Mr. + Long, the Maroons were actually numbered in 1749, when they + amounted to about six hundred and sixty in all, having only a + hundred and fifty men fit to carry arms. Hence, if when + mustered by Sir Archibald Campbell he found three hundred + fighting men, they must from 1749 to 1782 have actually doubled + their population. + + </p> + <p> + Was it possible, after these instances, to suppose that the + Negroes could not keep up their numbers, if their natural + increase were made a subject of attention? The reverse was + proved by sound reasoning. It had been confirmed by unquestionable + facts. It had been shown, that they had increased + in every situation, where there was the slightest circumstance in + their favour. Where there had been any decrease, it was stated + to be trifling; though no attention appeared to have been paid to + the subject. This decrease had been gradually lessening; and, + whenever a single cause of it had been removed (many still + remaining), it had altogether ceased. Surely these circumstances + formed a body of proof which was irresistible. + + </p> + <p> + He would now speak of the consequences of the abolition of + the Slave Trade in other points of view; and first, as to its + effects upon our marine. An abstract of the Bristol and Liverpool + muster-rolls had been just laid before the House. It + appeared from this, that in three hundred and fifty slave-vessels, + having on board twelve thousand two hundred and sixty-three + persons, two thousand six hundred and forty-three were lost in + + twelve months; whereas in four hundred and sixty-two West + Indiamen, having on board seven thousand six hundred and forty + persons, one hundred and eighteen only were lost in seven months. + This rather exceeded the losses stated by Mr. Clarkson. For + their barbarous usage on board these ships, and for their sickly + and abject state in the West Indies, he would appeal to + Governor Parry's letter; to the evidence of Mr. Ross; to the + assertion of Mr. B. Edwards, an opponent; and to the testimony + of Captains Sir George Yonge and Thompson, of the Royal + Navy. He would appeal, also, to what Captain Hall, of the + Navy, had given in evidence. This gentleman, after the action + of the 12th of April, impressed thirty hands from a slave-vessel, + whom he selected with the utmost care from a crew of seventy; + and he was reprimanded by his admiral, though they could + scarcely get men to bring home the prizes, for introducing such + wretches to communicate disorders to the fleet. Captain Smith + of the Navy had also declared, that when employed to board + Guineamen to impress sailors, although he had examined near + twenty vessels, he never was able to get more than two men, who + were fit for service; and these turned out such inhuman fellows, + although good seamen, that he was obliged to dismiss them from + the ship. + + </p> + <p> + But he hoped the committee would attend to the latter part + of the assertion of Captain Smith. Yes: this trade, while it + injured the constitutions of our sailors, debased their morals. + Of this, indeed, there was a barbarous illustration in the evidence. + A slave-ship had struck on some shoals, called the Morant Keys, + a few leagues from the east end of Jamaica. The crew landed + in their boats, with arms and provisions, leaving the slaves on + board in their irons. This happened in the night. When + morning came, it was discovered that the Negroes had broken + their shackles, and were busy in making rafts; upon which afterwards + they placed the women and children. The men attended + upon the latter, swimming by their side, whilst they drifted to + the island where the crew were. But what was the sequel? + From an apprehension that the Negroes would consume the + water and provisions, which had been landed, the crew resolved + + to destroy them as they approached the shore. They killed + between three and four hundred. Out of the whole cargo only + thirty-three were saved, who, on being brought to Kingston, were + sold. It would, however, be to no purpose, he said, to relieve the + Slave Trade from this act of barbarity. The story of the Morant + Keys was paralleled by that of Captain Collingwood; and were + you to get rid of these, another, and another, would still present + itself, to prove the barbarous effects of this trade on the moral + character. + + </p> + <p> + But of the miseries of the trade there was no end. Whilst + he had been reading out of the evidence the story of the Morant + Keys, his eye had but glanced on the opposite page, and it met + another circumstance of horror. This related to what were called + the refuse-slaves. Many people in Kingston were accustomed to + speculate in the purchase of those, who were left after the first + day's sale. They then carried them out into the country, and + retailed them. Mr. Ross declared, that he had seen these landed + in a very wretched state, sometimes in the agonies of death, and + sold as low as for a dollar, and that he had known several expire + in the piazzas of the vendue-master. The bare description superseded + the necessity of any remark. Yet these were the familiar + incidents of the Slave Trade. + + </p> + <p> + But he would go back to the seamen. He would mention + another cause of mortality, by which many of them lost their + lives. In looking over Lloyd's list, no less than six vessels were + cut off by the irritated natives in one year, and the crews massacred. + Such instances were not unfrequent. In short, the history + of this commerce was written throughout in characters of blood. + + </p> + <p> + He would next consider the effects of the abolition on those + places where it was chiefly carried on. But would the committee + believe, after all the noise which had been made on this subject, + that the Slave Trade composed but a thirtieth part of the export + trade of Liverpool, and that of the trade of Bristol it constituted + a still less proportion? For the effects of the abolition on the + general commerce of the kingdom, he would refer them to Mr. + Irving; from whose evidence it would appear, that the medium + value of the British manufactures, exported to Africa, amounted + + only to between four and five hundred thousand pounds annually. + This was but a trifling sum. Surely the superior capital, ingenuity, + application, and integrity of the British manufacturer + would command new markets for the produce of his industry, to + an equal amount, when this should be no more. One branch, + however, of our manufactures, he confessed, would suffer from the + abolition; and that was the manufacture of gunpowder; of which + the nature of our connexion with Africa drew from us as much + as we exported to all the rest of the world besides. + + </p> + <p> + He hastened, however, to another part of the argument. + Some had said, "We wish to put an end to the Slave Trade, but + we do not approve of your mode. Allow more time. Do not + displease the legislatures of the West India islands. It is by + them that those laws must be passed, and enforced, which will + secure your object." Now he was directly at issue with these + gentlemen. He could show, that the abolition was the only + certain mode of amending the treatment of the slaves, so as to + secure their increase: and that the mode which had been offered + to him, was at once inefficacious and unsafe. In the first place, + how could any laws, made by these legislatures, be effectual, + whilst the evidence of Negroes was in no case admitted against + White men? What was the answer from Grenada? Did it not + state, "that they who were capable of cruelty, would in general + be artful enough to prevent any but slaves from being witnesses + of the fact?" Hence it had arisen, that when positive laws had + been made, in some of the islands, for the protection of the slaves, + they had been found almost a dead letter. Besides, by what law + would you enter into every man's domestic concerns, and regulate + the interior economy of his house and plantation? This would + be something more than a general excise. Who would endure + such a law? And yet on all these and innumerable other minutiae + must depend the protection of the slaves, their comforts, and the + probability of their increase. It was universally allowed, that + the Code Noir had been utterly neglected in the French islands, + though there was an officer appointed by the crown to see it + enforced. The provisions of the Directorio had been but of little + more avail in the Portuguese settlements, or the institution of a + + Protector of the Indians, in those of the Spaniards. But what + degree or protection the slaves would enjoy might be inferred + from the admission of a gentleman, by whom this very plan of + regulation had been recommended, and who was himself no + ordinary person, but a man of discernment and legal resources. + He had proposed a limitation of the number of lashes to be given + by the master or overseer for one offence. But, after all, he + candidly confessed, that his proposal was not likely to be useful, + while the evidence of slaves continued inadmissible against their + masters. But he could even bring testimony to the inefficacy + of such regulations. A wretch in Barbados had chained a Negro + girl to the floor, and flogged her till she was nearly expiring. + Captain Cook and Major Fitch, hearing her cries, broke open the + door and found her. The wretch retreated from their resentment, + but cried out exultingly, "that he had only given her thirty-nine + lashes (the number limited by law) at any one time; and that he + had only inflicted this number three times since the beginning of + the night," adding, "that he would prosecute them for breaking + open his door; and that he would flog her to death for all any + one, if he pleased; and that he would give her the fourth thirty-nine + before morning." + + </p> + <p> + But this plan of regulation was not only inefficacious, but + unsafe. He entered his protest against the fatal consequences + which might result from it. The Negroes were creatures like + ourselves; but they were uninformed, and their moral character + was debased. Hence they were unfit for civil rights. To use these + properly they must be gradually restored to that level, from which + they had been so unjustly degraded. To allow them an appeal to + the laws, would be to awaken in them a sense of the dignity of + their nature. The first return of life, after a swoon, was commonly + a convulsion, dangerous at once to the party himself and to all + around him. You should first prepare them for the situation, + and not bring the situation to them. To be under the protection + of the law was in fact to be a freeman; and to unite slavery + and freedom in one condition was impracticable. The abolition, + on the other hand, was exactly such an agent as the case required. + All hopes of supplies from the coast being cut off, breeding would + + henceforth become a serious object of attention; and the care of + this, as including better clothing, and feeding, and milder discipline, + would extend to innumerable particulars, which an act of + assembly could neither specify nor enforce. The horrible system, + too, which many had gone upon, of working out their slaves in a + few years, and recruiting their gangs with imported Africans, + would receive its death-blow from the abolition of the trade. The + opposite would force itself on the most unfeeling heart. Ruin + would stare a man in the face, if he were not to conform to it. + The non-resident owners would then express themselves in the + terms of Sir Philip Gibbs, "that he should consider it as the + fault of his manager, if he were not to keep up the number of + his slaves." This reasoning concerning the different tendencies + of the two systems was self-evident; but facts were not wanting + to confirm it. Mr. Long had remarked, that all the insurrections + and suicides in Jamaica had been found among the imported + slaves, who, not having lost the consciousness of civil rights, + which they had enjoyed in their own country, could not brook + the indignities to which they were subjected in the West Indies. + An instance in point was afforded also by what had lately taken + place in the island of Dominica. The disturbance there had been + chiefly occasioned by some runaway slaves from the French islands. + But what an illustration was it of his own doctrine to say, that + the slaves of several persons, who had been treated with kindness, + were not among the number of the insurgents on that occasion! + + </p> + <p> + But when persons coolly talked of putting an end to the + Slave Trade through the medium of the West India legislatures, + and of gradual abolition, by means of regulations, they + surely forgot the miseries which this horrid traffic occasioned in + Africa during every moment of its continuance. This consideration + was conclusive with him, when called upon to decide + whether the Slave Trade should be tolerated for a while, or + immediately abolished. The divine law against murder was + absolute and unqualified. Whilst we were ignorant of all these + things, our sanction of them might, in some measure, be pardoned. + But now, when our eyes were opened, could we tolerate + them for a moment, unless we were ready at once to determine, + + that gain should be our god, and, like the heathens of old, were + prepared to offer up human victims at the shrine of our idolatry? + + </p> + <p> + This consideration precluded also the giving heed for an + instant to another plea, namely, that if we were to abolish the + trade it would be proportionably taken up by other nations. But, + whatever other nations did, it became Great Britain, in every point + of view, to take a forward part. One half of this guilty commerce + had been carried on by her subjects. As we had been great in + crime we should be early in our repentance. If Providence had + showered his blessings upon us in unparalleled abundance, we + should show ourselves grateful for them by rendering them + subservient to the purposes for which they were intended. There + would be a day of retribution, wherein we should have to give an + account of all those talents, faculties, and opportunities with which + we have been intrusted. Let it not then appear that our superior + power had been employed to oppress our fellow-creatures, and our + superior light to darken the creation of God. He could not but + look forward with delight to the happy prospects which opened + themselves to his view in Africa, from the abolition of the + Slave Trade, when a commerce, justly deserving that name, + should be established with her; not like that, falsely so called, + which now subsisted, and which all who were interested for the + honour of the commercial character (though there were no superior + principle) should hasten to disavow. Had this trade indeed + been ever so profitable, his decision would have been in no degree + affected by that consideration. "Here's the smell of blood on + the hand still, and all the perfumes of Arabia cannot sweeten it." + + </p> + <p> + He doubted whether it was not almost an act of degrading + condescension to stoop to discuss the question in the view + of commercial interest. On this ground, however, he was no less strong + than on every other. Africa abounded with productions of value, + which she would gladly exchange for our manufactures, when + these were not otherwise to be obtained: and to what an extent + her demand might then grow, exceeded almost the powers of + computation. One instance already existed of a native king, who + being debarred by his religion the use of spirituous liquors, and + therefore not feeling the irresistible temptation to acts of rapine + + which they afforded to his countrymen, had abolished the Slave + Trade throughout all his dominions, and was encouraging an + honest industry. + + </p> + <p> + For his own part, he declared that, interested as he might be + supposed to be in the final event of the question, he was comparatively + indifferent as to the present decision of the House upon it. + Whatever they might do, the people of Great Britain, he was + confident, would abolish the Slave Trade when, as would then + soon happen, its injustice and cruelty should be fairly laid before + them. It was a nest of serpents, which would never have existed + so long but for the darkness in which they lay hid. The light of + day would now be let in on them, and they would vanish from + the sight. For himself, he declared he was engaged in a work + which he would never abandon; the consciousness of the justice + of his cause would carry him forward, though he were alone; but + he could not but derive encouragement from considering with + whom he was associated. Let us not, he said, despair; it is a + blessed cause, and success ere long will crown our exertions. + Already we have gained one victory; we have obtained for these + poor creatures the recognition of their human + nature<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXXVI_2"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXXVI_2"></a>, which, + for a while, was most shamefully denied them. This is the first + fruits of our efforts; let us persevere, and our triumph will be + complete. Never, never, will we desist till we have wiped away + this scandal from the Christian name; till we have released ourselves + from the load of guilt under which we at present labour; + and till we have extinguished every trace of this bloody traffic, + which our posterity, looking back to the history of these enlightened + times, will scarcely believe had been suffered to exist so + long, a disgrace and a dishonour to our country. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXXVI_2"></a><a href="#FootXXVI_2">A</a>: This point was actually obtained + by the evidence before the House of Commons; for, after this, we + heard no more of them as an inferior race. + </p> + <p> + He then moved, that the chairman be instructed to move for + leave to bring in a bill to prevent the further importation of slaves + into the British colonies in the West Indies. + + </p> + <p> + Colonel Tarleton immediately rose up, and began by giving + an historical account of the trade from the reign of Elizabeth to + the present time. He then proceeded to the sanction which + + parliament had always given it; hence it could not then be withdrawn + without a breach of faith: hence, also, the private property + embarked in it was sacred; nor could it be invaded, unless an + adequate compensation were given in return. + + </p> + <p> + They who had attempted the abolition of the trade were led + away by a mistaken humanity; the Africans themselves had no + objection to its continuance. + + </p> + <p> + With respect to the middle passage, he believed the mortality + there to be on an average only five in the hundred; whereas in + regiments sent out to the West Indies, the average loss in the + year was about ten and a half per cent. + + </p> + <p> + The Slave Trade was absolutely necessary, if we meant to + carry on our West India commerce; for many attempts had been + made to cultivate the lands in the different islands by white + labourers, but they had always failed. + + </p> + <p> + It had also the merit of keeping up a number of seamen in + readiness for the state. Lord Rodney had stated this as one of + its advantages on the breaking out of a war. Liverpool alone + could supply nine hundred and ninety-three seamen annually. + + </p> + <p> + He would now advert to the connexions dependent upon the + African trade. It was the duty of the House to protect the + planters, whose lives had been, and were then, exposed to imminent, + dangers, and whose property had undergone an unmerited, + depreciation. To what could this depreciation, and to what + could the late insurrection at Dominica be imputed, which had + been saved from horrid carnage and midnight-butchery only by + the adventitious arrival of two British regiments? They could + only be attributed to the long delayed question of the abolition of + the Slave Trade; and if this question were to go much longer + unsettled, Jamaica would be endangered also. + + </p> + <p> + To members of landed property he would observe, that the + abolition would lessen the commerce of the country, and increase + the national debt and the number of their taxes. The minister, + he hoped, who patronized this wild scheme had some new + pecuniary resource in store to supply the deficiencies it would + occasion. + + </p> + <p> + To the mercantile members he would speak thus: "A few + + ministerial men in the house had been gifted with religious + inspiration, and this had been communicated to other eminent + personages in it: these enlightened philanthropists had discovered + that it was necessary, for the sake of humanity, and for the + honour of the nation, that the merchants concerned in the + African trade should be persecuted, notwithstanding the sanction + of their trade by Parliament, and notwithstanding that such persecution + must aggrandize the rivals of Great Britain." Now + how did this language sound? It might have done in the twelfth + century, when all was bigotry and superstition; but let not a + mistaken humanity, in these enlightened times, furnish a colourable + pretext for any injurious attack on property or character. + + </p> + <p> + These things being considered, he should certainly oppose the + measure in contemplation. It would annihilate a trade, whose + exports amounted to eight hundred thousand pounds annually, + and which employed a hundred and sixty vessels, and more than + five thousand seamen. It would destroy also the West India + trade, which was of the annual value of six millions; and which + employed one hundred and sixty thousand tons of shipping, and + seamen in proportion. These were objects of too much importance + to the country to be hazarded on an unnecessary speculation. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Grosvenor then rose. He complimented the humanity of + Mr. Wilberforce, though he differed from him on the subject of + his motion. He himself had read only the privy council report, + and he wished for no other evidence. The question had then + been delayed two years; had the abolition been so clear a point + as it was said to be, it could not have needed either so much + evidence or time. + + </p> + <p> + He had heard a good deal about kidnapping, and other barbarous + practices. He was sorry for them. But these were the + natural consequences of the laws of Africa; and it became us as + wise men to turn them to our own advantage. The Slave Trade + was certainly not an amiable trade. Neither was that of a + butcher; but yet it was a very necessary one. + + </p> + <p> + There was great reason to doubt the propriety of the present + motion. He had twenty reasons for disapproving it. The first + was, that the thing was impossible. He needed not, therefore + + to give the rest. Parliament, indeed might relinquish the trade. + But to whom? To foreigners, who would continue it, and without + the humane regulations which were applied to it by his + countrymen. + + </p> + <p> + He would give advice to the House on this subject, in the + words which the late Alderman Beckford used a different + occasion:—"Meddle, not with troubled waters; they will be + found to be bitter waters; and the waters of affliction." He again + admitted, that the Slave Trade was not an amiable trade; but + he would not gratify his humanity at the expense of the interests + of his country; and he thought we should not too curiously + inquire into the unpleasant circumstances which attended it. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. James Martin succeeded Mr. Grosvenor. He said he + had been long aware how much self-interest could pervert the + judgment; but he was not apprized of the full power of it, till + the Slave Trade became a subject of discussion. He had always + conceived that the custom of trafficing in human beings had been + incautiously begun, and without any reflection upon it; for he + never could believe that any man, under the influence of moral + principles, could suffer himself knowingly to carry on a trade + replete with fraud, cruelty, and destruction; with destruction + indeed, of the worst kind, because it subjected the sufferers to a + lingering death. But he found now, that even such a trade as + this could be sanctioned. + + </p> + <p> + It was well observed, in the petition from the University of + Cambridge against the Slave Trade, "that a firm belief in the + providence of a benevolent Creator assured them that no system, + founded on the oppression of one part of mankind, could be beneficial + to another." He felt much concern, that in an assembly + of the representatives of the country, boasting itself zealous, not + only for the preservation of its own liberties, but for the general + rights of mankind, it should be necessary to say a single word + upon such a subject; but the deceitfulness of the human heart + was such, as to change the appearances of truth, when it stood in + opposition to self-interests. And he had to lament that even + among those, whose public duty it was to cling to the universal + and eternal principles of truth, justice, and humanity, there were + + found some who could defend that which was unjust, fraudulent, + and cruel. + + </p> + <p> + The doctrines he had heard that evening ought to have been + reserved for times the most flagrantly profligate and abandoned. + He never expected then to learn that the everlasting laws of + righteousness were to give way to imaginary, political, and commercial + expediency; and that thousands of our fellow-creatures + were to be reduced to wretchedness, that individuals might enjoy + opulence, or government a revenue. + + </p> + <p> + He hoped that the House, for the sake of its own character, + would explode these doctrines with all the marks of odium they + deserved; and that all parties would join in giving a death-blow + to this execrable trade. The royal family would, he expected, + from their known benevolence, patronize the measure. Both + Houses of Parliament were now engaged in the prosecution of a + gentleman accused of cruelty and oppression in the East. But + what were these cruelties, even if they could be brought home to + him, when compared in number and degree to those which were + every day and every hour committed in the abominable traffic + which was now under their discussion! He considered, therefore, + both Houses of Parliament as pledged upon this occasion. + Of the support of the bishops he could have no doubt; because + they were to render Christianity amiable, both by their doctrine + and their example. Some of the inferior clergy had already + manifested a laudable zeal in behalf of the injured Africans. The + University of Cambridge had presented a petition to that House + worthy of itself. The sister-university had, by one of her representatives, + given sanction to the measure. Dissenters of various + denominations, but particularly the Quakers, (who, to their + immortal honour, had taken the lead in it,) had vied with those + of the Established Church in this amiable contest. The first + counties, and some of the largest trading towns, in the kingdom + had espoused the cause. In short, there had never been more + unanimity in the country, than in this righteous attempt. + + </p> + <p> + With such support, and with so good a cause, it would be + impossible to fail. Let but every man stand forth who had at + any time boasted of himself as an Englishman, and success would + + follow. But if he were to be unhappily mistaken as to the result, + we must give up the name of Englishmen. Indeed, if we retained + it, we should be the greatest hypocrites in the world; for we + boasted of nothing more than of our own liberty; we manifested + the warmest indignation at the smallest personal insult; we professed + liberal sentiments towards other nations: but to do these + things, and to continue such a traffic, would be to deserve the + hateful character before mentioned. While we could hardly bear + the sight of anything resembling slavery, even as a punishment, + among ourselves, how could we consistently entail an eternal + slavery upon others? + + </p> + <p> + It had been frequently, but most disgracefully, said, that "we + should not be too eager in setting the example: let the French + begin it." Such a sentiment was a direct libel upon the ancient, + noble, and generous character of this nation. We ought, on the + other hand, under the blessings we enjoyed, and under the high + sense we entertained of our own dignity as a people, to be proudly + fearful, lest other nations should anticipate our design, and obtain + the palm before us. It became us to lead. And if others should + not follow us, it would belong to them to glory in the shame of + trampling under foot the laws of reason, humanity, and religion. + + </p> + <p> + This motion, he said, came strongly recommended to them. + The honourable member who introduced it was justly esteemed + for his character. He was the representative, too of a noble + county, which had been always ready to take the lead in every + public measure for the good of the community, or for the general + benefit of mankind; of a county, too, which had had the honour + of producing a Saville. Had his illustrious predecessor been alive, + he would have shown the same zeal on the same occasion. The + preservation of the unalienable rights of all his fellow-creatures + was one of the chief characteristics of that excellent citizen. Let + every member in that House imitate him in the purity of their + conduct and in the universal rectitude of their measures, and they + would pay the same tender regard to the rights of other countries + as to those of their own; and, for his part, he should never believe + those persons to be sincere who were loud in their professions of + love of liberty, if he saw that love confined to the narrow circle + + of one community, which ought to be extended to the natural + rights of every inhabitant of the globe. + + </p> + <p> + But we should be better able to bring ourselves up to this + standard of rectitude, if we were to put ourselves into the situation + of those whom we oppressed. This was the rule of our + religion. What should we think of those who should say, that + it was their interest to injure us? But he hoped we should not + deceive ourselves so grossly as to imagine that it was our real + interest to oppress any one. The advantages to be obtained by + tyranny were imaginary, and deceitful to the tyrant; and the + evils they caused to the oppressed were grievous, and often insupportable. + + </p> + <p> + Before he sat down, he would apologize if he had expressed + himself too warmly on this subject. He did not mean to offend + any one. There were persons connected with the trade, some of + whom he pitied on account of the difficulty of their situation. + But he should think most contemptibly of himself as a man if + he could talk on this traffic without emotion. It would be a sign + to him of his own moral degradation. He regretted his inability + to do justice to such a cause; but if, in having attempted to forward + it, he had shown the weakness of his powers, he must console + himself with the consideration, that he felt more solid comfort in + having acted up to sound public principles, than he could have + done from the exercise of the most splendid talents, against the + conviction of his conscience. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Burdon rose, and said he was embarrassed to know how + to act. Mr. Wilberforce had in a great measure met his ideas. + Indeed he considered himself as much in his hands; but he + wished to go gradually to the abolition of the trade. He wished + to give time to the planters to recruit their stocks. He feared + the immediate abolition might occasion a monopoly among such + of them as were rich, to the detriment of the less affluent. We + ought, like a judicious physician, to follow nature, and to promote + a gradual recovery. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Francis rose next. After complimenting Mr. Wilberforce, he stated + that personal considerations might appear to incline him to go against + the side which he was about to take, + + namely, that of strenuously supporting his motion. Having + himself an interest in the West Indies, he thought that what he + should submit to the House would have the double effect of evidence, + and argument; and he stated most unequivocally his + opinion, that the abolition of the Slave Trade would tend materially + to the benefit of the West Indies. + + </p> + <p> + The arguments urged by the honourable mover were supported + by the facts, which he had adduced from the evidence, + more strongly than any arguments had been supported in any + speech he had ever heard. He wished, however, that more of + these facts had been introduced into the debate; for they were + apt to have a greater effect upon the mind than mere reasonings, + however just and powerful. Many had affirmed that the + Slave Trade was politic and expedient; but it was worthy of remark, + that no man had ventured to deny that it was criminal. Criminal, + however, he declared it to be in the highest degree; and + he believed it was equally impolitic. Both its inexpediency and + injustice had been established by the honourable mover. He + dwelt much on the unhappy situation of the negroes in the West + Indies, who were without the protection of government or of + efficient laws, and subject to the mere caprice of men, who were + at once the parties, the judges, and the executioners. + + </p> + <p> + He instanced an overseer, who, having thrown a negro into + a copper of boiling cane-juice, for a trifling offence, was punished + merely by the loss of his place, and by being obliged to pay the + value of the slave. He stated another instance of a girl of fourteen, + who was dreadfully whipped for coming too late to her + work. She fell down motionless after it; and was then dragged + along the ground, by the legs, to an hospital; where she died. + The murderer, though tried, was acquitted by a jury of his peers, + upon the idea, that it was impossible a master could destroy his + own property. This was a notorious fact. It was published + in the <em>Jamaica Gazette;</em> and it had even happened since the + question of the abolition had been started. + + </p> + <p> + The only argument used against such cruelties, was the + master's interest in the slave; but he urged the common cruelty + to horses, in which their drivers had an equal interest with the + + drivers of men in the colonies, as a proof that this was no + security. He had never heard an instance of a master being + punished for the murder of his slave. The propagation of the + slaves was so far from being encouraged, that it was purposely + checked, because it was thought more profitable and less troublesome + to buy a full grown negro, than to rear a child. He repeated + that his interest might have inclined him to the other side + of the question; but he did not choose to compromise between + his interest and his duty; for, if he abandoned his duty, he + should not be happy in this world; nor should he deserve happiness + in the next. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Pitt rose; but he said it was only to move, seeing that + justice could not be done to the subject this evening, that the + further consideration of the question might be adjourned to the + next. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Cawthorne and Colonel Tarleton both opposed this + motion, and Colonel Phipps and Lord Carhampton supported it. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Fox said, the opposition to the adjournment was uncandid + and unbecoming. They who opposed it well knew that + the trade could not bear discussion. Let it be discussed; and, + although there were symptoms of predetermination in some, + the abolition of it must be carried. He would not believe that + there could be found in the House of Commons men of such + hard hearts and inaccessible understandings, as to vote an assent + to its continuance, and then go home to their families, satisfied + with their vote, after they had been once made acquainted with + the subject. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Pitt agreed with Mr. Fox, that from a full discussion of + the subject there was every reason to augur that the abolition + would be adopted. Under the imputations, with which this + trade was loaded, gentlemen should remember, they could not do + justice to their own characters, unless they stood up, and gave + their reasons for opposing the abolition of it. It was unusual + also to force any question of such importance to so hasty a + decision. For his own part, it was his duty, from the situation + in which he stood, to state fully his own sentiments on the + question; and, however exhausted both he and the House might + + be, he was resolved it should not pass without discussion, as long + as he had strength to utter a word upon it. Every principle that + could bind a man of honour and conscience, would impel him + to give the most powerful support he could to the motion for the + abolition. + + </p> + <p> + The motion of Mr. Pitt was assented to, and the House was + adjourned accordingly. + + </p> + <p> + On the next day the subject was resumed. Sir William + Yonge rose, and said, that, though he differed from the honourable + mover, he had much admired his speech of the last evening. + Indeed the recollection of it made him only the more sensible of + the weakness of his own powers; and yet, having what he supposed + to be irrefragable arguments in his possession, he felt + emboldened to proceed. + + </p> + <p> + And, first, before he could vote for the abolition, he wished to + be convinced, that, whilst Britain were to lose, Africa would + gain. As for himself, he hated a traffic in men, and joyfully + anticipated its termination at no distant period under a wise + system of regulation: but he considered the present measure + as crude and indolent; and as precluding better and wiser + measures, which were already in train. A British Parliament + should attain not only the best ends, but by the wisest + means. + + </p> + <p> + Great Britain might abandon her share of this trade, but she + could not abolish it. Parliament was not an assembly of delegates + from the powers of Europe, but of a single nation. It + could not therefore suppress the trade; but would eventually + aggravate those miseries incident to it, which every enlightened + man must acknowledge, and every good man must deplore. He + wished the traffic for ever closed. But other nations were only + waiting for our decision, to seize the part we should leave them. + The new projects of these would be intemperate; and, in the + zeal of rivalship, the present evils of comparatively sober dealing + would be aggravated beyond all estimate in this new and heated + auction of bidders for life and limb. We might, indeed, by + regulation give an example of new principles of policy and of + justice; but if we were to withdraw suddenly from this + + commerce, like Pontius Pilate, we should wash our hands, indeed, + but we should not be innocent as to the consequences. + + </p> + <p> + On the first agitation of this business, Mr. Wilberforce had + spoken confidently of other nations following our example. But + had not the National Assembly of France referred the Slave + Trade to a select committee, and had not that committee rejected + the measure of its abolition? By the evidence it appeared, that + the French and Spaniards were then giving bounties to the + Slave Trade; that Denmark was desirous of following it; that + America was encouraging it; and that the Dutch had recognized + its necessity, and recommended its recovery. Things were bad + enough indeed as they were, but he was sure this rivalship would + make them worse. + + </p> + <p> + He did not admit the disorders imputed to the trade in all + their extent. Pillage and kidnapping could not be general, on + account of the populousness of the country; though too frequent + instances of it had been proved. Crimes might be falsely imputed. + This he admitted; but only partially. Witchcraft, he + believed, was the secret of poisoning, and therefore deserved the + severest punishment. That there should be a number of convictions + for adultery, where polygamy was a custom, was not to be + wondered at; but he feared, if a sale of these criminals were to + be done away, massacre would be the substitute. + + </p> + <p> + An honourable member had asked on a former day, "Is it an + excuse for robbery to say that another would hare committed it?" + But the Slave Trade did not necessarily imply robbery. Not + long since Great Britain sold her convicts, indirectly at least, to + slavery; but he was no advocate for the trade. He wished it had + begun, and that it might soon terminate. But the + means were not adequate to the end proposed. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Burke had said on a former occasion, "that in adopting + measure we must prepare to pay the price of our virtue." + He was ready to pay his share of that price; but the effect of the + purchase must be first ascertained. If they did not estimate + this, it was not benevolence, but dissipation. Effects were to be + duly appreciated; and though statesmen might rest everything + on a manifesto of causes, the humbler moralist, meditating + + peace and good will towards men, would venture to call + such statesmen responsible for consequences. + + </p> + <p> + In regard to the colonies, a sudden abolition would be oppression. + The legislatures there should be led, and not forced, upon + this occasion. He was persuaded they would act wisely to attain + the end pointed out to them. They would see that a natural + increase of their negroes might be effected by an improved system + of legislation; and that in the result the Slave Trade would be + no longer necessary. + + </p> + <p> + A sudden abolition, also, would occasion dissatisfaction there. + Supplies were necessary for some time to come. The negroes + did not yet generally increase by birth. The gradation of ages + was not yet duly filled. These and many defects might be + remedied, but not suddenly. + + </p> + <p> + It would cause, also, distress there. The planters, not having + their expected supplies, could not discharge their debts; hence + their slaves would be seized and sold. Nor was there any provision + in this case against the separation of families, except as to + the mother and infant child. These separations were one of the + chief outrages complained of in Africa. Why, then, should we + promote them in the West Indies? The confinement on board + a slave-ship had been also bitterly complained of; but, under + distraint for the debt of a master, the poor slave might linger in + a gaol twice or thrice the time of the Middle Passage. + + </p> + <p> + He again stated his abhorrence of the Slave Trade; but as a + resource, though he hoped but a temporary one, it was of such + consequence to the existence of the country, that it could not suddenly + be withdrawn. The value, of the imports and exports between + Great Britain and the West Indies, including the excise + and customs, was between seven and eight millions annually; and + the tonnage of the ships employed about an eighth of the whole + tonnage of these kingdoms. + + </p> + <p> + He complained that in the evidence the West Indian planters + had been by no means spared. Cruel stories had been hastily + and lightly told against them. Invidious comparisons had + been made to their detriment; but it was well known that one + of our best comic writers, when he wished to show benevolence + + in its fairest colours, had personified it in the character of the + West Indian. He wished the slave might become as secure as + the apprentice in this country; but it was necessary that the + alarms concerning the abolition of the Slave Trade should, + in the mean time, be quieted; and he trusted that the good + sense and true benevolence of the House would reject the present + motion. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Matthew Montagu rose and said a few words in support + of the motion; and after condemning the trade in the strongest + manner, he declared, that as long as he had life he would use + every faculty of his body and mind in endeavouring to promote + its abolition. + + </p> + <p> + Lord John Russell succeeded Mr. Montagu. He said, that + although slavery was repugnant to his feelings, he must vote + against the abolition as visionary and delusive. It was a feeble + attempt, without the power, to serve the cause of humanity. + Other nations would take up the trade. Whenever a bill of + wise regulation should be brought forward, no man would be + more ready than himself to lend his support. In this way the + rights of humanity might be asserted without injury to others. + He hoped he should not incur censure by his vote; for, let his + understanding be what it might, he did not know that he had, + notwithstanding the assertions of Mr. Fox, an inaccessible heart. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Stanley (agent for the islands) rose next. He felt himself + called upon, he said, to refute the many calumnies which + had for years been propagated against the planters, (even through + the medium of the pulpit, which should have been employed to + better purposes,) and which had at length produced the mischievous + measure, which was now under the discussion of the + House. A cry had been sounded forth, and from one end of the + kingdom to the other, as if there had never been a slave from + Adam to the present time. But it appeared to him to have been + the intention of Providence, from the very beginning, that one + set of men should be slaves to another. This truth was as old as + it was universal. It was recognised in every history, under every + government, and in every religion. Nor did the Christian religion + itself if the comments of Dr. Halifax, Bishop of Gloucester, + + on a passage of St. Paul's epistle to the Corinthians were true, + show more repugnance to slavery than any other. + + </p> + <p> + He denied that the slaves were procured in the manner which + had been described. It was the custom of all savages to kill + their prisoners; and the Africans ought to be thankful that they + had been carried safe into the British colonies. + + </p> + <p> + As to the tales of misery in the Middle Passage, they were + gross falsehoods; and as to their treatment in the West Indies, + he knew personally that it was, in general, indulgent and + humane. + + </p> + <p> + With regard to promoting their increase by any better mode + of treatment, he wished gentlemen would point it out to him. + As a planter he would thank them for it. It was absurd to suppose + that he and others were blind to their own interest. It was + well known that one Creole slave was worth two Africans; and + their interest, therefore, must suggest to them, that the propagation + of slaves was preferable to the purchase of imported negroes, + of whom one half very frequently died in the seasoning. + + </p> + <p> + He then argued the impossibility of beasts doing the work of + the plantations. He endeavoured to prove that the number of + these adequate to this purpose could not be supplied with food; + and after having made many other observations, which, on + account of the lowness of his voice, could not be heard, he + concluded by objecting to the motion. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. William Smith rose. He wondered how the last speaker + could have had the boldness to draw arguments from scripture + in support of the Slave Trade. Such arguments could be + intended only to impose on those who never took the trouble of + thinking for themselves. Could it be thought for a moment, that + the good sense of the House could be misled by a few perverted + or misapplied passages, in direct opposition to the whole tenor, + and spirit of Christianity; to the theory, he might say, of almost + every religion, which had ever appeared in the world? Whatever + might have been advanced, every body must feel that the Slave + Trade could not exist an hour, if that excellent maxim, "to do + to others as we would wish that others should do to us," had its + proper influence on the conduct of men. + + </p> + <p> + Nor was Mr. Stanley more happy in his argument of the + antiquity and universality of slavery. Because a practise had + existed, did it necessarily follow that it was just? By this argument + every crime might be defended from the time of Cain. + The slaves of antiquity, however were in a situation far preferable + to that of the negroes in the West Indies. A passage in Macrobius, + which exemplified this in the strongest manner, was now + brought to his recollection. "Our ancestors," says Macrobius, + "denominated the master, father of the family, and the slave, + domestic, with the intention of removing all odium from the + condition of the master, and all contempt from that of the + servant." Could this language be applied to the present state of + West India slavery? + + </p> + <p> + It had been complained of by those who supported the trade, + that they laboured under great disadvantages by being obliged to + contend against the most splendid abilities which the House + could boast. But he believed they laboured under one, which + was worse and for which no talents could compensate; he meant + the impossibility of maintaining their ground fairly on any of + those principles, which every man within those walls had been + accustomed, from his infancy, to venerate as sacred. He and his + friends, too, laboured under some disadvantages. They had been + charged with fanaticism. But what had Mr. Long said, when + he addressed himself to those planters, who were desirous of + attempting improvements on their estates? He advised them + "not to be diverted by partial views, vulgar prejudices, or the + ridicule which might spring from weak minds, from a benevolent + attention to the public good." But neither by these nor by other + charges were he or his friends to be diverted from the prosecution + of their purpose. They were convinced of the rectitude and high + importance of their object; and were determined never to desist + from pursuing it, till it should be attained. + + </p> + <p> + But they had to struggle with difficulties far more serious. + The West Indian interest which opposed them, was a collected + body; of great power, affluence, connexions, and respectability. + + </p> + <p> + Artifice had also been employed. Abolition and emancipation + had been so often confounded, and by those who knew better, + + that it must have been purposely done, to throw an odium on the + measure which was now before them. + + </p> + <p> + The abolitionists had been also accused as the authors of the + late insurrection in Dominica. A revolt had certainly taken + place in that island. But revolts there had occured frequently + before. Mr. Stanley himself, in attempting to fix this charge + upon them, had related circumstance which amounted to their + entire exculpation. He had said that all was quiet there till the + disturbances in the French islands; when some negroes from the + latter had found their way to Dominica, and had excited the + insurrection in question. He had also said, that the negroes in + our own islands hated the idea of the abolition; for they thought, + as no new labourers were to come in, they should be subjected to + increased hardships. But if they and their masters hated this + same measure, how was this coincidence of sentiment to give + birth to insurrections? + + </p> + <p> + Other fallacies, also, had been industriously propogated. Of + the African trade, it had been said, that the exports amounted to + a million annually; whereas, from the report on the table, it had + on an average amounted to little more than half a million; and + this included the articles for the purchase of African produce + which were of the value of 140,000<i>l.</i></p> + <p> + The East Indian Trade, also, had been said to depend on the + West Indian and the African. In the first place, it had but very + little connexion with the former at all. Its connexion with the + latter was principally on account of the saltpetre which it furnished + for making gunpowder. Out of nearly three millions of + pounds in weight of the latter article, which had been exported + in a year from this country, one-half had been sent to Africa + alone; for the purposes, doubtless, of maintaining peace, and + encouraging civilization among its various tribes! Four or five + thousand persons were said, also, to depend for their bread in + manufacturing guns for the African trade; and these, it was + pretended, could not make guns of another sort.—But where + lay the difficulty?—One of the witnesses had unravelled it. He + had seen the negroes maimed by the bursting of these guns. + They killed more from the butt than from the muzzle. Another + + had stated, that on the sea-coast the natives were afraid to fire a + trade-gun. + + </p> + <p> + In the West Indian commerce, two hundred and forty + thousand tons of shipping were stated to be employed. But + here deception intruded itself again. This statement included + every vessel, great and small, which went from the British + West Indies to America, and to the foreign islands; and + what was yet more unfair, all the repeated voyages of each + throughout the year. The shipping, which could only fairly be + brought into this account, did but just exceed half that which + had been mentioned. + + </p> + <p> + In a similar manner had the islands themselves been overrated. + Their value had been computed, for the information of + the privy council, at thirty-six millions; but the planters had + estimated them at seventy. The truth, however, might possibly + lie between these extremes. He by no means wished to depreciate + their importance; but he did not like that such palpable + misrepresentations should go unnoticed. + + </p> + <p> + An honourable member (Colonel Tarleton) had disclaimed + every attempt to interest the feelings of those present, but had + desired to call them to reason and accounts. He also desired + (though it was a question of feeling, if any one ever was,) to + draw the attention of the committee to reason and accounts—to + the voice of reason instead of that of prejudice, and to accounts + in the place of idle apprehensions. The result, he doubted not, + would be a full persuasion, that policy and justice were inseparable + upon this, as upon every other occasion. + + </p> + <p> + The same gentleman had enlarged on the injustice of depriving + the Liverpool merchants of a business, on which were + founded their honour and their fortunes. On what part of it they + founded their honour he could not conjecture, except from those + passages in the evidence, where it appeared, that their agents in + Africa had systematically practised every fraud and villany, + which the meanest and most unprincipled cunning could suggest, + to impose on the ignorance of those with whom they traded. + + </p> + <p> + The same gentleman had also lamented, that the evidence had + not been taken upon oath. He himself lamented it too. + + Numberless facts had been related by eye-witnesses, called in support + of the abolition, so dreadfully atrocious, that they appeared incredible; + and seemed rather, to use the expression of Ossian, like + "the histories of the days of other times." These procured for + the trade a species of acquittal, which it could not have obtained, + had the committee been authorised to administer an oath. He + apprehended, also, in this case, that some other persons would + have been rather more guarded in their testimony. Captain + Knox would not then perhaps have told the committee, that + six hundred slaves could have had comfortable room at night + in his vessel of about one hundred and forty tons; when there + could have been no more than five feet six inches in length, + and fifteen inches in breadth, to about two-thirds of his + number. + + </p> + <p> + The same gentleman had also dwelt upon the Slave Trade as + a nursery for seamen. But it had appeared by the muster-rolls + of the slave-vessels, then actually on the table of the house, that + more than a fifth of them died in the service, exclusive of those + who perished when discharged in the West Indies; and yet he + had been instructed by his constituents to maintain this false + position. His reasoning, too, was very curious; for, though + numbers might die, yet as one half who entered were landsmen, + seamen were continually forming. Not to dwell on the expensive + cruelty of forming these seamen by the yearly destruction of + so many hundreds, this very statement was flatly contradicted by + the evidence. The muster-rolls from Bristol stated the proportion + of landsmen in the trade there at one twelfth, and the proper + officers of Liverpool itself at but a sixteenth of the whole employed. + In the face again of the most glaring facts, others had + maintained that the mortality in these vessels did not exceed that + of other trades in the tropical climates. But the same documents, + which proved that twenty-three per cent were destroyed + in this wasting traffic, proved that in West India ships only + about one and a half per cent were lost, including every casualty. + But the very men, under whose management this dreadful mortality + had been constantly occurring, had coolly said, that much + of it might be avoided by proper regulations. How criminal then + + were they, who, knowing this, had neither publicly proposed, nor + in their practice adopted, a remedy! + + </p> + <p> + The average loss of the slaves on board, which had been calculated + by Mr. Wilberforce at twelve and a half per cent., had + been denied. He believed this calculation, taking in all the + circumstances connected with it, to be true; but that for years + not less than one-tenth had so perished, he would challenge those + concerned in the traffic to disprove. Much evidence had been + produced on the subject; but the voyages had been generally + selected. There was only one who had disclosed the whole + account. This was Mr. Anderson of London, whose engagements + in this trade had been very inconsiderable. His loss had + only amounted to three per cent.; but, unfortunately for the + slave-traders of Liverpool, his vessel had not taken above three-fourths + of that number in proportion to the tonnage which they + had stated to be necessary to the very existence of their trade. + + </p> + <p> + An honourable member (Mr. Grosvenor) had attributed the + protraction of this business to those who had introduced it. But + from whom did the motion for further evidence (when that of the + privy council was refused) originate, but from the enemies of the + abolition? The same gentleman had said, it was impossible to + abolish the trade; but where was the impossibility of forbidding + the further importation of slaves into our own colonies? and + beyond this the motion did not extend. + + </p> + <p> + The latter argument had also been advanced by Sir William + Yonge and others. But allowing it its full force, would there be + no honour in the dereliction of such a commerce? Would it be + nothing publicly to recognise great and just principles? Would + our example be nothing!—Yes: every country would learn, from + our experiment, that American colonies could be cultivated without + the necessity of continual supplies equally expensive and + disgraceful. + + </p> + <p> + But we might do more than merely lay down principles or + propose examples. We might, in fact, diminish the evil itself + immediately by no inconsiderable part,—by the whole of our + own supply; and here he could not at all agree with the honourable + baronet, in what seemed to him a commercial paradox, that + + the taking away from an open trade by far the largest customer, + and the lessening of the consumption of the article, + would increase both the competition and the demand, and + of course all those mischiefs, which it was their intention to + avert. + + </p> + <p> + That the civilization of the Africans was promoted, as had been + asserted, by their intercourse with the Europeans, was void of + foundation, as had appeared from the evidence. In manners and + dishonesty they had indeed assimilated with those who frequented + their coasts. But the greatest industry and the least corruption + of morals were in the interior, where they were out of the way + of this civilizing connexion. + + </p> + <p> + To relieve Africa from famine, was another of the benign + reasons which had been assigned for continuing the trade. That + famines had occurred there, he did not doubt; but that they + should annually occur, and with such arithmetical exactness as to + suit the demands of the Slave Trade, was a circumstance most + extraordinary; so wonderful, indeed, that, could it once be proved, + he should consider it as a far better argument in favour of the + divine approbation of that trade, than any which had ever yet + been produced. + + </p> + <p> + As to the effect of the abolition on the West Indies, it would + give weight to every humane regulation which had been made; + by substituting a certain and obvious interest, in the place of one + depending upon chances and calculation. An honourable member + (Mr. Stanley) had spoken of the impossibility of cultivating + the estates there without further importations of negroes; and + yet, of all the authorities he had brought to prove his case, there + was scarcely one which might not be pressed to serve more or + less effectually against him. Almost every planter he had named + had found his negroes increase under the good treatment he had + professed to give them; and it was an axiom, throughout the + whole evidence, that, wherever they were well used, importations + were not necessary. It had been said, indeed, by some adverse + witnesses, that in Jamaica all possible means had been used to + keep up the stock by breeding; but how preposterous was this, + when it was allowed that the morals of the slaves had been + + totally neglected, and that the planters preferred buying a larger + proportion of males than females! + + </p> + <p> + The misfortune was, that prejudice, and not reason, was the + enemy to be subdued. The prejudices of the West Indians on + these points were numerous and inveterate. Mr. Long himself + had characterised them on this account, in terms which + he should have felt diffident in using. But Mr. Long had shown + his own prejudices also: for he justified the chaining of the + Negroes on board the slave-vessels, on account of "their bloody, + cruel, and malicious dispositions." But hear his commendation + of some of the Aborigines of Jamaica, "who had miserably + perished in caves, whither they had retired to escape the tyranny + of the Spaniards. These," says he, "left a glorious monument + of their having disdained to survive the loss of their liberty and + their country." And yet this same historian could not perceive + that this natural love of liberty might operate as strongly and as + laudably in the African Negro, as in the Indian of Jamaica. + + </p> + <p> + He was concerned to acknowledge that these prejudices were + yet further strengthened by resentment against those who had + taken an active part in the abolition of the Slave Trade. But it + was never the object of these to throw a stigma on the whole + body of the West Indians; but to prove the miserable effects of + the trade. This it was their duty to do; and if, in doing this, + disgraceful circumstances had come out, it was not their fault; + and it must never be forgotten that they were true. + + </p> + <p> + That the slaves were exposed to great misery in the islands, + was true as well from inference as from facts: for what might not + be expected from the use of arbitrary power, where the three + characters of party, judge, and executioner were united! The + slaves, too, were more capable on account of their passions, than + the beasts in the field, of exciting the passions of their tyrants. + To what a length the ill-treatment of them might be carried, + might be learnt from, the instance which General Tottenham + mentioned to have seen in the year 1780 in the streets of Bridge + Town, Barbados: "A youth about nineteen (to use his own + words in the evidence), entirely naked, with an iron collar about + his neck, having five long projecting spikes. His body both + + before and behind was covered with wounds. His belly and + thighs were almost cut to pieces, with running ulcers all over + them; and a finger might have been laid in some of the weals. + He could not sit down, because his hinder part was mortified; + and it was impossible for him to lie down, on account of the + prongs of his collar." He supplicated the General for relief. + The latter asked who had punished him so dreadfully? The + youth answered, his master had done it. And because he could + not work, this same master, in the same spirit of perversion, + which extorts from Scripture a justification of the Slave Trade, + had fulfilled the apostolic maxim, that he should have nothing to + eat. The use he meant to make of this instance was to show + the unprotected state of the slaves. What must it be, where + such an instance could pass not only unpunished, but almost + unregarded! If, in the streets of London, but a dog were + to be seen lacerated like this miserable man, how would the + cruelty of the wretch be execrated, who had thus even abused a + brute! + + </p> + <p> + The judicial punishments also inflicted upon the Negro + showed the low estimation, in which, in consequence of the + strength of old customs and deep-rooted prejudices, they were + held. Mr. Edwards, in his speech to the Assembly at Jamaica, + stated the following case, as one which had happened in one of + the rebellions there. Some slaves surrounded the dwelling-house + of their mistress. She was in bed with a lovely infant. They + deliberated upon the means of putting her to death in torment. + But in the end one of them reserved her for his mistress; and they + killed her infant with an axe before her face. "Now," says Mr. + Edwards, (addressing himself to his audience) "you will think + that no torments were too great for such horrible excesses. + Nevertheless I am of a different opinion. I think that death, + unaccompanied with cruelty, should be the utmost exertion of + human authority over our unhappy fellow-creatures." Torments, + however, were always inflicted in these cases. The punishment + was gibbeting alive, and exposing the delinquents to perish by + the gradual effects of hunger, thirst, and parching sun; in which + situation they were known to suffer for nine days, with a fortitude + + scarcely credible, never uttering a single groan. But horrible + as the excesses might have been, which occasioned these punishments, + it must be remembered, that they were committed by + ignorant savages, who had been dragged from all they held most + dear; whose patience had been exhausted by a cruel and loathsome + confinement during their transportation; and whose resentment + had been wound up to the highest pitch of fury by the lash + of the driver. + + </p> + <p> + But he would now mention another instance, by way of contrast, + out of the evidence. A child on board a slave-ship, of + about ten months old, took sulk and would not eat. The captain + flogged it with a cat; swearing that he would make it eat, or kill + it. From this and other ill-treatment the child's legs swelled. + He then ordered some water to be made hot to abate the swelling. + But even his tender mercies were cruel; for the cook, on + putting his hand into the water, said it was too hot. Upon this + the captain swore at him, and ordered the feet to be put in. + This was done. The nails and skin came off. Oiled cloths were + then put round them. The child was at length tied to a heavy + log. Two or three days afterwards, the captain caught it up + again; and repeated that he would made it eat, or kill it. He + immediately flogged it again, and in a quarter of an hour it died. + But, after the child was dead, whom should the barbarian select + to throw it overboard, but the wretched mother? In vain she + started from the office. He beat her, till he made her take up + the child and carry it to the side of the vessel. She then dropped + it into the sea, turning her head the other way that she might not + see it. Now it would naturally be asked, was not this captain + also gibbeted alive? Alas! although the execrable barbarity of + the European exceeded that of the Africans before mentioned, + almost as much as his opportunities of instruction has been + greater than theirs, no notice whatsoever was taken of this + horrible action; and a thousand similar cruelties had been committed + in this abominable trade with equal impunity: but he + would say no more. He would vote for the abolition, not only + as it would do away all the evils complained of in Africa and + the Middle Passage; but as it would be the most effectual means + + of ameliorating the condition of those unhappy persons, who were + still to continue slaves in the British colonies. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Courtenay rose. He said, he could not but consider the + assertion of Sir William Yonge as a mistake, that the Slave + Trade, if abandoned by us, would fall into the hands of France. + It ought to be recollected, with what approbation the motion for + abolishing it, made by the late Mirabeau, had been received; + although the situation of the French colonies might then have + presented obstacles to carrying the measure into immediate execution. + He had no doubt, if parliament were to begin, so wise and + enlightened a body as the National Assembly would follow the + example. But even if France were not to relinquish the + trade, how could we, if justice required its abolition, hesitate as + to our part of it? + + </p> + <p> + The trade, it had been said, was conducted upon the principles + of humanity. Yes: we rescued the Africans from what + we were pleased to call their wretched situation in their own; + country, and then we took credit for our humanity; because, + after having killed one half of them in the seasoning, we substituted + what we were again pleased to call a better treatment than + that which they would have experienced at home. + + </p> + <p> + It had been stated that the principle of war among savages + was a general massacre. This was not true. They frequently + adopted the captives into their own families; and, so far from + massacring the women and children, they often gave them + the protection which the weakness of their age and sex + demanded. + + </p> + <p> + There could be no doubt, that the practice of kidnapping; + prevailed in Africa. As to witchcraft, it had been made a crime + in the reign of James the First in this country, for the purpose + of informations; and how much more likely were informations + to take place in Africa, under the encouragement afforded by the + Slave Trade! This trade, it had been said, was sanctioned by + twenty-six acts of parliament. He did not doubt but fifty-six + might be found, by which parliament had sanctioned witchcraft + of the existence of which we had now no belief whatever.... + + </p> + <p> + It had been said by Mr. Stanley that the pulpit had been + + used as an instrument of attack on the Slave Trade. He + was happy to learn it had been so well employed; and he hoped + the Bishops would rise up in the House of Lords, with the + virtuous indignation which became them, to abolish a traffic so + contrary to humanity, justice, and religion. + + </p> + <p> + He entreated every member to recollect, that on his vote that + night depended the happiness of millions; and that it was then + in his power to promote a measure, of which the benefits would + be felt over one whole quarter of the globe; that the seeds of + civilization might, by the present bill, be sown all over Africa: + and the first principles of humanity be established in regions + where they had hitherto been excluded by the existence of this + execrable trade. + + </p> + <p> + Lord Carysfort rose, and said, that the great cause of the abolition + had flourished by the manner in which it had been + opposed. No one argument of solid weight had been adduced + against it. It had been shown, but never disproved, that the + colonial laws were inadequate to the protection of the slaves; + that the punishments of the latter were most unmerciful; that + they were deprived of the right of self-defence against any White + man; and, in short, that the system was totally repugnant to the + principles of the British constitution. + + </p> + <p> + Colonel Phipps followed Lord Carysfort. He denied that this + was a question in which the rights of humanity and the laws of + nature were concerned. The Africans became slaves in consequence + of the constitution of their own governments. These + were founded in absolute despotism. Every subject was an actual + slave. The inhabitants were slaves to the great men, and the + great men were slaves to the prince. Prisoners of war, too, were + by law subject to slavery. Such being the case, he saw no more + cruelty in disposing of them to our merchants, than to those of + any other nation. Criminals, also, in cases of adultery and + witchcraft, became slaves by the same laws. + + </p> + <p> + It had been said, that there were no regulations in the West + Indies for the protection of slaves. There were several; though + he was ready to admit that more were necessary; and he would + go in this respect as far as humanity might require. He had + + passed ten months in Jamaica, where he had never seen any such + acts of cruelty as had been talked of. Those which he had seen + were not exercised by the Whites, but by the Blacks. The + dreadful stories which had been told, ought no more to fix a + general stigma upon the planters, than the story of Mrs. Brownrigg + to stamp this polished metropolis with the general brand of + murder. There was once a haberdasher's wife (Mrs. Nairne) + who locked up her apprentice girl, and starved her to death; but + did ever any body think of abolishing haberdashery on this + account? He was persuaded the Negroes in the West Indies + were cheerful and happy. They were fond of ornaments; but it + was not the characteristic of miserable persons to show a taste for + finery. Such a taste, on the contrary, implied a cheerful and + contented mind. He was sorry to differ from his friend Mr. + Wilberforce, but he must oppose his motion. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Pitt rose, and said, that from the first hour of his + having had the honour to sit in parliament down to the present, + among all the questions, whether political or personal, in which + it had been his fortune to take a share, there had never been one + in which his heart was so deeply interested as in the present; + both, on account of the serious principles it involved, and the + consequences connected with it. + + </p> + <p> + The present was not a mere question of feeling. The argument, + which ought, in his opinion, to determine the committee, + was, that the Slave Trade was unjust. It was, therefore, such a + trade as it was impossible for him to support, unless it could be + first proved to him, that there were no laws of morality binding + upon nations; and that it was not the duty of a legislature + to restrain its subjects, from invading the happiness of other + countries, and from violating; the fundamental principles of justice. + + </p> + <p> + Several had stated the impracticability of the measure before + them. They wished to see the trade abolished; but there was + some necessity for continuing it, which they conceived to exist. + Nay, almost every, one, he believed, appeared to wish that + the further importation of slaves might cease, provided, it could + be made out that, the population of the West Indies could be + maintained without it. He proposed, therefore, to consider the + + latter point; for, as the impracticability of keeping up the population + there appeared to operate as the chief objection, he trusted + that, by showing it to be ill founded, he should clear away + all other obstacles whatever; so that, having no ground either of + justice or necessity to stand upon, there could be no excuse left to + the committee for resisting the present motion. + + </p> + <p> + He might reasonably, however, hope that they would not + reckon any small or temporary disadvantage, which might arise + from the abolition, to be a sufficient reason against it. It + was surely not any slight degree of expediency, nor any small + balance of profit, nor any light shades of probability on the one + side, rather than on the other, which would determine them on + this question. He asked pardon even for the supposition. The + Slave Trade was an evil of such magnitude, that there must be + a common wish in the committee at once to put an end to it, if + there were no great and serious obstacles. It was a trade, by + which multitudes of unoffending nations were deprived of the + blessings of civilization, and had their peace and happiness + invaded. It ought, therefore, to be no common expediency, it + ought to be nothing less than the utter ruin of our islands, which + it became those to plead, who took upon them to defend the + continuance of it. + + </p> + <p> + He could not help thinking that the West India gentlemen + had manifested an over great degree of sensibility as to the point + in question; and that their alarms had been unreasonably excited + upon it. He had examined the subject carefully for himself: + and he would now detail those reasons, which had induced him + firmly to believe, not only that no permanent mischief would + follow from the abolition, but not even any such temporary inconvenience + as could be stated to be a reason for preventing the + House from agreeing to the motion before them; on the contrary, + that the abolition itself would lay the foundation for the more + solid improvement of all the various interests of those colonies. + + </p> + <p> + In doing this he should apply his observations chiefly to + Jamaica, which contained more than half the slaves in the + British West Indies; and if he should succeed in proving that + no material detriment could arise to the population there, this + + would afford so strong a presumption with respect to the other + islands, that the House could no longer hesitate whether they + should, or should not, put a stop to this most horrid trade. + + </p> + <p> + In the twenty years ending in 1788, the annual loss of slaves + in Jamaica (that is, the excess of deaths above the births,) + appeared to be one in the hundred. In a preceding period the + loss was greater; and, in a period before that greater still; there + having been a continual gradation in the decrease through the + whole time. It might fairly be concluded, therefore, that + (the average logs of the last period being one per cent.) the loss + in the former part of it would be somewhat more, and in the + latter part somewhat less, than one per cent; insomuch that it + might be fairly questioned, whether, by this time, the births and + deaths in Jamaica might not be stated as nearly equal. It was + to be added, that a peculiar calamity, which swept away fifteen + thousand slaves, had occasioned a part of the mortality in the + last-mentioned period. The probable loss, therefore, now to be + expected, was very inconsiderable indeed. + + </p> + <p> + There was, however, one circumstance to be added, which the + West India gentlemen, in stating this matter, had entirely + overlooked; and which was so material, as clearly to reduce the + probable diminution in the population of Jamaica down to + nothing. In all the calculations he had referred to of the comparative + number of births and deaths, all the Negroes in the island + were included. The newly imported, who died in the seasoning, + made apart; but these swelled, most materially, the number of + the deaths. Now, as these extraordinary deaths would cease, as + soon as the importation ceased, a deduction of them ought + to be made from his present calculation. + + </p> + <p> + But the number of those, who thus died in the seasoning, + would make up of itself nearly the whole of that one per cent. + which had been stated. He particularly pressed an attention + to this circumstance; for the complaint of being likely to want + hands in Jamaica, arose from the mistake of including the present + unnatural deaths, caused by the seasoning, among the natural + and perpetual muses of mortality. These deaths, being + erroneously taken into the calculations, gave the planters an + + idea that the numbers could not be kept up. These deaths, + which were caused merely by the Slave Trade, furnished the + very ground, therefore, on which the continuance of that trade + had been thought necessary. + + </p> + <p> + The evidence as to this point was clear; for it would be + found in that dreadful catalogue of deaths, arising from the + seasoning and the passage, which the House had been condemned + to look into, that one half died. An annual mortality of two + thousand slaves in Jamaica might be therefore charged to the + importation; which, compared with the whole number on the + island, hardly fell short of the whole one per cent. decrease. + + </p> + <p> + Joining this with all the other considerations, he would then + ask, could the decrease of the slaves in Jamaica be such—could + the colonies be so destitute of means—could the planters, when + by their own accounts they were establishing daily new regulations + for the benefit of the slaves—could they, under all these + circumstances, be permitted to plead that total impossibility of + keeping up their number, which they had rested on, as being + indeed the only possible pretext for allowing fresh importations + from Africa? He appealed, therefore, to the sober judgment + of all, whether the situation of Jamaica was such, as to justify a + hesitation in agreeing to the present motion. + + </p> + <p> + It might be observed, also, that, when the importations should + stop, that disproportion between the sexes, which was one of the + obstacles to population, would gradually diminish; and a natural + order of things be established. Through the want of this natural + order, a thousand grievances were created, which it was + impossible to define; and which it was in vain to think that, + under such circumstances, we could cure. But the abolition, of + itself, would work this desirable effect. The West Indians + would then feel a near and urgent interest to enter into a thousand + little details, which it was impossible for him to describe, + but which would have the greatest influence on population. A + foundation would thus be laid for the general welfare of the + islands; a new system would rise up, the reverse of the old; and + eventually both their general wealth and happiness would + increase. + + </p> + <p> + He had now proved far more than he was bound to do; for, + if he could only show that the abolition would not be ruinous, it + would be enough. He could give up, therefore, three arguments + out of four, through the whole of what he had said, and yet have + enough left for his position. As to the Creoles, they would + undoubtedly increase. They differed in this entirely from the + imported slaves, who were both a burthen and a curse to themselves + and others. The measure now proposed would operate + like a charm; and, besides stopping all the miseries in Africa and + the passage, would produce even more benefit in the West + Indies than legal regulations could effect. + + </p> + <p> + He would now just touch upon the question of emancipation. + A rash emancipation of the slaves would be mischievous. In + that unhappy situation, to which our baneful conduct had + brought ourselves and them, it would be no justice on either + side to give them liberty. They were as yet incapable of it; but + their situation might be gradually amended. They might be + relieved from everything harsh and severe; raised from their + present degraded state; and put under the protection of the law. + Till then, to talk of emancipation was insanity. But it was + the system of fresh importations, which interfered with these + principles of improvement; and it was only the abolition which + could establish them. This suggestion had its foundation in + human nature. Wherever the incentive of honour, credit, and + fair profit appeared, energy would spring up; and when these + labourers should have the natural springs of human action + afforded them, they would then rise to the natural level of human + industry. + + </p> + <p> + From Jamaica he would now go to the other islands. In + Barbadoes the slaves had rather increased. In St. Kitts the + decrease for fourteen years had been but three-fourths per cent.; + but here many of the observations would apply, which he had + used in the case of Jamaica. In Antigua many had died by a + particular calamity. But for this, the decrease would have been + trifling. In Nevis and Montserrat there was little or no disproportion + of the sexes; so that it might well be hoped, that the + numbers would be kept up in these islands. In Dominica some + + controversy had arisen about the calculation; but Governor Orde + had stated an increase of births above the deaths. From Grenada + and St. Vincent's no accurate accounts had been delivered in + answer to the queries sent them; but they were probably not in + circumstances less favourable than in the other islands. + + </p> + <p> + On a full review, then, of the state of the Negro population + in the West Indies, was there any serious ground of alarm from + the abolition of the Slave Trade? Where was the impracticability, + on which alone so many had rested their objections? Must + we not blush at pretending, that it would distress our consciences + to accede to this measure, as far as the question of the Negro + population was concerned? + + </p> + <p> + Intolerable were the mischiefs of this trade, both in its origin, + and through every stage of its progress. To say that slaves + could be furnished us by fair and commercial means was ridiculous. + The trade sometimes ceased, as during the late war. The + demand was more or less according to circumstances. But how + was it possible, that to a demand so exceedingly fluctuating the + supply should always exactly accommodate itself? Alas! We + made human beings the subject of commerce; we talked of them + as such; and yet we would not allow them the common principle + of commerce, that the supply must accommodate itself to the + consumption. It was not from wars, then, that the slaves were + chiefly procured. They were obtained in proportion as they were + wanted. If a demand for slaves arose, a supply was forced in one + way or other; and it was in vain, overpowered as we then were + with positive evidence, as well as the reasonableness of the supposition, + to deny that by the Slave Trade we occasioned all the + enormities which had been alleged against it. + + </p> + <p> + Sir William Yonge had said, that if we were not to take the + Africans from their country, they would be destroyed. But he + had not yet read that all uncivilized nations destroyed their + captives. We assumed, therefore, what was false. The very + selling of them implied this; for, if they would sell their captives + for profit, why should they not employ them so as to receive + a profit also? Nay, many of them, while there was no demand + from the slave merchants, were often actually so employed. The + + trade, too, had been suspended during the war; and it was never + said, or thought, that any such consequence had then followed. + + </p> + <p> + The honourable baronet had also said, to justification of the + Slave Trade, that witchcraft commonly implied poison, and was + therefore a punishable crime; but did he recollect that not only + the individual accused, but that his whole family, were sold as + slaves? The truth was, we stopped the natural progress of civilization + in Africa. We cut her off from the opportunity of + improvement. We kept her down in a state of darkness, bondage, + ignorance, and bloodshed. Was not this an awful consideration + for this country? Look at the map of Africa, and see how little + useful intercourse had been established on that vast continent! + While other countries were assisting and enlightening each other, + Africa alone had none of these benefits. We had obtained as + yet only so much knowledge of her productions, as to show that + there was a capacity for trade, which we checked. Indeed, if + the mischiefs there were out of the question, the circumstance of + the Middle Passage alone would, in his mind, be reason enough + for the abolition. Such a scene as that of the slave-ships passing + over with their wretched cargoes to the West Indies, if it could + be spread before the eyes of the House, would be sufficient of + itself to make them vote in favour of it; but when it could be + added, that the interest even of the West Indies themselves + rested on the accomplishment of this great event, he could not + conceive an act of more imperious duty, than that which was + imposed upon the House, of agreeing to the present motion. + + </p> + <p> + Sir Archibald Edmonstone rose, and asked whether the + present motion went so far as to pledge those who voted for it to + a total and immediate abolition. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Alderman Watson rose next. He defended the Slave + Trade as highly beneficial to the country, being one material + branch of its commerce. But he could not think of the African + trade without connecting it with the West Indian. The one + hung upon the other. A third important branch also depended + upon it, which was the Newfoundland fishery; the latter could + not go on, if it were not for the vast quantity of inferior fish + bought up for the Negroes in the West Indies, and which + + quite unfit for any other market. If, therefore, we destroyed the + African, we destroyed the other trades. Mr. Turgot, he said, had + recommended in the National Assembly of France the gradual + abolition of the Slave Trade. He would, therefore, recommend + it to the House to adopt the same measure, and to soften the + rigours of slavery by wholesome regulations; but an immediate + abolition he could not countenance. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Fox at length rose. He observed that some expressions + which he had used on the preceding day, had been complained of + as too harsh and severe. He had since considered them, but he + could not prevail upon himself to retract them; because, if any + gentleman, after reading the evidence on the table, and attending + to the debate, could avow himself an abettor of this shameful + traffic in human flesh, it could only be either from some hardness + of heart, or some difficulty of understanding, which he really + knew not how to account for. + + </p> + <p> + Some had considered this question as a question of political, + whereas, it was a question of personal, freedom. Political freedom + was undoubtedly a great blessing; but when it came to be + compared with personal, it sunk to nothing. To confound the + two, served, therefore, to render all arguments on either perplexing + and unintelligible. Personal freedom was the first right of every + human being. It was a right, of which he who deprived a + fellow-creature was absolutely criminal in so depriving him, and + which he who withheld was no less criminal in withholding. + He could not, therefore, retract his words with respect to any, + who (whatever respect he might otherwise have for them) should, + by their vote of that night, deprive their fellow-creatures of so + great a blessing. Nay, he would go further. He would say, that + if the House, knowing what the trade was by the evidence, did + not, by their vote, mark to all mankind their abhorrence of a + practice so savage, so enormous, so repugnant to all laws human + and divine, they would consign their character to eternal infamy. + + </p> + <p> + That the pretence of danger to our West Indian islands from + the abolition of the Slave Trade was totally unfounded, Mr. + Wilberforce had abundantly proved; but if there were they who + had not been satisfied with that proof, was it possible to resist + + the arguments of Mr. Pitt on the same subject? It had been + shown, on a comparison of the births and deaths in Jamaica, + that there was not now any decrease of the slaves. But if there + had been, it would have made no difference to him in his vote; + for, had the mortality been ever so great there, he should have + ascribed it to the system of importing Negroes, instead of that of + encouraging their natural increase. Was it not evident that the + planters thought it more convenient to buy them fit for work, + than to breed them? Why, then, was this horrid trade to be + kept up?—To give the planters truly the liberty of misusing their + slaves, so as to check population: for it was from ill-usage only + that, in a climate so natural to them, their numbers could diminish. + The very ground, therefore, on which the planters rested + the necessity of fresh importations, namely, the destruction of + lives in the West Indies, was itself the strongest argument that + could be given, and furnished the most imperious call upon parliament + for the abolition of the trade. + + </p> + <p> + Against this trade innumerable were the charges. An honourable + member, Mr. Smith, had done well to introduce those + tragical stories which had made such an impression upon the + House. No one of these had been yet controverted. It had, + indeed, been said; that the cruelty of the African captain to the + child was too bad to be true; and we had been desired to look at + the cross-examination of the witness, as if we should find traces + of the falsehood in his testimony there. But his cross-examination + was peculiarly honourable to his character; for, after he had + been pressed in the closest manner by some able members of the + House, the only inconsistency they could fix upon him was, + whether the fact had happened on the same day of the same + month of the year 1764 or the year 1765. + + </p> + <p> + But it was idle to talk of the incredibility of such instances. + It was not denied that absolute power was exercised by the slave-captains; + and if this was granted, all the cruelties charged upon + them would naturally follow. Never did he hear of charges so + black and horrible as those contained in the evidence on the table. + They unfolded such a scene of cruelty, that if the House, with + all their present knowledge of the circumstances, should dare to + + vote for its continuance, they must have nerves of which he had + no conception. We might find instances, indeed, in history, of + men violating the feelings of nature on extraordinary occasions. + Fathers had sacrificed their sons and daughters, and husbands + their wives; but to imitate their characters, we ought to have + not only nerves as strong as the two Brutuses, but to take care + that we had a cause as good; or that we had motives for such a + dereliction of our feelings as patriotic as those which historians + had annexed to these when they handed them to the notice of + the world. + + </p> + <p> + But what was our motive in the case before us?—to continue + a trade which was a wholesale sacrifice of a whole order and race + of our fellow-creatures, which carried them away by force from + their native country, in order to subject them to the mere will + and caprice, the tyranny and oppression of other human beings, + for their whole natural lives, them and their posterity for ever!! + O most monstrous wickedness! O unparalleled barbarity! And, + what was more aggravating, this most complicated scene of + robbery and murder which mankind had ever witnessed, had + been honoured by the name of trade. + + </p> + <p> + That a number of human beings should be at all times ready + to be furnished as fair articles of commerce, just as our occasions + might require, was absurd. The argument of Mr. Pitt on this + head was unanswerable. Our demand was fluctuating: it entirely + ceased at some times: at others it was great and pressing. + How was it possible, on every sudden call, to furnish a sufficient + return in slaves, without resorting to those execrable means of + obtaining them, which were stated in the evidence? These were + of three sorts, and he would now examine them. + + </p> + <p> + Captives in war, it was urged, were consigned either to death + or slavery. This, however, he believed to be false in point of + fact. But suppose it were true; did it not become us, with + whom it was a custom, founded in the wisest policy, to pay the + captives a peculiar respect and civility, to inculcate the same + principles in Africa? But we were so far from doing this, that + we encouraged wars for the sake of taking, not men's goods and + possessions, but men themselves; and it was not the war which + + was the cause of the Slave Trade, but the Slave Trade which + was the cause of the war. It was the practice of the slave-merchants + to try to intoxicate the African kings in order to turn them + to their purpose. A particular instance occurred in the evidence + of a prince, who, when sober, resisted their wishes; but in the + moment of inebriety he gave the word for war, attacked the next + village, and sold the inhabitants to the merchants. + + </p> + <p> + The second mode was kidnapping. He referred the House to + various instances of this in the evidence: but there was one in + particular, from which we might immediately infer the frequency + of the practice. A black trader had kidnapped a girl and sold + her; but he was presently afterwards kidnapped and sold himself; + and, when he asked the captain who bought him, "What! + do you buy me, who am a great trader?" the only answer was, + "Yes, I will buy you, or her, or anybody else, provided any + one will sell you;" and accordingly both the trader and the girl + were carried to the West Indies, and sold for slaves. + + </p> + <p> + The third mode of obtaining slaves was by crimes committed + or imputed. One of these was adultery. But was Africa the + place, where Englishmen, above all others, were to go to find out + and punish adultery? Did it become us to cast the first stone? + It was a most extraordinary pilgrimage for a most extraordinary + purpose! And yet upon this plea we justified our right of carrying + off its inhabitants. The offence alleged next was witchcraft. + What a reproach it was to lend ourselves to this superstition!—Yes: + we stood by; we heard the trial; we knew the crime to be + impossible; and that the accused must be innocent: but we + waited in patient silence for his condemnation; and then we lent + our friendly aid to the police of the country, by buying the + wretched convict, with all his family; whom, for the benefit of + Africa, we carried away also into perpetual slavery. + + </p> + <p> + With respect to the situation of the slaves in their transportation, + he knew not how to give the House a more correct idea of + the horrors of it, than by referring them to the printed section of + the slave-ship; where the eye might see what the tongue must + fall short in describing. On this dismal part of the subject he + would not dwell. He would only observe, that the acts of barbarity, + + related of the slave-captains in these voyages, were so + extravagant, that they had been attributed in some instances to + insanity. But was not this the insanity of arbitrary power? + Who ever read the facts recorded of Nero without suspecting he + was mad? Who would not be apt to impute insanity to Caligula—or + Domitian—or Caracalla—or Commodus—or Heliogabalus? + Here were six Roman emperors, not connected in blood, nor by + descent, who, each of them, possessing arbitrary power, had been + so distinguished for cruelty, that nothing short of insanity could + be imputed to them. Was not the insanity of the masters of + slave-ships to be accounted for on the same principles? + + </p> + <p> + Of the slaves in the West Indies it had been said, that they + were taken from a worse state to a better. An honourable member, + Mr. W. Smith, had quoted some instances out of the evidence + to the contrary. He also would quote one or two others. + A slave under hard usage had run away. To prevent a repetition + of the offence his owner sent for his surgeon, and desired him to + cut off the man's leg. The surgeon refused. The owner, to + render it a matter of duty in the surgeon, broke it. "Now," + says he, "you must cut it off; or the man will die." We might + console ourselves, perhaps, that this happened in a French island; + but he would select another instance, which had happened in one + of our own. Mr. Ross heard the shrieks of a female issuing from + an out-house; and so piercing, that he determined to me what + was going on. On looking in he perceived a young female tied + up to a beam by her wrists, entirely naked, and in the act of + involuntary writhing and swinging; while the author of her + torture was standing below her with a lighted torch in his hand, + which he applied to all the parts of her body as it approached + him. What crime this miserable woman had perpetrated he + knew not; but the human mind could not conceive a crime + warranting such a punishment. + + </p> + <p> + He was glad to see that these tales affected the House. Would + they then sanction enormities, the bare recital of which made + them shudder? Let them remember that humanity did not consist + in a squeamish ear. It did not consist in shrinking and starting + at such tales as these; but in a disposition of the heart to remedy + + the evils they unfolded. Humanity belonged rather to the mind + than to the nerves. But, if so, it should prompt men to charitable + exertion. Such exertion was necessary in the present case. + It was necessary for the credit of our jurisprudence at home, and + our character abroad. For what would any man think of our + justice, who should see another hanged for a crime, which would + be innocence itself, if compared with those enormities, which + were allowed in Africa and the West Indies under the sanction + of the British parliament? + + </p> + <p> + It had been said, however, in justification of the trade, that + the Africans were less happy at home than in the Islands. But + what right had we to be judges of their condition? They would + tell us a very different tale, if they were asked. But it was + ridiculous to say, that we bettered their condition, when we dragged + them from everything dear in life to the most abject state of + slavery. + + </p> + <p> + One argument had been used, which for a subject so grave + was the most ridiculous he had ever heard. Mr. Alderman + Watson had declared the Slave Trade to be necessary on account + of its connexion with our fisheries. But what was this but an + acknowledgment of the manner, in which these miserable beings, + were treated? The trade was to be kept up, with all its enormities, + in order that there might be persons to consume the + refuse fish from Newfoundland, which was too bad for anybody + else to eat. + + </p> + <p> + It had been said that England ought not to abolish the Slave + Trade, unless other nations would also give it up. But what + kind of morality was this? The Trade was defensible upon no + other principle than that of a highwayman. Great Britain + could not keep it upon these terms. Mere gain was not a + motive for a great country to rest on, as a justification of any + measure. Honour was its superior; and justice was superior to + honour. + + </p> + <p> + With regard to the emancipation of those in slavery, he coincided + with Mr. Wilberforce and Mr. Pitt; and upon this principle, + that it might be as dangerous to give freedom at once to a + man used to slavery, as, in the case of a man who had never + + seen day-light, to expose him all at once to the full glare of a + meridian sun. + + </p> + <p> + With respect to the intellect and sensibility of the Africans, + it was pride only, which suggested a difference between them and + ourselves. There was a remarkable instance to the point in the + evidence, and which he would quote. In one of the slave-ships + was a person of consequence; a man, once high in a military + station, and with a mind not insensible to the eminence of his + rank. He had been taken captive and sold; and was then in the + hold, confined promiscuously with the rest. Happening in the + night to fall asleep, he dreamed that he was in his own country; + high in honour and command; caressed by his family and friends; + waited on by his domestics; and surrounded with all his former + comforts in life. But awaking suddenly, and finding where he + was, he was heard to burst into the loudest groans and lamentations + on the miserable contrast of his present state; mixed with + the meanest of his subjects; and subjected to the insolence of + wretches a thousand times lower than himself in every kind of + endowment. He appealed to the House, whether this was not + as moving a picture of the miserable effects of the Slave Trade, + as could be well imagined. There was one way, by which they + might judge of it. Let them make the case their own. This + was the Christian rule of judging; and, having mentioned + Christianity, he was sorry to find that any should suppose, that it + had given countenance to such a system of oppression. So far + was this from being the case, that he thought it one of the most + splendid triumphs of this religion, that it had caused slavery to + be so generally abolished on its appearance in the world. It had + done this by teaching us, among other beautiful precepts, that, in + the sight of their Maker, all mankind were equal. Its influence + appeared to have been more powerful in this respect than that + of all the ancient systems of philosophy; though even in these, + in point of theory, we might trace great liberality and consideration + for human rights. Where could be found finer sentiments + of liberty than in Demosthenes and Cicero? Where bolder + assertions of the rights of mankind, than in Tacitus and Thucydides? + But, alas! these were the holders of slaves: It was not + + so with those who had been converted to Christianity. He knew, + however, that what he had been ascribing to Christianity had + been imputed by others to the advances which philosophy had + made. Each of the two parties took the merit to itself. The + philosopher gave it to philosophy, and the divine to religion. He + should not, then, dispute with either of them; but, as both + coveted the praise, why should they not emulate each other by + promoting this improvement in the condition of the human + race? + + </p> + <p> + He would now conclude by declaring, that the whole country, + indeed the whole civilized world, must rejoice that such a bill as + the present had been moved for, not merely as a matter of + humanity, but as an act of justice; for he would put humanity + out of the case. Could it be called humanity to forbear + committing murder? Exactly upon this ground did the + motion stand; being strictly a question of national justice. He + thanked Mr. Wilberforce for having pledged himself so strongly + to pursue his object till it was accomplished; and, as for himself, + he declared, that, in whatever situation he might ever be, he + would use his warmest efforts for the promotion of this righteous + cause. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Stanley (the member for Lancashire) rose, and declared + that, when he came into the house, he intended to vote against + the abolition; but that the impression made both on his feelings + and on his understanding was such, that he could not persist in + his resolution. He was now convinced that the entire abolition + of the Slave Trade was called for equally by sound policy and + justice. He thought it right and fair to avow manfully this + change in his opinion. The abolition, ho was sure, could + not long fail of being carried. The arguments for it were + irresistible. + + </p> + <p> + The Honourable Mr. Ryder said that he came to the house + not exactly in the same circumstances as Mr. Stanley, but very + undecided on the subject. He was, however, so strongly convinced + by the arguments he had heard, that he was become + equally earnest for the abolition. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Smith (member for Pontefract) said, that he should not + + trouble the House, at so late an hour, further than to enter + his protest, in the most solemn manner, against this trade, + which he considered as most disgraceful to the country, and contrary + to all the principles of justice and religion. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Sumner declared himself against the total, immediate, + and unqualified abolition, which he thought would wound at least + the prejudices of the West Indians, and might do mischief; but + a gradual abolition should have his hearty support. + + </p> + <p> + Major Scott declared there was no member in the house, who + would give a more independent vote upon this question than + himself. He had no concern either in the African or West + Indian trades; but in the present state of the finances of the + country, he thought it would be a dangerous experiment to risk + any one branch of our foreign commerce. As far as regulation + would go, he would join in the measure. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Burke said he would use but few words. He declared + that he had for a long time had his mind drawn towards this + great subject. He had even prepared a bill for the regulation of + the trade, conceiving at that time that the immediate abolition of + it was a thing hardly to be hoped for; but when he found that + Mr. Wilberforce had seriously undertaken the work, and that his + motion was for the abolition, which he approved much more than + his own, he had burnt his papers; and made an offering of them + in honour of this nobler proposition, much in the same manner as + we read, that the curious books were offered up and burnt at the + approach of the Gospel. He highly applauded the confessions of + Mr. Stanley and Mr. Ryder. It would be a glorious tale for + them to tell their constituents, that it was impossible for them, + however prejudiced, if sent to hear, discussion in that House, to + avoid surrendering up their hearts and judgments at the shrine of + reason. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Drake said, that he would oppose the abolition to the + utmost. We had, by a want of prudent conduct, lost America. + The House should be aware of being carried away by the meteors + with which they had been dazzled. The leaders, it was true, + were for the abolition; but the minor orators, the dwarfs, the + pigmies, he trusted, would that night carry the question against + + them. The property of the West Indians was at stake; and, + though men might be generous with their own property, they + should not be so with the property of others. + + </p> + <p> + Lord Sheffield reprobated the overbearing language which had + been used by some gentlemen towards others, who differed + in opinion from them on a subject of so much difficulty as the + present. He protested against a debate, in which he could trace + nothing like reason; but, on the contrary, downright phrensy, + raised perhaps by the most extraordinary eloquence. The abolition, + as proposed, was impracticable. He denied the right of the + legislature to pass a law for it. He warned the Chancellor of + the Exchequer to beware of the day, on which the bill should + pass, as the worst he had ever seen. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Milnes declared, that he adopted all those expressions + against the Slave Trade, which had been thought so harsh; and + that the opinion of the noble lord had been turned in consequence + of having become one of the members for Bristol. He quoted a + passage from Lord Sheffield's pamphlet; and insisted that the + separation of families in the West Indies, there complained of + by himself, ought to have compelled him to take the contrary + side of the question. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Wilberforce made a short reply to some arguments in the + course of the debate; after which, at half-past three in the + morning, the House divided. There appeared for Mr. Wilberforce's + motion eighty-eight, and against it one hundred and sixty-three; + so that it was lost by a majority of seventy-five votes. + + </p> + <p> + By this unfavourable division the great contest, in which we + had been so long engaged, was decided. We were obliged to give + way to superior numbers. Our fall, however, grievous as it was, + was rendered more tolerable by the circumstance of having been + prepared to expect it. It was rendered more tolerable, also, by + other considerations; for we had the pleasure of knowing, that + we had several of the most distinguished characters in the + kingdom, and almost all the splendid talents of the House of + Commons<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXXVI_3"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXXVI_3"></a>, in our favour. We knew, too, that the question had + + not been carried against us either by evidence or by argument; + but that we were the victims of the accidents and circumstances + of the times. And as these considerations comforted us, when + we looked forward to future operations on this great question, so + we found great consolation as to the past, in believing, that, + unless human constitutions were stronger than they really were, + we could not have done more than we had done towards the + furtherance of the cause. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXXVI_3"></a><a href="#FootXXVI_3">A</a>: It is a pity that no perfect list + was ever made of this or of any other division in the House of + Commons on this subject. I can give, however, the names of the + following, members, as having voted for Mr. Wilberforce's motion at this time. + + </p> + <table> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Pitt,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Lord Bayham,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Duncombe,</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Fox,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Lord Arden,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Martin,</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Burke,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Lord Carysfort,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Milnes,</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Grey,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Lord Muncaster,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Steele,</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Windham,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Lord Barnard,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Coke,</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Sheridan,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Lord North,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Eliott,</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Whitbread,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Lord Euston,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Montagu,</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Courtenay,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">General Burgoyne,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Bastard,</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Francis,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Hon. R. Fitzpatrick,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Stanley,</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Wilberforce,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Sir William Dolben,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Plumer,</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Ryder,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Sir Henry Houghton,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Beaufoy,</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. William Smith,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Sir Edward Lyttleton,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. I.H. Browne,</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. John Smyth,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Sir William Scott,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. G.N. Edwards,</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Robert Smith,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Samuel Thornton,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. W.M. Pitt,</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Powys,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Henry Thornton,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Bankes,</td> + </tr> + <tr class=""> + <td valign="top" class="">Lord Apsley,</td> + <td valign="top" class="">Mr. Robert Thornton,</td> + </tr> + </table> + <p> + The committee for the abolition held a meeting soon after + this our defeat. It was the most impressive I ever attended. + The looks of all bespoke the feelings of their hearts. Little was + said previously to the opening of the business; and, after it was + opened, it was conducted with a kind of solemn dignity, which + became the occasion. The committee, in the course of its + deliberations, came to the following resolutions:— + + </p> + <p> + That the thanks of this committee be respectfully given to + the illustrious minority of the House of Commons, who lately + stood forth the assertors of British justice and humanity, and the + enemies of a traffic in the blood of man. + + </p> + <p> + That our acknowledgments are particularly due to William + Wilberforce, Esq., for his unwearied exertions to remove this + opprobrium of our national character; and to the right + honourable William Pitt, and the right honourable Charles James + + Fox, for their virtuous and dignified co-operation in the same + cause. + + </p> + <p> + That the solemn declarations of these gentlemen, and of + Matthew Montagu and William Smith, Esqrs., that they will + not relinquish, but with life, their struggle for the abolition of + the Slave Trade, are not only highly honourable to themselves as + Britons, as statesmen, and as Christians, but must eventually, as + the light of evidence shall be more and more diffused, be seconded + by the good wishes of every man not immediately interested in + the continuance of that detestable commerce. + + </p> + <p> + And lastly, that anticipating the opposition they should have + to sustain from persons trained to a familiarity with the rapine + and desolation necessarily attendant on the Slave Trade, and + sensible, also, of the prejudices which implicitly arise from + long-established usages, this committee consider the late decision in + the House of Commons as a delay, rather than a defeat. In + addressing a free and enlightened nation on a subject, in which + its justice, its humanity, and its wisdom are involved, they cannot + despair of final success; and they do hereby, under an + increasing conviction of the excellence of their cause, and in + conformity to the distinguished examples before them, renew their + firm protestation, that they will never desist from appealing to + their countrymen, till the commercial intercourse with Africa + shall cease to be polluted with the blood of its inhabitants. + + </p> + <p> + These resolutions were published, and they were followed by + a suitable report. + + </p> + <p> + The committee, in order to strengthen themselves for the + prosecution of their great work, elected Sir William Dolben, + Bart., Henry Thornton, Lewis Alexander Grant, and Matthew + Montagu, Esqrs., who were members of parliament, and Truman + Harford, Josiah Wedgewood, jun., Esq., and John Clarkson, Esq., + of the royal navy, as members of their own body; and they + elected the Rev. Archdeacon Plymley (afterwards Corbett) an + honorary and corresponding member, in consequence of the + great services which he had rendered their cause in the shires of + Hereford and Salop, and the adjacent counties of Wales. + + </p> + <p> + The several committees, established in the country, on + + receiving the resolutions and report as before mentioned, testified + their sympathy in letters of condolence to that of London on the + late melancholy occasion; and expressed their determination to + support it as long as any vestiges of this barbarous traffic should + remain. + + </p> + <p> + At length the session ended; and though, in the course of it, + the afflicting loss of the general question had occurred, there was + yet an attempt made by the abolitionists in parliament, which + met with a better fate. The Sierra Leone Company received the + sanction of the Legislature. The object of this institution was + to colonize a small portion of the coast of Africa. They, who + were to settle there, were to have no concern in the Slave Trade, + but to discourage it as much as possible. They were to endeavour + to establish a new species of commerce, and to promote + cultivation in its neighborhood by free labour. The persons + more generally fixed upon for colonists, were such Negroes, with + their wives and families, as chose to abandon their habitations in + Nova Scotia. These had followed the British arms in America; + and had been settled there, as a reward for their services, by the + British government. My brother, just mentioned to have been + chosen a member of the committee, and who had essentially + served the great cause of the abolition on many occasions, undertook + a visit to Nova Scotia, to see if those in question were willing + to undergo the change; and in that case to provide transports, + and conduct them to Sierra Leone. This object he accomplished. + He embarked more than eleven hundred persons in + fifteen vessels, of all which he took the command. On landing + them he became the first Governor of the new colony. Having + laid the foundation of it, he returned to England; when a successor + was appointed. From that time many unexpected circumstances, + but particularly devastations by the French in the + beginning of the war, took place, which contributed to ruin the + trading company which was attached to it. It is pleasing, however, + to reflect, that though the object of the institution, as far + as mercantile profit was concerned, thus failed, the other objects + belonging to it were promoted. Schools, places of worship, + agriculture, and the habits of civilized life were established. + + Sierra Leone, therefore, now presents itself as the medium of + civilization for Africa. And, in this latter point of view, it is + worth all the treasure which has been lost in supporting it; for + the Slave Trade, which was the great obstacle to this civilization, + being now happily abolished, there is a metropolis, consisting of + some hundreds of persons, from which may issue the seeds of + reformation to this injured continent; and which, when sown, + may be expected to grow into fruit without interruption. New + schools may be transplanted from thence into the interior. + Teachers, and travellers on discovery, may be sent from thence + in various directions, who may return to it occasionally as to + their homes. The natives, too, able now to travel in safety, may + resort to it from various parts. They may see the improvements + which are going on from time to time. They may send their children + to it for education; and thus it may become the + medium<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXXVI_4"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXXVI_4"></a> of a + great intercourse between England and Africa, to the benefit + of each other. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXXVI_4"></a><a href="#FootXXVI_4">A</a>: To promote this desirable end an association + took place last year, called The African Institution, under the patronage + of the Duke of Gloucester, as president, and of the Mends to the + African cause, particularly of such as were in parliament, and as + belonged to the committee for the abolition of the Slave Trade. + </p> + + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + <h2><a name="chap27"></a>CHAPTER XXVII. + </h2> + <p><b>—Continuation from July 1791 to July 1792.—Author + travels round the kingdom again; object of his journey.—People begin + to leave off the use of sugar; to form committees; and to send petitions to + Parliament.—Motion made in the House of Commons for the immediate + abolition of the trade; Debates upon it; Abolition resolved upon, but not to + commence till 1796.—Resolution taken to the Lords; latter determine + upon hearing evidence; Evidence at length introduced; further hearing of it + postponed to the next session.</b></p> + + <p> + The defeat which we had just sustained, was a matter of great + triumph to our opponents. When they considered the majority + in the House of Commons in their favour, they viewed the resolutions + of the committee, which have been detailed, as the last + spiteful effort of a vanquished and dying animal, and they supposed + that they had consigned the question to eternal sleep. + The committee, however, were too deeply attached to the cause, + vanquished as they were, to desert it; and they knew, also, too + well the barometer of public feeling, and the occasion of its + fluctuations, to despair. In the year 1787, the members of the + House of Commons, as well as the people, were enthusiastic in + behalf of the abolition of the trade. In the year 1788, the fair + enthusiasm of the former began to fade. In 1789, it died. In + 1790, prejudice started up as a noxious weed in its place. In + 1791, this prejudice arrived at its growth. But to what were + these changes owing? To delay; during which the mind, + having been gradually led to the question as a commercial, had + been gradually taken from it as a moral object. But it was possible + to restore the mind to its proper place. Add to which, that + the nation had never deserted the cause during this whole period. + + </p> + <p> + It is much to the honour of the English people, that they + should have continued to feel for the existence of an evil which + was so far removed from their sight. But at this moment their + feelings began to be insupportable. Many of them resolved, as + soon as parliament had rejected the bill, to abstain from the use + + of West Indian produce. In this state of things, a pamphlet, + written by William Bell Crafton, of Tewksbury, and called <em>A + Sketch of the Evidence, with a Recommendation on the Subject to + the serious Attention of People in general</em>, made its appearance; + and another followed it, written by William Fox, of London, <em>On + the Propriety of abstaining from West India Sugar and Rum</em>. + These pamphlets took the same ground. They inculcated abstinence + from these articles as a moral duty; they inculcated it as + a peaceable and constitutional measure; and they laid before the + reader a truth which was sufficiently obvious, that, if each would + abstain, the people would have a complete remedy for this enormous + evil in their own power. + + </p> + <p> + While these things were going on, it devolved upon me to + arrange all the evidence on the part of the abolition under proper + heads, and to abridge it into one volume. It was intended that + a copy of this should be sent into different towns of the kingdom, + that all might know, if possible, the horrors (as far as the evidence + contained them) of this execrable trade; and as it was + possible that these copies might lie in the places where they were + sent, without a due attention to their contents, I resolved, with + the approbation of the committee, to take a journey, and for no + other purpose than personally to recommend that they might be + read. + + </p> + <p> + The books, having been printed, were despatched before me. + Of this tour I shall give the reader no other account than that of + the progress of the remedy, which the people were then taking + into their own hands. And first I may observe, that there was + no town, through which I passed, in which there was not some + one individual who had left off the use of sugar. In the smaller + towns there were from ten to fifty by estimation, and in the larger + from two to five hundred, who made this sacrifice to virtue. + These were of all ranks and parties. Rich and poor, churchmen + and dissenters, had adopted the measure. Even grocers had left + off trading in the article, in some places. In gentlemen's families, + where the master had set the example, the servants had often + voluntarily followed it; and even children, who were capable of + understanding the history of the sufferings of the Africans, + + excluded, with the most virtuous resolution, the sweets, to which + they had been accustomed, from their lips. By the best computation + I was able to make from notes taken down in my journey, + no fewer than three hundred thousand persons had abandoned the + use of sugar. + + </p> + <p> + Having travelled over Wales, and two-thirds of England, I + found it would be impossible to visit Scotland on the same errand. + I had already, by moving upwards and downwards in parallel + lines, and by intersecting these in the same manner, passed over + six thousand miles. By the best calculation I could make, I had + yet two thousand to perform. By means of almost incessant + journeyings night and day, I had suffered much in my health. + My strength was failing daily. I wrote, therefore, to the committee + on this subject; and they communicated immediately with + Dr. Dickson, who, on being applied to, visited Scotland in my + stead. He consulted first with the committee at Edinburgh + relative to the circulation of the Abridgment of the Evidence. + He then pursued his journey, and, in conjunction with the + unwearied efforts of Mr. Campbel Haliburton, rendered essential + service to the cause for this part of the kingdom. + + </p> + <p> + On my return to London, I found that the committee had + taken into their own body T.F. Forster, B.M. Forster, and + James West, Esqrs., as members; and that they had elected + Hercules Boss, Esq., an honorary and corresponding member, in + consequence of the handsome manner in which he had come + forward as an evidence, and of the peculiar benefit which had + resulted from his testimony to the cause. + + </p> + <p> + The effects of the two journeys by Dr. Dickson and myself + were soon visible. The people could not bear the facts, which + had been disclosed to them by the Abridgment of the Evidence. + They were not satisfied, many of them, with the mere abstinence + from sugar; but began to form committees to correspond with + that of London. The first of these appeared at Newcastle-upon-Tyne, + so early as the month of October. It consisted of the Rev. + William Turner, as chairman, and of Robert Ormston, William + Batson, Henry, Taylor, Ralph Bambridge, George Brown, Hadwen + Bragg, David Sutton, Anthony Clapham, George Richardson, + + and Edward Prowit. It received a valuable addition afterwards + by the admission of many others. The second was established + at Nottingham. The Rev. Jeremiah Bigsby became the president, + and the Revs. G. Walker and J. Smith, and Messrs. Dennison, + Evans, Watson, Hart, Storer, Bott, Hawkesley, Pennington, + Wright, Frith, Hall, and Wakefield, the committee. The + third was formed at Glasgow, under the patronage of David Dale, + Scott Montcrieff, Robert Graham, Professor Millar, and others. + Other committees started up in their turn. At length public + meetings began to take place, and after this petitions to be sent + to parliament; and these so generally, that there was not a day + for three months, Sundays excepted, in which five or six were not + resolved upon in some places or other in the kingdom. + + </p> + <p> + Of the enthusiasm of the nation at this time none can form an + opinion but they who witnessed it. There never was perhaps a + season when so much virtuous feeling pervaded all ranks. Great + pains were taken by interested persons in many places to prevent + public meetings. But no efforts could avail. The current ran + with such strength and rapidity, that it was impossible to stem + it. In the city of London a remarkable instance occurred. The + livery had been long waiting for the common council to begin a + petition; but the lord mayor and several of the aldermen stifled + it. The former, indignant at this conduct, insisted upon a + common hall. A day was appointed; and, though the notice + given of it was short, the assemblage was greater than had ever + been remembered on any former occasion. Scarcely a liveryman + was absent, unless sick, or previously engaged. The petition, + when introduced, was opposed by those who had prevented it in + the common council. But their voices were drowned amidst + groans and hissings. It was shortly after carried; and it had not + been signed more than half an hour, before it was within the walls + of the House of Commons. The reason of this extraordinary + despatch was, that it had been kept back by intrigue so late, that + the very hour in which it was delivered to the House, was that in + which Mr. Wilberforce was to make his new motion. + + </p> + <p> + And as no petitions were ever more respectable than those + presented on this occasion, as far as they breathed the voice of the + + people, and as far as they were founded on a knowledge of the + object which they solicited, so none were ever more numerous, as + far as we have any record of such transactions. Not fewer than + three hundred and ten were presented from England; one hundred + and eighty-seven from Scotland; and twenty from Wales. + Two other petitions also for the abolition came from England, but + they were too late for delivery. On the other side of the question, + one was presented from the town of Reading for regulation, in + opposition to that for abolition from the same place. There were + also four against abolition. The first of these was from certain + persons at Derby, in opposition to the other from that town. The + second was from Stephen Fuller, Esq., as agent for Jamaica. + The third from J. Dawson, Esq., a slave-merchant at Liverpool. + And the fourth from the merchants, planters, mortgagees, annuitants, + and others concerned in the West Indian colonies. Taking + in all these statements, the account stood thus:—for regulation + there was one; against all abolition there were four; and for the + total abolition of the trade five hundred and nineteen. + + </p> + <p> + On the 2nd of April Mr. Wilberforce moved the order of the + day; which having been agreed to, Sir William Dolben was put + into the chair. + + </p> + <p> + He then began by soliciting the candid attention of the West + Indians to what he was going to deliver to the House. However + others might have censured them indiscriminately, he had always + himself made a distinction between them and their system. It + was the latter only which he reprobated. If aristocracy had been + thought a worse form of government than monarchy, because the + people had many tyrants instead of one, how objectionable must + be that form of it, which existed in our colonies! Arbitrary + power could be bought there by any one, who could buy a slave. + The fierceness of it was doubtless restrained by an elevation of + mind in many, as arising from a consciousness of superior rank + and consequence: but, alas! it was too often exercised there by + the base and vulgar. The more liberal, too, of the planters were + not resident upon their estates. Hence a promiscuous censure of + them would be unjust, though their system would undoubtedly + be odious. + + </p> + <p> + As for the cure of this monstrous evil, he had shown, last + year, that internal regulations would not produce it. These could + have no effect, while the evidence of slaves was inadmissible. + What would be the situation of the bulk of the people of this + country, if only gentlemen of five hundred a-year were admitted + as evidences in our courts of law? Neither was the cure of it + in the emancipation of the slaves. He did not deny that he + wished them this latter blessing. But, alas, in their present + degraded state, they were unfit for it! Liberty was the child of + reason and order. It was, indeed, a plant of celestial growth, + but the soil must be prepared for its reception. He, who would + see it flourish and bring forth its proper fruit, must not think it + sufficient to let it shoot in unrestrained licentiousness. But if + this inestimable blessing was ever to be imparted to them, the + cause must be removed, which obstructed its introduction. In + short, no effectual remedy could be found but in the abolition of + the Slave Trade. + + </p> + <p> + He then took a copious view of the advantages, which would + arise both to the master and to the slave, if this traffic were done + away; and having recapitulated and answered the different + objections to such a measure, he went to that part of the subject, + in which he described himself to be most interested. + + </p> + <p> + He had shown, he said, last year, that Africa was exposed to + all the horrors of war; and that most of these wars had their + origin in the Slave Trade. It was then said, in reply, that the + natural barbarity of the natives was alone sufficient to render + their country a scene of carnage. This was triumphantly instanced + in the King of Dahomey. But his honourable friend + Lord Muncaster, then in the House, had proved in his interesting + publication, which had appeared since, called <em>Historical Sketches of + the Slave Trade, and of its Effects in Africa</em>, addressed to the + people of Great Britain, that the very cruelties of this king, on + which so much stress had been laid, were committed by him in a + war, which had been undertaken expressly to punish an adjacent + people for having stolen some of his subjects and sold them for + slaves. + + </p> + <p> + He had shown, also, last year, that kings were induced to + + seize and sell their subjects, and individuals each other, in consequence + of the existence of the Slave Trade. + + </p> + <p> + He had shown, also, that the administration of justice was + perverted, so as to become a fertile source of supply to this inhuman + traffic; that every crime was punished by slavery; that false + accusations were made to procure convicts; and that even the + judges had a profit on the convictions. + + </p> + <p> + He had shown again, that many acts of violence were perpetrated + by the Europeans themselves. But he would now relate + others which had happened since. The captain of an English + vessel, lying in the river Cameroons, sent his boat with three + sailors and a slave to get water. A Black trader seized the latter, + and took him away. He alleged in his defence, that the captain + owed him goods to a greater amount than the value of the slave; + and that he would not pay him. This being told on board, the + captain, and a part of his crew, who were compelled to blacken + their naked bodies that they might appear like the natives, went + on shore at midnight, armed with muskets and cutlasses. They + fired on the trader's dwelling, and killed three of his children on + the spot. The trader, being badly wounded, died while they + were dragging him to the boat; and his wife, being wounded + also, died in half an hour after she was on board the ship. + Resistance having been made to these violent proceedings, some + of the sailors were wounded, and one was killed. + + </p> + <p> + Some weeks after this affray, a chieftain of the name + of Quarmo went on board the same vessel to borrow some cutlasses + and muskets. He was going, he said, into the country to + make war; and the captain should have half of his booty. So + well understood were the practices of the trade, that his request + was granted. Quarmo, however, and his associates, finding + things favourable to their design, suddenly seized the captain, + threw him overboard, hauled him into their canoe, and dragged + him to the shore; where another party of the natives, lying in + ambush, seized such of the crew as were absent from the ship. + But how did these savages behave, when they had these different + persons in their power? Did they not instantly retaliate by murdering + them all? No—they only obliged the captain to give an + + order on the vessel to pay his debts. This fact came out only two: + months ago in a trial in the Court of Common Pleas—not in + trial for piracy and murder, but in the trial of a civil suit, instituted + by some of the poor sailors, to whom the owners refused + their wages, because the natives, on account of the villainous + conduct of their captain, had kept them from their vessel by + detaining them as prisoners on shore. This instance, he said, + proved the dreadful nature of the Slave Trade, its cruelty, its + perfidy, and its effect on the Africans as well as on the Europeans, + who carried it on. The cool manner in which the transaction + was conducted on both sides, showed that these practices + were not novel. It showed also the manner of doing business + in the trade. It must be remembered, too, that these transactions + were carrying on at the very time when the inquiry concerning + this trade was going forward in Parliament, and whilst + the witnesses of his opponents were strenuously denying not only + the actual, but the possible, existence of any such depredations. + + </p> + <p> + But another instance happened only in August last. Six + British ships, the Thomas, Captain Philips; the Wasp, Captain + Hutchinson; the Recovery, Captain Kimber, of Bristol; the + Martha, Captain Houston; the Betsey, Captain Doyle; and + the Amachree, (he believed,) Captain Lee, of Liverpool; were + anchored off the town of Calabar. This place was the scene of + a dreadful massacre about twenty years before. The captains of + these vessels, thinking that the natives asked too much for their + slaves, held a consultation, how they should proceed; and agreed + to fire upon the town unless their own terms were complied with. + On a certain evening they notified their determination to the + traders; and told them, that, if they continued obstinate, they + would put it into execution the next morning. In this they kept + their word. They brought sixty-six guns to bear upon the town; + and fired on it for three hours. Not a shot was returned. A + canoe then went to offer terms of accommodation. The parties + however not agreeing, the firing recommenced; more damage + was done; and the natives were forced into submission. There + were no certain accounts of their loss. Report said that fifty + were killed; but some were seen lying badly wounded, and + + others in the agonies of death by those who went afterwards on + shore. + + </p> + <p> + He would now say a few words relative to the Middle Passage, + principally to show, that regulation could not effect a cure + of the evil there. Mr. Isaac Wilson had stated in his evidence, + that the ship, in which he sailed, only three years ago, was of + three hundred and seventy tons; and that she carried six hundred + and two slaves. Of these she lost one hundred and fifty-five. + There were three or four other vessels in company with + her, and which belonged to the same owners. One of these + carried four hundred and fifty, and buried two hundred; another + carried four hundred and sixty-six, and buried seventy-three; + another five hundred and forty-six, and burled one hundred and + fifty-eight; and from the four together, after the landing of their + cargoes, two hundred and twenty died. He fell in with another + vessel, which had lost three hundred and sixty-two; but the + number, which had been bought, was not specified. Now if to + these actual deaths, during and immediately after the voyage, we + were to add the subsequent loss in the seasoning, and to consider + that this would be greater than ordinary in cargoes which were + landed in such a sickly state, we should find a mortality, which, + if it were only general for a few months, would entirely depopulate + the globe. + + </p> + <p> + But he would advert to what Mr. Wilson said, when examined, + as a surgeon, as to the causes of these losses, and particularly + on board his own ship, where he had the means of ascertaining + them. The substance of his reply was this—That most + of the slaves laboured under a fixed melancholy, which now and + then broke out into lamentations and plaintive songs, expressive + of the loss of their relations, friends, and country. So powerfully + did this sorrow operate, that many of them attempted in various + ways to destroy themselves, and three actually effected it. + Others obstinately refused to take sustenance; and when the + whip and other violent means were used to compel them to eat, + they looked up in the face of the officer, who unwillingly executed + this painful task, and said, with a smile, in their own language, + "Presently we shall be no more." This, their unhappy state of + + mind, produced a general languor and debility, which were + increased in many instances by an unconquerable aversion to + food, arising partly from sickness, and partly, to use the language + of the slave-captains, from sulkiness. These causes naturally + produced the flux. The contagion spread; several were carried + off daily; and the disorder, aided by so many powerful auxiliaries, + resisted the power of medicine. And it is worth while to + remark, that these grievous sufferings were not owing either to + want of care on the part of the owners, or to any negligence or + harshness of the captain; for Mr. Wilson declared, that his ship + was as well fitted out, and the crew and slaves as well treated, as + anybody could reasonably expect. + + </p> + <p> + He would now go to another ship. That, in which Mr. + Claxton sailed as a surgeon, afforded a repetition of all the horrid + circumstances which had been described. Suicide was attempted, + and effected; and the same barbarous expedients were adopted to + compel the slaves to continue an existence, which they considered + as too painful to be endured. The mortality, also, was as great. + And yet here, again, the captain was in no wise to blame. But + this vessel had sailed since the regulating act. Nay, even in the + last year, the deaths on shipboard would be found to have been + between ten and eleven per cent, on the whole number exported. + In truth, the House could not reach the cause of this mortality + by all their regulations. Until they could cure a broken heart—until + they could legislate for the affections, and bind by their + statutes the passions and feelings of the mind, their labour would + be in vain. + + </p> + <p> + Such were the evils of the Passage. But evils were conspicuous + everywhere in this trade. Never was there, indeed, a + system so replete with wickedness and cruelty. To whatever + part of it we turned our eyes, whether to Africa, the Middle + Passage, or the West Indies, we could find no comfort, no satisfaction, + no relief. It was the gracious ordinance of Providence, + both in the natural and moral world, that good should often arise + out of evil. Hurricanes cleared the air; and the propagation of + truth was promoted by persecution, Pride, vanity, and profusion + contributed often; in their remoter consequences, to the happiness + + of mankind. In common, what was in itself evil and vicious, + was permitted to carry along with it some circumstances of palliation. + The Arab was hospitable; the robber brave. We did + not necessarily find cruelty associated with fraud, or meanness + with injustice. But here the case was far otherwise. It was the + prerogative of this detested traffic to separate from evil its + concomitant good, and to reconcile discordant mischiefs. It robbed + war of its generosity; it deprived peace of its security: we saw + in it the vices of polished society, without its knowledge or its + comforts; and the evils of barbarism without its simplicity. No + age, no sex, no rank, no condition, was exempt from the fatal + influence of this wide-wasting calamity. Thus it attained to the + fullest measure of pure, unmixed, unsophisticated wickedness; + and, scorning all competition and comparison, it stood without a + rival in the secure, undisputed, possession of its detestable preeminence. + + </p> + <p> + But, after all this, wonderful to relate, this execrable traffic + had been defended on the ground of benevolence! It had been + said, that the slaves were captives and convicts, who, if we were + not to carry them away, would be sacrificed, and many of them at + the funerals of people of rank, according to the savage custom of + Africa. He had shown, however, that our supplies of slaves + were obtained from other quarters than these. But he would + wave this consideration for the present. Had it not been acknowledged + by his opponents that the custom of ransoming slaves + prevailed in Africa? With respect to human sacrifices, he did + not deny that there might have been some instances of these; but + they had not been proved to be more frequent than amongst other + barbarous nations; and, where they existed, being acts of religion, + they would not be dispensed with for the sake of commercial + gain. In fact, they had nothing to do with the Slave Trade; + only perhaps, if it were abolished, they might, by means of the + civilization which would follow, be done away. + + </p> + <p> + But, exclusively of these sacrifices, it had been asserted, that + it was kindness to the inhabitants to take them away from their + own country. But what said the historians of Africa, long before + the question of the abolition was started? "Axim," says Bosman, + + "is cultivated, and abounds with numerous large and beautiful + villages: its inhabitants are industriously employed in + trade, fishing, or agriculture."—"The inhabitants of Adom always + expose large quantities of corn to sale, besides what they + want for their own use."—"The people of Acron husband their + grounds and time so well, that every year produces a plentiful + harvest." Speaking of the Fetu country, he says,—"Frequently, + when walking through it, I have seen it abound with fine well-built + and populous towns, agreeably enriched with vast quantities + of corn and cattle, palm-wine, and oil. The inhabitants all + apply themselves, without distinction, to agriculture; some sow + corn; others press oil, and draw wine from the palm-trees." + + </p> + <p> + Smith, who was sent out by the royal African company in + 1726, assures us, "that the discerning natives account it their + greatest unhappiness, that they were ever visited by the Europeans. + They say that we Christians introduced the traffic of slaves; and + that before our coming they lived in peace. But, say they, it is + observable, wherever Christianity comes, there come swords and + guns, and powder and ball, with it." + + </p> + <p> + "The Europeans," says Bruce, "are far from desiring to act + as peace-makers among them. It would be too contrary to their + interests; for the only object of their wars is to carry off slaves; + and, as these form the principal part of their traffic, they would be + apprehensive of drying up the source of it, were they to encourage + the people to live well together." + + </p> + <p> + "The neighbourhood of the Damel and Tin keep them perpetually + at war, the benefit of which accrues to the Company, + who buy all the prisoners made on either side; and the more + there are to sell, the greater is their profit; for the only end of + their armaments is to make captives, to sell them to the white + traders." + + </p> + <p> + Artus, of Dantzic, says, that in his time "those liable to pay + fines were banished till the fine was paid; when they returned to + their houses and possessions." + + </p> + <p> + Bosman affirms, "that formerly all crimes in Africa were + compensated by fine or restitution, and, where restitution was + impracticable, by corporal punishment." + + </p> + <p> + Moore says, "Since this trade has been used, all punishments + have been changed into slavery. There being an advantage in + such condemnation, they strain the crimes very hard, in order to + get the benefit of selling the criminal. Not only murder, theft, + and adultery, are punished by selling the criminal for a slave, but + every trifling crime is punished in the same manner." + + </p> + <p> + Loyer affirms that "the King of Sain, on the least pretence, + sells his subjects for European goods. He is so tyrannically + severe, that he makes a whole village responsible for the fault of + one inhabitant; and on the least offence sells them all for slaves." + + </p> + <p> + Such, he said, were the testimonies, not of persons whom he + had summoned; not of friends of the abolition; but of men who + were themselves, many of them, engaged in the Slave Trade. + Other testimonies might be added; but these were sufficient to + refute the assertions of his opponents, and to show the kind services + we had done to Africa by the introduction of this trade. + + </p> + <p> + He would just touch upon the argument, so often repeated, + that other nations would carry on the Slave Trade, if we abandoned + it. But how did we know this? Had not Denmark given + a noble example to the contrary? She had consented to abolish + the trade in ten years; and had she not done this, even though + we, after an investigation for nearly five years, had ourselves + hung back? But what might not be expected, if we were to + take up the cause in earnest; if we were to proclaim to all + nations the injustice of the trade, and to solicit their concurrence + in the abolition of it! He hoped the representatives of the + nation would not be less just than the people. The latter had + stepped forward, and expressed their sense more generally by + petitions, than in any instance in which they had ever before + interfered. To see this great cause thus triumphing over distinctions + and prejudices was a noble spectacle. Whatever might + be said of our political divisions, such a sight had taught us + that there were subjects still beyond the reach of party; that + there was a point of elevation, where we ascended above the + jarring of the discordant elements, which ruffled and agitated the + vale below. In our ordinary atmosphere clouds and vapours + obscured the air, and we were the sport of a thousand conflicting + + winds and adverse currents; but here we moved in a higher + region, where all was pure and clear, and free from perturbation + and discomposure: + + </p> + <div class="poem"> + + <div class="lg">As some tall cliff, that lifts its awful form,<br>Swells from the vale, and midway leaves the storm;<br>Though round its breast the rolling clouds are spread,<br>Eternal sunshine settles on its head.<br><br></div> + </div> + <p> + Here then, on this august eminence, he hoped we should + build the Temple of Benevolence; that we should lay its + foundation deep in Truth and Justice; and that we should + inscribe upon its gates, "Peace and Good Will to Men." Here + we should offer the first-fruits of our benevolence, and endeavour + to compensate, if possible, for the injuries we had brought upon + our fellow-men. + + </p> + <p> + He would only now observe, that his conviction of the + indispensable necessity of immediately abolishing this trade + remained as strong as ever. Let those who talked of allowing + three or four years to the continuance of it, reflect on the disgraceful + scenes which had passed last year. As for himself, he + would wash his hands of the blood which would be spilled in + this horrid interval. He could not, however, but believe, that + the hour was come, when we should put a final period to the + existence of this cruel traffic. Should he unhappily be mistaken, + he would never desert the cause; but to the last moment of his + life he would exert his utmost powers in its support. He would + now move, "That it is the opinion of this committee, that the + trade carried on by British subjects for the purpose of obtaining + slaves on the coast of Africa, ought to be abolished." + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Baillie was in hopes that the friends of the abolition + would have been contented with the innocent blood which had + been already shed. The great island of St. Domingo had been + torn to pieces by insurrections. The most dreadful barbarities + had been perpetrated there. In the year 1789, the imports into + it exceeded five millions sterling. The exports from it in the + same year amounted to six millions; and the trade employed + three hundred thousand tons of shipping, and thirty thousand + seamen. This fine island, thus advantageously situated, had + been lost in consequence of the agitation of the question of the + + Slave Trade. Surely so much mischief ought to have satisfied + those who supported it; but they required the total destruction + of all the West Indian colonies, belonging to Great Britain, to + complete the ruin. + + </p> + <p> + The honourable gentleman, who had just spoken, had dwelt + upon the enormities of the Slave Trade. He was far from denying + that many acts of inhumanity might accompany it; but as + human nature was much the same everywhere, it would be + unreasonable to expect among African traders, or the inhabitants + of our islands, a degree of perfection in morals, which was not to + be found in Great Britain itself. Would any man estimate the + character of the English nation by what was to be read in the + records of the Old Bailey? He himself, however, had lived + sixteen years in the West Indies, and he could bear testimony to + the general good usage of the slaves. + + </p> + <p> + Before the agitation of this impolitic question the slaves were + contented with their situation. There was a mutual confidence + between them and their masters: and this continued to be the + case till the new doctrines were broached. But now depots of + arms were necessary on every estate; and the scene was totally + reversed. Nor was their religious then inferior to their civil + state. When the English took possession of Grenada, where his + property lay, they found them baptized and instructed in the + principles of the Roman Catholic faith. The priests of that + persuasion had indeed been indefatigable in their vocation; so + that imported Africans generally obtained within twelve months + a tolerable idea of their religious duties. He had seen the slaves + there go through the public mass in a manner, and with a fervency, + which would have done credit to more civilized societies. + But the case was now altered; for, except where the Moravians + had been, there was no trace in our islands of an attention to + their religious interests. + + </p> + <p> + It had been said that their punishments were severe. There + might be instances of cruelty; but these were not general. Many + of them were undoubtedly ill disposed; though not more, according + to their number, on a plantation, than in a regiment, or in a + ship's crew. Had we never heard of seamen being flogged from + + ship to ship, or of soldiers dying in the very act of punishment? + Had we not also heard, even in this country of boasted liberty, + of seamen being seized, and carried away, when returning from + distant voyages, after an absence of many years; and this without + even being allowed to see their wives and families? As to + distressed objects, he maintained, that there was more wretchedness + and poverty in St. Giles's, than in all the West Indian + islands belonging to Great Britain. + + </p> + <p> + He would now speak of the African and West Indian trades. + The imports and exports of these amounted to upwards of ten + millions annually; and they gave employment to three hundred + thousand tons of shipping, and to about twenty-five thousand + seamen. These trades had been sanctioned by our ancestors in + parliament. The acts for this purpose might be classed under + three heads. First, they were such as declared the colonies, and + the trade thereof, advantageous to Great Britain, and therefore + entitled to her protection. Secondly, such as authorized, protected, + and encouraged the trade to Africa, as advantageous in + itself, and necessary to the welfare and existence of the sugar + colonies: and, Thirdly, such as promoted and secured loans of + money to the proprietors of the said colonies, either from British + subjects, or from foreigners. These acts<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXXVII_1"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXXVII_1"></a>, he apprehended, + ought to satisfy every person of the legality and usefulness of + these trades. They were enacted in reigns distinguished for the + production of great and enlightened characters. We heard then + of no wild and destructive doctrines like the present. These + were reserved for this age of novelty and innovation. But he + must remind the House, that the inhabitants of our islands had + as good a right to the protection of their property, as the inhabitants + of Great Britain. Nor could it be diminished in any + shape without full compensation. The proprietors of lands in + the ceded islands, which were purchased of government under + specific conditions of settlement, ought to be indemnified. They + also (of whom he was one), who had purchased the territory + granted by the crown to General Monkton, in the island, of St. + Vincent, ought to be indemnified also. The sale of this had + + gone on briskly, till it was known that a plan was in agitation + for the abolition of the Slave Trade. Since that period, the + original purchasers had done little or nothing, and they had + many hundred acres on hand, which would be of no value, if the + present question was carried. In fact, they had a right to + compensation. The planters generally spent their estates in this + country. They generally educated their children in it. They + had never been found seditious, or rebellious; and they demanded + of the Parliament of Great Britain that protection, which, upon + the principles of good faith, it was in duty bound to afford them + in common with the rest of his majesty's loyal subjects. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXXVII_1"></a><a href="#FootXXVII_1">A</a>: Here he + quoted them specifically. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Vaughan stated that, being a West Indian by birth, and + connected with the islands, he could speak from his own knowledge. + In the early part of his life he was strongly in favour of + the abolition of the Slave Trade. He had been educated by Dr. + Priestley, and the father of Mrs. Barbauld; who were both of + them friends to that question. Their sentiments he had imbibed; + but, although bred at the feet of Gamaliel, he resolved to judge + for himself, and he left England for Jamaica. + + </p> + <p> + He found the situation of the slaves much better than he had + imagined. Setting aside liberty, they were as well off as + the poor in Europe. They had little want of clothes or fuel; + they had a house and garden found them, were never imprisoned + for debts, nor deterred from marrying through fear of being + unable to support a family; their orphans and widows were taken + care of, as they themselves were when old and disabled; they + had medical attendance without expense; they had private + property, which no master ever took from them; and they were + resigned to their situation, and looked for nothing beyond + it. Perhaps persons might have been prejudiced by living + in the towns, to which slaves were often sent for punishment; + and where there were many small proprietors; or by seeing no + negro otherwise than as belonging to the labouring poor; but + they appeared to him to want nothing but liberty; and it was + only occasionally that they were abused. + + </p> + <p> + There were two prejudices with respect to the colonies, which + he would notice. The first was, that cruel usage occasioned the + + inequality of births and deaths among the slaves. But did + cruelty cause the excess of deaths above births in the city of + London? No—this excess had other causes. So it had among + the slaves. Of these more males were imported than females: + they were dissolute too in their morals; they had also diseases + peculiar to themselves. But in those islands where they nearly + kept up their numbers, there was this difficulty, that the equality + was preserved by the increase on one estate compensating for the + decrease on another. These estates, however, would not interchange + their numbers; whereas, where freedom prevailed, the + free labourers circulated from one employer to another, and + appeared wherever they were wanted. + + </p> + <p> + The second was, that all chastisement of the slaves was + cruelty. But this was not true. Their owners generally withdrew + them from public justice; so that they, who would have + been publicly executed elsewhere, were often kept alive by their + masters, and were found punished again and again for repeating + their faults. Distributive justice occasioned many punishments; + as one slave was to be protected against every other slave: and, + when one pilfered from another, then the master interfered. + These punishments were to be distinguished from such as arose + from enforcing labour, or from the cruelty of their owners. Indeed + he had gone over the islands, and he had seen but little ill + usage. He had seen none on the estate where he resided. The + whip, the stocks, and confinement, were all the modes of punishment + he had observed in other places. Some slaves belonging to + his father were peculiarly well off. They saved money, and spent + it in their own way. + + </p> + <p> + But notwithstanding all he had said, he allowed that there + was room for improvement; and particularly for instilling into + the slaves the principles of religion. Where this should be + realized, there would be less punishment, more work, more marriages, + more issue, and more attachment to masters. Other improvements + would be the establishment of medical societies; the + introduction of task-work; and grants of premiums and honorary + distinctions both to fathers and mothers, according to the number + of children which they should rear. Besides this, Negro evidence + + should be allowed in the courts of law, it being left to the discretion + of the court or jury to take or reject it, according to the + nature of the case. Cruel masters also should be kept in order + in various ways. They should he liable to have their slaves taken + from them, and put in trust. Every instrument of punishment + should be banished, except the whip. The number of lashes + should be limited; and the punishment should not be repeated + till after intervals. These and other improvements should be + immediately adopted by the planters. The character of the exemplary + among them was hurt by being confounded with that of + lower and baser men. He concluded by stating, that the owners + of slaves were entitled to compensation, if, by means of the + abolition, they should not be able to find labourers for the cultivation + of their lands<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXXVII_2"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXXVII_2"></a>. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXXVII_2"></a><a href="#FootXXVII_2">A</a>: Mr. Vaughan declared in a future + stage of the debate, that he + wished to see a prudent termination both of the Slave Trade and of slavery; + and that, though he was the eldest son of his father, he never would, on any + consideration, become the owner of a slave. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Henry Thornton conceived, that the two last speakers + had not spoken to the point. The first had described the happy + state of the slaves in the West Indies. The latter had made + similar representations; but yet had allowed, that much improvement + might be made in their condition. But this had nothing + to do with the question then before them. The manner of procuring + slaves in Africa was the great evil to be remedied. Africa + was to be stripped of its inhabitants to supply a population for + the West Indies. There was a Dutch proverb, which said, "My + son; get money, honestly if you can—but get money:" or, in other + words, "Get slaves, honestly if you can—but get slaves." This + was the real grievance; and the two honourable gentlemen, by + confining their observations to the West Indies, had entirely + overlooked it. + + </p> + <p> + Though this evil had been fully proved, he could not avoid + stating to the House some new facts, which had come to his + knowledge as a director of the Sierra Leone Company, and which + would still further establish it. The consideration, that they had + taken place since the discussion of the last year on this subject, + obliged him to relate them. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Falconbridge, agent to the Company, sitting one evening + in Sierra Leone, heard a shout, and immediately afterwards the + report of a gun. Fearing an attack, he armed forty of the + settlers, and rushed with them to the place from whence the + noise came. He found a poor wretch, who had been crossing + from a neighbouring village, in the possession of a party of kidnappers, + who were tying his hands. Mr. Falconbridge, however, + dared not rescue him, lest, in the defenceless state of his own + town, retaliation might be made upon him. + + </p> + <p> + At another time a young woman, living half a mile off, was + sold, without any criminal charge, to one of the slave-ships. + She was well acquainted with the agent's wife, and had been + with her only the day before. Her cries were heard; but it was + impossible to relieve her. + + </p> + <p> + At another time a young lad, one of the free settlers who went + from England, was caught by a neighbouring chief, as he was + straggling alone from home, and sold for a slave. The pretext + was, that some one in the town of Sierra Leone had committed + an offence. Hence the first person belonging to it, who could be + seized, was to be punished. Happily the free settlers saw him in + his chains; and they recovered him, before he was conveyed to + the ship. + + </p> + <p> + To mark still more forcibly the scenes of misery, to which + the Slave Trade gave birth, he would mention a case stated + to him in a letter by King Naimbanna. It had happened to + respectable person, in no less than three instances, to have + some branches of his family kidnapped, and carried off to the + West Indies. At one time three young men, Corpro, Banna, + and Marbrour, were decoyed on board a Danish slave-ship, under + pretence of buying something, and were taken away. At another + time another relation piloted a vessel down the river. He begged + to be put on shore, when he came opposite to his own town; but + he was pressed to pilot her to the river's mouth. The captain + then pleaded the impracticability of putting him on shore; carried + him to Jamaica; and sold him for a slave. Fortunately, + however, by means of a letter, which was conveyed there, the + man, by the assistance of the governor, was sent back to Sierra + + Leone. At another time another relation was also kidnapped. + But he had not the good fortune, like the former, to return. + + </p> + <p> + He would mention one other instance. A son had sold his + own father, for whom he obtained a considerable price: for, as + the father was rich in domestic slaves, it was not doubted that he + would offer largely for his ransom. The old man accordingly + gave twenty-two of these in exchange for himself. The rest, + however, being from that time filled with apprehensions of being + on some ground or other sold to the slave-ships, fled to the mountains + of Sierra Leone, where they now dragged on a miserable + existence. The son himself was sold, in his turn, soon after. + In short, the whole of that unhappy peninsula, as he learnt from + eye-witnesses, had been desolated by the trade in slaves. Towns + were seen standing without inhabitants all over the coast; in + several of which the agent of the Company had been. There + was nothing but distrust among the inhabitants. Every one, if + he stirred from home, felt himself obliged to be armed. + + </p> + <p> + Such was the nature of the Slave Trade. It had unfortunately + obtained the name of a trade; and many had been + deceived by the appellation; but it was war, and not trade. It + was a mass of crimes, and not commerce. It was that which + prevented the introduction of a trade in Africa; for it was only + by clearing and cultivating the lands, that the climate could be + made healthy for settlements; but this wicked traffic, by + dispersing the inhabitants, and causing the lands to remain + uncultivated, made the coast unhealthy to Europeans. He had + found, in attempting to establish a colony there, that it was an + obstacle which opposed itself to him in innumerable ways; it + created more embarrassments than all the natural impediments of + the country; and it was more hard to contend with than any + difficulties of climate, soil, or natural disposition of the people. + + </p> + <p> + He would say a few words relative to the numerous petitions + which were then on the table of the House. They had shown, + in an extraordinary manner, the opinion of the people. He did + not wish to turn this into a constitutional question; but he + would observe, that it was of the utmost consequence to the + maintenance of the constitution of this country, that the reputation + + of parliament should be maintained. But nothing could + prejudice its character so much, as a vote, which should lead the + people to believe that the legislative body was the more corrupt + part of it, and that it was slow to adopt moral principles. + + </p> + <p> + It had been often insinuated that parliament, by interfering in + this trade, departed from its proper functions; No idea could be + more absurd; for, was it not its duty to correct abuses? and what + abuses were greater than robbery and murder? He was, indeed, + anxious for the abolition. He desired it, as a commercial man, + on account of the commercial character of the country. He + desired it for the reputation of parliament, on which so materially + depended the preservation of our happy constitution; but most + of all he prayed for it for the sake of those eternal principle's of + justice, which it was the duty of nations, as well as of individuals, + to support. + + </p> + <p> + Colonel Tarleton repeated his arguments of the last year. + In addition to these he inveighed bitterly against the abolitionists, + as a junto of secretaries, sophists, enthusiasts, and fanatics. He + condemned the abolition as useless, unless other nations would + take it up. He brought to the recollection of the House the + barbarous scenes which had taken place it in St. Domingo, all of + which, he said, had originated in the discussion of this question. + He described the alarms, in which the inhabitants of our own + islands were kept, lest similar scenes should occur from the same + cause. He ridiculed the petitions on the table. Itinerant clergymen, + mendicant physicians, and others, had extorted signatures + from the sick, the indigent, and the traveller. School-boys were + invited to sign them, under the promise of a holiday. He had + letters to produce, which would prove all these things though he + was not authorized to give up the names of those who had written + them. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Montagu said, that, in the last session, he had simply + entered his protest against the trade; but now He could be no + longer silent; and as there were many, who had conceived + regulation to be more desirable than abolition, he would + himself to that subject. + + </p> + <p> + Regulation, as it related to the manner of procuring slaves, + + was utterly impossible; for how could we know the case of each + individual, whom we forced away into bondage? Could we + establish tribunals all along the coast, and in every ship, to find + it out? What judges could we get for such an office? But, if + this could not be done upon the coast, how could we ascertain + the justness of the captivity of by far the greatest number, who + were brought from immense distances inland? + + </p> + <p> + He would not dwell upon the proof of the inefficiency of + regulations, as to the Middle Passage. His honourable friend, + Mr. Wilberforce, had shown, that, however the mortality might + have been lessened in some ships by the regulations of Sir William + Dolben, yet, wherever a contagious disorder broke out, the + greatest part of the cargo was swept away. But what regulations + by the British parliament could prevent these contagions, or + remove them suddenly, when they appeared? + + </p> + <p> + Neither would regulations be effectual, as they related to the + protection of the slaves in the West Indies. It might, perhaps, + be enacted, as Mr. Vaughan had suggested, that their punishments + should be moderate; and that the number of lashes should + be limited. But the colonial legislatures had already done as + much, as the magic of words alone could do, upon this subject; + yet the evidence upon the table clearly proved, that the only + protection of slaves was in the clemency of their masters. Any + barbarity might be exercised with impunity, provided no White + person were to see it, though it happened in the sight of a thousand + slaves. Besides, by splitting the offence, and inflicting the + punishment at intervals, the law could be evaded, although the + fact was within the reach of the evidence of a White man. Of + this evasion Captain Cook, of the 89th regiment, had given a + shocking instance; and Chief Justice Ottley had candidly confessed, + that "he could devise no method of bringing a master, so + offending, to justice, while the evidence of the slave continued + inadmissible." But perhaps councils of protection, and guardians + of the slaves, might be appointed. This, again, was an expedient + which sounded well, but which would be nugatory and + absurd. What person would risk the comfort of his life by the + exercise of so invidious an interference? But supposing that + + one or two individuals could be found, who would sacrifice + all their time, and the friendship of their associates, for the good + of the slaves; what could they effect? Could they be in all + places at once? But even if acts of barbarity should be related + to them, how were they to come at the proof of them? + + </p> + <p> + It appeared, then, that no regulations could be effectual until + the slaves were admitted to give their evidence; but to admit + them to this privilege in their present state, would be to endanger + the safety and property of their masters. Mr. Vaughan had, + however, recommended this measure with limitations, but it + would produce nothing but discontent; for how were the slaves + to be persuaded that it was fit they should be admitted to speak + the truth, and then be disbelieved and disregarded? What a + fermentation would such conduct naturally excite in men dismissed + with injuries unredressed, though abundantly proved, in + their apprehension, by their testimony? In fact, no regulations + would do. There was no cure for these evils, but in the abolition + of the Slave Trade. He called upon the planters to concur + with his honourable friend, Mr. Wilberforce, in this great measure. + He wished them to consider the progress which the opinion + of the injustice of this trade was making in the nation at + large, as manifested by the petitions; which had almost obstructed + the proceedings of the House by their perpetual introduction. It + was impossible for them to stifle this great question. As for + himself, he would renew his profession of last year, that he + would never cease, but with life, to promote so glorious an end. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Whitbread said, that even if he could conceive, that the + trade was, as some had asserted it to be, founded on principles of + humanity; that the Africans were rescued from death in their + own country; that, upon being carried to the West Indies, they + were put under kind masters; that their labour there was easy; + that at evening they returned cheerful to their homes; that in + sickness they were attended with care; and that their old age + was rendered comfortable; even then he would vote for the abolition + of the Slave Trade, inasmuch as he was convinced that + that which was fundamentally wrong, no practice could justify. + + </p> + <p> + No eloquence could persuade him, that the Africans were + + torn from their country and their dearest connexions, merely that + they might lead a happier life; or that they could be placed + under the uncontrolled dominion of others without suffering. + Arbitrary power would spoil the hearts of the best; hence would + arise tyranny on the one side, and a sense of injury on the other. + Hence the passions would be let loose, and a state of perpetual + enmity would follow. + + </p> + <p> + He needed only to go to the accounts of those who defended + the system of slavery, to show that it was cruel. He was forcibly + struck last year by an expression of an honourable member, an + advocate for the trade, who, when he came to speak of the slaves, + on selling off the stock of a plantation, said that they fetched less + than the common price, because they were damaged. Damaged! + What! Were they goods and chattels? What an idea was + this to hold out of our fellow-creatures! We might imagine + how slaves were treated, if they could be spoken of in such a + manner. Perhaps these unhappy people had lingered out the + best part of their lives in the service of their master. Able then + to do but little, they were sold for little! and the remaining + substance of their sinews was to be pressed out by another, yet + more hardened than the former, and who had made a calculation + of their vitals accordingly. + + </p> + <p> + As another proof, he would mention a passage in a pamphlet, + in which the author, describing the happy situation of the slaves, + observed, that a good negro never wanted a character; a bad one + could always be detected by his weals and scars. What was this + but to say, that there were instruments in use which left indelible + marks, behind them; and who would say that these were used + justly? + + </p> + <p> + An honourable gentleman, Mr. Vaughan, had said, that setting + aside slavery, the slaves were better off than the poor in this + country. But what was it that we wished to abolish! Was it + not the Slave Trade, which would destroy in time the cruel distinction + he had mentioned? The same honourable gentleman had + also expressed his admiration of their resignation; but might it + not be that resignation which was the consequence of despair? + + </p> + <p> + Colonel Tarleton had insinuated that the petitions on the + + table had been obtained in an objectionable manner. He had + the honour to present one from his constituents, which he would + venture to say had originated with themselves, and that there did + not exist more respectable names in the kingdom than those of + the persons who had signed it. He had also asserted, that there + was a strong similitude in their tenour and substance, as if they + had been manufactured by the same persons. This was by no + means to be wondered at. There was surely but one plain tale + to tell, and it was not surprising that it had been clothed in nearly + the same expressions. There was but one boon to ask, and that + was—the abolition of this wicked trade. + + </p> + <p> + It had been said by another, (Mr. Baillie,) that the horrible + insurrections in St. Domingo arose from the discussion of the + question of the Slave Trade. He denied the assertion; and + maintained that they were the effect of the trade itself. There + was a point of endurance, beyond which human nature could not + go, at which the mind of man rose by its native elasticity with a + spring and violence proportioned to the degree to which it had + been depressed. The calamities in St. Domingo proceeded from + the Slave Trade alone; and, if it were continued, similar evils + were to be apprehended in our own islands. The cruelties which + the slaves had perpetrated in that unfortunate colony they had + learnt from their masters. Had not an African eyes? Had he + not ears? Had he not organs, senses, and passions? If you + pricked him, would he not feel the puncture, and bleed? If you + poisoned him, would he not die? and, if you wronged him, would + he not revenge? But he had said sufficient, for he feared he + could not better the instruction. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Milbank would only just observe, that the policy of the + measure of the abolition was as great as its justice was undeniable. + Where slavery existed, everything was out of its natural place. + All improvement was at an end; there must also, from the nature + of the human heart, be oppression. He warned the planters + against the danger of fresh importations, and invited their concurrence + in the measure. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Dundas (afterwards Viscount Melville) declared that he + had always been a warm friend to the abolition of the Slave + + Trade, though he differed from Mr. Wilberforce as to the mode + of effecting it. + + </p> + <p> + The abolitionists, and those on the opposite side of the question, + had, both of them, gone into extremes. The former were + for the immediate and abrupt annihilation of the trade; the latter + considered it as essentially necessary to the existence of the West + Indian islands, and therefore laid it down that it was to be continued + for ever. Such was the vast distance between the parties. + He would now address himself to each. + + </p> + <p> + He would say first, that he agreed with his honourable friend, + Mr. Wilberforce, in very material points. He believed the trade + was not founded in policy; that the continuation of it was not + essential to the preservation of our trade with the West Indian + islands; and that the slaves were not only to be maintained, but + increased there, by natural population. He agreed, too, as to the + propriety of the abolition. But when his honourable friend talked + of direct and abrupt abolition, he would submit it to him, whether + he did not run counter to the prejudices of those who were most + deeply interested in the question; and whether, if he could obtain + his object without wounding these, it would not be better to do + it? Did he not also forget the sacred attention which parliament + had ever shown to the private interests and patrimonial rights of + individuals? + + </p> + <p> + Whatever idea men might then have of the African trade, + certain it was that they, who had connected themselves with it, + had done it under the sanction of parliament. It might also be + well worth while to consider, (though the conduct of other nations + ought not to deter us from doing our duty,) whether British subjects + in the West Indies might not be supplied with slaves under + neutral flags. Now he believed it was possible to avoid these + objections, and at the same time to act in harmony with the + prejudices which had been mentioned. This might be done by + regulations, by which we should effect the end much more + speedily than by the way proposed. By regulations, he meant + such as would increase the breed of the slaves in the West + Indies; such as would ensure a moral education to their children; + and such as would even in time extinguish hereditary slavery. + + The extinction, however, of this was not to be effected by allowing + the son of an African slave to obtain his freedom on the death + of his parent. Such a son should be considered as born free; he + should then be educated at the expense of the person importing his + parents; and, when arrived at such a degree of strength as might + qualify him to labour, he should work for a term of years for the + payment of the expense of his education and maintenance. It + was impossible to emancipate the existing slaves at once; nor + would such an emancipation be of any immediate benefit to + themselves; but this observation would not apply to their + descendants, if trained and educated in the manner he had + proposed. + + </p> + <p> + He would now address himself to those who adopted the + opposite extreme; and he thought he should not assume too much + when he said, that if both slavery and the Slave Trade could be + abolished with safety to their property, it deeply concerned their + interests to do it. Such a measure, also, would only be consistent + with the principles of the British constitution. It was surely + strange that we, who were ourselves free, should carry on a Slave + Trade with Africa, and that we should never think of introducing + cultivation into the West Indies by free labourers. + + </p> + <p> + That such a measure would tend to their interest he had no + doubt. Did not all of them agree with Mr. Long, that the great + danger in the West Indies arose from the importation of the + African slaves there? Mr. Long had asserted, that all the insurrections + there arose from these. If this statement was true, how + directly it bore upon the present question! But we were told, also, + by the same author, that the Slave Trade gave rise to robbery, + murder, and all kinds of depredations on the coast of Africa. + Had this been answered? No: except indeed it had been said + that the slaves were such as had been condemned for crimes. + Well, then, the imported Africans consisted of all the convicts, + rogues, thieves, and vagabonds in Africa. But would the West + Indians choose to depend on fresh supplies of these for the cultivation + of their lands, and the security of their islands, when it + was also found that every insurrection had arisen from them? It + was plain the safety of the islands was concerned in this question. + + There would be danger so long as the trade lasted. The + planters were, by these importations, creating the engines of their + own destruction. Surely they would act more to their own interest + if they would concur in extinguishing the trade, than by standing + up for its continuance. + + </p> + <p> + He would now ask them, what right they had to suppose that + Africa would for ever remain in a state of barbarism. If once an + enlightened prince were to rise up there, his first act would be to + annihilate the Slave Trade. If the light of heaven were ever to + descend upon that continent, it would directly occasion its downfall. + It was their interest then to contrive a mode of supplying + labour, without trusting to precarious importations from that + quarter. They might rest assured that the trade could not continue. + He did not allude to the voice of the people in the petitions + then lying on the table of the House; but he knew certainly, + that an idea not only of the injustice, but of the impolicy, of this + trade had been long entertained by men of the most enlightened + understandings in this country. Was it then a prudent thing for + them to rest on this commerce for the further improvement of + their property? + + </p> + <p> + There was a species of slavery, prevailing only a few years + ago, in the collieries in certain boroughs in Scotland. Emancipation + there was thought a duty by parliament: but what an + opposition there was to the measure! Nothing but ruin would + be the consequence of it! After several years struggle the bill + was Carried. Within a year after, the ruin so much talked of + vanished in smoke, and there was an end of the business. It had + also been contended that Sir William Dolben's bill would be the + ruin of Liverpool: and yet one of its representatives had allowed, + that this bill had been of benefit to the owners of the slave-vessels + there. Was he then asking too much of the West Indians, to + request a candid consideration of the real ground of their alarms? + He would conclude by stating, that he meant to propose a middle + way of proceeding. If there was a number of members in the + House, who thought with him, that this trade ought to be ultimately + abolished, but yet by moderate measures, which should + neither invade the property nor the prejudices of individuals, he + + wished them to unite, and they might then reduce the question + to its proper limits. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Addington, the speaker, (now Viscount Sidmouth,) professed himself + to be one of those moderate persons called upon + by Mr. Dundas. He wished to see some middle measure suggested. + The fear of doing injury to the property of others, had + hitherto prevented him from giving an opinion against a system, + the continuance of which he could not countenance. + + </p> + <p> + He utterly abhorred the Slave Trade. A noble and learned + lord, who had now retired from the bench, said on a certain + occasion, that he pitied the loyalty of that man, who imagined + that any epithet could aggravate the crime of treason. So he + himself knew of no language which could aggravate the crime of + the Slave Trade. It was sufficient for every purpose of + crimination, to assert, that man thereby was bought; and sold, or that he + was made subject to the despotism of man. But though he thus + acknowledged the justice due to a whole continent on the one + side, he confessed there were opposing claims of justice on the + other. The case of the West Indians deserved a tender consideration also. + + </p> + <p> + He doubted, if we were to relinquish the Slave Trade alone, + whether it might not be carried on still more barbarously than at + present; and whether, if we were to stop it altogether, the islands + could keep up their present stocks. It had been asserted that + they could. But he, thought that the stopping of the imputations + could not be depended upon for this purpose, so much as a + plan for providing them with more females. + + </p> + <p> + With the mode suggested by his right honourable friend, Mr. + Dundas, he was pleased, though he, did not wholly agree to it. + He could not grant liberty to the children born in the islands. + He thought, also, that the trade ought to be permitted for ten or + twelve years longer, under such arrangements as should introduce + a kind of management among the slaves there, favourable to their + interests, and of course to their future happiness. One species of + regulation which he should propose, would be greater encouragement + to the importation of females than of males, by means of a + bounty on the former till their numbers should be found equal. + + Rewards also might be given to those slaves who should raise a + certain number of children; and to those who should devise + means of lightening negro-labour. If the plan of his honourable + friend should comprehend these regulations, he would heartily + concur in it. He wished to see the Slave Trade abolished. + Indeed it did not deserve the name of a trade. It was not a + trade, and ought not to be allowed. He was satisfied, that in a + few years it would cease to be the reproach of this nation and the + torment of Africa. But under regulations like these, it would + cease without any material injury to the interests of others. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Fox said, that after what had fallen from the two last + speakers, he could remain no longer silent. Something so mischievous + had come out, and something so like a foundation had + been laid for preserving, not only for years to come, but for ever, + this detestable traffic, that he should feel himself wanting in his + duty, if he were not to deprecate all such deceptions and delusions + upon the country. + + </p> + <p> + The honourable gentlemen had called themselves moderate + men: but upon this subject he neither felt, nor desired to feel, + anything like a sentiment of moderation. Their speeches had + reminded him of a passage in MIDDLETON'S <em>Life of Cicero</em>. The + translation of it was defective, though it would equally suit his + purpose. He says, "To enter into a man's house, and kill him, + his wife, and family, in the night, is certainly a most heinous + crime, and deserving of death; but to break open his house, to + murder him, his wife, and all his children in the night, may be + still very right, provided it be done with moderation." Now, was + there anything more absurd in this passage, than to say, that the + Slave Trade might be carried on with moderation; for, if you + could not rob or murder a single man with moderation, with what + moderation could you pillage and wound a whole nation? In + fact, the question of the abolition was simply a question of justice. + It was only, whether we should authorize by law, respecting + Africa, the commission of crimes, for which, in this country, + we should forfeit our lives: notwithstanding which, it was to be + treated, in the opinion of these honourable gentlemen, with + moderation. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Addington had proposed to cure the disproportion of the + sexes in the islands, by a bounty on the importation of females; + or, in other words, by offering a premium to any crew of ruffians, + who would tear them from their native country. He would let + loose a banditti against the most weak and defenceless of the sex. + He would occasion these to kill fathers, husbands, and brothers, + to get possession of their relatives, the females, who, after this + carnage, were to be reserved for—slavery. He should like to see + the man, who would pen such a moderate clause for a British + parliament. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Dundas had proposed to abolish the Slave Trade, by + bettering the state of the slaves in the islands, and particularly + that of their offspring. His plan, with respect to the latter, was + not a little curious. They were to become free, when born; and + then they were to be educated, at the expense of those to whom + their fathers belonged. But it was clear, that they could not be + educated for nothing. In order, therefore, to repay this expense, + they were to be slaves for ten or fifteen years. In short, they + were to have an education, which was to qualify them to become + freemen; and after they had been so educated, they were to + become slaves. But as this free education might possibly unfit + them for submitting to slavery; so, after they had been made to + bow under the yoke for ten or fifteen years, they might then, + perhaps, be equally unfit to become free; and therefore, might be + retained as slaves for a few years longer, if not for their whole + lives. He never heard of a scheme so moderate, and yet so + absurd and visionary. + + </p> + <p> + The same honourable gentleman had observed, that the conduct + of other nations should not hinder us from doing, our duty; + but yet neutrals would furnish, our islands with slaves. What + was the inference from this moderate assertion, but that we might + as well supply them ourselves? He hoped, if we were yet to be + supplied, it would never be by Englishmen. We ought no longer + to be concerned in such a crime. + + </p> + <p> + An adversary, Mr. Baillie, had said, that it would not be fair + to take the character of this country from the records of the Old + Bailey. He did not at all wonder, when the subject of the Slave + + Trade was mentioned, that the Old Bailey naturally occurred to + his recollection. The facts, which had been described in the evidence, + were associated in all our minds with the ideas of criminal + justice. But Mr. Baillie had forgot the essential difference + between the two cases. When we learnt from these records, that + crimes were committed in this country, we learnt also, that they + were punished with transportation and death. But the crimes + committed in the Slave Trade were passed over with impunity. + Nay, the perpetrators were even sent out again to commit others. + + </p> + <p> + As to the mode of obtaining slaves, it had been suggested as + the least disreputable, that they became so in consequence of + condemnation as criminals. But he would judge of the probability + of this mode by the reasonableness of it. No less than + eighty thousand Africans were exported annually by the different + nations of Europe from their own country. Was it possible to + believe that this number could have been legally convicted of + crimes, for which they had justly forfeited their liberty? The + supposition was ridiculous. The truth was, that every enormity + was practised to obtain the persons of these unhappy people; He + referred those present to the case in the evidence of the African + trader, who had kidnapped and sold a girl, and who was afterwards + kidnapped and sold himself. He desired them to reason + upon the conversation which had taken place between the trader + and the captain of the ship on this occasion. He desired them + also to reason upon the instance mentioned this evening, which + had happened in the river Cameroons, and they would infer all + the rapine, all the desolation, and all the bloodshed, which had + been placed to the account of this execrable trade. + + </p> + <p> + An attempt had been made to impress the House with the + horrible scenes which had taken place in St. Domingo, as an + argument against the abolition of the Slave Trade; but could any + more weighty argument be produced in its favour? What were + the causes of the insurrections there? They were two. The first + was the indecision of the National Assembly, who wished to + compromise between that which was right and that which was + wrong on this subject. And the second was the oppression of the + people of colour, and of the slaves. In the first of the causes we + + saw something like the moderation of Mr. Dundas and Mr. + Addington. One day this Assembly talked of liberty, and + favoured the Blacks. Another day they suspended their measures + and favoured the Whites. They wished to steer a middle course; + but decision had been mercy. Decision even against the planters + would have been a thousand times better than indecision and + half measures. In the mean time, the people of colour took the + great work of justice into their own hands. Unable, however, to + complete this of themselves, they called in the aid of the slaves. + Here began the second cause; for the slaves, feeling their own + power, began to retaliate on the Whites. And here it may be + observed, that, in all revolutions, the clemency or cruelty of the + victors will always be in proportion to their former privileges, of + their oppression. That the slaves then should have been guilty of + great excesses, was not to be wondered at; for where did they + learn their cruelty? They learnt it from those who had tyrannized + over them. The oppression, which they themselves had suffered, + was fresh in their memories, and this had driven them to exercise + their vengeance so furiously. If we wished to prevent similar + scenes in our own islands, we must reject all moderate measures, + and at once abolish the Slave Trade. By doing this, we should + procure a better treatment for the slaves there; and when this + happy change of system should have taken place, we might + depend on them for the defence of the islands as much as on the + whites themselves. + + </p> + <p> + Upon the whole, he would give his opinion of this traffic in a + few words. He believed it to be impolitic—he knew it to be + inhuman—he was certain it was unjust—he thought it so + inhuman and unjust, that, if the colonies could not be cultivated + without it, they ought not to be cultivated at all. It would be + much better for us to be without them, than, not abolish the + Slave Trade. He hoped therefore that members would this night + act the part which would do them honour. He declared, that, + whether he should vote in a large minority or a small one, + he would never give up the cause. Whether in Parliament + or out of it, in whatever situation he might ever be, as long + as he had a voice to speak, this question should never be + + at rest. Believing the trade to be of the nature of crimes and + pollutions, which stained the honour of the country, he would + never relax his efforts. It was his duty to prevent man from + preying upon man; and if he and his friends should die before + they had attained their glorious object, he hoped there would + never be wanting men alive to their duty, who would continue to + labour till the evil should be wholly done away. If the situation + of the Africans was as happy as servitude could make them, he + could not consent to the enormous crime of selling man to man; + nor permit a practice to continue, which put an entire bar to the + civilization of one quarter of the globe. He was sure that the + nation would not much longer allow the continuance of enormities + which shocked human nature. The West Indians had no + right to demand that crimes should be permitted by this country + for their advantage; and, if they were wise, they would lend + their cordial assistance to such measures, as would bring about, + in the shortest possible time, the abolition of this execrable + trade. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Dundas rose again, but it was only to move an amendment, + namely, that the word "gradually" should be inserted + before the words "to be abolished" in Mr. Wilberforce's + motion. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Jenkinson (afterwards Earl of Liverpool) said, that the + opinions of those who were averse to the abolition had been + unfairly stated. They had been described as founded on policy, + in opposition to humanity. If it could be made out that humanity + would be aided by the abolition, he would be the last person to + oppose it. The question was not, he apprehended, whether the + trade was founded in injustice and oppression: he admitted it + was. Nor was it, whether it was in itself abstractedly an evil: + he admitted this also; but whether, under all the circumstances + of the case, any considerable advantage would arise to a number + of our fellow-creatures from the abolition of the trade in the + manner in which it had been proposed. + + </p> + <p> + He was ready to admit, that the Africans at home were made + miserable by the Slave Trade, and that, if it were universally + abolished, great benefit would arise to them. No one, however, + + would assert, that these miseries arose from the trade as carried + on by Great Britain only. Other countries occasioned as much + of the evil as we did; and if the abolition of it by us should + prove only the transferring of it to those countries, very little + benefit would result from the measure. + + </p> + <p> + What then was the probability of our example being followed + by foreign powers? Five years had now elapsed since the + question was first started, and what had any of them done? The + Portuguese continued the trade. The Spaniards still gave a + bounty to encourage it. He believed there were agents from + Holland in this country, who were then negotiating with persons + concerned in it in order to secure its continuance. The abolition + also had been proposed in the National Assembly of France, and + had been rejected there. From these circumstances he had a + right to infer, that if we gave up the trade, we should only + transfer it to those countries: but this transfer would be entirely + against the Africans. The mortality on board English ships, + previously to the regulating bill, was four and an-eighth per + cent. Since that time it had been reduced to little more than three + per cent<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXXVII_3"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXXVII_3"></a>. In French ships it was + near ten, and in Dutch ships + from five to seven, per cent. In Portuguese it was less than either + in French or Dutch, but more than in English ships since the + regulating bill. Thus the deaths of the Africans would be more + than doubled, if we were to abolish the trade. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXXVII_3"></a><a href="#FootXXVII_3">A</a>: Mr. Wilberforce stated it on the same + evening to be between ten and eleven per cent. for the last year. The + number then exported from Africa to our islands was rather more than + 22,000, of whom more than 2,300 died. + </p> + <p> + Perhaps it might be replied, that the importations being + stopped in our own islands, fewer Africans would experience this + misery, because fewer would be taken from their own country on + this account. But he had a right to infer, that as the planters + purchased slaves at present, they would still think it their interest + to have them. The question then was, whether they could get + them by smuggling. Now it appeared by the evidence, that + many hundred slaves had been stolen from time to time from + Jamaica, and carried into Cuba. But if persons could smuggle + slaves out of our colonies, they could smuggle slaves into them; + + but particularly when the planters might think it to their interest + to assist them. + + </p> + <p> + With respect to the slaves there, instances had been related + of their oppression, which shocked the feelings of all who heard + them: but was it fair to infer from these their general ill usage? + Suppose a person were to make a collection of the different + abuses, which had happened for a series of years under our own + happy constitution, and use these as an argument of its worthlessness; + should we not say to him, that in the most perfect + system which the human intellect could form some defects would + exist; and that it was unfair to draw inferences from such partial + facts? In the same manner he would argue relative to the + alleged treatment of the slaves. Evidence had been produced + upon this point on both sides. He should not be afraid to oppose + the authorities of Lord Rodney, and others, against any, however + respectable, in favour of the abolition. But this was not necessary. + There was another species of facts, which would answer + the same end; Previously to the year 1730 the decrease of the + slaves in our islands was very considerable. From 1730 to 1755 + the deaths were reduced to only two and a-half per cent, above + the births; from 1755 to 1768 to only one and three-fourths; + and from 1768 to 1788 to only one per cent. This then, on the + first view of the subject, would show, that whatever might have + been the situation of slaves formerly, it had been gradually + improved. But if, in addition to this, we considered the peculiar + disadvanges under which they laboured; the small proportion of + females to males; and the hurricanes, and famines, which had + swept away thousands, we should find it physically impossible, + that they could have increased as related, if they had been + treated as cruelly as the friends of the abolition had described. + + </p> + <p> + This species of facts would enable him also to draw still more + important conclusions; namely, that as the slaves in the West + Indies had gradually increased, they would continue to increase; + that very few years would pass, not only before the births were + equal to the deaths, but before they were more numerous than the + deaths; and that if this was likely to happen in the present state + + of things, how much more would it happen, if by certain regulations + the increase of the slaves should be encouraged? + + </p> + <p> + The only question then was, whether it was more advantageous + to breed or to import. He thought he should prove the + former; and if so, then this increase was inevitable, and the + importations would necessarily cease. + + </p> + <p> + In the first place, the gradual increase of the slaves of late + years clearly proved, that such increase had been encouraged. + But their price had been doubled in the last twenty years. The + planter, therefore, must feel it his interest to desist from + purchasing, if possible. But again, the greatest mortality was among + the newly imported slaves. The diseases they contracted on the + passage, and their deaths in the seasoning, all made for the same + doctrine. Add to this, that slaves bred in the islands were + more expert at colonial labour, more reconciled to their situation, + and better disposed towards their masters than those who were + brought from Africa. + + </p> + <p> + But it had been said, that the births and deaths in the + islands were now equal; and that therefore no further supply was + wanted. He denied the propriety of this inference. The slaves + were subject to peculiar diseases. They were exposed also to + hurricanes and consequent famines. That the day, however, + would come, when the stock there would be sufficient, no person + who attended to the former part of his argument could doubt. + That they had gradually increased, were gradually increasing, and + would, by certain regulations, increase more and more, must be + equally obvious. But these were all considerations for continuing + the traffic a little longer. + + </p> + <p> + He then desired the House to reflect upon the state of + St. Domingo. Had not its calamities been imputed by its own + deputies to the advocates for the abolition? Were ever any + scenes of horror equal to those which had passed there? And + should we, when principles of the same sort were lurking in our + own islands, expose our fellow-subjects to the same miseries, + who, if guilty of promoting this trade, had, at least, been encouraged + in it by ourselves? + + </p> + <p> + That the Slave Trade was an evil, he admitted. That the + + state of slavery itself was likewise an evil, he admitted; and if + the question was, not whether we should abolish, but whether + we should establish these, he would be the first to oppose himself + to their existence; but there were many evils, which we + should have thought it our duty to prevent, yet which, when + they had once arisen, it was more dangerous to oppose than to + submit to,—The duty of a statesman was, not to consider + abstractedly what was right or wrong, but to weigh the consequences + which were likely to result from the abolition of an + evil, against those which were likely to result from its continuance. + Agreeing then most perfectly with the abolitionists in + their end, he differed from them only in the means of accomplishing + it. He was desirous of doing that gradually, which he + conceived they were doing rashly. He had therefore drawn up + two propositions. The first was, That an address be presented + to His Majesty, that he would recommend to the colonial + assemblies to grant premiums to such planters, and overseers, as + should distinguish themselves by promoting the annual increase + of the slaves by birth; and likewise freedom to every female + slave, who had reared five children to the age of seven years. + The second was, That a bounty of five pounds per head be given + to the master of every slave-ship, who should import in any cargo + a greater number of females than males, not exceeding the age of + twenty-five years. To bring, forward these propositions, he would + now move that the chairman leave the chair. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Este wished the debate to be adjourned. He allowed + there were many enormities in the trade, which called for regulation. + There were two propositions before the House: the one + for the immediate, and the other for the gradual, abolition of the + trade. He thought that members should be allowed time to + compare their respective merits. At present his own opinion + was, that gradual abolition would answer the end proposed in + the least exceptionable manner. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Pitt rejoiced that the debate had taken a turn, which + contracted the question into such narrow limits. The matter + then in dispute was merely as to the time at which the abolition + should take, place. He therefore congratulated the House, the + + country, and the world, that this great point had been gained; + that we might now consider this trade as having received its + condemnation; that this curse of mankind was seen in its true + light; and that the greatest stigma on our national character, + which ever yet existed, was about to be removed! Mankind, he + trusted, were now likely to be delivered from the greatest + practical evil that ever afflicted the human race—from the most + severe and extensive calamity recorded in the history of the + world. + + </p> + <p> + His honourable friend (Mr. Jenkinson) had insinuated, that + any act for the abolition would be evaded. But if we were to + enforce this act with all the powers of the country, how could it + fail to be effectual? But his honourable friend had himself + satisfied him, upon this point. He had acknowledged, that the + trade would drop of itself, on account of the increasing dearness + of the commodity imported. He would ask then, if we were to + leave to the importer no means of importation but by smuggling; + and if, besides all the present disadvantages, we were to load him + with all the charges and hazards of the smuggler, would there be + any danger of any considerable supply of fresh slaves being poured + into the islands through this channel? The question under these + circumstances, he pronounced, would not bear a dispute. + + </p> + <p> + His honourable friend had also maintained, that it would be + inexpedient to stop the importations immediately, because the + deaths and births in the islands were as yet not equal. But he + (Mr. Pitt) had proved last year, from the most authentic documents, + that an increase of the births above the deaths had already + taken place. This then was the time for beginning the abolition. + But he would now observe, that five years had elapsed since these + documents were framed; and therefore the presumption was, + that the black population was increasing at an extraordinary rate. + He had not, to be sure, in his consideration of the subject, + entered into the dreadful mortality arising from the clearing of + new lands. Importations for this purpose were to be considered, + not as carrying on the trade, but as setting on foot a Slave Trade, + a measure which he believed no one present would then support. + He therefore asked his honourable friend, whether the period he + + had looked to was now arrived? whether the West Indies, at + this hour, were, not in a state in which they could maintain their + population? + + </p> + <p> + It had been argued, that one or other of these two, assertions + was false; that either the population of the slaves must be + decreasing, (which the abolitionists denied,) or, if it was increasing, + the slaves must have been well treated. That their + population was rather increasing than otherwise, and also that + their general treatment was by no means so good as it ought to + have been, were both points which had been proved by different + witnesses. Neither were they incompatible with each other. + But he would see whether the explanation of this seeming contradiction + would not refute the argument of expediency, as + advanced by his honourable friend. Did the slaves decrease in + numbers?—Yes. Then ill usage must have been the cause of + it; but if so, the abolition was immediately necessary to, restrain + it. Did they, on the other hand, increase?—Yes. But if so, + no further importations, were wanted. Was their population (to + take a middle course) nearly stationary, and their treatment + neither so good nor so bad as it might be?—Yes. But if so, + this was the proper period for stopping further supplies; for + both the population and the treatment would be improved by + such a measure. + + </p> + <p> + But he would show again the futility of the, argument of his + honourable friend. He himself had admitted that it was in the + power of the colonists to correct the various abuses, by which the + Negro population was restrained. But, they could not do this + without improving the condition of their slaves; without making + them approximate towards the rank of citizens; without giving + them some little interest in their labour, which would occasion + them to work with the energy of men. But now the Assembly + of Grenada had themselves stated, "that though the Negroes + were allowed the afternoons of only one day in every week they + would do as much work in that afternoon, when employed for + their own benefit as in the whole day, when employed in their + masters' service." Now, after, this, confession, the House might + burn all his calculations relative to the Negro population; for, if + + it had not yet quite reached the desirable state which he had + pointed out, this confession had proved, that further supplies + were not wanted. A Negro, if he worked for himself, could do + double work. By an improvement then in the mode of labour, + the work in the islands could be doubled. But if so, what would + become of the argument of his honourable friend? for then only + half the number of the present labourers were necessary. + + </p> + <p> + He would now try this argument of expediency by other considerations. + The best informed writers on the subject had told + us, that the purchase of new Negroes was injurious to the, + planters. But if this statement was just, would not the abolition + be beneficial to them? That it would, was the opinion of Mr. + Long, their own historian. "If the Slave Trade," says he, "was + prohibited for four or five years, it would enable them to retrieve + their affairs by preventing them from running into debt, either by + renting or purchasing Negroes." To this acknowledgment he + would add a fact from the evidence, which was, that a North + American province, by such a prohibition alone for a few years + from being deeply plunged in debt, had become independent, + rich, and flourishing. + + </p> + <p> + The next consideration was the danger, to which the islands, + were exposed from the newly imported slaves. Mr. Long, with + a view of preventing insurrections, had advised, that a duty + equal to a prohibition, might be laid on the importation of Coromantine + slaves. After noticing one insurrection, which happened + through their means, he speaks of another in the following year, + in which thirty-three Coromantines, "most of whom had been + newly imported, murdered and wounded no less than nineteen + Whites in the, space of an hour." To the authority of Mr + Long he would add the recorded opinion of a committee of the + House of Assembly of Jamaica, which was appointed to inquire + into the best means of preventing future insurrections. The + committee reported, that "the rebellion had originated, like most + others, with the Coromantines," and they proposed that a bill + should he brought in for laying a higher duty on the importation + of these particular Negroes, which should operate as a prohibition. + But the danger was not confined to the introduction of + + Coromantines. Mr. Long accounts for the frequent insurrections + in Jamaica from the greatness of its general importations. "In + two years and a-half," says he, "twenty-seven thousand Negroes + have been imported.—No wonder that we have rebellions!" + Surely then, when his honourable friend spoke of the calamities + of St. Domingo, and of similar dangers impending over our own + islands, it ill became him to be the person to cry out for further + importations! It ill became him to charge upon the abolitionists + the crime of stirring up insurrections, who only recommended + what the legislature of Jamaica itself had laid down in a time of + danger with an avowed view to prevent them. It was, indeed, a + great satisfaction to himself, that among the many arguments for + prohibiting the Slave Trade, the security of our West Indian + possessions against internal commotions, as well as foreign enemies, + was among the most prominent and forcible. And here he + would ask his honourable friend, whether in this part of the + argument he did not see reason for immediate abolition. Why + should we any longer persist in introducing those latent principles + of conflagration, which, if they should once burst forth, might + annihilate the industry of a hundred years? which might throw + the planters back a whole century in their profits, in their + cultivation, and in their progress towards the emancipation of their + slaves? It was our duty to vote that the abolition of the Slave + Trade should be immediate, and not to leave it to he knew not + what future time or contingency. + + </p> + <p> + Having now done with the argument of expediency, he would + consider the proposition of his right honourable friend Mr. + Dundas; that, on account of some patrimonial rights of the + West Indians, the prohibition of the Slave Trade would be + an invasion of their legal inheritance. He would first observe, + that, if this argument was worth anything, it applied just as + much to gradual as to immediate abolition. He had no doubt, + that, at whatever period we should say the trade should cease; it + would be equally, set up; for it would certainly be just as good an + argument against the measure in seventy years hence, as it was + against it now. It implied also, that Parliament had no right to + stop the importations: but had this detestable traffic received + + such a sanction, as placed it more out of the jurisdiction of the + legislature for ever after, than any other branch of our trade? In + what a situation did the proposition of his honourable friend + place the legislature of Great Britain! It was scarcely possible + to lay a duty on anyone article, which might not in someway + affect the property of individuals. But if the laws respecting the + Slave Trade implied a contract for its perpetual continuance, the + House could never regulate any other of the branches of our + national commerce. + + </p> + <p> + But any contract for the promotion of this trade must, in his + opinion, have been void from the beginning: for if it was an outrage + upon justice, and only another name for fraud, robbery, and + murder, what pledge could devolve upon the legislature to incur + the obligation of becoming principals in the commission of such + enormities by sanctioning their continuance? + + </p> + <p> + But he would appeal to the acts themselves. That of + 23 George II. c. 31, was the one upon which the greatest stress + was laid. How would the House be surprised to hear that the + very outrages committed in the prosecution of this trade had + been forbidden by that act! "No master of a ship trading to + Africa," says the act, "shall by fraud, force, or violence, or by + any indirect practice whatever, take on board or carry away from + that coast any Negro, or native of that country, or commit any + violence on the natives, to the prejudice of the said trade; and + every person so offending, shall for every such offence forfeit one + hundred pounds." But the whole trade had been demonstrated + to be a system of fraud, force, and violence; and therefore the + contract was daily violated, under which the Parliament allowed + it to continue. + + </p> + <p> + But why had the trade ever been permitted at all? The preamble + of the act would show: "Whereas the trade to and from + Africa is very advantageous to Great Britain, and necessary for + supplying the Plantations and Colonies thereunto belonging with + a sufficient number of Negroes at reasonable rates, and for that + purpose the said trade should be carried on."—Here then we + might see what the Parliament had in view, when it passed this + act. But no one of the occasions, on which it grounded its proceedings, + + now existed. He would plead, then, the act itself as an + argument for the abolition. If it had been proved that, instead + of being very advantageous to Great Britain, it was the most + destructive to her interests—that it was the ruin of her + seamen—that it stopped the extension of her manufactures;—if it + had been proved, in the second place, that it was not now necessary + for the supply of our Plantations with Negroes;—if it had been + further established, that it was from the beginning contrary to the + first principles of justice, and consequently that a pledge for its + continuance, had one been attempted to be given, must have been + absolutely void—where in this act of parliament was the contract + to be found, by which Britain was bound, as she was said to be, + never to listen to her own true interests and to the cries of the + natives of Africa? Was it not clear, that all argument, founded + on the supposed pledge of Parliament, made against those who + employed it? + + </p> + <p> + But if we were not bound by existing laws to the support of + this trade, we were doubly criminal in pursuing it; for why + ought it to be abolished at all? Because it was incurable injustice. + Africa was the ground on which he chiefly rested; and + there it was, that his two honourable friends, one of whom had + proposed gradual abolition, and the other regulation, did not carry + their principles, to their full extent. Both had confessed the trade + to be a moral evil. How much stronger, then, was the argument, + for immediate than for gradual abolition! If on the ground of a + moral evil it was to be abolished at last, why ought it not now? + Why was injustice to be suffered to remain for a single hour? + He knew of no evil, which ever had existed, nor could he imagine + any to exist, worse than the tearing of eighty thousand persons + annually from their native land, by a combination of the + most civilized nations, in the most enlightened quarter of the + globe; but more, especially by that nation, which called herself + the most free and the most happy of them all. + + </p> + <p> + He would now notice the objection, that other nations would + not give up the Slave Trade, if we were to renounce it. But if + the trade were stained, but by a thousandth part of the criminality + which he and others, after a thorough investigation of the subject, + + charged upon it, the House ought immediately to vote for its + abolition. This miserable argument, if persevered in, would be + an eternal bar to the annihilation of the evil. How was it ever + to be eradicated, if every nation was thus prudentially to wait till + the concurrence of all the world should be obtained! But it + applied a thousand times more strongly in a contrary way. How + much more justly would other nations say, "Great Britain, free + as she is, just and honourable as she is, not only has not abolished, + but has refused to abolish, the Slave Trade. She has investigated + it well. Her senate has deliberated upon it. It is plain, then, + that she sees no guilt in it." With this argument we should + furnish the other nations of Europe, if we were again to refuse + to put an end to this cruel traffic; and we should have from + henceforth not only to answer for our own, but for their crimes + also. Already we have suffered one year to pass away; and now, + when the question was renewed, not only had this wretched + argument been revived, but a proposition had been made for the + gradual abolition of the trade. He knew, indeed, the difficulty + of reforming long established abuses; but in the present case, by + proposing some other period than the present, by prescribing + some condition, by waiting for some contingencies, perhaps till + we obtained the general concurrence of Europe, (A concurrence + which he believe never yet took place at the commencement of + any one improvement in policy or morals,) he fared that this + most enormous evil would never be redressed. Was it not folly + to wait for the stream to run down before we crossed the bed of + its channel? Alas! we might wait for ever. The river would + still flow on. We should be no nearer the object which we had + in view, so long as the step, which could alone bring us to it was + not taken. + + </p> + <p> + He would now proceed to the civilization of Africa; and, as + his eye had just glanced upon a West Indian law in the evidence + upon the table, he would begin with an argument, which the + sight of it had suggested to him. This argument had been ably + answered in the course of the evening; but he would view it in + yet another light. It had been said, that the savage disposition + of the Africans rendered the prospect of their civilization almost + + hopeless. This argument was indeed of long standing; but, last + year, it had been supported upon a new ground. Captain Frazer + had stated in his evidence, that a boy had been put to death at + Cabenda, because there were those who refused to purchase him + as a slave. This single story was deemed by him, and had been + considered by others, as a sufficient proof of the barbarity of the + Africans, and of the inutility of abolishing the Slave Trade. + But they, who had used this fact, had suppressed several circumstances + relating to it. It appeared, on questioning Captain + Frazer afterward, that this boy had previously run away from his + master three several times; that the master had to pay his value, + according to the custom of the country, every time he was + brought back; and that partly from anger at the boy for running + away so frequently, and partly to prevent a repetition of the same + expense, he determined to destroy him. Such was the explanation of the + signal instance, which was to fix barbarity on all Africa, as it came + out in the cross-examination of Captain Frazer. That this African master + was unenlightened and barbarous, he freely admitted; but what would an + enlightened and civilized West Indian have done in a similar case? He + would quote the law, passed in the West Indies in 1722, which he had + just cast his eye upon in the book of evidence, by which law this very + same crime of running away was by the legislature, of an island, by + the grave and deliberate sentence of an enlightened legislature, punished + with death; and this, not in the case only of the third offence, but even + in the very first instance. It was enacted, "That, if any Negro or other + slave should withdraw himself from his master for the term of six months, + or any slave, who was absent, should not return within that time, every + such person should suffer death." There was also another West Indian law, + by which every Negro was armed against his fellow Negro, for he was + authorized to kill every runaway slave; and he had even a reward held + out to him for so doing. Let the House now contrast the two cases. Let + them ask themselves which of the two exhibited the greater barbarity; + and whether they could possibly vote for the continuance of the Slave + Trade, upon the principle that the Africans had shown themselves to be + a race of incorrigible barbarians? + + </p> + <p> + Something like an opposite argument, but with a like view, + had been maintained by others on this subject. It had been said, + in justification of the trade, that the Africans had derived some + little civilization from their intercourse with us. Yes; we had + given them just enough of the forms of justice to enable them to + add the pretext of legal trials to their other modes of perpetrating + the most atrocious crimes. We had given them just enough of + European improvements, to enable them the more effectually to + turn Africa into a ravaged wilderness. Alas! alas! we had + carried on a trade with them from this civilized and enlightened + country, which, instead of diffusing knowledge, had been a check + to every laudable pursuit. We had carried a poison into their + country, which spread its contagious effects from one end of it + to the other, and which penetrated to its very centre, corrupting + every part to which it reached. We had there subverted the + whole order of nature; we had aggravated every natural barbarity, + and furnished to every man motives for committing, under + the name of trade, acts of perpetual hostility and perfidy against + his neighbour. Thus had the perversion of British commerce + carried misery instead of happiness to one whole quarter of the + globe. False to the very principles of trade, misguided in our + policy, unmindful of our duty, what almost irreparable mischief + had we done to that continent! How should we hope to obtain + forgiveness from heaven, if we refused to use those means which + the mercy of Providence had still reserved to us for wiping away + the guilt and shame, with which we were now covered? If we + refused even this degree of compensation, how aggravated would + be our guilt! Should we delay, then, to repair these incalculable + injuries? We ought to count the days, nay the very hours, + which intervened to delay the accomplishment of such a work. + + </p> + <p> + On this great subject, the civilization of Africa, which, he + confessed, was near his heart, he would yet add a few observations. + And first he would say, that the present deplorable state of that + country, especially when we reflected that her chief calamities + were to be ascribed to us, called for our generous aid, rather than + justified any despair, on our part, of her recovery, and still less a + repetition of our injuries. On what ground of theory or history + + did we act, when we supposed she was never to be reclaimed? + There was a time, which it might be now fit to call to remembrance, + when human sacrifices, and even this very practice of the Slave Trade + existed in our own island. Slaves, as we may read in + HENRY's <em>History of Great Britain</em>, were formerly + an established article of our exports. "Great numbers," he says, + "were exported like cattle from the British coast, and were to be + seen exposed for sale in the Roman markets."—"Adultery, witchcraft, + and debt," says the same historian, "were probably some of the chief + sources of supplying the Roman market with British slaves—prisoners + taken in war were added to the number—there might be also among them + some unfortunate gamesters, who, after having lost + all their goods, at length staked themselves, their wives, + and their children." + Now every one of these sources of slavery had been stated to be + at this hour a + source of slavery in Africa. If these practices, therefore, were + to be admitted as proofs of the natural incapacity of its inhabitants, + why might they + not have been applied to ancient Britain? Why might not then some Roman senator, + pointing to British barbarians, have predicted with equal boldness, that these + were a people who were destined never to be free; who were without the + understanding necessary for the attainment of useful arts; depressed + by the hand of nature below the level of the human species, and created + to form a supply of slaves for the rest of the world? But, happily, + since that time, notwithstanding what would then have been the justness + of these predictions, we had emerged from barbarism. We were now raised + to a situation which exhibited a striking contrast to every circumstance + by which a Roman might have characterized us, and by which we now + characterized Africa. There was indeed one thing wanting to complete + the contrast, and to clear us altogether from the imputation of acting + even to this hour as barbarians; for we continued to this hour a + barbarous traffic in slaves; we continued it even yet, in spite + of all our great pretensions. We were once as obscure among the + nations of the earth, as savage in our manners, as debased in our + morals, as degraded in our understandings, as these unhappy Africans. + But in the lapse of a long series of years, by a progression slow, + and for a time almost + + imperceptible, we had become rich in a variety of acquirements. + We were favoured above measure in the gifts of Providence, we + were unrivalled in commerce, pre-eminent in arts, foremost in the + pursuits of philosophy and science, and established in all the + blessings of civil society; we were in the possession of peace, of + liberty, and of happiness; we were under the guidance of a mild + and a beneficent religion; and we were protected by impartial + laws and the purest administration of justice; we were living + under a system of government, which our own happy experience + led us to pronounce the best and wisest, and which had become + the admiration of the World. From all these blessings we must + for ever have been excluded, had there been any truth in those + principles, which some had not hesitated to lay down as applicable + to the case of Africa; and we should have been at this moment + little superior, either in morals, knowledge, or refinement, to the + rude inhabitants of that continent. + + </p> + <p> + If then we felt that this perpetual confinement in the fetters + of brutal ignorance would have been the greatest calamity which + could have befallen us; if we viewed with gratitude the contrast + between our present and our former situation; if we shuddered to + think of the misery which would still have overwhelmed us, had + our country continued to the present times, through some cruel + policy, to be the mart for slaves to the more civilized nations of + the World;—God forbid that we should any longer subject Africa + to the same dreadful scourge, and exclude the sight of knowledge + from her coasts, which had reached every other quarter of the + globe! + + </p> + <p> + He trusted we should no longer continue this commerce, and + that we should no longer consider ourselves as conferring too great + a boon on the natives of Africa in restoring them to the rank of + human beings, He trusted we should not think ourselves too + liberal, if, by abolishing the Slave Trade, we gave them the same + common chance of civilization with other parts of the World. If + we listened to the voice of reason and duty this night, some of us + might live to see a reverse of that picture, from which we how + turned our eyes with shame. We might live to behold the natives + engaged in the calm occupations of industry, and in the pursuit of + + a just commerce. We might behold the beams of science and + philosophy breaking in upon their land, which at some happy + period in still later times might blaze with full lustre; and joining + their influence to that of pure religion, might illuminate and invigorate + the most distant extremities of that immense continent. Then might we + hope, that even Africa (though last of all the quarters of the globe) + should enjoy at length, in the evening of her days, those blessings, + which had descended so plentifully upon us in a much earlier period of + the world. Then also would Europe, participating in her improvement and + prosperity, receive an ample recompense for the tardy kindness (if + kindness it could be called) of no longer hindering her from extricating + herself out of the darkness, which, in other more fortunate regions, had + been so much more speedily dispelled. + + </p> + <blockquote> + <div class="lg">————Nos primus equis Oriens afflavit anhelis;<br>Illìc sera rubens accendit lumina Vesper.<br><br></div> + </blockquote> + <p> + Then might be applied to Africa those words, originally used + indeed with a different view: + + </p> + <blockquote> + <div class="lg">His demùm exactis———<br>Devenere locos laetos, et amoena vireta<br>Fortunatorum nemorum, sedesque beatas;<br>Largior hìc campos aether et lumine vestit<br>Purpureo.<br><br></div> + </blockquote> + <p> + It was in this view—it was as an atonement for our long and + cruel injustice towards Africa, that the measure proposed by + his honourable friend Mr. Wilberforce most forcibly recommended + itself to his mind. The great and happy change to be expected + in the state of her inhabitants was, of all the various benefits + of the abolition, in his estimation the most extensive and important. + He should vote against the adjournment; and he should also oppose + every proposition which tended either to prevent, or even to postpone + for an hour, the total abolition of the Slave Trade. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Pitt having concluded his speech (at about six in the + morning), Sir William Dolben, the chairman, proposed the + following questions:—The first was on the motion of Mr. + Jenkinson, "that the chairman do now leave the chair." This was lost by a + majority of two hundred and thirty-four to eighty-seven. The second was + on the motion of Mr. Dundas, "that the + + abolition should be, gradual;" when the votes for gradual exceeded + those for immediate by one hundred and ninety-three to one + hundred and twenty-five. He then put the amended question, + that "it was the opinion of the committee that the trade ought + to be gradually abolished." The committee having divided + again, the votes for a gradual abolition were, two hundred and + thirty, and those against any abolition were eighty-five. + + </p> + <p> + After this debate, the committee for the abolition of the Slave + Trade held a meeting. They voted their thanks to Mr. Wilberforce + for his motion, and to Mr. Pitt, Mr. Fox, and those other + members of the House who had supported it. They resolved, + also, that the House of Commons, having determined that the + Slave Trade ought to be gradually abolished, had by that decision + manifested their opinion, that it was cruel and unjust. They + resolved, also, that a gradual abolition of it was not an adequate + remedy for its injustice and cruelty; neither could it be deemed + a compliance with the general wishes of the people, as expressed + in their numerous and urgent petitions to Parliament; and they + resolved lastly, that the interval in which the Slave Trade should + be permitted to continue, afforded a prospect of redoubled cruelties + and ravages on the coast of Africa; and that it imposed + therefore an additional obligation on every friend to the cause to + use all constitutional means to obtain its immediate abolition. + + </p> + <p> + At a subsequent meeting they voted their thanks to the right + honourable Lord Muncaster, for the able support he had given to + the great object of their institution by his <em>Historical Sketches + of the Slave Trade, and of its Effects in Africa</em>; addressed + to the people of Great Britain; and they elected the Rev. + Richard Gifford, and the Rev. Thomas Gisborne, honorary and + corresponding members; the first on account of his excellent + sermon before-mentioned, and other services; and the latter on + account of his truly Christian and seasonable pamphlet, + entitled <em>Remarks on the Late Decision of the House + of Commons, respecting the Abolition of the Slave Trade</em>. + + </p> + <p> + On the 23rd of April, the House of Commons resolved itself + into a committee of the whole House, to consider the subject again; and + Mr. Beaufoy was put into the chair. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Dundas, upon whom the task of introducing a bill for + the gradual abolition of the Slave Trade now devolved, rose to + offer the outlines of a plan for that purpose. He intended, he + said, immediately to abolish that part of the trade, by which we + supplied foreigners with slaves. The other part of it was to be + continued seven years from the 1st of January next. He + grounded the necessity of its continuance till this time upon the + documents of the Negro population in the different islands. In + many of these, slaves were imported, but they were re-exported + nearly in equal numbers. Now, all these he considered to be in + a state to go on without future supplies from Africa. Jamaica + and the ceded islands retained almost all the slaves imported into + them. This he considered as a proof that these had not attained + the same desirable state; and it was therefore necessary, that the + trade should be continued longer on this account. It was his + intention, however, to provide proper punishments, while it + lasted, for abuses both in Africa and in the Middle Passage, He + would take care, as far as he could, that none but young slaves + should be brought from the Coast of Africa. He would encourage + establishments there for a new species of traffic. Foreign + nations should be invited to concur in the abolition. He should + propose a praedial rather than a personal service for the West + Indies, and institutions, by which the slaves there should be + instructed in religious duties. He concluded by reading several + resolutions, which he would leave to the future consideration of + the House. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Pitt then rose. He deprecated the resolutions altogether. + He denied also the inferences which Mr. Dundas had + drawn from the West Indian documents relative to the Negro + population. He had looked aver his own calculations from the + same documents again and again, and he would submit them, + with all their data, if it should be necessary, to the House. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Wilberforce and Mr. Fox held the same language. They + contended also, that Mr. Dundas had now proved, a thousand + times more strongly than ever, the necessity of immediate abolition. + All the resolutions he had read were operative against his + own reasoning. The latter observed, that the Slave-traders were + + in future only to be allowed to steal innocent children from their + disconsolate parents. + + </p> + <p> + After a few observations by Lord Sheffield, Mr. Drake, + Colonel Tarleton, and Mr. Rolle, the House adjourned. + + </p> + <p> + On the 25th of April it resumed the consideration of the + subject. Mr. Dundas then went over his former resolutions, + and concluded by moving, "that it should not be lawful to + import any African Negroes into any British colonies, in ships + owned or navigated by British subjects, at any time after the + 1st of January, 1800." + + </p> + <p> + Lord Mornington (now Marquis Wellesley) rose to propose + an amendment. He congratulated his countrymen, that + the Slave Trade had received its death-wound. This traffic was + founded in injustice; and between right and wrong there could + be no compromise. Africa was not to be sacrificed to the apparent + good of the West Indies. He would not repeat those + enormities out of the evidence, which had made such a deep + impression upon the House. It had been resolved, that the trade + should be abolished. The question then was, how long they + were to persevere in the crime of its continuance? One had said, + that they might be unjust for ten years longer; another, only + till the beginning of the next century. But this diversity of + opinion had proceeded from an erroneous statement of Mr. Dundas + against the clear and irrefragable calculations of Mr. Pitt. The + former had argued, that, because Jamaica and the ceded islands + had retained almost all the slaves which had been, imported into + them, they were therefore not yet in a situation to support their + population without further supplies from Africa. But the truth + was, that the slaves, so retained, were kept, not to maintain the + population there, but to clear new land. Now the House had + determined, that the trade was not to be continued for this purpose. + The population, therefore, in the islands was sufficient to continue + the ordinary cultivation of them. + + </p> + <p> + He deprecated the idea, that the Slave Trade had been so + sanctioned by the acts of former Parliaments, that the present + could make no alteration in it. Had not the House altered the + import of foreign sugar into our islands? a measure, which at the + + time affected the property of many. Had they not prohibited + the exports of provisions from America to the same quarter; + Again, as to compacts, had the Africans ever been parties to + these? It was rather curious also, when King James the Second + gave a charter to the slave-trader, that he should have given + them a right to all the south of Africa, and authority over every + person born therein! But, by doing this, it was clear that he + gave them a right which he never possessed himself. After many + other observations, he concluded by moving, "that the year 1793 + be substituted in the place of the year 1800." + + </p> + <p> + In the course of the debate, which followed, Mr. Burdon + stated his conviction of the necessity of immediate abolition; + but he would support the amendment, as the shortest of the terms + proposed. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Robert Thornton would support it also, as the only choice + left him. He dared not accede to a motion, by which we were + to continue for seven years to imbrue our hands in innocent + blood. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ryder (now Earl of Harrowby) would not support the + trade for one moment, if he could avoid it. He could not hold a + balance with gold in one scale, and blood in the other. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. William Smith exposed the wickedness of restricting the + trade to certain ages. The original motion, he said, would only + operate as a transfer of cruelty from the aged and the guilty to + the young and the innocent. He entreated the House to consider, + whether, if it related to their own children, any one of them + would vote for it. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Windham had hitherto felt a reluctance to speaking, not + from the abstruseness, but from the simplicity, of the subject; + but he could not longer be silent, when he observed those arguments + of policy creeping again out of their lurking-places, which + had fled before eloquence and truth. The House had clearly + given up the policy of the question. They had been determined + by the justice of it. Why were they then to be troubled again + with arguments of this nature? These, if admitted, would go to + the subversion of all public as well as private morality. Nations + were as much bound as individuals to a system of morals, though + + a breach in the former could not be so easily punished. In private + life morality took pretty good care of itself. It was a kind of + retail article, in which the returns were speedy. If a man broke + open his neighbour's house, he would feel the consequences. There + was an ally of virtue, who rendered it the interest of individuals + to be moral, and he was called the executioner. But as such + punishment did not always await us in our national concerns, + we should substitute honour as the guardian of our national + conduct. He hoped the West Indians would consider the character + of the mother-country, and the obligations to national as well + as individual justice. He hoped, also, they would consider the + sufferings, which they occasioned both in Africa, in the passage, + and in the West Indies. In the passage, indeed, no one was capable + of describing them. The section of the slave-ship; however, made + up the deficiency of language, and did away all necessity of argument, + on this subject. Disease there had to struggle with the new affliction + of chains and punishment. At one view were the irksomeness of a goal, + and the miseries of an hospital; so that the holds of these vessels + put him in mind of the regions of the damned. The trade, he said, + ought immediately to be abolished. On a comparison of the probable + consequences of the abolition of it, he saw on one side only doubtful + contingencies, but on the other shame and disgrace. + + </p> + <p> + Sir James Johnstone contended for the immediate abolition + of the trade. He had introduced the plough into his own plantation in the + West Indies, and he found the land produced more sugar than when cultivated + in the ordinary way by slaves. Even for the sake of the planters, he hoped + the abolition would not be long delayed. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Dundas replied: after which a division took place. The + number of votes in favour of the original motion were one hundred + and fifty-eight, and for the amendment one hundred and + nine. + + </p> + <p> + On the 27th of April the House resumed the subject. Mr. + Dundas moved, as before, that the Slave Trade should cease in + the year 1800; upon which Lord Mornington moved, that the + year 1795 should be substituted for the latter period. + + </p> + <p> + In the course of the debate, which followed, Mr. Hubbard + said, that he had voted against the abolition, when the year 1793 + was proposed; but he thought that, if it were not to take place + till 1795, sufficient time would be allowed the planters. He + would support this amendment; and he congratulated the House + on the prospect of the final triumph of truth, humanity, and justice. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Addington preferred the year 1796 to the year 1795. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Alderman Watson considered the abolition in 1796, to be + as destructive as if it were immediate. + + </p> + <p> + A division having taken place, the number of votes in favour + of the original motion were one hundred and sixty-one, and in + favour of Lord Mornington's amendment for the year 1795, one + hundred and twenty-one. Sir Edward Knatchbull, however, + seeing that there was a disposition in the House to bring the + matter to a conclusion, and that a middle line would be preferred, + moved that the year 1796 should be substituted for this + year 1800. Upon this the House divided again; when there + appeared for the original motion only one hundred and thirty-two, + but for the amendment one hundred and fifty-one. + + </p> + <p> + The gradual abolition having been now finally agreed upon + for the year 1796, a committee was named, which carried the + resolution to the Lords. + + </p> + <p> + On the 8th of May, the Lords were summoned to consider + it; Lord Stormont, after having spoken for some time, moved, + that they should hear evidence upon it. Lord Grenville opposed + the motion on account of the delay, which would arise from an + examination of the witnesses by the House at large: but he + moved that such witnesses should be examined by a committee + of the House. Upon this a debate ensued, and afterwards a + division; when the original motion was carried by sixty-three + against thirty-six. + + </p> + <p> + On the 15th of May, the Lords met again. Evidence was + then ordered to be summoned in behalf of those interested in the + continuance of the trade. At length it was introduced; but on + the 5th of June, when only seven persons had been examined, a + motion was made and carried, that the further examinations + should be postponed to the next session. + + </p> + + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + <h2><a name="chap28"></a>CHAPTER XXVIII. + </h2> + <p><b>Continuation from July 1792 to July 1793.—Author travels + round the kingdom again.—Motion to renew the resolution of the last + year in the Commons; motion lost.—New motion in the Commons to + abolish the foreign Slave Trade; motion lost.—Proceedings of + the Lords.</b></p> + + <p> + The resolution adopted by the Commons, that the trade should + cease in 1796, was a matter of great joy to many; and several, in + consequence of it, returned to the use of sugar. The committee, + however, for the abolition did not view it in the same favourable + light. They considered it as a political manoeuvre to frustrate + the accomplishment of the object. But the circumstance, which + gave them the most concern, was the resolution of the Lords to + hear evidence. It was impossible now to say, when the trade + would cease, the witnesses in behalf of the merchants and + planters, had obtained possession of the ground; and they might, + keep it, if they chose, even till the year 1800, to throw light + upon a measure which was to be adopted in 1796. The committee + found too, that they had again the laborious task before + them of finding out new persons to give testimony in behalf of + their cause; for some of their former witnesses were dead, and + others were out of the kingdom; and unless they replaced these, + there would be no probability of making out that strong case in + the Lords, which they had established in the Commons. It + devolved therefore upon me once more to travel for this purpose: + but as I was then in too weak a state to bear as much fatigue as + formerly, Dr. Dickson relieved me, by taking one part of the tour, + namely, that to Scotland, upon himself. + + </p> + <p> + These journeys we performed with considerable success; + during which, the committee elected Mr. Joseph Townsend of + Baltimore, in Maryland, an honorary and corresponding member. + + </p> + <p> + Parliament having met, Mr. Wilberforce, in February 1793, + moved, that the House resolve itself into a committee of the + whole House on Thursday next, to consider of the circumstances + of the Slave Trade. This motion was opposed by Sir William + + Yonge, who moved, that this day six months should be substituted + for Thursday next. A debate ensued: of this, however, + as well as of several which followed. I shall give no account; as + it would be tedious to the reader to hear a repetition of the same + arguments. Suffice it to say, that the motion was lost by a + majority of sixty-one to fifty-three. + + </p> + <p> + This sudden refusal of the House of Commons to renew their + own vote of the former year, gave great uneasiness to the friends + of the cause. Mr. Wilberforce, however, resolved that the + session should not pass without an attempt to promote it in + another form; and accordingly, on the 14th of May, he moved + for leave to bring in a bill to abolish that part of the Slave + Trade, by which the British merchants supplied foreigners with + slaves. This motion was opposed like the former; but was + carried by a majority of seven. The bill was then brought in; + and it passed its first and second reading with little opposition; + but on the 5th of June, notwithstanding the eloquence of Mr. + Pitt and of Mr. Fox, and the very able speeches of Mr. Francis, + Mr. Courtenay, and others, it was lost by a majority of thirty-one + to twenty-nine. + + </p> + <p> + In the interval between these motions, the question experienced + in the Lords considerable opposition. The Duke of + Clarence moved that the House should not proceed in the consideration + of the Slave Trade till after the Easter recess. The + Earl of Abingdon was still more hostile afterwards. He deprecated + the new philosophy. It was as full of mischief as the Box + of Pandora. The doctrine of the abolition of the Slave Trade + was a species of it; and he concluded by moving, that all + further consideration of the subject be postponed. To the epithets, + then bestowed upon the abolitionists by this nobleman, the Duke + of Clarence added those of fanatics and hypocrites, among whom + he included Mr. Wilberforce by name. All the other Lords, + however, who were present, manifested such a dislike to the + sentiments of the Earl of Abingdon, that he withdrew his motion. + + </p> + <p> + After this, the hearing of evidence on the resolution of the + House of Commons was resumed; and seven persons were + examined before the close of the session. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + + <h2><a name="chap29"></a>CHAPTER XXIX. + </h2> + <p><b>—Continuation from July 1793 to July 1794.—Author + travels round the kingdom again.—Motion to abolish the foreign Slave + Trade renewed in the Commons; and carried; but lost in the Lords; further + proceedings there.—Author, on account of his declining health, obliged + to retire from the cause.</b></p> + + <p> + The committee for the abolition could not view the proceedings + of both Houses of Parliament on this subject during the year + 1793, without being alarmed for the fate of their question. The + only two sources of hope, which they could discover, were in the + disposition then manifested by the Peers, as to the conduct of the + Earl of Abingdon, and in their determination to proceed in the + hearing of evidence. The latter circumstance indeed was the + more favourable, as the resolution, upon which the witnesses + were to be examined, had not been renewed by the Commons. + These considerations, however, afforded no solid ground for the + mind to rest upon. They only broke in upon it, like faint gleams + of sunshine, for a moment, and then were gone. In this + situation, the committee could only console themselves by the + reflection, that they had done their duty. In looking, however, + to their future services, one thing, and only one, seemed practicable; + and this was necessary; namely, to complete the new + body of evidence, which they had endeavoured to form in the + preceding year. The determination to do this rendered another + journey on my part indispensable; and I undertook it, broken + down, as my constitution then was, beginning it in September + 1793, and completing it in February 1794. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Wilberforce, in this interval, had digested his plan of + operations; and accordingly, early in the session of 1794, he + asked leave to renew his former bill, to abolish that part of the + trade, by means of which British merchants supplied foreigners + with slaves. This request was opposed by Sir William Yonge; + but it was granted; on a division of the House, by a majority of + sixty-three to forty votes. + + </p> + <p> + When the bill was brought in, it was opposed by the same + member; upon which the House divided; and there appeared + for Sir William Yonge's amendment thirty-eight votes, but + against it fifty-six. + + </p> + <p> + On a motion for the recommitment of the bill, Lord Sheffield + divided the House, against whose motion there was a majority of + forty-two. And, on the third reading of it, it was opposed again; + but it was at length carried. + + </p> + <p> + The speakers against the bill were: Sir William Yonge, + Lord Sheffield, Colonel Tarleton, Alderman Newnham and + Messrs; Payne, Este, Lechaiere, Cawthorae, Jenkinson, and Dent. + Those who spoke in favour of it were: Messrs. Pitt, Fox, William + Smith, Whitbread, Francis, Burdon, Vaughan, Barham, + and Serjeants Watson and Adair. + + </p> + <p> + While the foreign Slave-bill was thus passing through its + stages in the Commons, Dr. Horsley, Bishop of Rochester, who + saw no end to the examinations, while the witnesses were to be + examined at the bar of the House of Lords, moved, that they + should be taken in future before a committee above-stairs. Dr. + Porteus, Bishop of London, and the Lords Guildford, Stanhope, + and Grenville, supported this motion. But the Lord Chancellor + Thurlow, aided by the Duke of Clarence, and by the Lords + Mansfield, Hay, Abingdon, and others, negatived it by a majority + of twenty-eight. + + </p> + <p> + At length the bill itself was ushered into the House of Lords. + On reading it a second time, it was opposed by the Duke of + Clarence, Lord Abingdon, and others. Lord Grenville and the + Bishop of Rochester declined supporting it. They alleged as a + reason, that they conceived the introduction of it to have been + improper, pending the inquiry on the general subject of the Slave + Trade. This declaration brought up the Lords Stanhope and + Lauderdale, who charged them with inconsistency as professed + friends of the cause. At length the bill was lost. During these + discussions the examination of the witnesses was resumed by the + Lords; but only two of them were heard in this + session<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXXIX_1"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXXIX_1"></a>. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXXIX_1"></a><a href="#FootXXIX_1">A</a>: After this the examinations wholly + dropped in the House of Lords. + </p> + <p> + After this decision the question was in a desperate state; for + + if the Commons would not renew their own resolution, and the + Lords would not abolish the foreign part of the Slave-trade, + what hope was there of success? It was obvious too, that in + the former House, Mr. Pitt and Mr. Dundas voted against each + other. In the latter, the Lord Chancellor Thurlow opposed + every motion in favour of the cause. The committee therefore + were reduced to this;—either they must exert themselves without + hope, or they must wait till some change should take place + in their favour. As far as I myself was concerned, all exertion + was then over. The nervous system was almost shattered to + pieces. Both my memory and my hearing failed me. Sudden + dizzinesses seized my head. A confused singing in the ears + followed me, wherever I went. On going to bed the very, + stairs seemed to dance up and down under me, so that, misplacing + my foot, I sometimes fell. Talking too, if it continued + but half an hour, exhausted me, so that profuse perspirations + followed; and the same effect was produced even by an active + exertion of the mind for the like time. These disorders had been + brought on by degrees in consequence of the severe labours necessarily + attached to the promotion of the cause. For seven years + I had a correspondence to maintain with four hundred persons + with my own hand. I had some book or other annually to write + in behalf of the cause. In this time I had travelled more than + thirty-five thousand miles in search of evidence, and a great part + of these journeys in the night. All this time my mind had been + on the stretch. It had been bent too to this one subject; for I had + not even leisure to attend to my own concerns. The various + instances of barbarity, which had come successively to my knowledge + within this period, had vexed, harassed, and afflicted it. + The wound which these had produced, was rendered still deeper + by those cruel disappointments before related, which arose from + the reiterated refusal of persons to give their testimony, after I + had travelled hundreds of miles in quest of them. But the + severest stroke was that inflicted by the persecution, begun and + pursued by persons interested in the continuance of the trade, of + such witnesses as had been examined against them; and whom, + on account of their dependent situation in life, it was most easy + + to oppress. As I had been the means of bringing these forward + on these occasions, they naturally came to me, when thus persecuted, + as the author of their miseries and their ruin. From their + supplications and wants it would have been ungenerous and + ungrateful to have fled<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXXIX_2"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXXIX_2"></a>. These different + circumstances, by acting together, had at length brought me into the + situation just mentioned; and I was therefore obliged, though very + reluctantly, to be borne out of the field, where I had placed the great + honour and glory of my life. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXXIX_2"></a><a href="#FootXXIX_2">A</a>: The late Mr. Whitbread, + to whom one day in deep affliction + on this account I related accidentally a circumstance of this kind, + generously undertook, in order to make my mind easy upon the subject, to + make good all injuries, which should in future arise to individuals from + such persecution; and he repaired these, at different times, at a + considerable expense. I feel it a duty to divulge this circumstance, out + of respect to the memory of one of the best of men, and of one, whom, if + the history of his life were written, it would appear to have been an + extraordinary honour to the country to have produced. + </p> + + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + <h2><a name="chap30"></a>CHAPTER XXX. + </h2> + <p><b>Continuation from July 1794 to July 1799.—Various motions within + this period.</b></p> + + <p> + I purpose, though it may seem abrupt after the division which + has hitherto been made of the contents of this volume, to throw + the events of the next five years into one chapter. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Wilberforce and the members of the committee, whose + constitutions had not suffered like my own, were still left; and + they determined to persevere in the promotion of their great + object as long as their health and their faculties permitted + them. The former, accordingly, in the month of February, + 1795, moved in the House of Commons for leave to bring in + a bill for the abolition of the Slave Trade. This motion was + then necessary, if, according to the resolution of that House, the + Slave Trade was to cease in 1796. It was opposed, however, + by Sir William Yonge, and unfortunately lost by a majority of + seventy-eight to fifty-seven. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1796, Mr. Wilberforce renewed his efforts in the + Commons. He asked leave to bring in a bill for the abolition of + the Slave Trade, but in a limited time. The motion was opposed + as before; but on a division, there were for it ninety-three, and + against it only sixty-seven. + + </p> + <p> + The bill having been brought in, was opposed in its second + reading; but it was carried through it by a majority of sixty-four + to thirty-one. + + </p> + <p> + In a future stage it was opposed again; but it triumphed by + a majority of seventy-six to thirty-one. Mr. Elliott was then + put into the chair. Several clauses were adopted; and the first + of March, 1797, was fixed for the abolition of the Trade: but in + the next stage of it, after a long speech from Mr. Dundas, it was + lost by a majority of seventy-four against seventy. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Francis, who had made a brilliant speech in the last + debate, considering that nothing effectual had been yet done on + this great question, and wishing that a practical beginning might + be made, brought forward soon afterwards, a motion relative to the + improvement of the condition of the slaves in the West Indies. + This, after a short debate, was negatived without a division. + Mr. William Smith also moved an address to His Majesty, that + he would be pleased to give directions to lay before the House + copies of the several acts relative to regulations in behalf of the + slaves, passed by the different colonial assemblies since the year + 1788. This motion was adopted by the House. Thus passed + away the session of 1796. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1797, while Mr. Wilberforce was deliberating + upon the best measure for the advancement of the cause, Mr. C. + Ellis came forward with a new motion. He began by declaring, + that he agreed with the abolitionists as to their object; but he + differed with them as to the mode of attaining It. The Slave + Trade he condemned as a cruel and pernicious system; but, as it + had become an inveterate evil, he feared it could not be done away + all at once, without injury to the interests of numerous individuals, + and even to the Negroes themselves. He concluded by moving an + address to His Majesty, humbly requesting, that he would give + directions to the governors of the West Indian islands, to recommend + it to the colonial assemblies to adopt such measures as + might appear to them best calculated to ameliorate the condition + of the Negroes, and thereby to remove gradually the Slave Trade; + and likewise to assure His Majesty of the readiness of this + House to concur in any measure to accelerate this desirable object; + This motion was seconded by Mr. Barham, It was opposed, + however, by Mr. Wilberforce, Mr. Pitt, and others; but was at + length carried by a majority of ninety-nine to sixty-three. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1798, Mr. Wilberforce asked leave to renew his + former bill, to abolish the Slave Trade within a limited time. + He was supported by Mr. Canning, Mr. Hobhouse, Sir Robert Buxton, + Mr. Bouverie, and others. Messrs. Sewell, Bryan Edwards, + Henniker, and C. Ellis, took the opposite side of the question. + Mr. Ellis, however, observed, that he had no objection to restricting + + the Slave Trade to plantations already begun in the colonies; + and Mr. Barham professed; himself a friend to the abolition, if it; + could be accomplished in a reasonable way. On a division, there + appeared to be for Mr. Wilberforce's motion eighty-three, but + against it eighty-seven. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1799 Mr. Wilberforce, undismayed by these + different disappointments, renewed his motion. Colonel M. + Wood, Mr. Petrie, and others, among whom were Mr. Windham + and Mr. Dundas, opposed it. Mr. Pitt, Mr. Fox, Mr. W. Smith, + Sir William Dolben, Sir R. Milbank, Mr. Hobhouse, and + Mr. Canning, supported it. Sir R. Milbank contended, that + modifications of a system, fundamentally wrong, ought not to be + tolerated by the legislature of a free nation, Mr. Hobhouse + said, that nothing could be so nefarious as this traffic in blood. + It was unjust in its principles it was cruel in its practice: it + admitted of no regulation whatever. The abolition of it was + called for equally, by morality and sound policy, Mr. Canning + exposed the folly of Mr. Dundas, who bad said, that as Parliament + had, in the year 1787, left the abolition to the colonial + assemblies, it ought not to be taken out of their hands. This + great event, he observed, could only be accomplished in two + ways; either by these assemblies, or by the Parliament of + England. Now the members of the Assembly of Jamaica had + professed that they would never abolish the trade. Was it not, + therefore, idle to rely upon them for the accomplishment of it? + He then took a very comprehensive view of the arguments, which + had been offered in the course of the debate, and was severe upon + the planters in the House, who, he said, had brought into familiar + use certain expressions, with no other view than to throw a veil + over their odious system. Among these was, "their right to + import labourers." But never was the word "labourers" so + prostituted, as when it was used for slaves. Never was the word + "right" so prostituted, not even when "the rights of man" were + talked of; as when the right to trade in man's blood was asserted, + by the members of an enlightened assembly. Never was the + right of importing these labourers worse defended than when the + antiquity, of the Slave Trade, and its foundation on the ancient + + acts of parliament, were brought forward in its support. We + had been cautioned not to lay our unhallowed hands on the + ancient institution of the Slave Trade; nor to subvert a fabric, + raised by the wisdom of our ancestors, and consecrated by a lapse + of ages. But on what principles did we usually respect the + institutions of antiquity? We respected them, when we saw + some shadow of departed worth and usefulness; or some memorial + of what had been creditable to mankind. But was this the + case with the Slave Trade? Had it begun in principles of justice or + national honour, which the changes of the world alone had impaired? + Had it to plead former services and glories in behalf of its present + disgrace? In looking at it we saw nothing but crimes and sufferings + from the beginning—nothing but what wounded and convulsed + our feelings—nothing but what excited indignation and + horror. It had not even to plead what could often be said in + favour of the most unjustifiable wars. Though conquest had + sometimes originated in ambition, and in the worst of motives, + yet the conquerors and the conquered were sometimes blended + afterwards into one people; so that a system of common interest + arose out of former differences. But where was the analogy of + the eases? Was it only at the outset that we could trace violence + and injustice on the part of the Slave Trade? Were the oppressors + and the oppressed so reconciled, that enmities ultimately + ceased? No. Was it reasonable then to urge a prescriptive + right, not to the fruits of an ancient and forgotten evil, but to a + series of new violences; to a chain of fresh enormities; to + cruelties continually repeated; and of which every instance + inflicted a fresh calamity, and constituted a separate and substantial + crime? + + </p> + <p> + The debate being over, the House divided; when it appeared + that there were for Mr. Wilberforce's motion seventy-four, but + against it eighty-two. + + </p> + <p> + The motion for the general abolition of the Slave Trade + having been thus lost again in the Commons, a new motion was + made there soon after, by Mr. Henry Thornton, on the same + subject. The prosecution of this traffic, on certain parts of the + coast of Africa, had become so injurious to the new settlement at + + Sierra Leone, that not only its commercial prospects were + but its safety endangered. Mr. Thornton, therefore + brought in a bill to confine the Slave Trade within certain limits. + But even this bill, though it had for its object only to free a + portion of the coast from the ravages of this traffic, was opposed + by Mr. Gascoyne, Dent, and others. Petitions also were presented + against it. At length, after two divisions, on the first of which + there were thirty-two votes to twenty-seven, and on the second + thirty-eight to twenty-two, it passed through all its stages. + + </p> + <p> + When it was introduced into the Lords the petitions were + renewed against it. Delay also was interposed to its progress by + the examination of witnesses. It was not till the fifth of July + that the matter was brought to issue. The opponents of the bill, + at that time, were the Duke of Clarence, Lord Westmoreland, + Lord Thurlow, and the Lords Douglas and Hay, the two latter + being Earls of Morton and Kinnoul, in Scotland. The supporters + of it were Lord Grenville, who introduced it, Lord Loughborough, + Lord Holland, and Dr. Horsley, Bishop of Rochester: the + latter was peculiarly eloquent. He began his speech, by arraigning + the injustice and impolicy of the trade:—"injustice," he + said, "which no considerations of policy could extenuate; impolicy, + equal in degree to its injustice." + + </p> + <p> + He well knew that the advocates for the Slave Trade had + endeavoured to represent the project for abolition, as a branch of + jacobinism; but they who supported it proceeded upon no + visionary motives of equality, or of the imprescriptible rights of + man. They strenuously upheld the gradations of civil society: + but they did, indeed, affirm that these gradations were, both + ways, both as they ascended and as they descended, limited. + There was an existence of power, to which no good king would + aspire; and there was an extreme condition of subjection, to + which man could not be degraded without injustice; and this + they would maintain, was the condition of the African, who was + torn away into slavery. + + </p> + <p> + He then explained the limits of that portion of Africa, which + the bill intended to set apart as sacred to peace and liberty. He + showed that this was but one-third of the coast; and, therefore, + + that two-thirds were yet left for the diabolical speculations of the + slave merchants. He expressed his surprise that such witnesses, + as those against the bill, should have been introduced at all: he + affirmed that their oaths were falsified by their own log-books; + and that, from their own accounts, the very healthiest of their + vessels were little better than pestilential gaols. Mr. Robert + Hume, one of these witnesses, had made a certain voyage: he + had made it in thirty-three days: he had shipped two hundred + and sixty-five slaves, and he had lost twenty-three of them. If + he had gone on losing his slaves, all of whom were under twenty-five + years of age, at this rate, it was obvious, that he would have + lost two hundred and fifty-three of them, if his passage had lasted + for a year. Now, in London only, seventeen would have died of + that age, out of one thousand within the latter period. + + </p> + <p> + After having exposed the other voyages of Mr. Hume in a + similar manner, he entered into a commendation of the views of + the Sierra Leone company, and then defended the character of + the Africans in their own country, as exhibited in the Travels of + Mr. Mungo Park. He made a judicious discrimination with + respect to slavery, as it existed among them: he showed that this + slavery was analogous to that of the heroic and patriarchal ages, + and contrasted it with the West Indian in an able manner. + + </p> + <p> + He adverted, lastly, to what had fallen from the learned + counsel, who had supported the petitions of the slave-merchants. + One of them had put this question to their Lordships, "If the + Slave Trade were as wicked as it had been represented, why was + there no prohibition of it in the Holy Scriptures?" He then + entered into a full defence of the Scriptures on this ground, + which he concluded by declaring, that, as St. Paul had coupled + men-stealers with murderers, he had condemned the Slave Trade + in one of its most productive modes, and generally in all its + modes. And here it is worthy of remark, that the word used by + the apostle on this occasion, and which has been translated + men-stealers, should have been rendered slave traders. This was + obvious from the scholiast of Aristophanes, whom he quoted. It + was clear, therefore, that the Slave Trade, if murder was forbidden, + had been literally forbidden also. + + </p> + <p> + The learned counsel, too, had admonished their lordships, to + beware how they adopted the visionary projects of fanatics. He + did not know in what direction this shaft was shot; and he cared + not. It did not concern him. With the highest reverence for + the religion of the land, with the firmest conviction of its truth, + and with the deepest sense of the importance Of its doctrines, he + was proudly conscious, that the general shape and fashion of his + life bore nothing of the stamp of fanaticism. But he begged + leave, in his turn, to address a word of serious exhortation to their + lordships. He exhorted them to beware how they were persuaded + to bury, under the opprobrious name of fanaticism, the + regard which they owed to the great duties of mercy and justice, + for the neglect of which (if they should neglect them) they would + be answerable at that tribunal, where no prevarication of witnesses + could misinform the judge; and where no subtlety of an + advocate, miscalling the names of things, putting evil for good + and good for evil, could mislead his judgment. + + </p> + <p> + At length the debate ended: when the bill was lost by a + majority of sixty-eight to sixty-one, including personal votes and + proxies. + + </p> + <p> + I cannot conclude this chapter without offering a few remarks. + And, first, I may observe, as the substance of the debates has not + been given for the period which it contains, that Mr. Wilberforce, + upon whom too much praise cannot be bestowed for his perseverance + from year to year, amidst the disheartening circumstances + which attended his efforts, brought every new argument to + which either the discovery of new light, or the events of the times, + produced. I may observe also, in justice to the memories of Mr. + Pitt and Mr. Fox, that there was no debate within this period, + in which they did not take a part; and in which they did not + irradiate others from the profusion of their own light; and + thirdly, that in consequence of the efforts of the three, conjoined + with those of others, the great cause of the abolition was secretly + gaining ground. Many members who were not connected with the + trade, but who had yet hitherto supported it, were on the point of + conversion. Though the question had oscillated backwards and + forwards, so that an ordinary spectator could have discovered no + + gleam of hope at these times, nothing is more certain, than that + the powerful eloquence then displayed had smoothed the resistance + to it, had shortened its vibrations, and had prepared it for + a state of rest. + + </p> + <p> + With respect to the West-Indians themselves, some of them + began to see through the mists of prejudice, which had covered + them. In the year 1794, when the bill for the abolition of the + foreign Slave Trade was introduced, Mr. Vaughan and Mr. + Barham supported it. They called upon the planters in the House + to give way to humanity, where their own interests could not be + affected by their submission. This, indeed, may be said to have + been no mighty thing; but it was a frank confession of the injustice + of the Slave Trade, and the beginning of the change which + followed, both with respect to themselves and others. + + </p> + <p> + With respect to the old friends of the cause, it is with regret + I mention, that it lost the support of Mr. Windham within this + period; and this regret is increased by the consideration, that he + went off on the avowed plea of expediency against moral rectitude; + a doctrine, which, at least upon this subject, he had reprobated + for ten years. It was, however, some consolation, as far as + talents were concerned, (for there can be none for the + loss of virtuous feeling,) that Mr. Canning, a new member, should have so + ably supplied his place. + + </p> + <p> + Of the gradual abolitionists, whom we have always considered + as the most dangerous enemies of the cause, Mr. Jenkinson (afterwards + Earl of Liverpool), Mr. Addington (subsequently Lord Sidmouth), + and Mr. Dundas (afterwards Lord Melville), continued + their opposition during all this time. Of the first two I shall say + nothing at present; but I cannot pass over the conduct of the latter. + He was the first person, as we have seen, to propose the gradual + abolition of the Slave Trade; and he fixed a time for its cessation + on the 1st of January, 1800. His sincerity on this occasion was + doubted by Mr. Fox at the very outset; for he immediately rose and + said, that "something so mischievous had come out, something so + like a foundation had been laid for preserving, not only for years to + come, but for anything he knew, for ever, this detestable traffic, + that he felt it his duty immediately to deprecate all such delusions + + upon the country." Mr. Pitt, who spoke soon afterwards, in reply + to an argument advanced by Mr. Dundas, maintained, that "at + whatever period the House should say that the Slave Trade + should actually cease, this defence would equally be set up; for it + would be just as good an argument in seventy years hence, as it + was against the abolition then." And these remarks Mr. Dundas + verified in a singular manner within this period: for in the year + 1796, when his own bill, as amended in the Commons, was to + take place, he was one of the most strenuous opposers of it; and + in the year 1799, when in point of consistency it devolved upon + him to propose it to the House, in order that the trade might + cease on the 1st of January, 1800, (which was the time of his + own original choice, or a time unfettered by parliamentary + amendment,) he was the chief instrument of throwing out Mr. Wilberforce's + bill, which promised even a longer period to its + continuance: so that it is obvious, that there was no time, within + his own limits, when the abolition would have suited him, notwithstanding + his profession, "that he had always been a warm + advocate for the measure." + + </p> + + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + <h2><a name="chap31"></a>CHAPTER XXXI. + </h2> + <p><b>Continuation from July 1799 to July 1805.—Various motions within this + period.</b></p> + + <p> + The question had now been brought forward in almost every possible + way, and yet had been eventually lost. The total and immediate + abolition had been attempted; and then the gradual. + The gradual again had been tried for the year 1798, then for + 1795, and then for 1796, at which period it was decreed, but + never allowed to be executed. An Abolition of a part of the trade, + as it related to the supply of foreigners with slaves, was the next + measure proposed; and when this failed, the abolition of another + part of it, as it related to the making of a certain portion of the + coast of Africa sacred to liberty, was attempted; but this failed + also. Mr. Wilberforce therefore thought it prudent, not to press + the abolition as a mere annual measure, but to allow members + time to digest the eloquence, which had been bestowed upon it + for the last five years, and to wait till some new circumstances + should favour its introduction. Accordingly he allowed the years + 1800, 1801, 1802, and 1803, to pass over without any further + parliamentary notice than the moving for certain papers; during + which he took an opportunity of assuring the House, that he had + not grown cool in the cause, but that he would agitate it in a + future session. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1804, which was fixed upon for renewed exertion, + the committee for the abolition of the Slave Trade elected James + Stephen, Zachary Macaulay, Henry Brougham, Esqrs., and + William Phillips, into their own body. Four other members, + also, Robert Grant, and John Thornton, Esqrs., and William + Manser and William Allen, were afterwards added to the list. + Among, the reasons for fixing upon this year, one may be assigned, + namely, that the Irish members, in consequence of the + union which had taken place between the two countries, had then + + all taken their seats in the House of Commons; and that most of + them were friendly to the cause. + + </p> + <p> + This being the situation of things, Mr. Wilberforce, on the + 30th of March, asked leave to renew his bill for the abolition of + the Slave Trade within a limited time, Mr. Fuller opposed the + motion. A debate ensued. Colonel Tarleton, Mr. Devaynes, + Mr. Addington, and Mr. Manning spoke against it, + however, notwithstanding his connection with the West Indies, + said he would support it, if an indemnification were offered to the + planters, in case any actual loss should accompany the measure. + + </p> + <p> + Sir William Geary questioned the propriety of immediate + abolition. + + </p> + <p> + Sir Robert Buxton, Mr. Pitt, Mr. Fox, and Mr. Barbara + spoke in favour of the motion. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. William Smith rose, when the latter had seated himself, + and complimented him on this change of sentiment, so honourable + to him, inasmuch as he had espoused the cause of humanity + against his supposed interest as a planter. Mr. Leigh said that + he would not tolerate such a traffic for a moment. All the + feelings of nature revolted at it. Lord de Blaquiere observed, + "it was the first time the question had been proposed to Irishmen + as legislators. He believed it would be supported by most of + them. As to the people of Ireland, he could pledge himself that + they were hostile to this barbarous traffic." An amendment + having been proposed by Mr. Manning, a division took place + upon it, when leave was given to bring in the bill, by a majority + of one hundred and twenty-four to forty-nine. + + </p> + <p> + On the 7th of June, when the second reading of the bill was + moved, it was opposed by Sir W. Yonge, Dr. Laurence, Mr. C. + Brook, Mr. Dent, and others. Among these Lord Castlereagh + professed himself a friend to the abolition of the trade, but he + differed as to the mode. Sir J. Wrottesley approved of the + principle of the bill, but would oppose it in some of its details. + Mr. Windham allowed the justice, but differed as to the expediency, + of the measure. Mr. Deverell professed himself to have + been a friend to it; but he had then changed his mind. Sir + Laurence Parsons wished to see a plan for the gradual extinction + + of the trade. Lord Temple affirmed that the bill would seal the + death-warrant of every White inhabitant of the islands. The + second reading was supported by Sir Ralph Milbank, Messrs. + Pitt, Fox, William Smith, Whitbread, Francis, Barham, and + Grenfell, and Sir John Newport. Mr. Grenfell observed, that + he could not give a silent vote, when the character of the country + was concerned. When the question of the abolition first came + before the public, he was a warm friend to it; and from that day + to this he had cherished the same feelings. He assured Mr. + Wilberforce of his constant support. Sir John Newport stated + that the Irish nation took a virtuous interest in this noble cause. + He ridiculed the idea that the trade and manufactures of the + country would suffer by the measure in contemplation; but, even + if they should suffer, he would oppose it. "Fiat justitia, ruat + coelura," Upon a division, there appeared for the second reading + one hundred, and against it forty-two. + + </p> + <p> + On the 12th of June, when a motion was made to go into a committee + upon the bill, it was opposed by Messrs. Fuller, C. Brook, + C. Ellis, Dent, Deverell, and Manning: and it was supported by + Sir Robert Buxton, Mr. Barham, and the Hon. J.S. Cocks. + The latter condemned the imprudence of the planters. Instead + of profiting by the discussions, which had taken place, and making + wise provisions against the great event of the abolition, which + would sooner or later take place, they had only thought of new + stratagems to defeat it. He declared his abhorrence of the trade, + which he considered to be a national disgrace. The House + divided: when there were seventy-nine for the motion, and + against it, twenty. + + </p> + <p> + On the 27th of June the bill was opposed in its last stage by Sir + W. Young, Messrs. Dickenson, Mr. Rose, Addington, and Dent.; + and supported by: Messrs. Pitt, W. Smith, Francis, and Barham; + when it was carried by a majority of sixty-nine to thirty-six. It + was then taken up to the Lords; but on a motion of Lord + Hawkesbury, then a member of that House, the discussion of it + was postponed to the next year. + + </p> + <p> + The session being ended, the committee for the abolition of the + Slave Trade, increased its number, by the election of the Right + + Honourable Lord Teignmouth, Dr. Dickson, and Wilson + Birkbeek, as members. + + </p> + <p> + In the year 1805, Mr. Wilberforce renewed his motion of + the former year. Colonel Tarleton, Sir William Yonge, Mr. + Puller, and Mr. Gascoyne opposed it. Leave, however, was + given him to introduce his bill. + + </p> + <p> + On the second reading of it, a serious opposition took place; + and an amendment was moved for postponing it till that day + six months. The amendment was opposed by Mr. Fox and Mr. + Huddlestone. The latter could not help lifting his voice + against this monstrous traffic in the sinews and blood of man, the + toleration of which had so long been the disgrace of the + British legislature. He did not charge the enormous guilt + resulting from it upon the nation at large; for the nation had + washed its hands of it by the numerous petitions it had sent + against it; and it had since been a matter of astonishment to all + Christendom, how the constitutional guardians of British freedom + should have sanctioned elsewhere the greatest system of + cruelty and oppression in the world. + + </p> + <p> + He said that a curse attended this trade even in the mode of + defending it. By a certain fatality, none but the vilest arguments + were brought forward, which corrupted the very persons who + used them. Every one of these was built on the narrow ground + of interest—of pecuniary profit—of sordid gain—in opposition to + every high consideration—to every motive that had reference to + humanity, justice, and religion—or to that great principle which + comprehended them all. Place only before the most determined + advocate of this odious traffic the exact image of himself in the + garb and harness of a slave, dragged and whipped about like a + beast; place this image also before him, and paint it as that of one + without a ray of hope to cheer him; and you would extort from + him the reluctant confession, that he would not endure for an hour + the misery to which he condemned his fellow-man for life. How + dared he, then, to use this selfish plea of interest against the + voice of the generous sympathies of his nature? But even upon + this narrow ground, the advocates for the traffic had been defeated. + If the unhallowed argument of expediency was worth anything + + when opposed to moral rectitude, or if it were to supercede + precepts of Christianity, where was a man to stop, on what + was he to draw? For anything he knew, it might be physically + true, that human blood was the best manure for the land; but + who ought to shed it on that account? True expediency, however, + was, where it ever would be found, on the side of that system + which was most merciful and just. He asked how it happened, + that sugar could be imported cheaper from the East Indies + than from the West, notwithstanding the vast difference of the + length of the voyages, but on account of the impolicy of slavery; + or that it was made in the former case by the industry of free + men, and in the latter by the languid drudgery of slaves. + + </p> + <p> + As he had had occasion to advert to the Eastern part of the + world, he would make an observation upon an argument, which + had been collected from that quarter. The condition of the + Negroes in the West Indies had been lately compared with that + of the Hindoos. But he would observe that the Hindoo, miserable + as his hovel was, had sources of pride and happiness, to + which not only the West Indian slave, but even his master, was + a stranger. He was to be sure a peasant; and his industry was + subservient to the gratifications of an European lord; but he + was, in his own belief, vastly superior to him. He viewed him + as one of the lowest cast. He would not on any consideration + eat from the same plate. He would not suffer his son to marry + the daughter of his master, even if she could bring him all the + West Indies as her portion. He would observe, too, that the + Hindoo peasant drank his water from his native well; that, if his + meal were scanty, he received it from the hand of her, who was + most dear to him; that, when he laboured, he laboured for her + and his offspring. His daily task being finished, he reposed with + his family. No retrospect of the happiness of former days, compared + with existing misery, disturbed his slumber, nor horrid + dreams occasioned him to wake in agony at the dawn of day. + No barbarous sounds of cracking whips reminded him, that with + the form and image of a man his destiny was that of the beast of + the field. Let the advocates for the bloody traffic state what + they had to set off on their side of the question against the comforts + + and independence of the man, with whom they compared + the slave. + + </p> + <p> + The amendment was supported by Sir William Yonge, Sir + William Pulteney, Colonel Tarleton, Messrs. Gascoyne, C. Brook, + and Hiley Addington. On dividing the House upon it, there + appeared for it seventy-seven, but against it only seventy. + + </p> + <p> + This loss of the question, after it had been carried in the last + year by so great a majority, being quite unexpected, was a matter + of severe disappointment; and might have discouraged the + friends of the cause in this infancy of their renewed efforts, if + they had not discovered the reason of its failure. After due + consideration it appeared, that no fewer than nine members, who + had never been absent once in sixteen years when it was agitated, + gave way to engagements on the day of the motion, from a belief + that it was safe. It appeared also, that out of the great number + of Irish members, who supported it in the former year, only nine + were in the House, when it was lost. It appeared also that, + previously to this event, a canvass, more importunate than had + heard of on any former occasion, had been made among the + latter by those interested in the continuance of the trade. + Many of these, unacquainted with the detail of the subject, + like the English members, admitted the dismal representations, + which were then made to them. The desire, of doing good on + the one hand, and the fear of doing injury on the other, perplexed + them; and in this dubious state they absented themselves + at the time mentioned. + + </p> + <p> + The causes of the failure having been found accidental, and + capable of a remedy, it was resolved that an attempt should be + made immediately in the House in a new form. + Lord Henry Petty signified his intention of bringing in a bill for + the abolition of the foreign part of the Slave Trade; but the impeachment + of Lord Melville, and other weighty matters coming + on, the notice was not acted upon in that session. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + + <h2><a name="chap32"></a>CHAPTER XXXII. + </h2> + <p><b>—Continuation from July 1805 to July 1806—Author + returns to his duty in the committee—Travels again round the + kingdom—Death of Mr. Pitt—His character, as it related to the + question—Motion for the abolition of the foreign + Slave-Trade—Resolution to take measures for the total abolition of + it—Address to the King to negotiate with foreign powers for + their concurrence in it—Motion to prevent any new vessel going into + the trade—these carried through both Houses of Parliament.</b></p> + + <p> + It was now almost certain, to the inexpressible joy of the committee, + that the cause, with proper vigilance, could be carried in + the next session in the House of Commons. It became them + therefore to prepare to support it. In adverting to measures for + this purpose, it occurred to them, that the House of Lords, if the + question should be then carried to them from the Commons, + might insist upon hearing evidence on the general subject. But, + alas, even the body of witnesses, which had been last collected, + was broken by death or dispersion! It was therefore to be + formed again. In this situation it devolved upon me, as I had + now returned to the committee after an absence of nine years, to + take another journey for this purpose. + + </p> + <p> + This journey I performed with extraordinary success. In the + course of it I had also much satisfaction on another account. I + found the old friends of the cause still faithful to it. It was + remarkable, however, that the youth of the rising generation + knew but little about the question. For the last eight or nine + years the committee had not circulated any books; and the + debates in the Commons during that time had not furnished + them with the means of an adequate knowledge concerning it. + When, however, I conversed with these, as I travelled along, + I discovered a profound attention to what I said; an earnest + desire to know more of the subject; and a generous warmth in + favour of the injured Africans, which I foresaw could soon be + turned into enthusiasm. Hence I perceived that the cause + furnished us with endless sources of rallying: and that the ardour + + which we had seen with so much admiration in former years, + could be easily renewed. + + </p> + <p> + I had scarcely finished my journey, when Mr. Pitt died. This + event took place in January 1806, I shall stop therefore to + make a few observations upon his character, as it related to this + cause. This I feel myself bound in justice to do, because his + sincerity towards it has been generally questioned. + + </p> + <p> + The way, in which Mr. Pitt became acquainted with this + question, has already been explained. A few doubts having been + removed, when it was first started, he professed himself a friend + to the abolition. The first proof, which he gave of his friendship + to it is known but to few; but it is, nevertheless, true, that so + early as in 1788, he occasioned a communication to be made to + the French government, in which he recommended an union of + the two countries for the promotion of the great measure. This + proposition seemed to be then new and strange to the Court of + France; and the answer was not favourable. + + </p> + <p> + From this time his efforts were reduced within the boundaries + of his own power. As far, however, as he had scope, he exerted + them. If we look at him in his parliamentary capacity, it must + be acknowledged by all, that he took an active, strenuous, and + consistent part, and this year after year, by which he realized his + professions. In my own private communications with him, + which were frequent, he never failed to give proofs of a similar + disposition. I had always free access to him. I had no previous + note or letter to write for admission. Whatever papers I wanted, + he ordered. He exhibited also in his conversation with me on + these occasions marks of a more than ordinary interest in the + welfare of the cause. Among the subjects, which were then + started, there was one, which was always near his heart. This + was the civilization of Africa. He looked upon this great work + as a debt due to that continent for the many injuries we had + inflicted upon it: and had the abolition succeeded sooner, as in + the infancy of his exertions he had hoped, I know he had a plan, + suited no doubt to the capaciousness of his own mind, for such + establishments in Africa, as he conceived would promote in due + time this important end. + + </p> + <p> + I believe it will be said, notwithstanding what I have + advanced, that if Mr. Pitt had exerted himself as the Minister of + this country in behalf of the abolition, he could have carried it. + This brings the matter to an issue; for unquestionably the + charge of insincerity, as it related to this great question, arose + from the mistaken notion, that, as his measures in Parliament + were supported by great majorities, he could do as he pleased + there. But they who hold this opinion, must be informed, that + there were great difficulties, against which he had to struggle on + this subject! The Lord Chancellor Thurlow ran counter to his + wishes almost at the very outset. Lord Liverpool, and Mr. Dundas, + did the same. Thus, to go no further, three of the most + powerful members of the cabinet were in direct opposition to + him. The abolition then, amidst this difference of opinion, could + never become a cabinet measure; but if so, then all his parliamentary + efforts in this case wanted their usual authority, and he + could only exert his influence as a private + man<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXXXII_1"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXXXII_1"></a>. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXXXII_1"></a><a href="#FootXXXII_1">A</a>: This he did with great effect on one + or two occasions. On the motion of Mr. Cawthorne in 1791, the cause + hung as it were by a thread; + and would have failed that day, to my knowledge, but for his seasonable + exertions. + </p> + <p> + But a difficulty, still more insuperable, presented itself, in an + occurrence which took place in the year 1791, but which is much + too delicate to be mentioned. The explanation of it, however, + would convince the reader, that all the efforts of Mr. Pitt from + that day were rendered useless, I mean, as to bringing the question, + as a Minister of State, to a favourable issue. + + </p> + <p> + But though Mr. Pitt did not carry this great question, he + was yet one of the greatest supporters of it; He fostered it in its + infancy. If, in his public situation, he had then set his face + against it, where would have been our hope? He upheld it also + in its childhood; and though in this state of its existence it did + not gain from his protection all the strength Which it was + expected it would have acquired, he yet kept it from falling, till + his successors, in whose administration a greater number Of + favourable circumstances concurred to give it vigour, brought it + to triumphant maturity. + + </p> + <p> + Lord Grenville and Mr. Fox, having been called to the head + + of the executive government on the death of Mr. Pitt, the cause + was ushered into Parliament under new auspices. In a former + year His Majesty had issued a proclamation by which British + merchants were forbidden (with certain defined exceptions) to + import slaves into the colonies, which had been conquered by the + British arms in the course of the war. This circumstance + afforded an opportunity of trying the question in the House + of Commons with the greatest hope of success. Accordingly Sir + A. Pigott, the Attorney-General, as an officer of the crown, + brought in a bill on the thirty-first of March 1806, the first + object of which was, to give effect to the proclamation now mentioned. + The second was, to prohibit British subjects from being + engaged in importing slaves into the colonies of any foreign + power whether hostile or neutral. And the third was, to prohibit + British subjects and British capital from being employed in + carrying on the Slave Trade in foreign ships; and also to prevent + the outfit of foreign ships from British ports. + + </p> + <p> + Sir A. Pigott, on the introduction of this bill, made an appropriate + speech. The bill was supported by Mr. Fox, Sir William + Yonge, Mr. Brook, and Mr. Bagwell; but opposed by Generals + Tarleton and Gascoyne, Mr. Rose, Sir Robert Peel, and Sir + Charles Price. On the third reading, a division being called for, + there appeared for it thirty-five, and against it only thirteen. + + </p> + <p> + On the 7th of May it was introduced into the Lords. The + supporters of it there were, the Duke of Gloucester, Lord Grenville, + the Bishops of London and St. Asaph, the Earl of Buckinghamshire + and the Lords Holland, Lauderdale, Auckland, Sidmouth, + and Ellenborough. The opposers were, the Dukes of + Clarence and Sussex, the Marquis of Sligo, the Earl of Westmoreland, + and the Lords Eldon and Sheffield. At length a + division took place, when there appeared to be in favour of it + thirty-three, and against it eighteen. + + </p> + <p> + During the discussions, to which this bill gave birth, Lord + Grenville and Mr. Fox declared in substance, in their respective + Houses of Parliament, that they felt the question of the Slave + Trade to be one, which involved the dearest interests of humanity, + and the most urgent claims of policy, justice, and religion; + + and that, should they succeed in affecting its abolition, they + would regard that success as entailing more true glory on their + administration, and more honour and advantage on their country, + than any other measure, in which they could he engaged. The + bill having passed, (the first, which dismembered this cruel trade,) + it was thought proper to follow it up in a prudent manner; and, + as there was not then time in the advanced period of the session + to bring in another for the total extinction of it, to move a resolution, + by which both Houses should record those principles, on + which the propriety of the latter measure was founded. It was + judged also expedient that Mr. Fox, as the Prime Minister in the + House of Commons, should introduce it there. + + </p> + <p> + On the 10th of June Mr. Fox rose. He began by saying + that the motion, with which he should conclude, would tend in + its consequences to effect the total abolition of the Slave Trade; + and he confessed that, since he had sat in that House (a period of + between thirty and forty years), if he had done nothing else, but + had only been instrumental in carrying through this measure, he + should think his life well spent; and should retire quite satisfied, + that he had not lived in vain. + + </p> + <p> + In adverting to the principle of the trade, he noticed some + strong expressions of Mr. Burke concerning it. "To deal in + human flesh and blood," said that great man, "or to deal, not in + the labour of men, but in men themselves, was to devour the + root, instead of enjoying the fruit of human diligence." + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Fox then took a view of the opinions of different members + of the House on this great question; and showed that, + though many had opposed the abolition, all but two or three, + among whom were the members for Liverpool, had confessed, + that the trade ought to be done away. He then went over the + different resolutions of the House on the subject, and concluded + from thence, that they were bound to support his motion. + + </p> + <p> + He combated the argument, that the abolition would ruin the + West Indian islands. In doing this he paid a handsome compliment + to the memory of Mr. Pitt, whose speech upon this particular + point was, he said, the most powerful and convincing of + any he had ever heard. Indeed they, who had not; heard it, + + could have no notion of it. It was a speech, of which he would + say with the Roman author, reciting the words of the Athenian + orator, "Quid esset, si ipsum audivissetis!" It was a speech no + less remarkable for splendid eloquence, than for solid sense and + convincing reason; supported by calculations founded on facts, + and conclusions drawn from premises, as correctly as if they had + been mathematical propositions; all tending to prove that, instead + of the West Indian plantations suffering an injury, they + would derive a material benefit by the abolition of the Slave + Trade. He then called upon the friends of this great man to + show their respect for his memory by their votes; and he concluded + with moving, "that this House, considering the African + Slave Trade to be contrary to the principles of justice, humanity, + and policy, will, with all practicable expedition, take effectual + measures for the abolition of the said trade, in such a manner, + and at such a period, as may be deemed advisable." + + </p> + <p> + Sir Ralph Milbank rose, and seconded the motion. + + </p> + <p> + General Tarleton rose next. He deprecated the abolition, on + account of the effect which it would have on the trade and + revenue of the country. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Francis said the merchants of Liverpool were at liberty + to ask for compensation; but he, for one, would never grant it + for the loss of a trade, which had been declared to be contrary to + humanity and justice. As an uniform friend to this great cause, + he wished Mr. Fox had not introduced a resolution, but a real + bill for the abolition of the Slave Trade. He believed that both + Houses were then disposed to do it away. He wished the golden + opportunity might not be lost. + + </p> + <p> + Lord Castlereagh thought it a proposition, on which no one + could entertain a doubt, that the Slave Trade was a great evil in + itself; and that it was the duty and policy of Parliament to + extirpate it; but he did not think the means offered were adequate + to the end proposed. The abolition, as a political question, + was a difficult one. The year 1796 had been once fixed upon by + the House, as the period when the trade was to cease; but, when + the time arrived, the resolution was not executed. This was a + proof, either that the House did not wish for the event, or that + + they judged it impracticable. It would be impossible, he said, + to get other nations to concur in the measure; and even if they + were to concur, it could not be effected. We might restrain the + subjects of the parent-state from following the trade; but we + could not those in our colonies. A hundred frauds would be + committed by these, which we could not detect. He did not + mean by this, that the evil was to go on for ever. Had a wise + plan been proposed at first, it might have been half-cured by this + time. The present resolution would do no good. It was vague, + indefinite, and unintelligible. Such resolutions were only the + slave-merchants' harvests. They would go for more slaves than + usual in the interim. He should have advised a system of duties + on fresh importations of slaves, progressively increasing to a + certain extent; and that the amount of these duties should be + given to the planters, as a bounty to encourage the Negro + population upon their estates. Nothing could be done, unless we + went hand in hand with the latter. But he should deliver + himself more fully on this subject, when any thing specific should + be brought forward in the shape of a bill. + + </p> + <p> + Sir S. Romilly, the Solicitor-General, differed from Lord + Castlereagh; for he thought the resolution of Mr. Fox was very + simple and intelligible. If there was a proposition vague and + indefinite, it was that advanced by the noble lord, of a system of + duties on fresh importations, rising progressively, and this under + the patronage and co-operation of the planters. Who could + measure the space between the present time and the abolition of + the trade, if that measure were to depend upon the approbation + of the colonies. + + </p> + <p> + The cruelty and injustice of the Slave Trade had been established + by evidence beyond a doubt. It had been shown to be + carried on by rapine, robbery, and murder; by fomenting and + encouraging wars; by false accusations; and imaginary crimes. + The unhappy victims were torn away not only in the time of war, + but of profound peace. They were then carried across the + Atlantic, in a manner too horrible to describe; and afterwards + subjected to eternal slavery. In support of the continuance of such + a traffic, he knew of nothing but assertions already disproved, and + + arguments already refuted. Since the year 1796, when it was + to cease by a resolution of Parliament, no less than three hundred + and sixty thousand Africans had been torn away from their native + land. What an accumulation was this to our former guilt! + + </p> + <p> + General Gascoyne made two extraordinary assertions: First, + that the trade was defensible on Scriptural ground.—"Both thy + bondmen and thy bondmaids, which thou shalt have, shall be of + the heathen, that are round about thee; of them shall you have + bondmen and bondmaids. And thou shalt take them as an heritance + for thy children after thee to inherit them for a possession; + they shall be thy bondmen for ever." Secondly, that the trade + had been so advantageous to this country, that it would have been + advisable even to institute a new one, if the old had not existed. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Wilberforce replied to General Gascoyne. He then took + a view of the speech of Lord Castlereagh, which he answered + point by point. In the course of his observations he showed that + the system of duties progressively increasing, as proposed by the + noble lord, would be one of the most effectual modes of perpetuating + the Slave Trade. He exposed, also, the false foundation of + the hope of any reliance on the co-operation of the colonists. + The House, he said, had, on the motion of Mr. Ellis, in the year + 1797, prayed his Majesty to consult with the colonial legislatures + to take such measures, as might conduce to the gradual abolition + of the African Slave Trade. This address was transmitted to + them by Lord Melville. It was received in some of the islands + with a declaration, "that they possibly might, in some instances, + endeavour to improve the condition of their slaves; but they + should do this, not with any view to the abolition of the Slave + Trade; for they considered that trade as their birth-right, which + could not be taken from them; and that we should deceive ourselves + by supposing, that they would agree to such a measure." + + </p> + <p> + He desired to add to this the declaration of General Prevost in + his public letter from Dominica. Did he not say, when asked + what steps had been taken there in consequence of the resolution + of the House in 1797, "that the act of the legislature, entitled + an act for the encouragement, protection, and better government + of slaves, appeared to him to have been considered, from the day + + it was passed until this hour, as a political measure to avert the + interference of the mother country in the management of the slaves." + + </p> + <p> + Sir William Yonge censured the harsh language of Sir Samuel + Romilly, who had applied the terms rapine, robbery, and murder + to those, who were connected with the Slave Trade. He considered + the resolution of Mr. Fox as a prelude to a bill for the abolition + of that traffic, and this bill as a prelude to emancipation, + which would not only be dangerous in itself, but would change + the state of property in the islands. + + </p> + <p> + Lord Henry Petty, after having commented on the speeches + of Sir Samuel Romilly and Lord Castlereagh, proceeded to state + his own opinion on the trade; which was, that it was contrary to + justice, humanity, and sound policy, all of which he considered + to be inseparable. On its commencement in Africa the wickedness + began. It produced there fraud and violence, robbery and + murder. It gave birth to false accusations, and a mockery of + justice. It was the parent of every crime, which could at once + degrade and afflict the human race. After spreading vice and + misery all over this continent, it doomed its unhappy victims to + hardships and cruelties which were worse than death. The first + of these was conspicuous in their transportation. It was found + there, that cruelty begat cruelty; that the system, wicked in its + beginning, was equally so in its progress; and that it perpetuated + its miseries wherever it was carried on. Nor was it baneful only + to the objects, but to the promoters of it. The loss of British + seamen in this traffic was enormous. One-fifth of all, who were + employed in it, perished; that is, they became the victims of a + system, which was founded on fraud, robbery, and murder; and + which procured to the British nation nothing but the execration + of mankind. Nor had we yet done with the evils which attended + it; for it brought in its train the worst of all moral effects, not + only as it respected the poor slaves, when transported to the colonies, + but as it respected those who had concerns with them there. + The arbitrary power, which it conferred, afforded men of bad dispositions + full scope for the exercise of their passions; and it rendered men, + constitutionally of good dispositions, callous to the + misery of others. Thus it depraved the nature of all who were + + connected with it. These considerations had made him a friend + to the abolition, from the time he was capable of reasoning upon + it. They were considerations, also, which determined the House, + in the year 1782, to adopt a measure of the same kind as the + present. Had anything happened to change the opinion of members, + since? On the contrary, they had now the clearest evidence, + that all the arguments then used against the abolition were fallacious; + being founded, not upon truth, but on assertions devoid of + all truth, and derived from ignorance or prejudice. + + </p> + <p> + Having made these remarks, he proved, by a number of facts, + the folly of the argument, that the Africans laboured under such + a total degradation of mental and moral faculties, that they were + made for slavery. + + </p> + <p> + He then entered into the great subject of population. He + showed that in all countries, where there were no unnatural hardships, + mankind would support themselves. He applied this + reasoning to the Negro population in the West Indies; which he + maintained could not only be kept up, but increased, without any + further importations from Africa. + + </p> + <p> + He then noticed the observations of Sir William Yonge, on + the words of Sir Samuel Romilly; and desired him to reserve his + indignation for those, who were guilty of acts of rapine, robbery, + and murder, instead of venting it on those, who only did their + duty in describing them. Never were accounts more shocking + than those lately sent to government from the West Indies. + Lord Seaforth, and the Attorney-General, could not refrain, in + explaining them, from the use of the words murder and torture. + And did it become members of that House (in order to accommodate + the nerves of the friends of the Slave Trade) to soften + down their expressions, when they were speaking on that subject; + and to desist from calling that murder and torture, for which a + Governor, and the Attorney-General, of one of the islands could + find no better name? + + </p> + <p> + After making observations relative to the co-operation of + foreign powers in this great work, he hoped that the House would + not suffer itself to be drawn, either by opposition or by ridicule, + to the right or to the left; but that it would advance straight + + forward to the accomplishment of the most magnanimous act of + justice, that was ever achieved by any legislature in the world. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rose declared, that on the very first promulgation of this + question, he had proposed to the friends of it the very plan of his + noble friend Lord Castlereagh; namely, a system of progressive + duties, and of bounties for the promotion of the Negro population. + This he said to show that he was friendly to the principle of the + measure. He would now observe, that he did not wholly like + the present resolution. It was too indefinite. He wished, also, that + something had been said on the subject of compensation. He was + fearful, also, lest the abolition should lead to the dangerous change + of emancipation. The Negroes, he said, could not be in a better + state, or more faithful to their masters, than they were. In three + attacks made by the enemy on Dominica, where he had a large property, + arms had been put into their hands; and every one of them + had exerted himself faithfully. With respect to the cruel acts in + Barbados, an account of which had been sent to government by + Lord Seaforth and the Attorney-General of Barbados, he had + read them; and never had he read anything on this subject with + more horror. He would agree to the strongest measures for the + prevention of such acts in future. He would even give up the + colony, which should refuse to make the wilful murder of a slave + felony. But as to the other, or common, evils complained of, he + thought the remedy should be gradual; and such also as the + planters would concur in. He, would nevertheless not oppose the + present resolution. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Barham considered compensation but reasonable, where + losses were to accrue from the measure, when it should be put in + execution; but he believed that the amount of it would be much + less than was apprehended. He considered emancipation, though + so many fears had been expressed about it, as forming no objection + to the abolition, though he had estates in the West Indies himself. + Such a measure, if it could be accomplished successfully, + would be an honour to the country, and a blessing to the planters; + but preparation must be made for it by rendering the slaves fit + for freedom, and by creating in them an inclination to free + labour. Such a change could only be the work of time. + + </p> + <p> + Sir John Newport said that the expressions of Sir S. Romilly, + which had given such offence, had been used by others; and + would be used with propriety, while the trade lasted. Some + slave-dealers of Liverpool had lately attempted to prejudice + certain merchants of Ireland in their favour. But none of their + representations answered; and it was remarkable, that the reply + made to them was in these words. "We will have no share in + a traffic, consisting in rapine, blood, and murder." He then took + a survey of a system of duties progressively increasing, and + showed that it would be utterly inefficient; and that there was + no real remedy for the different evils complained of, but in the + immediate prohibition of the trade. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Canning renewed his professions of friendship to the + cause. He did not like the present resolution; yet he would + vote for it. He should have been better pleased with a bill, + which would strike at once at the root of this detestable + commerce. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Manning wished the question to be deferred to the next + session. He hoped compensation would then be brought forward + as connected with it. Nothing, however, effectual could be done + without the concurrence of the planters. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. William Smith noticed, in a striking manner, the different + inconsistencies in the arguments of those, who contended + for the continuance of the trade. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Windham deprecated not only the Slave Trade, but + slavery also. They were essentially connected with each other. + They were both evils, and ought both of them to be done away. + Indeed, if emancipation would follow the abolition, he should like + the latter measure the better. Rapine, robbery, and murder, + were the true characteristics of this traffic. The same epithets + had not indeed been applied to slavery, because this was a condition, + in which some part of the human race had been at every + period of the history of the world. It was, however, a state, + which ought not to be allowed to exist. But, notwithstanding + all these confessions, he should weigh well the consequences of + the abolition before he gave it his support. It would be, on a + balance between the evils themselves and the consequences of + + removing them, that he should decide for himself on this + question. + + </p> + <p> + Mr. Fox took a view of all the arguments, which had been + advanced by the opponents of the abolition; and having given an + appropriate answer to each, the House divided, when there + appeared for the resolution one hundred and fourteen, and against + it but fifteen. + + </p> + <p> + Immediately after this division, Mr. Wilberforce moved an + address to His Majesty, "praying that he would be graciously + pleased to direct a negotiation to be entered into, by which + foreign powers should be invited to co-operate with His Majesty + in measures to be adopted for the abolition of the African Slave + Trade." + + </p> + <p> + This address was carried without a division. It was also + moved and carried, that "these resolutions be communicated to + the Lords; and that their concurrence should be desired + therein." + + </p> + <p> + On the 24th of June, the Lords met to consider of the resolution + and address. The Earl of Westmoreland proposed that + both counsel and evidence should be heard against them; but his + proposition was overruled. + + </p> + <p> + Lord Grenville then read the resolution of the Commons. + This resolution, he said, stated first, that the Slave Trade was + contrary to humanity, justice, and sound policy. That it was + contrary to humanity was obvious; for humanity might be said + to be sympathy for the distress of others, or a desire to accomplish + benevolent ends by good means. But did not the Slave Trade + convey ideas the very reverse of this definition? It deprived men + of all those comforts, in which it pleased the Creator to make the + happiness of his creatures to consist,—of the blessings of + society,—of the charities of the dear relationships of husband, wife, + father, son, and kindred,—of the due discharge of the relative duties of + these—and of that freedom, which in its pure and natural sense + was one of the greatest gifts of God to man. + + </p> + <p> + It was impossible to read the evidence, as it related to this + trade, without acknowledging the inhumanity of it, and our own + disgrace. By what means was it kept up in Africa? By wars + + instigated, not by the passions of the natives, but by our avarice. + He knew it would be said in reply to this, that the slaves, who + were purchased by us, would be put to death, if we were not to + buy them. But what should we say, if it should turn out, that + we were the causes of those very cruelties, which we affected to + prevent? But, if it were not so, ought the first nation in the + world to condescend to be the executioner of savages? + + </p> + <p> + Another way of keeping up the Slave Trade was by the + practice of man-stealing. The evidence was particularly clear + upon this head. This practice included violence, and often + bloodshed. The inhumanity of it therefore could not be doubted. + + </p> + <p> + The unhappy victims, being thus procured, were conveyed, + he said, across the Atlantic in a manner which justified the + charge of inhumanity again. Indeed the suffering here was so + great, that neither the mind could conceive, nor the tongue + describe, it. He had said on a former occasion, that in their + transportation there was a greater portion of misery condensed + within a smaller space, than had ever existed in the known + world. He would repeat his words; for he did not know, how + he could express himself better on the subject. And, after all + these horrors, what was their destiny? It was such, as justified + the charge in the resolution again: for, after having survived the + sickness arising from the passage, they were doomed to interminable + slavery. + + </p> + <p> + We had been, he said, so much accustomed to words, + descriptive of the cruelty of this traffic, that we had almost forgotten + their meaning. He wished that some person, educated as + an Englishman, with suitable powers of eloquence, but now for + the first time informed of all the horrors of it, were to address + their lordships upon it, and he was sure, that they would + instantly determine that it should cease. But the continuance + of it had rendered cruelty familiar to us; and the recital of its + horrors, had been so frequent, that we could now hear them + stated without being affected as we ought to be. He intreated + their lordships, however, to endeavour to conceive the hard case + of the unhappy victims of it; and as he had led them to the last + stage of their miserable existence, which was in the colonies, to + + contemplate it there. They were there under the arbitrary will + of a cruel task-master from morning till night. When they went + to rest, would not their dreams be frightful? When they awoke, + would they not awake— + + </p> + <div class="poem"> + + <div class="lg">—only to discover sights of woe,<br>Regions of sorrow, doleful shades, where peace<br>And rest can never dwell, hope never comes<br>That comes to all; but torture without end<br>Still urges?—<br><br></div> + </div> + <p> + They knew no change, except in the humour of their masters, + to whom their whole destiny was entrusted. We might, perhaps, + flatter ourselves with saying, that they were subject to the will + of Englishmen. But Englishmen were not better than others, + when in possession of arbitrary power. The very fairest exercise + of it was a never-failing corrupter of the heart. But suppose it + were allowed that self-interest might operate some little against + cruelty; yet where was the interest of the overseer or the driver? + But he knew it would be said, that the evils complained of in the + colonies had been mitigated. There might be instances of this; + but they could never be cured, while slavery existed. Slavery + took away more than half of the human character. Hence the + practice, where it existed, of rejecting the testimony of the slave: + but, if this testimony was rejected, where could be his redress + against his oppressor? + + </p> + <p> + Having shown the inhumanity, he would proceed to the + second point in the resolution, or the injustice of the trade. We + had two ideas of justice, first, as it belonged to society by virtue + of a social compact; and, secondly, as it belonged to men, not as + citizens of a community, but as beings of one common nature. + In a state of nature, man had a right to the fruit of his own + labour absolutely to himself; and one of the main purposes, for + which he entered into society, was that he might be better protected + in the possession of his rights. In both cases therefore it + was manifestly unjust, that a man should be made to labour + during the whole of his life, and yet have no benefit from his + labour. Hence the Slave Trade and the colonial slavery were a + violation of the very principle, upon which all law for the protection + + of property was founded. Whatever benefit was derived + from that trade, to an individual, it was derived from dishonour + and dishonesty. He forced from the unhappy victim of it that, + which the latter did not wish to give him; and he gave to the + same victim that, which he in vain attempted to show was an + equivalent to the thing he took,—it being a thing for which there + was no equivalent; and which, if he had not obtained by force, + he would not have possessed at all. Nor could there be any + answer to this reasoning, unless it could be proved, that it had + pleased God to give to the inhabitants of Britain a property in + the liberty and life of the natives of Africa. But he would go + further on this subject. The injustice complained of was not + confined to the bare circumstance of robbing them of the right to + their own labour. It was conspicuous throughout the system. + They, who bought them, became guilty of all the crimes which + had been committed in procuring them, and when they possessed + them, of all the crimes which belonged to their inhuman + treatment. The injustice in the latter case amounted frequently + to murder. For what was it but murder to pursue a practice, + which produced untimely death to thousands of innocent and + helpless beings? It was a duty, which their lordships owed to + their Creator, if they hoped for mercy, to do away this monstrous + oppression. + + </p> + <p> + With respect to the impolicy of the trade, (the third point in + the resolution,) he would say at once, that whatever was inhuman + and unjust must be, impolitic. He had, however, no objection to + argue the point upon its own particular merits: and, first, he + would observe, that a great man, Mr. Pitt, now no more, had + exerted his vast powers on many subjects, to the admiration of + his hearers; but on none more successfully than on the subject + of the abolition of the Slave Trade. He proved, after making an + allowance for the price paid for the slaves in the West Indies, for + the loss of them in the seasoning, and for the expense of maintaining + them afterwards; and comparing these particulars with the + amount in value of their labour there, that the evils endured by + the victims of the traffic were no gain to the master, in whose + service they took place. Indeed, Mr. Long had laid it down in + + his <em>History of Jamaica</em>, that the best + way to secure the planters + from ruin would be to do that which the resolution recommended. + It was notorious, that when any planter was in distress, and + sought to relieve himself by increasing the labour on his estate, + by means of the purchase of new slaves, the measure invariably + tended to his destruction. What then was the importation of + fresh Africans, but a system tending to the general ruin of the + islands? + + </p> + <p> + But it had often been said, that without fresh importations + the population of the slaves could not be supported in the islands. + This, however, was a mistake. It had arisen from reckoning the + deaths of the imported Africans, of whom so many were lost in + the seasoning, among the deaths of the Creole slaves. He did + not mean to say that, under the existing degree of misery, the + population would greatly increase; but, he would maintain, that + if the deaths and the births were calculated upon those, who were + either born, or who had been a long time in the islands, so as to + be considered as natives, it would be found that the population + had not only been kept up, but that it had been increased. + + </p> + <p> + If it was true, that the labour of a free-man was cheaper + than that of a slave; and, also, that the labour of a long-imported + slave was cheaper than that of a fresh-imported one; and, again, + that the chances of mortality were much more numerous among + the newly-imported slaves in the West Indies, than among those + of old standing there, (propositions, which he took to be established,) + we should see new arguments for the impolicy of the + trade. + + </p> + <p> + It might be stated also, that the importation of vast bodies of + men, who had been robbed of their rights, and grievously irritated + on that account, into our colonies, (where their miserable + condition opened new sources of anger and revenge,) was the + importation only of the seeds of insurrection into them. And + here he could not but view with astonishment the reasoning of + the West Indian planters, who held up the example of St. + Domingo as a warning against the abolition of the Slave Trade; + because the continuance of it was one of the great causes of the + insurrections and subsequent miseries in that devoted island. + + Let us but encourage importations in the same rapid progression + of increase every year, which took place in St. Domingo, and we + should witness the same effect in our own islands. + + </p> + <p> + To expose the impolicy of the trade further, he would observe, + that it was an allowed axiom, that as the condition of man was + improved, he became more useful. The history of our own + country, in very early times, exhibited instances of internal + slavery, and this to a considerable extent. But we should find + that; precisely in proportion as that slavery was ameliorated, the + power and prosperity of the country flourished. This was exactly + applicable to the case in question. There could be no general + amelioration of slavery in the West Indies, while the Slave Trade + lasted: but if we were to abolish it, we should make it the + interest of every owner of slaves to do that, which would improve + their condition, and which, indeed, would lead ultimately to the + annihilation of slavery itself. This great event, however, could + not be accomplished at once; it could only be effected in a course of time. + + </p> + <p> + It would be endless, he said, to go into all the cases, which + would manifest the impolicy of this odious traffic. Inhuman as + it was, unjust as it was, he believed it to be equally impolitic; + and if their Lordships should be of this opinion also, he hoped + they would agree to that part of the resolution, in which these + truths were expressed. With respect to the other part of it, or + that they would proceed to abolish the trade, he observed, that + neither the time, nor the manner of doing it, were specified. + Hence, if any of them should differ as to these particulars, they, + might yet vote for the resolution, as they were not pledged to + anything definite in these respects, provided they thought that + the trade should be abolished at some time or other: and he did + not believe that there was any one of them, who would sanction + its continuance for ever. + + </p> + <p> + Lord Hawkesbury said, that he did not mean to discuss the + question, on the ground of justice and humanity, as contradistinguished + from sound policy. If it could fairly be made out that the + African Slave Trade was contrary to justice and humanity, it ought + to be abolished. It did not, however, follow, because a great evil + + subsisted, that therefore it should be removed; for it might be + comparatively a less evil, than that which would accompany the + attempt to remove it. The noble lord, who had just spoken, had + exemplified this; for though slavery was a great evil in itself, he + was of opinion that it could not be done away, but in a course of + time. + + </p> + <p> + A state of slavery, he said, had existed in Africa from the + earliest time; and, unless other nations would concur with + England in the measure of the abolition, we could not change it + for the better. + + </p> + <p> + Slavery had existed also throughout all Europe. It had now + happily, in a great measure, been done away. But how? Not + by acts of parliament, for these might have retarded the event, + but by the progress of civilization, which removed the evil in a + gradual and rational manner. + + </p> + <p> + He then went over the same ground of argument, as when a + member of the Commons in 1792. He said that the inhumanity + of the abolition was visible in this, that not one slave less would + be taken from Africa; and that such as were taken from it, + would suffer more than they did now, in the hands of foreigners. + He maintained also, as before, that the example of St. Domingo + afforded one of the strongest arguments against the abolition of + the trade. And he concluded by objecting to the resolution, + inasmuch as it could do no good, for the substance of it would be + to be discussed again in a future session. + + </p> + <p> + The Bishop of London, Dr. Porteus, began, by noticing the + concession of the last speaker, namely, that if the trade was contrary + to humanity and justice, it ought to be abolished. He + expected, he said, that the noble lord would have proved that it + was not contrary to these great principles, before he had supported + its continuance; but not a word had he said to show that the basis + of the resolution in these respects was false. It followed then, + he thought, that as the noble lord had not disproved the premises; + he was bound to abide by the conclusion. + + </p> + <p> + The ways, he said, in which the Africans were reduced to + slavery in their own country, were by wars,—many of which were + excited for the purpose,—by the breaking up of villages, by kidnapping + + and by conviction for a violation of their own laws. Of + the latter class many were accused falsely, and of crimes which + did not exist. He then read a number of extracts from the evidence + examined before the privy council, and from the histories + of those, who, having lived in Africa, had thrown light upon this + subject before the question was agitated. All these, he said, + (and similar instances could be multiplied,) proved the truth of + the resolution, that the African Slave Trade was contrary to the + principles of humanity, justice, and sound policy. + + </p> + <p> + It was moreover, he said, contrary to the principles of the + religion we professed. It was not superfluous to say this, when it + had been so frequently asserted that it was sanctioned both by + the Jewish and the Christian dispensations. With respect to the + Jews he would observe, that there was no such thing as perpetual + slavery among them. Their slaves were of two kinds, those of + their own nation, and those from the country round about them. + The former were to be set free on the seventh year; and the rest, + of whatever nation, on the fiftieth, or on the year of Jubilee. + With respect to the Christian dispensation, it was a libel to say + that it countenanced such a traffic. It opposed it both in its + spirit and in its principle; nay, it opposed it positively, for it + classed men-stealers, or slave traders, among the murderers of + fathers and mothers, and the most profane criminals upon earth. + + </p> + <p> + The antiquity of slavery in Africa, which the noble lord had + glanced at, afforded, he said, no argument for its continuance. + Such a mode of defence would prevent for ever the removal of + any evil; it would justify the practice of the Chinese, who exposed + their infants in the streets to perish; it would also justify piracy, + for that practice existed long before we knew anything of the + African Slave Trade. + + </p> + <p> + He then combatted the argument, that we did a kindness to + the Africans by taking them from their homes; and concluded, by + stating to their lordships, that, if they refused to sanction + the resolution, they would establish these principles, "that + though individuals might not rob and murder, yet that nations might—that + though individuals incurred the penalties of death by such practices, + yet that bodies of men might commit them with impunity for the + + purposes of lucre;—and that for such purposes they were not only + to be permitted, but encouraged." + + </p> + <p> + The Lord Chancellor (Erskine) confessed that he was not satisfied + with his own conduct on this subject. He acknowledged, + with deep contrition, that, during the time he was a member of + the other House, he had not once attended when this great question + was discussed. + + </p> + <p> + In the West Indies he could say, personally, that the slaves + were well treated, where he had an opportunity of seeing them. + But no judgment was to be formed there with respect to the evils + complained of; they must be appreciated as they existed in the + trade. Of these he had also been an eye-witness. It was on this + account that he felt contrition for not having attended the House + on this subject, for there were some cruelties in this traffic which + the human imagination could not aggravate. He had witnessed + such scenes over the whole coast of Africa; and he could + say, that if their lordships could only have a sudden glimpse of + them, they would be struck with horror, and would be astonished + that they could ever have been permitted to exist. What then + would they say to their continuance year after year, and from age + to age? + + </p> + <p> + From information, which he could not dispute, he was warranted + in saying, that, on this continent, husbands were fraudulently + and forcibly severed from their wives, and parents from + their children; and that all the ties of blood and affection were + torn up by the roots. He had himself seen the unhappy natives + put together in heaps in the hold of a ship, where, with every + possible attention to them, their situation must have been intolerable. + He had also heard proved, in courts of justice, facts still + more dreadful than those which he had seen. One of these he + would just mention. The slaves on board a certain ship rose in a + mass to liberate themselves, and having advanced far in the pursuit + of their object, it became necessary to repel them by force. + Some of them yielded, some of them were killed in the scuffle, + but many of them actually jumped into the sea and were drowned, + thus preferring death to the misery of their situation; while others + hung to the ship, repenting of their rashness, and bewailing with + + frightful noises their horrid fate. Thus the whole vessel exhibited + but one hideous scene of wretchedness. They who were subdued + and secured in chains were seized with the flux, which carried + many of them off. These things were proved in a trial before a + British jury, which had to consider whether this was a loss which + fell within the policy of insurance, the slaves being regarded as if + they had been only a cargo of dead matter. He could mention + other instances, but they were much too shocking to be described. + Surely their lordships could never consider such a traffic to be + consistent with humanity or justice. It was impossible. + + </p> + <p> + That the trade had long subsisted there was no doubt, but this + was no argument for its continuance. Many evils of much longer + standing had been done away, and it was always our duty to + attempt to remove them. Should we not exult in the consideration, + that we, the inhabitants of a small island, at the extremity + of the globe, almost at its north pole, were become the morningstar + to enlighten the nations of the earth, and to conduct them + out of the shades of darkness into the realms of light; thus + exhibiting to an astonished and an admiring world the blessings + of a free constitution? Let us then not allow such a glorious + opportunity to escape us. + + </p> + <p> + It had been urged that we should suffer by the abolition of + the Slave Trade; he believed that we should not suffer. He + believed that our duty and our interest were inseparable; and he + had no difficulty in saying, in the face of the world, that his own + opinion was, that the interests of a nation would be best preserved + by its adherence to the principles of humanity, justice, and + religion. + + </p> + <p> + The Earl of Westmoreland said, that the African Slave Trade + might be contrary to humanity and justice, and yet it might be + politic; at least, it might be inconsistent with humanity, and yet + not be inconsistent with justice; this was the case when we + executed a criminal, or engaged in war. + + </p> + <p> + It was, however, not contrary to justice, for justice, in this + case, must be measured by the law of nations. But the purchase + of slaves was not contrary to this law. The Slave Trade was a + trade with the consent of the inhabitants of two nations, and procured + + by no terror, nor by any act of violence whatever. Slavery + had existed from the first ages of the world, not only in Africa, + but throughout the habitable globe, among the Persians, Greeks, + and Romans; and he would compare, with great advantage to his + argument, the wretched condition of the slaves in these ancient + states with that of those in our colonies. Slavery too had been + allowed in a nation which was under the especial direction of + Providence; the Jews were allowed to hold the heathen in + bondage. He admitted that what the learned prelate had said + relative to the emancipation of the latter in the year of jubilee + was correct; but he denied that his quotation relative to the + stealers of men referred to the Christian religion. It was a mere + allusion to that which was done contrary to the law of nations, + which was the only measure of justice between states. + + </p> + <p> + With respect to the inhumanity of the trade, he would + observe, that if their lordships, sitting there as legislators, were to + set their faces against everything which appeared to be inhuman, + much of the security on which their lives and property depended + might be shaken, if not totally destroyed. The question was, not + whether there was not some evil attending the Slave Trade, but + whether by the measure now before them they should increase + or diminish the quantity of human misery in the world. He + believed, for one, considering the internal state of Africa, and the + impossibility of procuring the concurrence of foreign nations in + the measure, that they would not be able to do any good by the + adoption of it. + + </p> + <p> + As to the impolicy of the trade, the policy of it, on the other + hand, was so great, that he trembled at the consequences of its + abolition. The property connected with this question amounted + to a hundred millions. The annual produce of the islands was + eighteen millions, and it yielded a revenue of four millions annually. + How was this immense property and income to be preserved? + Some had said it would be preserved, because the black + population in the islands could be kept up without further supplies; + but the planters denied this assertion, and they were the + best judges of the subject. + + </p> + <p> + He condemned the resolution as a libel upon the wisdom of + + the law of the land; and upon the conduct of their ancestors. He + condemned it also, because, if followed up, it would lead to the + abolition of the trade, and the abolition of the trade to the + emancipation of the slaves in our colonies. + + </p> + <p> + The Bishop of St. Asaph (Dr. Horsley) said, that, allowing + the slaves in the West Indies even to be pampered with delicacies, + or to be put to rest on a bed of roses, they could not be + happy, for—a slave would be still a slave. The question, however, + was not concerning the alteration of their condition, but + whether we should abolish the practice, by which they were put + in that condition? Whether it was humane, just, and politic in + us so to place them? This question was easily answered; for + he found it difficult to form any one notion of humanity, which + did not include a desire of promoting the happiness of others; + and he knew of no other justice than that, which was founded on + the principle of doing to others, as we should wish they should + do to us. And these principles of humanity and justice were + so clear, that he found it difficult to make them clearer. + Perhaps no difficulty was greater than that of arguing a self-evident + proposition, and such he took to be the character + of the proposition, that the Slave Trade was inhuman and + unjust. + + </p> + <p> + It had been said, that slavery had existed from the beginning + of the world. He would allow it. But had such a trade as the + Slave Trade ever existed before? Would the noble Earl, who + had talked of the slavery of ancient Rome and Greece, assert, + that in the course of his whole reading, however profound it + might have been, he had found anything resembling such a + traffic? Where did it appear in history, that ships were regularly + fitted out to fetch away tens of thousands of persons annually, + against their will, from their native land; that these were subject + to personal indignities and arbitrary punishments during their + transportation; and that a certain proportion of them, owing to + suffocation and other cruel causes, uniformly perished? He + averred, that nothing like the African Slave Trade was ever + practised in any nation upon earth. + + </p> + <p> + If the trade then was repugnant, as he maintained it was, to + + justice and humanity, he did not see how, without aiding and + abetting injustice and inhumanity, any man could sanction it: + and he thought that the noble baron (Hawkesbury) was peculiarly + bound to support the resolution; for he had admitted that + if it could be shown, that the trade was contrary to these principles, + the question would be at an end. Now this contrariety + had been made apparent, and his lordship had not even attempted + to refute it. + + </p> + <p> + He would say but little on the subject of revealed religion, as + it related to this question, because the reverend prelate, near him, + had spoken so fully upon it. He might observe, however, that at + the end of the sixth year, when the Hebrew slave was emancipated, + he was to be furnished liberally from the flock, the floor, + and the wine-press of his master. + + </p> + <p> + Lord Holland lamented the unfaithfulness of the noble baron + (Hawkesbury) to his own principles, and the inflexible opposition + of the noble earl (Westmoreland), from both which circumstances + he despaired for ever of any assistance from them to this + glorious cause. The latter wished to hear evidence on the subject, + for the purpose, doubtless, of delay. He was sure, that the noble + earl did not care what the evidence would say on either side; + for his mind was made up, that the trade ought not to be + abolished. + + </p> + <p> + The noble earl had made a difference between humanity, + justice, and sound policy. God forbid, that we should ever admit + such distinctions in this country! But he had gone further, and + said, that a thing might be inhuman, and yet not unjust; and he + put the case of the execution of a criminal in support of it. Did + he not by this position confound all notions of right and wrong + in human institutions? When a criminal was justly executed, + was not the execution justice to him who suffered, and humanity + to the body of the people at large? + + </p> + <p> + The noble earl had said also, that we should do no good by + the abolition, because other nations would not concur in it. He + did not know what other nations would do; but this he knew, + that we ourselves ought not to be unjust because they should + refuse to be honest. It was, however, self-obvious, that, if we + + admitted no more slaves into our colonies, the evil would be considerably + diminished. + + </p> + <p> + Another of his arguments did not appear to be more solid; + for surely the Slave Trade ought not to be continued, merely + because the effect of the abolition might ultimately be that of + the emancipation of the slaves; an event, which would be highly + desirable in its due time. + + </p> + <p> + The noble lord had also said, that the planters were against + the abolition, and that without their consent it could never be + accomplished. He differed from him in both these points: for, + first, he was a considerable planter himself, and yet he was a + friend to the measure: secondly, by cutting off all further supplies, + the planters would be obliged to pay more attention to the + treatment of their slaves, and this treatment would render the + trade unnecessary. + + </p> + <p> + The noble earl had asserted also, that the population in the + West Indies could not be kept up without further importations; + and this was the opinion of the planters, who were the best + judges of the subject. As a planter he differed from his lordship + again. If, indeed, all the waste lands were to be brought into + cultivation, the present population would be insufficient. But + the government had already determined, that the trade should not + be continued for such a purpose. We were no longer to continue + pirates, or executioners for every petty tyrant in Africa, in order + that every holder of a bit of land in our islands might cultivate + the whole of his allotment; a work, which might require centuries. + Making this exception, he would maintain, that no further + importations were necessary. Few or no slaves had been + imported into Antigua for many years; and he believed, that + even some had been exported from it. As to Jamaica, although + in one year fifteen thousand died in consequence of hurricane + and famine, the excess of deaths over the births during the + twenty years preceding 1788 was only one per cent. Deducting, + however, the mortality of the newly imported slaves, and making + the calculation upon the Negroes born in the island or upon those + who had been long there, he believed the births and the deaths + would be found equal. He had a right therefore to argue that + + the Negroes, with better treatment (which the abolition would + secure), would not only maintain but increase their population, + without any aid from Africa. He would add, that the newly + imported Africans brought with them not only disorders which + ravaged the plantations, but danger from the probability of insurrections. + He wished most heartily for the total abolition of the + trade. He was convinced, that it was both inhuman, unjust, and + impolitic. This had always been his opinion as an individual + since he was capable of forming one. It was his opinion then as + a legislator. It was his opinion as a colonial proprietor; and it + was his opinion as an Englishman, wishing for the prosperity of + the British empire. + + </p> + <p> + The Earl of Suffolk contended, that the population of the + slaves in the islands could be kept up by good treatment, so as to + be sufficient for their cultivation. He entered into a detail of + calculations from the year 1772 downwards in support of this + statement. He believed all the miseries of St. Domingo arose + from the vast importation of Africans. He had such a deep + sense of the inhumanity and injustice of the Slave Trade, that, if + ever he wished any action of his life to be recorded, it would be + that of the vote he should then give in support of the resolution. + + </p> + <p> + Lord Sidmouth said, that he agreed to the substance of the + resolution, but yet he could not support it. Could he be convinced + that the trade would be injurious to the cause of humanity + and justice, the question with him would be decided; for + policy could not be opposed to humanity and justice. He had + been of opinion for the last twenty years, that the interests of the + country and those of numerous individuals were so deeply blended + with this traffic, that we should be very cautious how we proceeded. + With respect to the cultivation of new lands, he would + not allow a single Negro to be imported for such a purpose; + but he must have a regard to the old plantations. When he + found a sufficient increase in the Black population to continue the + cultivation already established there, then, but not till then, he + would agree to an abolition of the trade. + + </p> + <p> + Earl Stanhope said he would not detain their lordships long. + He could not, however, help expressing his astonishment at what + + had fallen from the last speaker; for he had evidently confessed + that the Slave Trade was inhuman and unjust, and then he had + insinuated, that it was neither inhuman nor unjust to continue it. + A more paradoxical or whimsical opinion, he believed, was never + entertained, or more whimsically expressed in that house. The + noble viscount had talked of the interests of the planters; but + this was but a part of the subject; for surely the people of Africa + were not to be forgotten. He did not understand the practice of + complimenting the planters with the lives of men, women, and + helpless children by thousands, for the sake of their pecuniary + advantage; and they, who adopted it, whatever they might think + of the consistency of their own conduct, offered an insult to the + sacred names of humanity and justice. + + </p> + <p> + The noble Earl (Westmoreland) had asked what would be + the practical effect of the abolition of the Slave Trade. He + would inform him. It would do away the infamous practices + which took place in Africa; it would put an end to the horrors + of the passage; it would save many thousands of our fellow-creatures + from the miseries of eternal slavery; it would oblige + the planters to treat those better, who were already in that unnatural + state; it would increase the population of our islands; it + would give a death-blow to the diabolical calculations, whether it + was cheaper to work the Negroes to death and recruit the gangs + by fresh importations, or to work them moderately and to treat + them kindly. He knew of no event, which would be attended + with so many blessings. + + </p> + <p> + There was but one other matter, which he would notice. + The noble baron (Hawkesbury) had asserted, that all the horrors + of St. Domingo were the consequence of the speculative opinions + which were current in a neighbouring kingdom on the subject at + liberty. They had, he said, no such origin. They were owing + to two causes; first, to the vast number of Negroes recently + imported into that island; and, secondly, to a scandalous breach + of faith by the French legislature. This legislature held out the + idea not only of the abolition of the Slave Trade, but also of all + slavery; but it broke its word. It held forth the rights of man + to the whole human race, and then, in practice, it most infamously + + abandoned every article in these rights; so that it became the + scorn of all the enlightened and virtuous part of mankind. + These were the great causes of the miseries of St. Domingo, and + not the speculative opinions of France. + + </p> + <p> + Earl Grosvenor could not but express the joy he felt at the + hope, after all his disappointments, that this wicked trade would + be done away. He hoped that his Majesty's ministers were in + earnest, and that they would, early in the next session, take + this great question up with a determination to go through with + it; so that another year should not pass before we extended the + justice and humanity of the country to the helpless and unhappy + inhabitants of Africa. + + </p> + <p> + Earl Fitzwilliam said he was fearful lest the calamities of St. + Domingo should be brought home to our own islands. We + ought not, he thought, too hastily to adopt the resolution on that + account. He should therefore support the previous question. + + </p> + <p> + Lord Ellenborough said, he was sorry to differ from his noble + friend (Lord Sidmouth), and yet he could not help saying that if + after twenty years, during which this question had been discussed + by both Houses of Parliament, their lordships' judgments were + not ripe for its determination, he could not look with any confidence + to a time when they would be ready to decide it. + + </p> + <p> + The question then before them was short and plain. It was, + whether the African Slave Trade was inhuman, unjust, and impolitic. + If the premises were true, we could not too speedily + bring it to a conclusion. + + </p> + <p> + The subject had been frequently brought before him in a way + which had enabled him to become acquainted with it; and he + was the more anxious on that account to deliver his sentiments + upon it as a peer of Parliament, without reference to anything + he had been called upon to do in the discharge of his professional + duty. When he looked at the mode in which this traffic commenced, + by the spoliation of the rights of a whole quarter of the + globe; by the misery of whole nations of helpless Africans; by + tearing them from their homes, their families, and their friends; + when he saw the unhappy victims carried away by force; thrust + into a dungeon in the hold of a ship, in which the interval of + + their passage from their native to a foreign land was filled up with + misery, under every degree of debasement, and in chains; and + when he saw them afterwards consigned to an eternal slavery, he + could not but contemplate the whole system with horror. It was + inhuman in its beginning, inhuman in its progress, and inhuman + to the very end. + + </p> + <p> + Nor was it more inhuman than it was unjust. The noble + earl, (Westmoreland,) in adverting to this part of the question + had considered it as a question of justice between two nations, + but it was a moral question. Although the natives of Africa + might be taken by persons authorized by their own laws to take + and dispose of them, and the practice, therefore, might be said to + be legal as it respected them, yet no man could doubt, whatever + ordinances they might have to sanction it, that it was radically, + essentially, and in principle, unjust; and therefore there could be + no excuse for us in continuing it. On the general principle of + natural justice, which was paramount to all ordinances of men, + it was quite impossible to defend this traffic; and he agreed with + the noble baron (Hawkesbury) that, having decided that it was + inhuman and unjust, we should not inquire whether it was + impolitic. Indeed, the inquiry itself would be impious; for it + was the common ordinance of God, that that which was inhuman + and unjust, should never be for the good of man. Its impolicy, + therefore, was included in its injustice and its inhumanity. And + he had no doubt, when the importations were stopped, that the + planters would introduce a change of system among their slaves + which would increase their population, so as to render any further + supplies from Africa unnecessary. It had been proved, indeed, + that the Negro population in some of the islands was already in + this desirable state. Many other happy effects would follow. As + to the losses which would arise from the abolition of the Slave + Trade, they, who were interested in the continuance of it, had + greatly over-rated them. When pleading formerly in his professional + capacity for the merchants of Liverpool at their lordships' + bar, he had often delivered statements, which he had + received from them, and which he afterwards discovered to + be grossly incorrect. He could say from his own knowledge, + + that the assertion of the noble earl (Westmoreland), that property + to the amount of a hundred millions would be endangered, was + wild and fanciful. He would not however deny, that some loss + might accompany the abolition; but there could be no difficulty + in providing for it. Such a consideration ought not to be + allowed to impede their progress in getting rid of an horrible + injustice. + + </p> + <p> + But it had been said that we should do but little in the cause + of humanity by abolishing the Slave Trade; because other + nations would continue it. He did not believe they would. He + knew that America was about to give it up. He believed the + states of Europe would give it up. But, supposing that they + were all to continue it, would not our honour be the greater? + Would not our virtue be the more signal? for then + + </p> + <div class="poem"> + + <div class="lg">—Faithful we<br>Among the faithless found:<br><br></div> + </div> + <p> + to which he would add, that undoubtedly we should diminish the + evil, as far as the number of miserable beings was concerned, + which was accustomed to be transported to our own colonies. + + </p> + <p> + Earl Spencer agreed with the noble viscount (Sidmouth), that + the amelioration of the condition of the slaves was an object, + which might be effected in the West Indies; but he was certain, + that the most effectual way of improving it would be by the + total and immediate abolition of the Slave Trade; and for that + reason he would support the resolution. Had the resolution held + out emancipation to them, it would not have had his assent; for it + would have ill become the character of this country, if it had + been once promised, to have withheld it from them. It was to + such deception that the horrors of St. Domingo were to be attributed. + He would not enter into the discussion of the general + subject at present. He was convinced that the trade was what + the resolution stated it to be, inhuman, unjust, and impolitic. + He wished therefore, most earnestly indeed, for its abolition. As + to the mode of effecting it, it should be such as would be attended + with the least inconvenience to all parties. At the same time he + would not allow small inconveniences to stand in the way of the + great claims of humanity, justice, and religion. + + </p> + <p> + The question was then put on the resolution, and carried by + a majority of forty-one to twenty. The same address also to His + Majesty, which had been agreed upon by the Commons, was + directly afterwards moved. This also was carried, but without + the necessity of a division. + + </p> + <p> + The resolution and the motion having passed both Houses, + one other parliamentary measure was yet necessary to complete + the proceedings of this session. It was now almost universally + believed, in consequence of what had already taken place there, + that the Slave Trade had received its death-wound; and that it + would not long survive it. It was supposed, therefore, that the + slave-merchants would, in the interim, fit out not only all the + vessels they had, but even buy others, to make what might be + called their last harvest. Hence, extraordinary scenes of rapine + and murder would be occasioned in Africa. To prevent these, + a new bill was necessary. This was accordingly introduced into + the Commons. It enacted, but with one exception, that from + and after the first of August, 1806, no vessel should clear out + for the Slave Trade, unless it should have been previously + employed by the same owner or owners in the said trade, or should + be proved to have been contracted for previously to the 10th + of June, 1806, for the purpose of being employed in that trade. + It may now be sufficient to say that this bill also passed both + Houses of Parliament; soon after which the session ended. + + </p> + + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + <h2><a name="chap33"></a>CHAPTER XXXIII. + </h2> + <p><b>—Continuation from July 1806, to March 1807.—Death + of Mr. Fox.—Bill for the total abolition of the Slave Trade carried in + the House of Lords; sent from thence to the Commons; amended and passed + there; carried back, and passed with its amendments by the Lords; + receives the royal assent.—Reflections on this great event.</b></p> + + <p> + It was impossible for the committee to look back to the proceedings + of the last session, as they related to the great question + under their care, without feeling a profusion of joy, as well as of + gratitude to those, by whose virtuous endeavours they had taken + place. But, alas, how few of our earthly pleasures come to us + without alloy! a melancholy event succeeded. We had the + painful intelligence, in the month of October 1806, that one of + the oldest and warmest friends of the cause was then numbered + with the dead. + + </p> + <p> + Of the character of Mr. Fox, as it related to this cause, I am + bound to take notice. And, first, I may observe, that he professed + an attachment to it almost as soon as it was ushered into + the world. Early in the year 1788, when he was waited upon + by a deputation of the committee, his language was, as has + appeared in the first volume, "that he would support their object + to its fullest extent, being convinced that there was no remedy + for the evil but in the total abolition of the trade." + + </p> + <p> + His subsequent conduct evinced the sincerity of his promises. + He was constant in his attendance in Parliament whenever the + question was brought forward; and he never failed to exert his + powerful eloquence in its favour. The countenance, indeed, which + he gave it, was of the greatest importance to its welfare; for + most of his parliamentary friends, who followed his general + political sentiments, patronized it also. By the aid of these, + joined to that of the private friends of Mr. Pitt, and of other + members, who espoused it without reference to party, it was + + always so upheld, that after the year 1791 no one of the defeats + which it sustained, was disgraceful. The majority on the side of + those interested in the continuance of the trade was always so + trifling, that the abolitionists were preserved a formidable body, + and their cause respectable. + + </p> + <p> + I never heard whether Mr. Fox, when he came into power, + made any stipulations with His Majesty on the subject of the + Slave Trade: but this I know, that he determined upon the + abolition of it, if it were practicable, as the highest glory of his + administration, and as the greatest earthly blessing which it was + in the power of the Government to bestow; and that he took + considerable pains to convince some of his colleagues in the + cabinet of the propriety of the measure. + + </p> + <p> + When the resolution, which produced the debates in parliament, + as detailed in the last chapter, was under contemplation, + it was thought expedient that Mr. Fox, as the minister of state + in the House of Commons, should introduce it himself. When + applied to for this purpose he cheerfully undertook the office, thus + acting in consistency with his public declaration in the year + 1791, "that in whatever situation he might ever be, he would + use his warmest efforts for the promotion of this righteous + cause." + + </p> + <p> + Before the next measure, or the bill to prevent the sailing of + any new vessel in the trade after the 1st of August, was publicly + disclosed, it was suggested to him, that the session was nearly + over; that he might possibly weary both Houses by another + motion on the subject; and that, if he were to lose it, or to + experience a diminution of his majorities in either, he might + injure the cause, which was then in the road to triumph. To + this objection he replied, "that he believed both Houses were + disposed to get rid of the trade; that his own life was precarious; + that if he omitted to serve the injured Africans on this occasion, + he might have no other opportunity of doing it; and that he + dared not, under these circumstances, neglect so great a duty." + + </p> + <p> + This prediction relative to himself became unfortunately + verified; for his constitution, after this, began to decline, till at + length his mortal destiny, in the eyes of his medical attendants, + + was sealed. But even then, when removed by pain and sickness + from the discussion of political subjects, he never forgot this + cause. In his own sufferings he was not unmindful of those of + the injured Africans. "Two things," said he, on his death-bed, + "I wish earnestly to see accomplished,—peace with Europe—and + the abolition of the Slave Trade." But knowing well, that we + could much better protect ourselves against our own external + enemies, than this helpless people against their oppressors, he + added, "but of the two I wish the latter." These sentiments he + occasionally repeated, so that the subject was frequently in his + thoughts in his last illness. Nay, "the very hope of the abolition + (to use the expression of Lord Howick in the House of Commons) + quivered on his lips in the last hour of it." Nor is it improbable, + if earthly scenes ever rise to view at that awful crisis, and + are perceptible, that it might have occupied his mind in the last + moment of his existence. Then indeed would joy ineffable, from + a conviction of having prepared the way for rescuing millions of + human beings from misery, have attended the spirit on its + departure from the body; and then also would this spirit, most + of all purified when in the contemplation of peace, good-will, and + charity upon earth, be in the fittest state, on gliding from its + earthly cavern, to commix with the endless ocean of benevolence + and love. + + </p> + <p> + At length the session of 1807 commenced. It was judged + advisable by Lord Grenville, that the expected motion on this + subject should, contrary to the practice hitherto adopted, be + agitated first in the Lords. Accordingly, on the 2nd of January + he presented a bill, called an act for the abolition of the Slave + Trade; but he then proposed only to print it, and to let it lie on + the table, that it might be maturely considered, before it should + be discussed. + + </p> + <p> + On the 4th, no less than four counsel were heard against the + bill. + + </p> + <p> + On the 5th the debate commenced. But of this I shall give + no detailed account; nor, indeed, of any of those which followed + it. The truth is, that the subject has been exhausted. They, + who spoke in favour of the abolition, said very little that was + + new concerning it. They, who spoke against it, brought forward, + as usual, nothing but negative assertions and fanciful conjectures. + To give therefore what was said by both parties at these times, + would be but useless repetition<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXXXIII_1"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXXXIII_1"></a>. To give, on the + other hand, that which was said on one side only would appear partial. + Hence I shall offer to the reader little more than a narrative of + facts upon these occasions. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXXXIII_1"></a><a href="#FootXXXIII_1">A</a>: The different + debates in both Houses on this occasion + would occupy the half of another volume. This is another circumstance, + which reconciles me to the omission. But that, which reconciles me the + most is, that they will be soon published. In these debates justice has + been done to every individual concerned in them. + </p> + <p> + Lord Grenville opened the debate by a very luminous speech. + He was supported by the Duke of Gloucester, the Bishop of + Durham (Dr. Barrington), the Earls Moira, Selkirk, and Roslyn, + and the Lords Holland, King, and Hood. The opponents of the + bill were the Duke of Clarence, the Earls of Westmoreland and + St. Vincent, and the Lords Sidmouth, Eldon, and Hawkesbury. + + </p> + <p> + The question being called for at four o'clock in the morning, + it appeared that the personal votes and proxies in favour of Lord + Grenville's motion amounted to one hundred, and those against + it to thirty-six. Thus passed the first bill in England, which + decreed, that the African Slave Trade should cease. And here + I cannot omit paying to his Highness the Duke of Gloucester + the tribute of respect, which is due to him, for having opposed + the example of his royal relations on this subject in behalf of an + helpless and oppressed people. The sentiments too, which he + delivered on this occasion, ought not to be forgotten. "This + trade," said he, "is contrary to the principles of the British + constitution. It is, besides, a cruel and criminal traffic in the + blood of my fellow-creatures. It is a foul stain on the national + character. It is an offence to the Almighty. On every ground + therefore on which a decision can be made; on the ground of + policy, of liberty, of humanity, of justice, but, above all, on the + ground of religion, I shall vote for its immediate extinction." + + </p> + <p> + On the 10th of February, the bill was carried to the House of + Commons. On the 20th counsel were heard against it; after + + which, by agreement, the second reading of it took place. On + the 23rd the question being put for the commitment of it, Lord + Viscount Howick (now Earl Grey) began an eloquent speech. + After he had proceeded in it some way, he begged leave to enter + his protest against certain principles of relative justice, which + had been laid down. "The merchants and planters," said he, + "have an undoubted right, in common with other subjects of the + realm, to demand justice at our hands. But that, which they + denominate justice, does not correspond with the legitimate character + of that virtue: for they call upon us to violate the rights of + others, and to transgress our own moral duties. That, which + they distinguish as justice, involves in itself the greatest injury to + others. It is not, in fact, justice, which they demand, + but—favour—and favour to themselves at the expense of the most + grievous oppression of their fellow-creatures." + + </p> + <p> + He then argued the question on the ground of policy. He + showed, by a number of official documents, how little this trade + had contributed to the wealth of the nation, being but a fifty-fourth + part of its export trade; and he contended that as four-sevenths + of it had been cut off by His Majesty's proclamation, + and the passing of the foreign slave bill in a former year, no detriment + of any consequence would arise from the present measure. + + </p> + <p> + He entered into an account of the loss of seamen, and of the + causes of the mortality, in this trade. + + </p> + <p> + He went largely into the subject of negro-population, in the + islands from official documents, giving an account of it up to the + latest date. He pointed out the former causes of its diminution, + and stated how the remedies for these would follow. + + </p> + <p> + He showed how, even if the quantity of colonial produce + should be diminished for a time, this disadvantage would, in a + variety of instances, be more than counterbalanced by advantages, + which would not only be great in themselves, but permanent. + + </p> + <p> + He then entered into a refutation of the various objections + which had been made to the abolition, in an eloquent and perspicuous + manner; and concluded by appealing to the great authorities + of Mr. Pitt and Mr. Fox in behalf of the proposed measure. + "These precious ornaments," he said, "of their age and country, + + had examined the subject with all the force of their capacious + minds. On this question they had dismissed all animosity—all + difference of opinion—and had proceeded in union; and he believed, + that the best tribute of respect we could show, or the most + splendid monument we could raise, to their memories, would be + by the adoption of the glorious measure of the abolition of the + Slave Trade." + + </p> + <p> + Lord Howick was supported by Mr. Roscoe, who was then + one of the members for Liverpool; by Mr. Lushington, Mr. + Fawkes, Lord Mahon, Lord Milton, Sir John Doyle, Sir Samuel + Romilly, Mr. Wilberforce, and Earl Percy, the latter of whom + wished that a clause might be put into the bill, by which all the + children of slaves, born after January 1810, should be made free. + General Gascoyne and Mr. Hibbert opposed the bill. Mr. Manning + hoped that compensation would be made to the planters in + case of loss. Mr. Bathurst and Mr. Hiley Addington preferred + a plan for gradual abolition to the present mode. These having + spoken, it appeared on a division, that there were for the question + two hundred and eighty-three, and against it only sixteen. + + </p> + <p> + Of this majority I cannot but remark, that it was probably + the largest that was ever announced on any occasion, where the + House was called upon to divide. I must observe, also, that + there was such an enthusiasm among the members at this time, + that there appeared to be the same kind and degree of feeling, as + manifested itself within the same walls in the year 1788, when + the question was first started. This enthusiasm, too, which was + of a moral nature, was so powerful, that it seemed even to extend + to a conversion of the heart; for several of the old opponents of + this righteous cause went away, unable to vote against it; while + others of them staid in their places, and voted in its favour. + + </p> + <p> + On the 27th of February, Lord Howick moved, that the + House resolve itself into a committee on the bill for the abolition + of the Slave Trade. Sir C. Pole, Messrs. Hughan, Brown, Bathurst, + Windham, and Fuller opposed the motion; and Sir R. + Milbank, and Messrs. Wynne, Barham, Courtenay, Montague, + Jacob, Whitbread, and Herbert (of Kerry), supported it. At + length the committee was allowed to sit <em>pro formâ</em>, and Mr. + + Hobhouse was put into the chair. The bill then went through + it, and, the House being resumed, the report was received and read. + + </p> + <p> + On the 6th of March, when the committee sat again, Sir C. + Pole moved, that the year 1812 be substituted for the year + 1807, as the time when the trade should be abolished. This + amendment produced a long debate, which was carried on by + Sir C. Pole, Messrs. Fuller, Hiley Addington, Rose, Gascoyne, + and Bathurst, on one side; and by Mr. Ward, Sir + P. Francis; General Vyse, Sir T. Turton, Mr. Whitbread, + Lord Henry Petty, Messrs. Canning, Stanhope, Perceval, + and Wilberforce on the other. At length, on a division, + there appeared to be one hundred and twenty-five against the + amendment, and for it only seventeen. The chairman then read + the bill, and it was agreed that he should report it with the + amendments on Monday. The bill enacted, that no vessel should + clear out for slaves from any port within the British dominions + after the 1st of May, 1807, and that no slave should be landed in + the colonies after the 1st of March, 1808. + + </p> + <p> + On the 16th of March, on the motion of Lord Henry Petty, + the question was put, that the bill be read a third time. Mr. + Hibbert, Captain Herbert, Mr. T.W. Plomer, Mr. Windham, + and Lord Castlereagh, spoke against the motion. Sir P. Francis, + Mr. Lyttleton, Mr. H. Thornton, and Messrs. Barham, Sheridan, + and Wilberforce supported it. After this the bill was passed + without a division<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXXXIII_2"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXXXIII_2"></a>. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXXXIII_2"></a><a href="#FootXXXIII_2">A</a>: S. Lushington, Esq., M.P. + for Yarmouth, gave his voluntary + attendance and assistance to the committee, during all these motions, and + J. Bowdler, Esq., was elected a member of it. + </p> + <p> + On Wednesday, the 18th, Lord Howick, accompanied by + Mr. Wilberforce and others, carried the bill to the Lords. Lord + Grenville, on receiving it, moved that it should be printed, and + that, if this process could be finished by Monday, it should be + taken into consideration on that day. The reason of this extraordinary + haste was, that His Majesty, displeased with the introduction + of the Roman Catholic officers' bill into the Commons, + had signified his intention to the members of the existing administration, + that they were to be displaced. + + </p> + <p> + This uneasiness, which, a few days before, had sprung up + among the friends of the abolition, on the report that this event + was probable, began now to show itself throughout the kingdom. + Letters were written from various parts, manifesting the greatest + fear and anxiety on account of the state of the bill, and desiring + answers of consolation. Nor was this state of the mind otherwise + than what might have been expected upon such an occasion; for + the bill was yet to be printed. Being an amended one, it was to + be argued again in the Lords. It was then to receive the royal + assent. All these operations implied time; and it was reported + that the new ministry<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXXXIII_3"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXXXIII_3"></a> was formed; among whom were + several who had shown a hostile disposition to the cause. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXXXIII_3"></a><a href="#FootXXXIII_3">A</a>: The only circumstance, + which afforded comfort at this time, was, + that the Hon. Spencer Perceval and Mr. Canning were included in it, who were + warm patrons of this great measure. + </p> + <p> + On Monday, the 23rd, the House of Lords met. Such extraordinary + diligence had been used in printing the bill, that it was + then ready. Lord Grenville immediately brought it forward. + The Earl of Westmoreland and the Marquis of Sligo opposed it. + The Duke of Norfolk and the Bishop of Llandaff (Dr. Watson) + supported it. The latter said, that this great act of justice would + be recorded in heaven. The amendments were severally adopted + without a division. But here an omission of three words was + discovered, namely, "country, territory, or place," which, if not + rectified, might defeat the purposes of the bill. An amendment + was immediately proposed and carried. Thus the bill received + the last sanction of the Peers. Lord Grenville then congratulated + the House on the completion, on its part, of the most glorious + measure that had ever been adopted by any legislative body in the + world. + + </p> + <p> + The amendment now mentioned occasioned the bill to be sent + back to the Commons. On the 24th, on the motion of Lord + Howick, it was immediately taken into consideration there, and + agreed to; and it was carried back to the Lords, as approved of, + on the same day. + + </p> + <p> + But though the bill had now passed both houses, there was + an awful fear throughout the kingdom lest it should not receive + + the royal assent before the ministry was dissolved. This event + took place the next day; for on Wednesday, the 25th, at half past + eleven in the morning, His Majesty's message was delivered to + the different members of it, that they were then to wait upon him + to deliver up the seals of their offices. It then appeared that a + commission for the royal assent to this bill, among others, had + been obtained. This commission was instantly opened by the + Lord Chancellor (Erskine), who was accompanied by the Lords + Holland and Auckland; and as the clock struck twelve, just when + the sun was in its meridian splendour to witness this august act, + this establishment of a Magna Charta for Africa in Britain, and + to sanction it by its most vivid and glorious beams, it was completed. + The ceremony being over, the seals of the respective + offices were delivered up; so that the execution of this commission + was the last act of the administration of Lord Grenville; an + administration, which, on account of its virtuous exertions in behalf of + the oppressed African race, will pass to posterity, living through + successive generations in the love and gratitude of the most virtuous + of mankind. + + </p> + <p> + Thus ended one of the most glorious contests, after a continuance + for twenty years, of any ever carried on in any age or country. + A contest, not of brutal violence, but of reason. A contest between + those who felt deeply for the happiness and the honour of their + fellow-creatures, and those, who, through vicious custom and the + impulse of avarice, had trampled under foot the sacred rights of + their nature, and had even attempted to efface all title to the + divine image from their minds. + + </p> + <p> + Of the immense advantages of this contest I know not how to + speak; indeed, the very agitation of the question which it involved + has been highly important. Never was the heart of man so + expanded; never were its generous sympathies so generally and + so perseveringly excited. These sympathies, thus called into + existence, have been useful in the preservation of a national + virtue. For anything we know, they may have contributed + greatly to form a counteracting balance against the malignant + spirit, generated by our almost incessant wars during this period, + so as to have preserved us from barbarism. + + </p> + <p> + It has been useful also in the discrimination of moral character; + in private life it has enabled us to distinguish the virtuous + from the more vicious part of the community<a class="notelink" href="#NoteXXXIII_4"><sup>A</sup></a><a name="FootXXXIII_4"></a>. It has shown + the general philanthropist; it has unmasked the vicious in spite + of his pretension to virtue. It has afforded us the same knowledge + in public life; it has separated the moral statesman from + the wicked politician. It has shown us who, in the legislative + and executive offices of our country, are fit to save, and who to + destroy, a nation. + + </p> + <p><a name="NoteXXXIII_4"></a><a href="#FootXXXIII_4">A</a>: I have + had occasion to know many thousand persons in the + course of my travels on this subject, and I can truly say, that the part + which these took on this great question was always a true criterion of + their moral character. Some indeed opposed the abolition, who seemed to be + so respectable, that it was difficult to account for their conduct; but it + invariably turned out, in the course of time, either that they had been + influenced by interested motives, or that they were not men of steady moral + principle. In the year 1792, when the national enthusiasm was so great, the + good were as distinguishable from the bad, according + to their disposition to this great cause, as if the divine Being had marked + them, or, as a friend of mine the other day observed, as we may suppose the + sheep to be from the goats on the day of judgment. + </p> + <p> + It has furnished us also with important lessons. It has proved + what a creature man is! how devoted he is to his own interest! + to what a length of atrocity he can go, unless fortified by religious + principle! But as if this part of the prospect would be too afflicting, + it has proved to us, on the other hand, what a glorious instrument he may + become in the hands of his Maker; and that a little + virtue, when properly leavened, is made capable of counteracting + the effects of a mass of vice! + + </p> + <p> + With respect to the end obtained by this contest, or the great + measure of the abolition of the Slave Trade as it has now passed, + I know not how to appreciate its importance; to our own country, + indeed, it is invaluable. We have lived, in consequence of it, to + see the day, when it has been recorded as a principle in our legislation, + that commerce itself shall have its moral boundaries. We + have lived to see the day when we are likely to be delivered from + the contagion of the most barbarous opinions. They who supported + this wicked traffic, virtually denied that man was a moral + being; they substituted the law of force for the law of reason: but + the great act now under our consideration has banished the impious + + doctrine, and restored the rational creature to his moral rights. + Nor is it a matter of less pleasing consideration, that, at this awful + crisis, when the constitutions of kingdoms are on the point of + dissolution, the stain of the blood of Africa is no longer upon us, + or that we have been freed (alas, if it be not too late!) from a + load of guilt, which has long hung like a mill-stone about our + necks, ready to sink us to perdition. + + </p> + <p> + In tracing the measure still further, or as it will affect other + lands, we become only the more sensible of its importance; for can + we pass over to Africa; can we pass over to the numerous islands, + the receptacles of miserable beings from thence; and can we call + to mind the scenes of misery which have been passing in each of + these regions of the earth, without acknowledging that one of the + greatest sources of suffering to the human race has, as far as our + own power extends, been done way? Can we pass over to these + regions again, and contemplate the multitude of crimes which the + agency necessary for keeping up the barbarous system produced, + without acknowledging that a source of the most monstrous and + extensive wickedness has been removed also? But here, indeed, + it becomes us peculiarly to rejoice; for though nature shrinks from + pain, and compassion is engendered in us when we see it become + the portion of others, yet what is physical suffering compared with + moral guilt? The misery of the oppressed is, in the first place, + not contagious like the crime of the oppressor; nor is the mischief + which it generates either so frightful or so pernicious. The body, + though under affliction, may retain its shape; and, if it even + perish, what is the loss of it but of worthless dust? But when the + moral springs of the mind are poisoned, we lose the most excellent + part of the constitution of our nature, and the divine image is no + longer perceptible in us; nor are the two evils of similar duration. + By a decree of Providence, for which we cannot be too thankful, + we are made mortal. Hence the torments of the oppressor are + but temporary; whereas the immortal part of us, when once corrupted, + may carry its pollutions with it into another world. + + </p> + <p> + But, independently of the quantity of physical suffering, and + the innumerable avenues to vice, in more than a quarter of the globe, + which this great measure will cut off, there are yet blessings, + + which we have reason to consider as likely to flow from it. + Among these we cannot overlook the great probability that + Africa, now freed from the vicious and barbarous effects of this + traffic, may be in a better state to comprehend and receive the + sublime truths of the Christian religion. Nor can we overlook the + probability that, a new system of treatment necessarily springing + up in our islands, the same bright sun of consolation may visit + her children there. But here a new hope rises to our view. Who + knows but that emancipation, like a beautiful plant, may, in its + due season, rise out of the ashes of the abolition of the Slave + Trade, and that, when its own intrinsic value shall be known, the + seed of it may be planted in other lands? And looking at the + subject in this point of view, we cannot but be struck with the + wonderful concurrence of events as previously necessary for this + purpose, namely, that two nations, England and America, the + mother and the child, should, in the same month of the same + year, have abolished this impious traffic; nations, which at this + moment have more than a million of subjects within their jurisdiction + to partake of the blessing; and one of which, on account + of her local situation and increasing power, is likely in time to + give, if not law, at least a tone to the manners and customs of + the great continent on which she is situated. + + </p> + <p> + Reader! Thou art now acquainted with the history of this + contest! Rejoice in the manner of its termination! And, if thou + feelest grateful for the event, retire within thy closet, and pour + out thy thanksgivings to the Almighty for this his unspeakable + act of mercy to thy oppressed fellow-creatures. + + </p> + + <h3>THE END.</h3> + + + + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + <h2><a name=""></a></h2> + <p> + LONDON: + JOHN W. PARKER, ST. MARTIN'S LANE + + </p> + <p> + A SELECT LIST OF BOOKS + + </p> + <p> + PUBLISHED BY + + </p> + <p> + JOHN W. PARKER, WEST STRAND, + + </p> + <p> + LONDON. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + THE SLAVE-TRADE and SLAVERY.—HISTORY of the + RISE, PROGRESS, and ACCOMPLISHMENT, of the ABOLITION of the + AFRICAN SLAVE-TRADE by the British Parliament. By THOMAS CLARKSON, + M.A. A NEW EDITION, with Prefatory Remarks on the subsequent + ABOLITION of SLAVERY, and a Portrait from a highly-approved Picture, recently + painted by HENRY ROOM. <em>Published under the Direction of the</em> + CENTRAL NEGRO-EMANCIPATION + COMMITTEE. One large Volume. Octavo. + + </p> + <p> + THE SCRIPTURAL CHARACTER of the ENGLISH CHURCH + CONSIDERED, in a SERIES of SERMONS, with Notes and Illustrations. + By the Rev. DERWENT COLERIDGE, M.A. + + </p> + <p> + The series of Sermons, bearing the above title, were written exclusively for + perusal, and are arranged as a connected whole. The author has adopted this + form to avail himself of the devotional frame of mind, presupposed on the + part of the reader, in this species of composition; but he has not deemed it + as necessary to preserve with strictness the conventional style of the pulpit, + for which these discourses were never intended: they may, consequently, be taken + as a series of Essays, or as the successive chapters of a general work. + + </p> + <p> + THE CATHOLIC CHARACTER of CHRISTIANITY; in a + SERIES of LETTERS to a FRIEND. By the Rev. FREDERICK NOLAN, + LL.D., F.B.S., Vicar of Prittlewell, and Author of <em>The Evangelical Character of Christianity</em>, &c. + + </p> + <p> + The Profits arising from the First Edition of this Work, will be given to the Fund + for erecting a Memorial to the Martyred Bishops at Oxford. + + </p> + <p> + A MANUAL of CHRISTIAN ANTIQUITIES; or an Account + of the Constitution, Ministers, Worship, Discipline, and Customs of the Early Church; + with an Introduction, containing a Complete and Chronological Analysis of the Works + of the Antenicene Fathers. Compiled from the Works of Augusti, and other sources. By + the Rev. J. E. RIDDLE, M.A., Author of an <em>English-Latin</em> + and <em>Latin-English Dictionary</em>, <em>Luther and his Times</em>, &c. + <i>In the Press</i>. + + </p> + <p> + It has been the object of the writer, to construct a History of Christian + Antiquities sufficiently copious and accurate for the use of the student + in divinity, and at the same time instructive and acceptable to the general + reader: a work popular in point of structure and style, but containing the + substance of the more scholastic and expensive volumes of Bingham, and embodying + information collected by modern divines, who have investigated the history and + usages of the early church. Such a compendium was a desideratum in our + theological literature. Our language has hitherto possessed no book fit to occupy + the same place, in relation to the history of the church, as that which has long + been maintained by the Antiquities of Potter and Adam, in connexion with the + histories of Greece and Rome. And the author of the present volume hopes he + may be permitted to say, that, in the absence of more able labourers in this + department, he has endeavoured, by means especially of foreign aid, to remove + the want which he has described. + + </p> + <p> + THE WORKS OF DOCTOR DONNE, Dean of Saint Paul's in + 1619-1631; with a Memoir of his Life, and Critical Notices of his Writings. + By HENRY ALFORD, M.A., Vicar of Wymeswold, and late Fellow of Trinity College, + Cambridge. With a fine Portrait from an Original Picture by VANDYKE. Six + Volumes Octavo. + + </p> + <p> + A HISTORY of the INDUCTIVE SCIENCES, from the Earliest + Times to the Present. By the Rev. WILLIAM WHEWELL, B.D., F.R.S.; + Pres. Geol. Society, and Professor of Casuistry in the University of Cambridge. + Three Volumes, Octavo. + + </p> + <p> + THE NEW CRATYLUS; or, CONTRIBUTIONS towards a more + ACCURATE KNOWLEDGE of the GREEK LANGUAGE. By JOHN + WILLIAM DONALDSON, M.A., Fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge. + + </p> + <p> + A NEW SYSTEM OF LOGIC, and Developement of the Principles + of Truth and Reasoning; in which a System of Logic, applicable to Moral and + Practical Subjects, is for the first time proposed. By SAMUEL RICHARD + BOSANQUET, A.M., of the Inner Temple. + + </p> + <p> + The RISE and PROGRESS of the ENGLISH CONSTITUTION; + with an HISTORICAL and LEGAL INTRODUCTION and NOTES. By + ARCHIBALD JOHN STEPHENS, M.A., F.R.S., &c. Two Volumes, 30s. + + </p> + <p> + The Introduction is embodied in the first volume, and extends from the + earliest period of authentic history up to the termination of the reign + of William III.; and the Saxon institutions, tenure of lands, domesday, + the royal prerogative, origin and progress of the legislative assemblies, + privileges of Lords and Commons, pecuniary exactions, administration of + justice, gradual improvements in the laws, judicial powers of the Peers, + borough institutions, infamy of the Long Parliament, national dissensions, + and the principles under which the executive power was intrusted to the Prince + of Orange, have experienced every illustration. + + </p> + <p> + The doctrinal changes in the Anglican Church which were effected under the + Tudors, are justified by a reference to the records and practice of the + primitive Church, and the doctrinal schismatic points of Roman Catholic + faith relating to the canons of Scripture, seven sacraments, sacrifice + of the mass, private and solitary mass, communion in one kind, + transubstantiation, image worship, purgatory, indulgences, confession + and penance, absolution, &c., are clearly established as being in + direct opposition to the opinions of the early fathers, and the + fundamental doctrines of Christianity. + + </p> + <p> + The text of De Lolme is incorporated in the second volume, and the notes + affixed extend to great length, and embody very valuable and diversified + information relative to the rights, qualifications, and disqualifications + of members of Parliament and their constituents; the unions of Scotland + and Ireland with England; the origin, rise, and progress of the civil + law under nine periods of the Roman history; civil process in the English + courts of law; history of the courts of equity, and the principles under + which they act; trial by jury, and an analysis of criminal offences, and + the statutes under which they are punishable, with an analysis of crimes + that were committed in 1837, and of the sentences passed. There are + likewise tables of the public income and expenditure in the year ended + January 5, 1837; of the church revenues, in which will be found information + relative to the number of benefices in each diocese; total amount of incomes, + gross and net, of the incumbents in each diocese, also the averages of each + respectively; number of curates in each diocese; total amount of their + stipends, and average thereof; also four scales of the incomes of the + beneficed clergy; and genealogical tables from the Saxon and Danish kings, + to Queen Victoria. + + </p> + <p> + FROM THE PRESS OF JOHN W. PARKER. + + </p> + <p> + MEMOIRS of the LIFE, CHARACTER, and WRITINGS, of + BISHOP BUTLER, Author of <em>The Analogy</em>. By THOMAS BARTLETT, + M.A., One of the Six Preachers of Canterbury Cathedral, and Rector of + Kingstone, Kent. Dedicated, by Permission, to his Grace the Archbishop + of Canterbury. Octavo, with an original Portrait. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + ELIZABETHAN RELIGIOUS HISTORY. By HENRY SOAMES, M.A., Author + of <em>The History of the Reformation; The Anglo-Saxon Church</em>, &c. + + </p> + <p> + This Work is intended to fill a long-acknowledged chasm in English literature, + and especially in that which peculiarly concerns the Church of England. Both + Romanists and Protestant Dissenters have been attentive to the important reign + of Elizabeth, and by saying very little of each other, have given an invidious + colouring to both the Church and the Government. The present work is meant to + give every leading fact in sufficient detail, but to avoid unnecessary particulars. + It reaches from the establishment of the Thirty-nine Articles, in 1563, to the + Hampton-Court Conference, in 1604. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + THE ANGLO-SAXON CHURCH; its HISTORY, REVENUES, + and General Character. By the Rev. HENRY SOAMES, M.A., Author of the + <em>Elizabethan Religious History</em>. A NEW EDITION. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + HISTORY OF THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH; from the Ascension of Jesus Christ to the Conversion + of Constantine. By the late EDWARD BURTON, D.D. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + HISTORY of the CHURCH of ENGLAND, to the REVOLUTION + in 1688; embracing Copious Histories of the Thirty-Nine Articles, the Translation of + the Bible, and the Compilation of the Book of Common Prayer. By THOMAS VOWLER SHORT, + D.D. NEW EDITION, in One large Volume. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + The EARLY CHRISTIANS; their MANNERS and CUSTOMS, + TRIALS and SUFFERINGS. By the Rev. WILLIAM PRIDDEN, M.A. + Second Edition. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + HISTORY OF POPERY; the Origin, Growth, and Progress of the + Papal Power; its Political Influence in the European States-System, and its + Effects on the Progress of Civilization; an Examination of the Present State + of the Romish Church in Ireland; a History of the Inquisition; and Specimens + of Monkish Legends. + + </p> + <p> + LUTHER and HIS TIMES; History of the Rise and Progress + of the German Reformation. By the Rev. J. E. RIDDLE, M.A., Author of + <em>First Sundays at Church.</em></p> + <hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + POPULAR HISTORY OF THE REFORMATION, in Germany, + Switzerland, and Great Britain; and of its chief Promoters, Opposers, and Victims. + By THOMAS FOX. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + * HISTORY OF MOHAMMEDANISM, and the PRINCIPAL + MOHAMMEDAN SECTS. By W.C. TAYLOR, LL.D. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + * The CRUSADERS; SCENES, EVENTS, and CHARACTERS, + from the Times of the Crusades. By THOMAS KEIGHTLEY. Two Vols. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + * READINGS IN BIOGRAPHY; a Selection of the Lives of Eminent + Men of all Nations. + + </p> + <p> + The design of this work is to give an account of the lives of the Leaders in + the most important revolutions which history records, from the age of Sesostris + to that of Napoleon. Care has been taken to select those personages concerning + whom information is most required by the historical student. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + LIFE OF SIR WILLIAM JONES, by the late LORD TEIGNMOUTH. + With Notes, Selections from his Works, and a Memoir of his Noble + Biographer, by the Rev. SAMUEL CHARLES WILKS, M.A. 2 Vols., + 10<i>s</i>. 6<i>d</i>. + + </p> + <p> + SIR WILLIAM JONES was not only the most eminent linguist, but in many respects + one of the most remarkable men, of the last century; and LORD TEIGNMOUTH'S + Memoir of him has been justly accounted one of the most + interesting, instructive, and entertaining pieces of modern biography. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + * LIVES OF BRITISH SACRED POETS. By R. A. WILLMOTT, + Esq., Trin. Coll. Camb. Now complete, in Two Volumes, at + 4<i>s</i>. 6<i>d</i>. each. + + </p> + <p> + The FIRST SERIES contains an Historical Sketch of Sacred Poetry, and the Lives of the + English Sacred Poets preceding MILTON. + + </p> + <p> + The SECOND SERIES commences with MILTON, and brings down the Lives to that of + BISHOP HEBER inclusive. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + * LIVES OF EMINENT CHRISTIANS. By RICHARD B. + HONE, M.A., Vicar of Hales Owen. Three Volumes, + 4<i>s</i>. 6<i>d</i>. each. + + </p> + <p> + Vol. I. + ARCHBISHOP USHER, + DOCTOR HAMMOND, + JOHN EVELYN, + BISHOP WILSON. + + </p> + <p> + Vol. II. + + </p> + <p> + BERNARD GILPIN, + PHILIP DE MORNAY, + BISHOP BEDELL, + DOCTOR HORNECK. + + </p> + <p> + Vol. III. + + </p> + <p> + BISHOP RIDLEY, + BISHOP HALL, + The HONORABLE ROBERT BOYLE. + + </p> + <p><b>BIBLE BIOGRAPHY; Histories of the Lives and Conduct of the + Principal Characters of the Old and New Testament.</b> By E. FARR, + <em>Author of a New Version of the Book of Psalms</em>. + 4<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <p><b>BIBLE NARRATIVE</b> chronologically arranged, in the words of the + authorized Version; continued by an Historical Account of the Jewish Nation: + and forming a Consecutive History from the Creation of the World to the Termination + of the Jewish Polity. <em>Dedicated by permission to the Lord Bishop of Winchester</em>. + 7<i>s.</i></p> + <p><b>THE EVIDENCE of PROFANE HISTORY to the TRUTH + of REVELATION. Dedicated, by Special Permission, to her Majesty</b> THE QUEEN. + With numerous Graphic Illustrations. 10<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <p> + It is the object of this Work to exhibit, from traces afforded in the records and + monuments, both sacred and profane, of the ancient world, an unity of purpose + maintained by the all-controlling providence of God. + + </p> + <p><b>STUDENT'S MANUAL of ANCIENT HISTORY; Accounts of + the principal Nations of Antiquity.</b> By W.C. TAYLOR, LL.D. + 10<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <p> + The design of this work is to supply the student with an outline of the + principal events in the annals of the ancient world, and at the same time + to lead him to the consideration of the causes that produced the principal + revolutions recorded. The geographical position, natural productions, and + progress of civilization, in all the great monarchies and republics, have been + diligently investigated, and their effect on the fortunes of the + state pointed out. Thus the philosophy of history is made to illustrate the + narrative without interrupting it. + + </p> + <p><b>STUDENT'S MANUAL of MODERN HISTORY; the Rise and + Progress of the principal EUROPEAN NATIONS, their Political History, and the + Changes in their Social Condition; with a History of the COLONIES founded by + Europeans, and General Progress of Civilization.</b> By the same Author. + 10<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <p><b>*FAMILY HISTORY OF ENGLAND.</b> By the Rev. G.R. + GLEIG, M.A. With PICTORIAL ILLUSTRATIONS. 3 Vols., + 6<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i> each. + + </p> + <p> + The main purpose of the FAMILY HISTORY OF ENGLAND has been to unite objects + which in such undertakings are not always found to coincide; namely, to render + the study of English History not merely instructive, but interesting and amusing. + For this purpose, the greatest care has been taken to seize upon all those striking + features in the detail of events, which not only convey to the mind of the reader + a vivid picture of scenes past, but induce him to argue from effects to their causes. + While the philosophy of history, therefore, is sedulously taught, it is taught + in a manner calculated to gratify both young and old, by affording to the one class ample + scope to reflection; to the other, matter that stirs and excites, while it conveys + sound moral instruction. + + </p> + <p><b>A HISTORY OF LONDON; the Progress of its Institutions; the + Manners and Customs of its People.</b> By CHARLES MACKAY. 7<i>s.</i></p> + <p> + Of the Histories of London which have hitherto appeared, some have been too voluminous + and costly for the general reader, and others too exclusively addressed to the citizen, + the antiquarian, or the traveller. The object of the present Volume is to furnish in + a tangible form, and at a small price, a general and popular view of the progress of + civilization, and of the origin and progress of those events which have raised London + to its present importance. The work, however, is not confined to a history of events, + but contains graphic pictures of the manners and customs of the people, their sports + and pastimes, at different periods, and the characteristic incidents of their domestic + history. + + </p> + <p><b>GERMANY, BOHEMIA, and HUNGARY, visited in 1837.</b> By + the Rev. G.R. GLEIG, M.A., Chaplain to the Royal Hospital, Chelsea. Three + Volume's, Post Octavo. + 1<i>l.</i> 11<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <p> + The principal design of this work is to give some account of the state of + society as it now exists in Bohemia and Hungary. In order to reach these + countries, the Author was, of course, obliged to pass through a large + portion of Germany, where the social condition of the people, as well + as the civil, ecclesiastical, and military establishments, attracted + his attention. Upon these he touches, more especially in reference + to Prussia, towards which the eyes of the rest of Europe are at present + anxiously turned. But his great design was to obtain and communicate + information, respecting countries into which few Englishmen are accustomed + to penetrate. Hence a large portion of his tour, both in Bohemia and + Hungary, was performed on foot; and the acquaintance which he was thereby + enabled to form with all ranks and conditions of the people, was at once + more intimate and more familiar than could have taken place had he travelled + by a more usual mode of conveyance. He looked into the cottage as well as + the palace, and he has given some account of both. + + </p> + <p><b>GERMANY; the SPIRIT of her HISTORY, LITERATURE, + SOCIAL CONDITION, and NATIONAL ECONOMY</b>; illustrated by Reference + to her Physical, Moral, and Political Statistics, and by Comparison with other + Countries. By BISSET HAWKINS, M.D., Oxon., F.R.S., &c. + 10<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <p><b>TREVES; SOME ACCOUNT of the CITY of TREVES, and of its + ROMAN ARCHITECTURAL REMAINS.</b> From the German of WYTTENBACH. + Edited, with NOTES, by DAWSON TURNER, Esq., and illustrated + from Drawings made on the spot. Octavo. <em>Nearly Ready.</em></p> + <p><b>RESEARCHES IN BABYLONIA, ASSYRIA, and CHALDAEA;</b> + forming part of the Labours of the Euphrates Expedition, and <em>published with the + sanction of the Right Hon. the President of the Board of Control</em>, By WILLIAM + AINSWORTH, F.G.S., F.R.G.S. With Illustrations, Maps, &c. + 12<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <p><b>EGYPT and SINAI.</b> By M. DUMAS, with Notes by the Translator. + Uniformly with <em>Three Weeks in Palestine and Lebanon</em>. + + </p> + <p><b>THREE WEEKS IN PALESTINE AND LEBANON.</b> With + many Engravings. 3<i>s.</i></p> + <p> + A little volume from the Traveller's notes. Descriptions of Baalbec, Beiroot, Damietta, + Jaffa, Jerusalem, Ramiah, and other places, are blended with remarks upon the natives, + the incidents of the journey, and the observations and reflections which naturally occur + to a Clergyman in travelling through the Holy Land. + + </p> + <p><b>NOTES on INDIAN AFFAIRS;</b> by the late Hon. F.J. SHORE, + Judge of the Civil Court and Criminal Sessions of Furrukhabad. 2 Vols., 26s. + + </p> + <p> + The facts and opinions contained in this Work are the result of more than fifteen years' + residence in India—during which period the Author held various situations in the + Police, Revenue, and Judicial Departments, and was in habits of close communication, + both Private and Official, with all classes of the Natives. + + </p> + <p><b>SCOTLAND; SKETCHES of its COASTS and ISLANDS, and + of the ISLE of MAN;</b> descriptive of the Scenery, and illustrative of the progressive + Revolution in the Condition of the Inhabitants of those Regions. By LORD + TEIGNMOUTH, M.P. 2 Vols., with Maps, 21<i>s</i>. + + </p> + <p><b>THE WEST INDIES; the Natural and Physical History of the + Colonies; and the Moral, Social, and Political Condition of the Inhabitants, + before and after the Abolition of Negro Slavery.</b> By SIR ANDREW HALLIDAY, + K.H., M.D., F.R.S.E., &c. With Maps. + 10<i>s</i>. 6<i>d</i>. + + </p> + <p><b>NEW ZEALAND; an Account of the Position, Extent, Soil and + Climate, Natural Productions and Native Inhabitants of New Zealand, with reference + to British Colonization.</b> With Charts and Illustrations. + 4<i>s</i>. 6<i>d</i>. + + </p> + <p><b>TWO YEARS AT SEA: Narrative of a Voyage to the Swan River + and Van Diemen's Land; thence, to various parts of India.</b> With Notes of a + Residence in the Burman Empire, and of the Services and Sufferings of the Missionaries + in that Country. By JANE ROBERTS. With Engravings, 5<i>s</i>. + + </p> + <p><b>MUNGO PARK; his LIFE and TRAVELS: with an Account of + his Death, from the JOURNAL of ISAACO, the substance of later Discoveries + relative to his lamented Fate, and the Termination of the Niger.</b> 2<i>s</i>. 6<i>d</i>. + + </p> + <p><b>CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS; his LIFE, VOYAGES, and + DISCOVERY of the NEW WORLD.</b> With Engravings. + 2<i>s</i> 6<i>d</i>. + + </p> + <p><b>CAPTAIN COOK; his VOYAGES and DISCOVERIES: with an + Account of Pitcairn's Island, and the Mutiny of the Bounty.</b> Engravings. + 2<i>s</i>. 6<i>d</i>. + + </p> + <p><b>NARRATIVE of the EXPEDITION to GREENLAND, sent by + order of the KING of DENMARK, in SEARCH of the LOST COLONIES; with + the Chart completed by the Expedition.</b> Published under the Direction of the + <em>Royal Geographical Society</em>. + 8<i>s</i>. 6<i>d</i>. + + </p> + <p><b>NEW POCKET GUIDE to LONDON and its ENVIRONS;</b> containing + Descriptions, from personal knowledge, of everything worth seeing or + knowing, within Twenty-five Miles of the Metropolis; enlivened with Biographical + and other Anecdotes, connected by History of Tradition with the Places described. + With a Map of the Environs. By JOHN H. BRADY, F.R.A.S. 7<i>s</i>. + + </p> + <p> + THE DOMESTIC GARDENER'S MANUAL; being an Introduction + to Practical Gardening, on Philosophical Principles; to which is added, a + NATURALIST'S KALENDAR, and an Appendix on the Operations of Forcing, + including the Culture of Vines in Pots. By JOHN TOWERS, C.M.H.S. Second + Edition, Enlarged and Improved. One large Volume, Octavo. + + </p> + <p> + Most of the works on gardening which have come under my observation, are not only + expensive, but appear to have been written almost exclusively for the + affluent;—for those who possess, or can afford to possess, all + the luxuries of the garden. We read of the management of hot-houses, + green-houses, forcing-houses; of nursery-grounds, shrubberies, and other + concomitants of ornamental gardening. Now, although it is + acknowledged that many useful ideas may be gathered from these works, + still it is obvious that they are chiefly written for those whose rank in + life enables them to employ a chief gardener and assistants, qualified + for the performance of the many operations required in the various + departments of large gardens. As I profess to have a very different object + in view, I address this book to those, who, without aiming to become + professional gardeners, wish, nevertheless, to acquire so much of the art + of Gardening as shall enable them to conduct its more common and essential + operations with facility and precision. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + MUSICAL HISTORY, BIOGRAPHY, AND CRITICISM; being + a General Survey of Music from the earliest Period to the Present Time. By + GEORGE HOGARTH. <em>A new and enlarged edition, in Two Volumes.</em><i>10s. 6d.</i></p> + <hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + LECTURES on ASTRONOMY, delivered at KING'S COLLEGE, + London, by the Rev. HENRY MOSELEY, M.A., F.R.S., Professor of Natural Philosophy + and Astronomy in that Institution. With numerous Illustrations. + 5<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + *MECHANICS APPLIED TO THE ARTS. By PROFESSOR + MOSELEY, of King's College, London. A New Edition, corrected and improved. + With numerous Engravings. <i>6s. 6d.</i></p> + <hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + A MANUAL OF CHEMISTRY, by W.T. BRANDE, F.R.S., + Prof, Chem. R.I., and of Her Majesty's Mint. 30<i>s.</i></p> + <p> + Although Three Editions of the <em>Manual of Chemistry</em> have already + appeared, the present may be considered as a new work. It has been almost + wholly re-written; everything new and important in the Science, + both in English and Foreign Works, has been embodied; and it abounds in + references to Authorities. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + AN INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY OF CHEMICAL + PHILOSOPHY: being a preparatory View of the Forces which concur to the + Production of Chemical Phenomena. By J. FREDERIC DANIELL, F.R.S. + Professor of Chemistry in King's College, London; and Lecturer on Chemistry + and Geology in the Hon. East India Company's Military Seminary at Addiscombe; + and Author of <em>Meteorological Essays</em>. 16<i>s</i>. + + </p> + <p> + FROM THE PRESS OF JOHN W. PARKER. + + </p> + <p> + * A FAMILIAR HISTORY of BIRDS; their Nature, Habits, and + Instincts. By EDWARD STANLEY, D.D., F.L.S., Lord Bishop of Norwich; + President of the Linnaean Society. Two Vols., with Engravings. 7<i>s</i>. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + BRITISH SONG BIRDS; Popular Descriptions and Anecdotes of + the Songsters of the Groves. By NEVILLE WOOD. <i>7s</i>. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + OUTLINES OF GENERAL PATHOLOGY. By GEORGE + FRECKLETON, M.D., Cantab., Fellow of the Royal Coll. of Physicians. 7<i>s</i>. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + * POPULAR PHYSIOLOGY; familiar Explanations of interesting + Facts connected with the Structure and Functions of Animals, and particularly of + Man. By PERCEVAL B. LORD, M.B. 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By the Rev. H. + FERGUS. 4<i>s.</i><hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + * READINGS in ENGLISH PROSE LITERATURE; containing + choice Specimens OF the Works of the best English Writers, from LORD BACON + to the Present Time. With Biographical Sketches of the Writers, and ESSAYS on + the PROGRESS of ENGLISH LITERATURE. + 4<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <p> + This volume is intended to furnish the general reader with some + valuable specimens of English prose composition. 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BADEN POWELL, + M.A., F.R.S., Savilian Professor of Geometry in the University of Oxford. 3s. + + </p> + <p> + The CONNEXION of NATURAL and DIVINE TRUTH; or, the + Principles of the Inductive Philosophy considered as subservient to Theology. By + the Rev. BADEN POWELL, M.A., F.R.S., of Oriel College, Savilian Professor + of Geometry in the University of Oxford. 9s. + + </p> + <p> + NATURAL THEOLOGY considered chiefly with reference to LORD + BROUGHAM'S DISCOURSE on that subject. By the Very Rev. T. 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PARKER. + + </p> + <p> + THE EDUCATIONAL ECONOMY of ENGLAND. By the + + </p> + <p> + *Rev. JAMES SEESGOLC BOGNE, minister of St. John's, Faddington. 3s. 6d. + + </p> + <p> + CONSIDERATIONS on PHRENOLOGY in connexion with an + Intellectual, Moral, and Religious Education. By the Rev. J.S. HODGSON, M.A. 5s. 6d. + + </p> + <p> + PRINCIPLES OF ENGLISH UNIVERSITY EDUCATION. + + </p> + <p> + By the Rev, PROFESSOR WHEWELL, F.R.S. 5s. + + </p> + <p> + A DISCOURSE on the STUDIES of the UNIVERSITY of + CAMBBIDGE. By the Rev. PROFESSOR SEDGWICK. 4s. + + </p> + <p> + The STUDY of MATHEMATICS conducive to the Developement of + the Intellectual Powers. By the Rev, PROFESSOR CHEVAELIER. 1s. 6d. + + </p> + <p> + * EDUCATION AND TREATMENT OF CHILDREN; the + <i>Mother's Book</i>, adapted to the use of Parents + and Teachers. 2s. 6d. + + </p> + <p> + NATIONAL EDUCATION, and the MEANS of IMPROVING + IT. By the Rev. T.V. 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By the same. 6d. + + </p> + <p> + ANNETTE MOWBRAY; or, Conversations + with Mama. By the same. 3s. + + </p> + <p> + THE STOLEN CHILD; a Tale, By + CHARLOTTE ADAMS. 1s, 6d. + + </p> + <p> + THE DEAF and DUMB BOY; a + Tale. By the Rev. W. FLETCHER. With + Cuts. 2s. 6d. + + </p> + <p> + * INSECTS and their HABITATION. + With Cuts. 1s. + + </p> + <p><i>APPROVED BOOKS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE.</i></p> + <p><b>DOMESTICATED ANIMALS</b> considered + with reference to Civilization and the + Arts. With Engravings. By MARY ROBERTS. + 3<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <p><b>WILD ANIMALS; their Nature, + Habits, and Instincts; and the Regions they + inhabit.</b> With Engravings. By the same. + 3<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <p><b>The BOOK of TREES;</b> describing + the principal Timber Trees, and the larger + species of Palms. With numerous Engravings. + 2<i>s.</i></p> + <p><b>A BOOK of ANIMALS.</b></p> + <p><b>A BOOK of BIRDS.</b></p> + <p><b>A BOOK of FISHES.</b></p> + <p><b>A BOOK of REPTILES.</b></p> + <p><b>A BOOK of SHELLS.</b></p> + <p> + 1<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i> each. + + </p> + <p> + In this series of popular books the nature, habits, and uses + of the various objects described, are presented in a correct, + though simple and attractive form, but no recourse is had + to the marvellous. The whole are profusely illustrated + with Engravings. + + </p> + <p><b>CONVERSATIONS on GARDENING + and NATURAL HISTORY.</b> With Engravings. + 2<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <p><b>SISTER MARY'S TALES in NATURAL + HISTORY.</b> With Cuts. 2<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <p><b>CAPTAIN COOK; his VOYAGES and + DISCOVERIES:</b> with, an Account of Pitcairn's + Island, and the Mutiny of the Bounty + With Engravings. 2<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <p><b>CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS; his + LIFE, VOYAGES, and DISCOVERY of + the NEW WORLD.</b> With Engravings. + 2<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <p><b>MUNGO PARK; his LIFE and TRAVELS:</b> + with an Account of his Death from the + JOURNAL of ISAACO; the substance of + later Discoveries relative to his lamented Fate, + and the Termination of the Niger. With engravings. + 2<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <p><b>FIRST SUNDAYS AT CHURCH;</b> or, + Familiar Conversations on the Morning and + Evening Services. By the Rev. J.E. RIDDLE, + M.A., Author of <i>Luther and his Times.</i> + 2<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <p><b>ABBOTT'S READER;</b> a Series of + Familiar Pieces in Prose and Verse. By the + Authors of <em>The Young Christian</em>; <em>The Corner + Stone</em>; <em>The Teacher</em>; &c. 3<i>s.</i></p> + <p><b>*CONVERSATIONS of a FATHER + with his CHILDREN.</b> Two Vols., with + Engravings. 5<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <p><b>PETER PARLEY'S UNIVERSAL HISTORY + for the YOUNG, on the BASIS of + GEOGRAPHY.</b> 7<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <p><b>FABLES and MORAL MAXIMS.</b> Selected + by ANNE PARKER. 3<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <p><b>POPULAR POEMS for YOUNG PERSONS.</b> + Selected by ELIZABETH PARKER. + 3<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <p><b>TALES and STORIES from HISTORY.</b> + By AGNES STRICKLAND. Two Vols., + with many Engravings, 7<i>s.</i></p> + <p><b>*SCENES and SKETCHES from ENGLISH + HISTORY.</b> With Cuts. 3<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <p><b>SANDFORD and MERTON;</b> adapted + to the use of Young Persons of the present day. + By Miss ZORNLIN. With many Cuts. 3<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <p><b>SCHEMING: A TALE.</b> By Mrs. GODWIN. + 2<i>s.</i></p> + <p><b>THE CHILD of the ATLANTIC: a + Tale.</b> By CHARLOTTE ADAMS, Author + of <i>The Stolen Child.</i> 2<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <p><b>THE ROMAN CATHOLIC CHAPEL;</b> + or, Lindenhurst Parish: a Tale. By Miss + ZORNLIN. 2<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <p><b>FIVE HUNDRED CHARADES, from + History, Geography, and Biography.</b> + 1<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i></p> + <p><b>*PERSIAN STORIES;</b> illustrative of + Eastern Manners and Customs, 1<i>s.</i></p> + <p><b>*PERSIAN FABLES, for Young and + Old.</b> By the Rev. H.G. KEENE. 1<i>s.</i></p> + <hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + By Mrs. GODWIN. + + </p> + <p><b>COUSIN KATE</b>; or, the Punishment of Pride: + a Tale. + + </p> + <p><b>BASIL HARLOW</b>; or, Prodigality is not + Generosity. + + </p> + <p><b>ESTHER MORE</b>, or, Truth is Wisdom. + + </p> + <p><b>LOUISA SEYMOUR</b>; or, Hasty Impressions. + + </p> + <p><b>ALICIA GREY</b>; or, To be Useful is to be + Happy. + + </p> + <p><b>JOSEPHINE</b>; or, Early Trials. + + </p> + <p> + 2<i>s.</i> each, bound in cloth. + + </p> + <hr style="width: 45%;" /> + <p> + LONDON: JOHN W. PARKER, Publisher, WEST STRAND. + + </p> + + <hr> + <address> 1839 By THOMAS CLARKSON, M.A.. + <br></address> + <hr style="width: 65%;" /> + + <div>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 10633 ***</div> +</body> +</html> diff --git a/10633-h/images/174-1.png b/10633-h/images/174-1.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..220dd73 --- /dev/null +++ b/10633-h/images/174-1.png diff --git a/10633-h/images/175-1.png b/10633-h/images/175-1.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..bfd4e5d --- /dev/null +++ b/10633-h/images/175-1.png diff --git a/10633-h/images/176-1.png b/10633-h/images/176-1.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..7853cec --- /dev/null +++ b/10633-h/images/176-1.png diff --git a/10633-h/images/234-1.png b/10633-h/images/234-1.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..4c352eb --- /dev/null +++ b/10633-h/images/234-1.png diff --git a/10633-h/images/235-1.png b/10633-h/images/235-1.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..248f05e --- /dev/null +++ b/10633-h/images/235-1.png diff --git a/10633-h/images/236-1.png b/10633-h/images/236-1.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..e0d5ffb --- /dev/null +++ b/10633-h/images/236-1.png diff --git a/10633-h/images/236-2.png b/10633-h/images/236-2.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..0e0b654 --- /dev/null +++ b/10633-h/images/236-2.png diff --git a/10633-h/images/272-1.png b/10633-h/images/272-1.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..969f22f --- /dev/null +++ b/10633-h/images/272-1.png diff --git a/10633-h/images/391-1.png b/10633-h/images/391-1.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..fa205fd --- /dev/null +++ b/10633-h/images/391-1.png diff --git a/10633-h/images/392-1.png b/10633-h/images/392-1.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..379f74c --- /dev/null +++ b/10633-h/images/392-1.png diff --git a/10633-h/images/393-1.png b/10633-h/images/393-1.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..05f5a25 --- /dev/null +++ b/10633-h/images/393-1.png diff --git a/10633-h/images/394-1.png b/10633-h/images/394-1.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..7353d76 --- /dev/null +++ b/10633-h/images/394-1.png diff --git a/10633-h/images/clarkson.png b/10633-h/images/clarkson.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..129aa83 --- /dev/null +++ b/10633-h/images/clarkson.png diff --git a/10633-h/images/coadj1.png b/10633-h/images/coadj1.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..6e225dd --- /dev/null +++ b/10633-h/images/coadj1.png diff --git a/10633-h/images/coadj2.png b/10633-h/images/coadj2.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..bfd4e5d --- /dev/null +++ b/10633-h/images/coadj2.png diff --git a/10633-h/images/coadj3.png b/10633-h/images/coadj3.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..43be95a --- /dev/null +++ b/10633-h/images/coadj3.png |
