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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of Samboe; or, The African Boy, by Mary Ann Hedge
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: Samboe; or, The African Boy
+
+Author: Mary Ann Hedge
+
+Release Date: September 2, 2011 [EBook #37296]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK SAMBOE; OR, THE AFRICAN BOY ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Jeroen Hellingman and the Online Distributed
+Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net/ for Project
+Gutenberg (This book was produced from scanned images of
+public domain material from the Google Print project.)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+ SAMBOE;
+ OR,
+ THE AFRICAN BOY.
+
+
+ BY THE AUTHOR OF
+ "Twilight Hours Improved," &c. &c.
+
+
+
+ And man, where Freedom's beams and fountains rise,
+ Springs from the dust, and blossoms to the skies.
+ Dead to the joys of light and life, the slave
+ Clings to the clod; his root is in the grave.
+ Bondage is winter, darkness, death, despair;
+ Freedom the sun, the sea, the mountain, and the air!
+
+ Montgomery.
+
+
+
+ London:
+ PRINTED FOR HARVEY AND DARTON,
+ GRACECHURCH-STREET.
+
+ 1823.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+ TO
+ WILLIAM WILBERFORCE, Esq.
+ M. P.
+
+ THIS SMALL VOLUME,
+ DIFFIDENTLY AIMING TO SERVE THE CAUSE OF HUMANITY
+ IS,
+ BY HIS KIND PERMISSION
+ TO GIVE IT THE SANCTION OF HIS NAME,
+ HUMBLY DEDICATED;
+ WITH EVERY SENTIMENT OF UNFEIGNED VENERATION
+ AND RESPECT FOR HIS
+ EXALTED PATRIOTIC AND PRIVATE VIRTUES,
+
+ And grateful acknowledgment
+ OF HIS CONDESCENSION, IN HONOURING WITH HIS
+ ATTENTION THE HUMBLE EFFORTS OF
+
+ THE AUTHOR.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+ADVERTISEMENT.
+
+
+It has been justly remarked, "that all who read may become
+enlightened;" for readers, insensibly imbibing the sentiments of
+others, and having their own latent sensibilities called forth,
+contract, progressively, virtuous inclinations and habits; and thereby
+become fitted to unite with their fellow-beings, in the removal or
+amelioration of any of the evils of life. With a full conviction
+of this, I have attempted, and now offer to my young readers, the
+present little work. To the rising generation, I am told, the great
+question of the slave-trade is little known; the abolition of it, by
+our legislature, having taken place either before many of them existed,
+or at too early a period of their lives to excite any interest. Present
+circumstances, however, in reference to the subject, ensure for it
+an intense interest, in every heart feeling the blessing of freedom
+and all the sweet charities of home; blessings which it is our care
+to dispose the youthful heart duly to appreciate, and hence to feel
+for those, deprived, by violence and crime, of these high privileges
+of man.
+
+It is true, England has achieved the triumph of humanity, in effacing
+from her Christian character so dark a stain as a traffic in human
+beings; a commerce, "the history of which is written throughout in
+characters of blood." Yet there are but too strong evidences that
+it is yet pursued to great and fearful extent by other nations,
+notwithstanding the solemn obligations they have entered into to
+suppress it; obligations "imposed on every Christian state, no less by
+the religion it professes, than by a regard to its national honour;"
+and notwithstanding it has been branded with infamy, at a solemn
+congress of the great Christian powers, as a crime of the deepest
+dye. Of this there has long been most abundant melancholy proof; yet,
+under its present contraband character, it has been attended by, if
+possible, unprecedented enormities and misery, as well as involving
+the base and cruel agents of it in the further crime of deliberate
+perjury, in order to conceal their nefarious employment.
+
+Surely, then, no age can scarcely be too immature, in which to sow the
+seeds of abhorrence in the young breast, against this blood-stained,
+demoralizing commerce! Surely, no means, however trivial, should
+be neglected, to arouse the spirit of youth against it! It would be
+tedious, and, indeed, inconsistent with the brevity of this little
+work, to name the number of the great and the good who have protested
+against, and sacrificed their time and their treasure to abolish
+it. Suffice it to say, that an apparently trifling incident first
+aroused the virtuous energies of the ardent, persevering Clarkson, in
+the great cause;--that a view of the produce of Africa, and proofs of
+the ingenuity of Africans, kindled the fire of enthusiasm in the noble
+and comprehensive mind of a Pitt. Nor did the flame quiver or become
+dim while he was the pilot of the state, though he was not decreed to
+see the success of perseverance in the cause of justice and humanity.
+
+Let me, therefore, be acquitted of presumption, when I express a hope,
+that, trifling as is the present work, yet, as the leading events
+it records are not the creations of fancy, but realities that have
+passed; that they have not been collected for effect, or uselessly
+to awaken the feelings; but having been actually presented in the
+pursuit of a disgraceful and cruel commerce, are now offered to the
+view of my young readers, in order to confirm the great truths, that
+cruelty and oppression encouraged, soon brutalize the nature of man;
+divesting him of every distinguishing trait which unites him with
+superior intelligences, and sinking him in the scale of being far
+below the ravening wolf and insatiate tiger; and that the slave-trade,
+more especially, never fails effectually to destroy all the sympathies
+of humanity, and so far to barbarize those who are concerned in it,
+as assuredly to cause civilized man to resume the ferocity of the
+savage whom he presumes to despise.
+
+
+ The Author.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+ "Offspring of love divine, Humanity!
+
+ ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
+
+ Come thou, and weep with me substantial ills,
+ And execrate the wrongs that Afric's sons,
+ Torn from their native shore, and doom'd to bear
+ The yoke of servitude in foreign climes,
+ Sustain. Nor vainly let our sorrows flow,
+ Nor let the strong emotion rise in vain.
+ But may the kind contagion widely spread,
+ Till, in its flame, the unrelenting heart
+ Of avarice melt in softest sympathy,
+ And one bright ray of universal love,
+ Of grateful incense, rises up to heaven!"
+
+
+ Roscoe's Wrongs of Africa.
+
+
+ "E'en from my pen some heartfelt truths may fall;
+ For outrag'd nature claims the care of all."
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+SAMBOE; OR, THE AFRICAN BOY.
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+ "Slaves of gold! whose sordid dealings
+ Tarnish all your boasted powers,
+ Prove that ye have human feelings,
+ Ere ye proudly question ours."
+
+
+"Encourage the chiefs to go to war, that they may obtain slaves; for
+as on many accounts we require a large number, we desire you to exert
+yourself, and not stand out for a price." Such was the direction,
+and such the order, of the slave-merchants at Cape Coast Castle,
+to one of their factors in the interior, for the collection and
+purchase of slaves; who, dreadful as was his occupation, yet at all
+times faithfully endeavoured to obey the orders of his employers.
+
+This person had, by studying the character, peculiarities, prejudices,
+and language of the natives, obtained a great influence over the chiefs
+of a country, peculiarly blessed by Providence, with all that can
+enchant the eye, or gratify the wants of man. It is a well-known, but
+melancholy truth, that, by the introduction of spirituous liquors, and
+other desirable articles to an uncivilized people, the Europeans have
+greatly augmented and cherished the dreadful traffic in human beings:
+the African kings and chiefs being induced, by these temptations,
+to barter their subjects and captives, for commodities they estimate
+so highly; frequently even fomenting quarrels, and making war with
+each other, at the instigation of the slave-factors, for the sole
+purpose of obtaining captives, in order to exchange them for European
+articles, with which the factors, who visit their country for the
+dreadful purpose, are well furnished; to tempt the appetites, and
+provoke the wild passions, of the wretched beings they intend to make
+the instruments of their inhuman thirst of gain. (Note A.)
+
+
+ "The natural bond
+ Of brotherhood is sever'd as the flax
+ That falls asunder at the touch of fire--
+ And having pow'r
+ T' enforce the wrong, for such a worthy cause,
+ Dooms and devotes him as his lawful prey."
+
+
+Mr. Irving, the factor whom we have named as having received the
+peremptory and unlimited order from the merchants of Cape Coast
+Castle, had won their confidence, by the remarkable success which had
+attended his negociations with the king and principal grandees of
+Whidah, in which delightful part of Africa he had resided for some
+years. Nothing, perhaps, more strongly proves the indurating power
+of the love of gain upon the heart, and the baneful influence of the
+habitual view of oppression on the better feelings of the soul, than
+the change which generally takes place in the characters of the young
+men whose official duty places them in situations like that filled by
+Mr. Irving. It has, indeed, been most justly and impressively observed,
+that it is impossible for any one to be accustomed to carry away
+miserable beings, by force, from their country and endearing ties,
+to keep them in chains, to see their tears, to hear their mournful
+lamentations, to behold the dead and the dying mingled together, to
+keep up a system of severity towards them in their deep affliction,
+to be constant witnesses of the misery of exile, bondage, cruelty,
+and oppression, which, together, form the malignant character of this
+nefarious traffic, without losing all those better feelings it should
+be the study of man to cherish; or without contracting those habits
+of moroseness and ferocity which brutalize the nature.
+
+Irving, like many other youths, had been induced by an ardent
+curiosity, and an enterprising spirit, to engage as a writer to
+the Royal African Company [1], at a time when the traffic in slaves
+was legally pursued, as one source of riches to a great commercial
+nation. Yet it may with candour be presumed, that he, and many a
+youth entering upon the same path, with the same laudable impulses,
+had they anticipated the peril to which they exposed their humane
+principles, by engaging themselves in a trade so repugnant to nature,
+religion, and justice, would rather have undergone personal hazard and
+difficulty in their native land, so that they might have fostered that
+divine principle, which is the noble and distinguishing characteristic
+of man--of free-born man.
+
+That Irving possessed a native humanity and right feeling, would
+appear from his letters to his friends in England, written on his
+arrival in Africa; and as he describes the country as it first met
+his admiring and youthful eye, it may be not unamusing to my young
+readers, to extract a few passages from his letters to his sister,
+before we pursue the detail of subsequent events, in which he was
+an actor. "Well, my dear Sophy," he observes, "are you reconciled
+to your brother becoming a dealer in slaves? I assure you I have had
+some compunctious visitings of conscience upon the subject during the
+voyage; the calmness and monotony of which, gave me ample opportunity
+of reflecting upon the kind-hearted arguments of my good little sister,
+against a commerce, which, I believe she says true when she asserts,
+'is founded in injustice and crime, and a compound of all that is
+wicked and cruel.' But, Sophy, what will you call your wild brother,
+when I tell you, that the first glance I had of this enchanting
+country, put you, your arguments, the unhappy and abused natives,
+from my mind, in an instant; and I could only bless my stars that I
+was to become an inhabitant of a region which seemed to offer so many
+delights--so many interesting studies for my pencil. I can anticipate
+all you would say upon this subject, as to the cruelty of tearing
+the miserable natives from scenes which 'breathe of Paradise,' so
+as to have raised the enthusiasm of even the thoughtless heart of
+Charles Irving. But I have no time for argument, Sophy, scarcely
+that for brief description. Imagine then, my dear sister, the most
+boundless luxuriancy of landscape, continually clothed with all the
+beauties and riches of spring, summer, and harvest; lofty mountains
+covered with wood, chiefly fruit-trees; fine streams, romantic
+and fertile valleys. Such is the general appearance: the scenery
+in detail surpasses description. This charming country seems to be
+remarkably populous. The kingdom of Whidah, in which is situated the
+factory to which I am at present appointed, is (as you will find on
+consulting your map) on the western side of Africa, commonly called
+the slave-coast. This kingdom we should rather call a county, as
+it extends only about ten miles along the coast, and about seven
+miles inland. Yet, although of so small an extent, it is divided
+into twenty-six divisions, or provinces. The villages are numerous,
+and thickly inhabited. The houses or huts of the natives are small;
+conical at the top, and thatched either with long grass, or the
+palmetto leaves. The interior is very clean; but from the fish and
+other articles of food kept in them, you may readily imagine the
+effluvia is not very pleasant to European nicety.
+
+The furniture of these dwellings is not very costly, seldom amounting
+to more than a chest to contain their light and simple articles of
+clothing; a mat to repose upon, raised a little from the floor; a jar
+to contain water, and calabashes of various sizes; two or three wooden
+mortars to pound corn and rice, and a basket or sieve to prepare it
+when done. The villages formed of these huts are generally built in
+a circle, surrounded by a clay wall, scattered over the country in
+the midst of beautiful groves clear of brushwood, and have a most
+picturesque and beautiful effect to a stranger's eye. The fields are
+always verdant, and nature puts forth her beauties with inexhaustible
+profusion; perpetual spring and autumn succeeding each other. The
+Company's factory here, is most pleasantly situated in the midst of
+gardens, which amply supply it, and the fort, (called Fort William,)
+consisting of four batteries, mounting seventeen guns. In these gardens
+is an abundant supply of beans, potatoes, every other edible root
+known in Europe, and a great variety of delicious fruits peculiar to
+the climate. Amongst the most beautiful and useful vegetable riches of
+Africa, may be reckoned the plantain and banana trees. The latter bears
+a fruit six or seven inches in length, covered with a yellow skin,
+very tender when ripe. The pulp of it is as soft as a marmalade, and
+of a most pleasant taste. It grows on a stalk about six yards high,
+the leaves being nearly two yards long, and a foot wide. One stalk
+only bears a single cluster of the fruit, which sometimes consists
+of forty or fifty bananas; and when the cluster is gathered, the
+stalk is cut off, or it would bear no more fruit. The plantain is not
+unlike the banana, but somewhat longer, although the flavour greatly
+resembles it. The leaves, and every part of the tree, are converted
+into a variety of useful articles. There are also guavas, a fruit very
+like our peach, except that the external coat is rougher; and it has
+small kernels like the apple, instead of a stone. Cocoas, oranges,
+lemons, citrons, and limes, abound, and, as you may readily suppose,
+are in great request amongst us, as well as beautiful additions to
+the luxuriant vegetable riches of the country."
+
+In a subsequent letter he again writes: "I was much pleased this
+morning to see the natives extracting what we call the wine from the
+palm tree, which is beautifully straight and lofty, growing sometimes
+to a prodigious height.
+
+"They make an incision in the trunk, near the summit of the tree, to
+which they apply, in succession, gourd bottles, conducting the liquor
+into them by means of a pipe formed of the leaves. This wine is very
+pleasant when fresh drawn, but is apt to disagree with Europeans in
+that state. After fermentation, however, it becomes like Rhenish wine,
+and is extremely good, without being prejudicial. You would be alarmed,
+Sophy, to see how rapidly and nimbly the natives mount these lofty
+trees, which are sometimes sixty, seventy, and even a hundred feet in
+height, and the bark smooth. The only aid they have is a piece of the
+bark of a tree, which they form into a hoop by holding the two ends,
+having enclosed themselves and the trunk of the tree. They then place
+their feet against the tree, and their backs against the hoop, and
+mount as quick as thought. It sometimes occurs that they miss their
+footing, the consequence of course is, that they are precipitated
+with tremendous force to the ground, and dashed to pieces.
+
+"There is another tree called the ciboa, very much like the palm,
+and applied to the same purposes: the wine of this is not quite so
+sweet as that of the palm.
+
+In another letter he further observes: "I think you will be pleased to
+hear in what manner I pass my time here, my dear Sophy, while you are
+perhaps talking of me in the dear domestic circle; I will therefore
+give you the journal of a day, which, with little variation, is the
+general mode of my living.
+
+"I rise by day-break, in order to enjoy the refreshing coolness of
+the morning, and generally ride or walk into the country, through
+the delightful woods and savannahs.
+
+"On my return, I breakfast on never-tiring tea, or, for want of it, a
+sort of tea growing in the woods, called simbong. Upon any deficiency
+of sugar, I use honey, as it is at all times easily procured; except,
+perhaps, when the natives are making their honey wine, of which they
+are immoderately fond. Sometimes I take milk, with cakes of rice or
+flour; or Guinea-corn, baked in a very useful article in my kitchen;
+viz. a large iron pot. The milk will not boil without turning to
+whey, which I ascribe to the nature of the grass upon which the cows
+feed. My dinner is frequently beef, either fresh or salted, in which
+latter state it will keep six or seven days. This I either boil and eat
+with coosh-coosh, (Note B.) a favourite dish with the natives, or with
+pumpkins and coliloo, like spinach, both of which are plentiful. Fowls
+are so cheap and common, that they may always be purchased for a few
+charges of gunpowder; and when I wish for either fish or game, I send
+a fisher or hunter, allowed by the factory, to supply me; and they
+never fail to bring me ample store of the finest sorts of the former;
+and of the latter, deer, ducks, partridges, wild geese, and what are
+here called crown birds, all which abound in their different seasons.
+
+"The afternoon is the usual time of trade; but sometimes it is
+protracted during the whole of several days, and being my proper
+business, I make a point of never neglecting it (Note C.) If concluded
+early, I sometimes take a trip to some of the neighbouring villages,
+and return home to supper, amusing myself, as I am now doing, with
+writing or reading, and occasionally visiting two or three friends. In
+these visits, the refreshment is generally palm and honey wine, or a
+fruit called cola, which very agreeably relishes water. I frequently,
+also, form one of a party in shooting doves and partridges. I have
+indeed no want of society, generally having even more company than I
+desire. These visitors are traders, and messengers from the great men
+in this and the adjacent kingdom, who frequently send me presents of
+pieces of cloths, cows, spices, and even a slave. These presents I
+would gladly decline, as I well know they are given with a view of
+obtaining more valuable returns, or to bribe me to some measure in
+which my interest or aid is required; but I am obliged to accept what
+they offer, because the interest of the Company renders it necessary
+to conciliate the natives, who may forward the trade. But to return
+to my accommodation: perhaps you think I repose on the 'verdant mead,
+under the spreading palm.' No such thing, my dear Sophy: my bed-room
+is large and airy, and during the rainy season glows with the cheering
+blaze of a fire. My bedstead is raised by forkillas; at the head and
+feet are cross poles, upon which is placed a platform of split cane. My
+bed itself is composed of silk-cotton, a sort of vegetable down,
+extremely soft, and very plentiful here; and to complete my bedstead,
+I have erected light posts at the corners, to support a pavilion
+of thin cloth, as a defence against the musquitoes. Independently
+of the linen I brought from England, I have some presented to me,
+by a negro king and his sister: (what think you of that, Sophy?) it
+consists of fine cotton cloths, six yards long and three wide: these
+I use for sheets. Thus, you find, I have all my comforts around me,
+even on the burning shores of Africa, to which you were so unwilling
+I should direct my way.
+
+"I cannot close my letter without telling you of the pleasure I enjoyed
+in my excursion this morning, with a friend who is my colleague in
+office, and with whom I am indeed so intimate, that we have acquired
+the designation of 'the inseparables.' We set out just as the day
+was dawning, and had penetrated nearly five miles into the country,
+ere the sun bore any oppressive power; and taking our fowling pieces
+with us, we shot a few birds for sport, as we proceeded through a
+country rich beyond your imagination to conceive. We rested ourselves
+at the foot of a rock, and ate a hearty breakfast of fruit, washing
+it down with palm wine, with which we were provided, and milk from
+the cocoa-nuts we gathered. We then continued to explore scenes which
+seemed to realize the picture imagination forms of Paradise. Coming
+to a beautiful expanse of water, we again seated ourselves, to enjoy
+a second meal, as well as the beauty and the heavenly repose, adorning
+and pervading these vast solitudes.
+
+"The tinkling of several little rills, and the sound of several larger
+cascades that fell from the rocks, only broke the stillness of the
+spot, in every other respect profound; and altogether diffused a
+tranquillity over the soul, the influence of which I still feel, but
+am unable to define. The orange and lime trees adorning the spot,
+bending under the weight of their delicious fruit, and diffusing
+around their fragrant odour; a number of other beautiful shrubs and
+trees intermingling their various tints of foliage, and tempting
+the hand to gather their rich fruit; combined with the cataracts,
+the surrounding hills, covered with the noblest trees and liveliest
+verdure, and in their various angles and projections, exhibiting
+the bold and free strokes of nature; altogether composed what might,
+without exaggeration, be called a terrestrial Paradise, the effect of
+which cannot be imagined, unless it were seen. You may be sure that it
+was not without regret we quitted this delightful spot, which raised
+our curiosity and desire, to the highest degree, further to explore the
+country. Nor (shall I confess it, Sophy?) could we forbear remarking,
+that if the attention of our country was directed to the civilization,
+and the improving the natural resources of such a country, instead
+of robbing and devastating it, it would be far more honourable to us
+as Britains, and as men, enjoying all the privileges of that envied
+title. But I think I hear you say: 'You tell me much of yourself,
+and of the face of the country you have chosen for a residence, but
+you tell me little of the inhabitants of this favoured region.' This
+I must reserve for another packet, my dear sister, as also an account
+of my visit to Sabi [2]. In the mean time I will assure you, that I
+have no regrets in having quitted for a while my country, except my
+separation from you and my family, every member of which must ever
+be dear, to their affectionate
+
+
+ "Charles Irving."
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+ "What's all that Afric's golden rivers roll,
+ Her odorous woods, and shining ivory stores?
+ Ill-fated race! the softening arts of peace,
+ And all-protecting freedom, which alone
+ Sustains the name and dignity of man:
+ These are not theirs!"
+
+
+Presuming that our young readers are not uninterested in the
+accounts of Charles Irving, we shall make a few more extracts
+from his correspondence. "You tell me," he observes in reply to
+the expressed wishes of his sister, "you tell me, my dear Sophy,
+to give you some information respecting the inhabitants of Whidah. I
+am myself unable to speak very decisively, but I am assured by those
+who have visited other parts of Africa, that those of Whidah exceed
+the other negroes in civilization, and they certainly appear to me,
+both industrious and ingenious. The women, I can assure you, are very
+important personages, truly help-meets to their lords. They brew the
+beer, dress the food, sell all sorts of articles, (except slaves!) at
+the markets; they are also, I am sorry to add, employed in tilling
+the land with the slaves. But, Sophy, this may be accounted for:
+the light of Christianity has not yet beamed upon this land. Its
+humanizing spirit we have, you know, often remarked, as peculiarly
+favourable to the weaker sex; and were Africa free, and blessed
+with the genial ray of true religion, doubtless her women would
+acquire that consideration which is their due, and be regarded as
+what they ought to be, as the companions and solace, not the slaves
+of man. In reference to their ingenuity, I have many specimens. They
+spin cotton yarn, weave fine cotton cloth, make calabashes, wooden
+vessels, plates, dishes, &c. I have now lying before me, a present
+from a great man, a pipe for smoking, which is remarkably neat. It
+is formed of clay of a reddish hue, the stem a reed about six feet
+in length. It is beautifully and finely polished, perfectly smooth,
+white, and even elegant. The bowl and stem are fastened together with
+a piece of delicate red leather. It has also a fine leather tassel,
+attached to about the middle of the stem; and so neat is the work,
+that although the end of the reed goes into the bowl of the pipe, it
+appears as if formed of one piece. They clean the reed, when filled
+up with the smoke, by drawing long straws through it, and the bowls,
+by scraping them with a small sharp instrument.
+
+"Last week we had quite a gala day, one of the country chiefs paying
+a visit to the governor at the fort. He was saluted with five guns
+on his landing: I was much pleased that my duty obliged me to go to
+the fort at the time.
+
+"The ostensible motive of his visit, was respect to the governor; but
+the real one, to solicit powder and ball, in order to defend himself
+against the attacks of a neighbouring chief. He assumes the title of
+emperor, and is a fine model of negro beauty, young, extremely black,
+tall, and free in his carriage, with teeth which rivalled pearls in
+beauty. His dress consisted of short yellow cotton trowsers, reaching
+only to the knees; and a sort of mantle of the same material, flowing
+full like a surplice. His feet and legs were naked; but he wore a
+very large cap, with a white goat's tail fastened in it: I suppose,
+the insignia of his dignity.
+
+"All the officers of the fort were in full uniform, waiting to receive
+this chieftain; and, I assure you, it was a very gratifying sight to
+observe the expecting numbers ready to welcome him.
+
+"He and his retinue came in a large and splendid canoe, containing
+about sixteen persons, all armed with guns and sabres, with a number of
+drums, upon which they beat with one stick. Two or three women were of
+the party, and danced to the sound of the drums. They remained at the
+fort all night, highly pleased with the visit, and the success of it;
+not only receiving what they solicited, but an ample present of rum,
+beads, bugles, and looking-glasses, from the governor, by which he
+quite won the hearts of the emperor and his suite.
+
+"The natives are, indeed, generally good-natured and obliging,
+particularly to Europeans; and if the latter are liberal in presents,
+they seldom find the obligation forgotten. If a favour is asked of
+them, they will use their utmost efforts to comply, even to their own
+prejudice. Gentle measures are, indeed, the only means to succeed with
+them: they then seem to have pleasure in compliance; but if treated
+with violence, they are obstinate and refractory, and they will take as
+much pains to injure, as, in the other case, to serve. This, you will
+say, sufficiently proves their native generosity of disposition. Can
+such a people require any thing but freedom, and a pure faith, to
+render them equal to the European, who despises them, and denies
+that they possess a capability of enjoying freedom? I grant this,
+my dear advocate; and, did time allow me, could relate many instances
+to prove that your opinion is just.
+
+"In my last, I mentioned the employment of the women partly consisted
+in weaving fine cotton cloths. We frequently barter these with our
+commodities. The pieces are generally twenty-seven yards long,
+but never more than nine inches wide. They cut them what length
+they require, and sew them together very neatly, to serve the use
+of broader cloths. The cotton is cleared from the seed by hand,
+and is spun with a spindle and distaff: it is afterwards woven in
+a loom of very simple and coarse workmanship. These cloths are made
+up into pairs, one about three yards long, and one and a half broad;
+with this the shoulders and body are covered. The other is almost of
+the same breadth, and but two yards long: this is gathered neatly in
+folds round the waist, and falls loosely over the limbs. Such a pair of
+cloths is the dress of men and women, with a slight variation in the
+mode of adjustment. I have seen a pair of such cloths, so beautifully
+fine in texture, and so brightly dyed, as to be very valuable. Their
+usual colours are either blue or yellow, some very lively: I do not
+remember, however, ever to have seen any red. (Note D.)
+
+"I shall conclude this letter by an account of my visit to Sabi, as I
+promised you. With European ideas of the state of society and commerce
+in Africa, I confess, the surprise I experienced was very great, on
+my entrance into the market of this capital of Whidah, which is kept
+twice in a week. Great regulation is observed in the keeping of these
+markets, a distinct and proper place being assigned for every different
+commodity; and the confluence of people, although great, are preserved
+from disorder and confusion, by a judge or magistrate, appointed by
+the king; and who, with four assistants, well armed, inspects the
+markets, hears all complaints, and, in a summary way, decides all
+differences among the buyers and sellers, having power to seize, and
+sell as slaves, all who violate the peace. Besides this magistrate,
+there is another, whose peculiar office it is to inspect the money,
+which is called toqua, consisting of strings of shells, to the number
+of forty; and if one of these strings happens to be deficient in a
+single shell, the whole are forfeited to the king. Round the markets
+are erected booths, which are occupied by cooks or suttlers, who sell
+provisions ready dressed, as beef, pork, goats'-flesh; and others,
+in which may be obtained rice, millet, marre, and bread; and others
+where they sell spirituous liquors, palm and ciboa wine, and pito,
+which is a sort of beer. The chief commodities on sale, are slaves,
+cattle, and fowls of every kind, monkeys and other animals; various
+sorts of European cloth, linen, and woollen; printed calicoes, silk,
+grocery, and china; gold in dust and bars, iron in bars or wrought.
+
+"The country manufactures are Whidah cloths, mats, baskets, jars,
+calabashes of various sorts, wooden bowls and cups, red and blue
+pepper, salt, palm-oil, &c. All these commodities, except slaves, are
+sold by the women, who are excellent accountants, and set off their
+goods most judiciously. The men are also good accountants, reckoning
+every thing by the head; and are as exact as the Europeans are with
+pen and ink, although the sums are often so many and so considerable,
+as to render it very intricate.
+
+"The slaves are paid for in gold-dust, but other payments are made
+in strings of cowries, which, as I have said, contain forty in a
+string. Five of the strings make what the natives call a fore; and
+fifty fores make an alkove, which generally weighs about sixty pounds.
+
+The various commodities of these markets, and the order and regularity
+with which they are disposed, would be a peculiarly pleasing sight to a
+stranger, were not human beings included in the articles of commerce;
+but, to behold a number of men, women, and children, linked together,
+and ranged like beasts to view, is a sight truly shocking to behold;
+and I will acknowledge, Sophy, I felt a sickness come over my heart,
+and a glow of shame suffuse my forehead, as I contemplated upwards of
+sixty individuals, whom a few short hours, perhaps, might separate, for
+ever, from their kindred and their country. There is, however, little
+chance that it will now ever be otherwise; for the worst passions
+of men are engaged, and the despotism of the African kings gives
+them ample opportunity to gratify their cupidity and intemperance,
+by the barter of their unhappy subjects [3]. The revenues of the king
+of Whidah are very considerable; for he not only has large landed
+possessions, but he receives a duty on all commodities sold in the
+markets, or imported into the country. His lands furnish him with
+provisions for his numerous household, as well as for exportation;
+great quantities being annually sold to the neighbouring nations,
+less bountifully supplied by nature. The revenues arising from the
+slave-trade are very considerable, and induce him to favour it,
+by the strongest principle in the soul of man, selfishness; for he
+receives three rix dollars for every slave sold in his dominions. Every
+European vessel also pays him a pecuniary duty, exclusive of presents,
+which they make to conciliate his favour, and to secure his protection
+in trading.
+
+Some years, slaves to the number of two thousand are brought from
+the interior, by the native merchants, most of whom, they say, are
+prisoners of war. These merchants purchase them from the different
+princes, who have made captives of them. Their mode of travelling is
+by tying them by the neck with leather thongs, at about a yard distant
+from each other, thirty and forty in a string; having generally a
+large truss or bundle of corn, or an elephant's tooth, upon the head
+of each or many of them. In their way from the mountains, far in the
+interior, they have to travel through vast woods, where, for several
+days, perhaps, no water is to be procured. To obviate this distressing
+scarcity, they carry water in skins. There are a great number of these
+merchants, who, furnishing themselves with European goods from the
+slave-factors, penetrate the inland countries, and with them purchase,
+in their route, gold, slaves, and elephants' teeth. (Note E.)
+
+"They use asses as well as slaves to convey their goods, but no camels
+nor horses. Besides the slaves brought down to the factories by these
+merchants, many others are bought in the vicinity. These are either
+taken in war, as the former, or are men condemned for crimes; and,
+not unfrequently, they are stolen. These the Company never purchase,
+if able to ascertain the fact. It is worthy of remark, that, since the
+great demand for slaves, most punishments are changed into slavery;
+and there being an accruing advantage on such condemnations, they
+exaggerate faults scarcely more than venial, into crimes, in order
+to obtain the benefit of selling the criminal. Not only murder and
+the grosser crimes are punished in this manner, but every trifling
+misdemeanour renders the culprit obnoxious to the same dreadful
+penalty. It was not many days since that I had a man brought to me
+to be sold, for having stolen a tobacco pipe; and I had infinite
+trouble to persuade the aggrieved party to accept of a compensation,
+and to leave the man free.
+
+"From what I have seen of the people, they are well disposed and
+cheerful, excessively fond of dancing, keeping it up to the sound
+of a drum or a balafeu, for many hours, without any appearance
+of weariness. Their dances are sometimes pleasing and regular,
+but at others wild, and apparently confused. The instrument they
+call a balafeu is very pleasing, sounding something like an organ,
+when not too near. It is composed of about twenty pipes of very hard
+wood, finely polished: these pipes gradually diminish, both in size
+and length, and are tied together with thongs made of very fine
+thin leather. These thongs are twisted round small round wands,
+which are placed between each of the pipes, in order to leave a
+short space. Underneath the pipes are fastened twelve or fourteen
+calabashes, of different sizes, which have the same effect of sound
+as organ-pipes. This they play upon with two sticks, covered with a
+thin skin, taken from the trunk of the ciboa, or with fine leather,
+in order to soften the sound. (Note F.) Both sexes delight to dance to
+this instrument, and their pleasure seems to rise almost to ecstasy, if
+a white man will unite in the dance; which, you will readily suppose,
+I am never unwilling to do. The only indication of suspicion they show,
+is when asked to take any beverage with a white man, always requiring
+the liquor to be first tasted by the inviter.
+
+"Many of the natives have invited me to their habitations and dancing
+parties, and brought their wives and daughters to salute me. They,
+with great artlessness, generally sit down by me, and are never weary
+in admiring the different articles of my dress; making their comments
+one to another, with the most lively admiration and astonishment. Some,
+who had never seen a white man, ran away from me, apparently terrified
+at my monstrous appearance.
+
+"In their persons they are of a good height, well shaped, and
+extremely black; and, as an instance of the female subjection, I
+am told, that, when a man has been absent from home, even but for a
+short time, his wife salutes him upon her knees at his return, and,
+in the same attitude, offers him water and refreshments. Both sexes
+are exceedingly cleanly in their persons, washing themselves in pure
+water twice in the day, and using aromatic unguents. Their dress
+consists of the country cotton cloths I have named; the superior
+classes add a short garment, made of taffety, or other silk, and
+scarfs of the same material passed over the shoulder. They generally
+go with the head and feet uncovered, but occasionally wear sandals,
+and caps or bonnets. The superior females wear calico paans, or a
+sort of petticoat, which are very fine, and beautifully variegated
+with different colours: these are confined round the waist, and the
+upper part of the body is covered with a cloth, serving also as a veil.
+
+"They wear necklaces of coral, &c. agreeably disposed; and their arms,
+wrists, fingers, and legs, are encompassed and ornamented with rings
+of amber, silver, and even gold, to a considerable value. The inferior
+ranks wear copper or iron. The men suffer the hair to remain in its
+natural form, except buckling it in two or three places, in order
+to affix a coral ornament to it; but the women arrange theirs more
+artificially, with long and small buckles, or ornaments, the hair
+divided on the crown of the head, and the ornaments placed with great
+uniformity. They have a bad practice of using an oil, which injures
+the glossy blackness of the hair, in time changing it to a colour
+approaching green or yellow, which they much admire; but it is very
+unpleasing to the eye of a stranger.
+
+"I have mentioned that the natives of Whidah are idolaters. The
+object of their worship, you will be surprised to find, is a serpent;
+an animal to which men, in general, have an antipathy This Whidah god
+is called the fetiche: it is a harmless, as well as beautiful animal,
+having an antipathy to venomous serpents, attacking them whenever
+it meets with them. The serpent has a large, round, beautiful head;
+a short, pointed tongue, resembling a dart; and a short but sharp
+tail; the whole adorned by the most beautiful colours, upon a light
+grey ground. In general its pace is slow and solemn, except when it
+seizes on its prey, in which case it is quick and rapid. They are
+perfectly tame and familiar, permitting themselves to be caressed
+and handled, which is frequently done by the natives and Europeans,
+without apprehension of danger. This deity has a temple to his honour,
+with priests, sacrifices, &c."
+
+With this account we will close our extracts from Irving's letters;
+and as they will give some idea of the people of the country which
+forms the principal scene of our narrative, it is hoped the digression
+will not be thought irrelevant. In the next chapter we resume the
+thread of our story, merely pausing to express our ardent hope,
+that good may spring out of evil; that even the slave-trade may be
+the medium of promulgating the gospel of peace; and that good may,
+in God's own time, overcome evil.
+
+
+
+ O, 'tis a godlike privilege to save,
+ And he that scorns it is himself a slave.
+ Inform his mind, one flash of heav'nly day
+ Would heal his heart, and melt his chains away:
+ "Beauty for ashes," is a gift indeed;
+ And slaves by truth enlarg'd are doubly freed.
+
+
+ Cowper.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+
+
+ "O Slavery----
+ Profuse of woes, and pregnant with distress,
+ Eternal horrors in thy presence reign;
+ Pale meagre famine leads thy horrid train;
+ To each dire load subjection adds more weight,
+ And pain is doubled in the captive's fate:
+ O'er nature's smiling face thou spreadst a gloom,
+ And to the grave dost every pleasure doom."
+
+
+Years had elapsed since Irving had indited the letters from which we
+have extracted, and every passing one had seen an increasing tendency
+to suffer humanity to yield to interest: what had been the practice
+of official duty, became the actuating principle, and gold, the
+
+
+ "Insidious bane that makes destruction smooth,
+ The foe to virtue, liberty, and truth,"
+
+
+absorbed the better feelings, which had at first recoiled from
+the scenes of cruelty and oppression he had witnessed; and he could
+calmly execute the one and the other, and be at no loss to justify (at
+least to himself) the acts, and even reason upon the trade of human
+beings; if not, indeed, upon its humanity and justice, at least upon
+its expedience; forgetful of that great and comprehensive, but most
+simple maxim: "Do unto others as ye would they should do unto you."
+
+The order he had received from his employers, arrived at an opportune
+period; for he had, on that very day, been invited to attend the
+ceremony of the coronation of the king of Whidah, to take place in
+a few days, at Sabi. With the true spirit of gain, he calculated
+that this event might, by a little judicious policy, be rendered,
+not only subservient to his present pressing demand for slaves, but
+also might open greater facilities than he had hitherto possessed,
+of obtaining a choice. Interest, therefore, united with curiosity,
+in his determination of attending the ceremony; a few preliminaries
+of which we will name, ere we accompany him to it.
+
+On the demise of a king of Whidah, the crown descends to his eldest
+son, unless the grandees have any substantial reasons to reject his
+claim; in which case the youngest son is appointed, provided he was
+born after the accession of the father. It is a singular custom, that,
+as soon as the eldest son of a king of Whidah is born, he is removed
+from the palace and court, and placed under the care of a person in
+private, residing remote from the latter. With this person he remains,
+in profound ignorance of his birth, and of the high responsibilities
+for which he is designed. His protector is acquainted with the
+secret of his royal birth, but would incur the penalty of death
+were he to divulge it. By this custom it not unfrequently occurs,
+that when a prince is called to the throne, he may, at the moment,
+be employed in the most common and menial offices; and it is with
+difficulty he can be persuaded to believe those who inform him of
+his elevated rank, or in what manner to receive their servile homage;
+as it is customary for the subjects to approach the sovereign in the
+most humiliating form, advancing towards them in a creeping manner,
+to a certain distance, till the monarch, clapping his hands softly,
+indicates his permission for them to speak, which they then do,
+in a low tone, with their heads nearly to the ground. They retire,
+with the same slavish ceremonials, from the royal presence.
+
+As soon as the old king is dead, his successor is brought to the
+palace; but the period of his coronation is uncertain, resting
+with the grandees, with whom it becomes a political manoeuvre
+to keep the government, as long as possible, in their own hands;
+and they accordingly fix the period of the ceremony as best suits
+their respective interests. It is generally put off some months, and,
+sometimes, even years, but cannot be delayed beyond seven years. During
+this interval, the government is rather in the power of the grandees
+than the king; for they execute all the public acts and business,
+without consulting him. In every other respect he is treated as
+a prince, with only one restriction, viz. that, previously to his
+coronation, he cannot quit the palace.
+
+It may readily be imagined by our young readers, that, from the obscure
+state in which the young monarch is brought up, he has little notion
+of those qualities which are necessary to govern a people. On the
+contrary, the sudden transition from this obscurity, to the paths
+of ease and pleasure, and every facility of self-gratification,
+unfortunately gives a peculiar relish for those pursuits and
+pleasures, with which, had he become guardedly and progressively
+familiar, in all probability he would have been satiated. But this
+not being the case, the king of Whidah lives almost in a state of
+indolence; seldom going abroad, and only occasionally attending his
+grandees when they are assembled in the hall of audience, for the
+administration of justice: all the rest of his time is spent in the
+recesses of his seraglio, attended by his numerous wives, who are
+divided into three classes. When the period of the coronation has
+been fixed by the grandees, they give intimation of it to the king,
+who assembles them in the palace; and the council having deliberated
+on the measures to be used in executing the ceremony, notice of it
+is given to the public by a discharge of cannon, and the glad news
+is soon circulated throughout the kingdom.
+
+The following morning, the grand sacrificer goes to the king,
+demanding, in the name of the great serpent, (their deity!) the
+offerings due on such a solemn and joyful occasion. These offerings
+consist of an ox, a horse, a sheep, and a fowl, which are sacrificed
+in the palace, and afterwards taken to the market-place. In the centre
+of this, the grand sacrificer erects a pole, nine or ten feet high,
+with a piece of linen attached to it like a flag, and around it
+are placed the victims, with small loaves of millet, rubbed over
+with palm-oil. After a few trifling ceremonies the company retire,
+leaving the victims exposed to the birds of prey; no person being
+permitted to touch them, upon pain of death. Arrived at the palace,
+about twenty of the king's wives walk in procession to the place
+of sacrifice, the eldest, or chief, (Note G.) bearing a figure
+formed of earth, representing a child in a sitting posture: this
+she places at a short distance from the victims. These women are
+attended by a party of fusileers, and the king's flutes and drums,
+the people prostrating themselves as they pass, and expressing their
+joy by the loudest acclamations. When these ceremonies are over,
+the grandees repair to the palace, dressed in their richest apparel,
+and attended by their numerous slaves, of whom they are very proud,
+adorning them with a profusion of trinkets, and ornaments of silver
+and gold. The king is not visible on this occasion; but they enter,
+and prostrate themselves before the throne, and again retire. This
+part of the ceremony continues fifteen days, during which the women
+make the palace re-echo with their acclamations; and the public joy
+is testified by the firing of cannon, and the almost continual display
+of rockets, from all parts of the capital.
+
+It was during the interval of these rejoicings, that Irving, with
+his attendants, arrived at Sabi, and was appointed to take up his
+quarters with a grandee high in favour with the new king. He had
+taken care to provide himself with an ample assortment of trinkets,
+spirits, cutlery, and other European produce he knew to be tempting
+to his inviter and his royal master, with whom he proposed to trade,
+immediately after the ceremony was concluded.
+
+Soon after his arrival, the grandee with whom he resided was summoned,
+(as was customary,) as the one deputed to go to the neighbouring
+kingdom of Ardrah, with a magnificent retinue, in order to request
+one of the nobles of that kingdom (in whose family the right had
+existed time immemorial) to proceed to Sabi, to crown the king; and
+Irving, desirous of seeing the whole of the ceremonial, obtained ready
+permission to accompany the embassy. The greatest respect is paid,
+by all ranks, to this officiating nobleman; and all the expences of
+his journey are defrayed by the grandees of Whidah.
+
+When arrived at the last village next the capital, this nobleman and
+his retinue suspended their progress, remaining there stationary
+three or four days; during which time he received visits from the
+principal people of the kingdom, with whom it is customary to make
+him valuable presents, and contribute to his amusement by a variety
+of entertainments; the king supplying him with a great quantity of
+provision, carried twice a day in great pomp, by his wives, preceded
+by a guard of fusileers and a band of music.
+
+Among these ladies, Irving saw many whom, as a slave-merchant, he
+would have been happy to have obtained at a high price. Four days
+being elapsed, the grandees, with their usual train, and a great
+concourse of people, repaired to the village, to conduct the Ardrah
+nobleman, in great state, to Sabi; where he was received by a salute
+of the king's guns, and the loud and continued acclamations of the
+multitude. He was then conducted to the apartments prepared for him
+near the palace, where he was splendidly entertained by the grandees,
+and received visits from the principal officers of the court. He
+continued here five days, but, at the close of the third, he entered
+the palace with the chief of his train, without taking off any part
+of his dress or ornaments. He remained standing, also, when he spoke
+to the king, while all others prostrated themselves, as usual.
+
+On the evening of the fifth day, nine guns were fired, at the palace,
+to announce to the people that the king would be crowned on the
+following day, and that he would show himself in public, seated on
+his throne, in the court of the palace, the gates of which would be
+left open for the admission of all ranks of people. It was with the
+utmost astonishment that Irving beheld the immense population assembled
+in the streets of Sabi, on this occasion; every avenue towards the
+palace being completely crowded by the natives, to obtain a sight of
+their new monarch.
+
+On the evening of the following day, the king came forth from his
+seraglio, attended by forty of his favourite wives, dressed in the
+most sumptuous manner; being rather loaded than ornamented, with
+gold necklaces, laces, pendants, bracelets, foot-chains of gold
+and silver, and the richest gems. The king, who was a good-looking,
+but, apparently, very indolent young man, was magnificently dressed,
+wearing a gilt helmet, decorated with red and white feathers. He was
+attended by his guards, and proceeded from his seraglio to the throne,
+which was placed in an angle of the court, to the east of the palace,
+and styled the court of the coronation.
+
+The throne itself was something like a large armed chair, finely
+gilt, and elevated a little above the ground; the negroes choosing
+very low seats, not more than ten inches high, and six in diameter,
+and not unfrequently in the shape of an hour-glass. The most valuable
+and curious part of the throne we are now describing, was the seat,
+consisting of an entire lump of gold; not cast or formed by art,
+but a product of nature alone, weighing thirty pounds. It had been
+bored and fitted as a seat to the royal throne: upon this was a velvet
+cushion, richly laced and fringed with gold, and a foot-cushion to
+correspond. On the left were ranged the forty wives of the monarch,
+and on the right the principal grandees; and in a line with them, the
+Europeans from the English factories; therefore, Irving had a complete
+view of every part of the ceremonial. One of the grandees held in his
+hand an umbrella: this, however, was more for ornament than use, as
+the ceremony took place at night. It was formed of the richest cloth
+of gold, the lining embroidered with the same precious material, and
+the fringes and tassels the same. On the top of it was the figure of
+a cock, as large as the life. The pole of this pavilion, or umbrella,
+was six feet long, richly embossed and gilded. Another grandee kneeled
+before the king, constantly fanning him during the ceremony. Opposite
+to the monarch stood two of his dwarfs, who represented to him the
+good qualities of his predecessor; extolling his justice, liberality,
+and clemency, and exhorting the king not only to imitate, but to excel
+him; concluding their harangue with wishes for the king's happiness,
+and that his reign might be long and prosperous.
+
+These ceremonies concluded, the grandee of Ardrah was summoned to
+attend. When arrived at the outer gate of the palace, the cannon
+were discharged, and the band began to play. He entered the court,
+surrounded with his attendants, and was guarded by them to a certain
+distance. He then advanced, singly, to the throne, saluting the king
+by courteously bowing the head, but not prostrating himself. He then
+addressed a short speech to the king, relative to the ceremony he
+was called to perform; and removing the helmet from his head, turned
+to the people, holding it in his hands. A signal was then made, and
+the music instantly ceased. A profound and most impressive silence
+ensued. The grandee of Ardrah, then, with a loud and distinct voice,
+repeated, three times, these words to the assembled multitude: "Here
+is your king: be loyal to him, and your prayers shall be heard by the
+king of Ardrah, my master." After this he replaced the helmet on the
+head of the king, made a low reverence, and retired. The cannon and
+small-arms were instantly fired, the music again struck up, and the
+acclamations were renewed. The grandee of Ardrah, in the meantime,
+was reconducted, in great state, to his apartments; after which,
+the new-crowned king, attended by his wives, his guards, and the
+Europeans, returned to the seraglio, where the latter made their
+compliments to the king as he entered the gate; and, on the following
+day, the monarch sent, as usual, a rich present to the Ardrah grandee,
+previously to his return home, which he must immediately do, the law
+not permitting him to remain three days longer in the kingdom.
+
+The rejoicings which followed the coronation lasted fifteen days,
+and the whole was closed with a grand procession to the temple
+of the great serpent. The grandee with whom Irving resided during
+the period of these ceremonies, was one of the principal officers
+of the palace, and possessed a disposition peculiarly open to the
+enticement of spirituous liquors, as well as dreadfully acted upon
+by the pernicious stimulus they gave to his passions. He also had
+such a propensity for their use, that Irving easily found, that, by
+supplying him well, he might render him subservient to his purposes;
+and, in fact, he very soon disclosed to the wily merchant, that he
+had in his possession a number of valuable slaves, intended for the
+service, or to purchase the favour of the young king. The appearance
+of this negro courtier was pleasing and imposing. He was, in person,
+tall and well shaped; his dress was that usual in the country, but
+the material fine, and the colour perfectly white: his cap was also
+white and small. He wore large gold earrings, which, together with
+the pure white of his light dress, contrasted well with the jet black
+of his polished skin. In disposition he was so cruel and vindictive,
+that when he received an affront, even in the most trifling instance,
+he scrupled not to sacrifice the aggressor by shooting him.
+
+He possessed several wives, of whom he was very jealous, and whom he
+treated as slaves. He had also several brothers, to whom he seldom
+spoke, or even permitted them to enter his presence; but when he
+did grant them admission, they were obliged to take off their caps,
+prostrate themselves at his feet, and throw dust on their heads.
+
+It may readily be imagined, that a disposition so cruel and arbitrary,
+would be stimulated almost to fury and madness by the powerful
+influence of ardent spirits; and the fact was, that his thirst for
+brandy was so insatiable, that, to procure it, he scrupled not to
+execute any act of oppression, cruelty, or treachery. He had even
+been known, in order to procure slaves, with which to purchase brandy,
+secretly to set fire to a village, and then send the ministers of his
+cruelty to seize the distracted people as they rushed from destruction,
+to bind and to send them to the European factories, or to the joncoes,
+(or black slave-merchants,) and sell them for brandy and rum; which
+he would continue to drink till expended, without any cessation but
+that forced upon him by stupefaction or sleep.
+
+It would not be consistent with the plan of our tale, to make any
+remarks upon the probabilities of what this man might have been,
+had not the slave-trade existed; or what direction his cunning and
+arbitrary disposition might have taken; but we may venture to say,
+that he could not have had so extensive opportunities of oppression,
+nor could his cruelties have created such incalculable misery. "For
+it has been proved, on the most convincing evidence, that the demand
+for slaves has had the most fatal effect in exciting and developing
+every vice and every bad passion among these people; of perverting
+their rude institutions, and poisoning their domestic relations. It
+has been proved by evidence unquestionable, that, as we have
+asserted, the tyrant chiefs of Africa were daily induced to condemn,
+indiscriminately, whole families, for trivial or imaginary crimes,
+with the sole object of obtaining possession of the individuals
+composing those families, and exchanging them for bad powder and
+bad muskets; to station their soldiers in ambush, on the roads, with
+orders to rush on the unarmed traveller, and load him with chains;
+to attack, at night, villages sunk in repose, dragging into slavery
+men, women, and children, of an age suited to their purpose, and
+mercilessly butchering the aged and the infant. It has been proved,
+upon authority equally good, that famine, devastation, and continual
+warfare, undertaken for the sole purpose of taking prisoners, were the
+inevitable consequences of the slave ships' presence on the coast;
+and that the Europeans not only were witnesses of this desolation,
+but furnished the arms, nourished the hatred, fomented the discord,
+and were the communicaters of the moral blast, which shed its
+pestilential influence over the population of a country, which,
+under the benign protection of a fair and legitimate commerce,
+is assuredly capable of being civilized, enlightened, and happy;
+and which, in return for the inestimable gifts of instruction and
+religion, would cheerfully and gratefully pour its riches into the
+bosoms of its benefactors. But, can the arts which embellish life,
+can the virtues which expand the heart, can the principles that elevate
+the soul, can these find rest, or even enter a region devoted to blood,
+oppression, and desolation? Alas! while the slave-trade exists, we are
+compelled to unite in the fear expressed by an enlightened patriot,
+that 'there is no prospect of civilization or happiness for Africa.'"
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+ "Yet was I born as you are, no man's slave,
+ An heir to all that liberal nature gave;
+ My mind can reason, and my limbs can move
+ The same as yours; like yours my heart can love:
+ Alike my body food and sleep sustain,
+ And e'en, like yours, feels pleasure, want, and pain:
+ One sun rolls o'er us, common skies surround,
+ One globe contains us, and one grave must bound."
+
+
+Intent upon the orders of his employers, and of the advantages he
+should obtain by the commission, Irving studied so much to ingratiate
+himself with his host, that he very soon readily obtained his promise
+of conducting him to his slave-rooms, the first opportunity he could
+spare from his close attendance upon his royal master, to whom his
+bold and haughty spirit made him eminently useful.
+
+While Irving displayed the tempting assortment of spirits, trinkets,
+dresses, and fire-arms, to the eager African, he artfully affected
+indifference as to the purchase of slaves; being well acquainted with
+the mode of making a good bargain, even when his fellow men were the
+articles for which to negociate: so entirely does this infamous trade
+debase and corrupt every generous emotion of the heart, and blunt every
+honourable feeling. With the internal assurance, therefore, that the
+view he had granted of his commodities, would induce the chief, as soon
+as possible, to gratify his desire of possessing them, Irving waited
+patiently the summons to attend him to the children of misery he had
+by fraud and violence collected; and was fully prepared to accompany
+him, upon his invitation a few days subsequent to the conclusion of
+the coronation ceremonies. Irving was, however, astonished, when the
+negro pointed out to him several spacious enclosures, the wretched
+inhabitants of which were to purchase his selfish gratification,
+and satisfy his cupidity; for Irving was not then aware that this
+grandee was, in fact, the creature of his sovereign, acting as an
+agent and slave-factor, upon the blood-stained gains of which he not
+only lived in great splendour, but possessed from his riches great
+power. His house was fitted up with European elegance, and was,
+in exterior style, something resembling the buildings of the Moors;
+consisting of courts, surrounded by apartments, beyond the precincts
+of which were the receptacles of the slaves.
+
+The transition from the elegance and luxuries of this African mansion,
+to the slave-buildings, was striking; and to a heart yet unperverted
+and unvitiated by the habitual view of uncontrouled power and
+oppression over the defenceless, would have been most mournful.
+
+But such was not the impression made upon either of the present
+visitants; the one intent upon immediate self-gratification,
+the other upon obtaining the means to ensure it in future. Nothing
+could more strongly prove the tendency of this traffic to prostrate
+every noble faculty of the soul, every tender impulse of the heart,
+to destroy every sympathy of our nature, than the fact, that Irving,
+the once generous, kind-hearted youth, beheld, with the cold regard
+of a mere trader intent upon making an advantageous bargain, above
+a hundred and twenty wretched beings in one house, all chained two
+and two, by their hands and feet, and sitting in three rows on the
+floor! They were of various ages of youth, and different in features;
+many of them having come, as the grandee observed, "a journey of many
+moons," that is, many hundred miles inland.
+
+While examining these miserable captives with all the technical
+minuteness of jockeys, or cattle-dealers, (during which the
+wretched exiles evinced the strongest and most varying emotions of
+reluctance, grief, and indignation,) the people of the chief brought
+in thirty-five more individuals, whom they had taken in a small town
+or village of the interior, and which they had attacked by order
+of their employer, leaving the aged and young infants butchered in
+their simple huts. Among this last group were several women, who
+exhibited the most heart-rending evidences of distraction and grief,
+in the loss of their infants, and the prospect of the unknown evils
+that awaited them in bondage.
+
+Amongst this number, however, great as it was, there were no
+slaves which suited the purposes of Irving; and he proceeded with
+his conductor to several other enclosures, from which he selected
+a few of inferior value. The negro then told him, he would show
+him what he termed "prime and superb negroes." In passing over to
+one of these enclosures, which were at some distance, Irving was
+arrested by a faint and low moan, as of distress, followed by an
+air of most exquisite plaintive melody, with which was intermingled,
+at intervals, the sound of an infantine voice, so lively as to speak
+the unconsciousness, of the innocent from whose lips it proceeded,
+of the mournful lot to which it was destined.
+
+"What sound is that?" he enquired of his host, as he stopped to listen
+from whence it proceeded; for even upon his deadened soul the song had
+vibrated. (Note H.) "I dare say it is the Senegal slave I had selected
+for my royal master," replied the negro; "but she bewailed being parted
+from her boy so much, that, to save her life, I was obliged to suffer
+her to see him once or twice a day, during the ceremonies. I shall,
+however, soon make her submit, now I can attend to her: I shall sell
+her for a great price, if I can separate the child from her, without
+hazarding her life."
+
+"Perhaps she will suit me," said Irving; "the boy would be no objection
+to the purchase, if he is strong and healthy. Let me see them." The
+negro hesitated; but at length observed, "They are worth a great
+deal," as if he doubted that Irving would be disposed to give the
+price. "You remember that beautiful sabre, and the brandy-chest full of
+prime liquor, and those muskets you admired, and"----observed Irving
+carelessly, but was interrupted in his enumeration by the African:
+"Yes, yes, I remember: what! will you give them for her and the
+boy?" "I cannot promise that, you know, unless I see her: you may
+be telling me a false tale. It at least can do no harm to see this
+slave you keep so close."
+
+"True, true, I scorn to deceive so good a friend," rejoined the negro,
+half afraid that Irving would recede from his implied bargain:
+"You shall certainly see this refractory woman; that is, she is
+only obstinate when I remove the boy. I wish they had killed the
+young urchin at once, when they carried her off. She is very gentle
+when he is with her: she only chooses to sing those mournful songs
+about Tumiah: I suppose he was her husband. However, at all events,
+the boy cannot go to the palace with her."
+
+During this conversation, they had reached the hut in which the poor
+slave was confined alone, in the hope of making her yield to the will
+of the African, by consenting to be conveyed to the palace without
+her child. Irving followed the negro into the hut. The moment the
+latter got within it, the miserable inmate uttered a piercing shriek,
+and clasped her child with convulsive strength to her bosom, imploring
+the tyrant not to tear him from her widowed arms. There was one chord
+in the soul of Irving, which, amid the circumstances of his life,
+and despite of time, yet responded. It was the memory of his mother's
+caresses, when in his childhood she became a widow.
+
+The scene he now witnessed, struck powerfully on this chord of
+feeling. The distraction of the captive, her extreme youth, her beauty,
+the neglect of grief so apparent in her simple dress, her unornamented
+hair, her trembling limbs, her heaving bosom, her eloquent eye, her
+fevered lip, her attitude, and the energy with which she held her now
+alarmed child; altogether, combined a picture, which coming suddenly
+upon his previously somewhat softened feelings, had a powerful effect
+upon him, and, for a time, made him forget he was a slave-dealer,
+and caused the nobler feeling of the man to prevail. He determined, if
+possible, to save the wretched woman from the fate that awaited her;
+forgetting that, perhaps, one equally horrible might be her lot, did
+she become his property. When, therefore, he heard the African tyrant
+threaten her with a flogging if she persisted in singing such mournful
+songs, he almost involuntarily said: "If you are willing to barter her
+and the child, for what I named, and a selection of those trinkets you
+admired, to which I will add four gallons of rum, we are agreed upon
+the bargain." The negro again regarded Irving with a half suspicious,
+half incredulous glance, but remained silent. "I am serious," said
+Irving; "are we agreed?" "Let me see," muttered the negro to himself;
+"that fong, (sword,) mounted in silver gilt, and embossed handle; the
+chest with fine brandy; ten fine kiddos; (guns;) trinkets to please
+woollima moosa, (handsome wife,) and four gallons of rum: delicious
+rum make me merry, happy. Make the rum eight gallons," he added aloud
+to Irving, "and she," pointing to the being he was thus selling, "she
+is yours."--"And the boy, remember?" replied Irving. "O yes, the boy,
+the boy, to be sure," reiterated the African, hardly knowing how to
+repress his joy. Though almost absorbed in profound grief, the wretched
+captive yet understood she was about to be transferred, and that
+her child was to be included in the transfer. In an agony of mingled
+emotion, after having timidly regarded Irving's countenance, while he
+intently watched hers, she threw herself at his feet, imploring his
+mercy, and by a thousand expressive gestures, imparted the feelings
+which agitated her soul. In this lowly attitude she fainted; and when
+a little recovered, she exclaimed in mournful accents: "O Tumiah,
+where art thou? Thou canst no more hear thy Imihie: she goes to the
+land of strangers, and will see thee no more, till death conveys her
+beyond the blue mountains. And Samboe, my boy," she added, as she
+called the playful and unconscious child from some flowers he was
+gathering from the ground, "thou wilt see thy father no more. Thou
+art a slave, my child: hard will be thy lot in the land of strangers,
+among the manstealers, when Imihie, thy mother, no longer shall
+feel pain, nor endure bondage. But I will watch over thee, my boy,
+I will be thy spirit: I will conduct thee over the blue mountains,
+the manstealer shall not follow us there."
+
+The negro's anger began to rise, during this soliloquy of his hapless
+captive; and calling vehemently for attendants, he directed she should
+be conducted, with her child, to a place appointed, with care to be
+taken that she should not do herself any injury, until Irving had
+concluded his engagement, and could have her removed to Whidah.
+
+Irving declined viewing any more of the slaves on that day, and
+having determined to remain but a few days longer with the chief, he
+lost no time in making good his purchase of the female slave and her
+child. One impediment to his returning to Whidah, however, there was,
+which he might have anticipated; but in his eagerness to purchase the
+wretched Imihie, he had not considered that while the rum and brandy
+remained, the grandee and his companions were totally incapable of
+business; but, in the intervals of stupefaction, were guilty of the
+most wanton excesses. Nor was his African majesty himself, exempt
+from effects of the potent contents of the liquor-chests consigned
+to his favourite, who artfully concealed from him the circumstance
+of Imihie; informing the king only, that he had obtained the liquor
+from an English merchant, for some dry goods, ivory, and gum. The
+monarch enquired if this merchant traded also in slaves. "Doubtless
+he does," replied the wily courtier: "he comes from the land of the
+manstealers, and will not, therefore, refuse the commodity in the way
+of trade. Would my royal master wish to see this Englishman?" "It
+is my desire," answered the king; "let him have notice of our
+pleasure." The grandee prostrated himself, and retired to caution
+Irving to conceal the transaction of the female slave from the king,
+or he would doubtless force her from him. The morrow was appointed
+for the interview with the monarch, who, the courtier said, had some
+slaves to offer for brandy and trinkets for his wives.
+
+
+ "Where wast thou, then, sweet Charity, where then,
+ Thou tutelary friend of helpless men?
+ Perish the wretch, that slighted and withstood
+ The tender argument of kindred blood.
+ But tho' some nobler minds a law respect,
+ That none shall with impunity neglect,
+ In baser souls unnumber'd evils meet,
+ To thwart its influence, and its end defeat."
+
+
+Shall a Briton, shall a man "honoured with a Christian name" encourage
+slavery, because the semi-barbarous, unenlightened, lawless African
+hath done it? "To what end (it is impressively asked) 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?"
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+ * * * the band of commerce is design'd
+ T' associate all the branches of mankind.
+ And if a boundless plenty be the robe,
+ Trade is the golden girdle of the globe:
+ This genial intercourse, and mutual aid,
+ Cheers, what were else, an universal shade.
+ Calls nature from her ivy-mantled den,
+ And softens human rock-work into men.
+
+ Cowper.
+
+
+Most truly and impressively do these lines of our Christian poet
+describe the effects of legitimate and honourable commerce; the mutual
+exchange of the various gifts of an all-bounteous Providence, showered
+on the globe we inhabit, for the general use, benefit, and pleasure;
+and of those embellishments of art, which civilization has brought
+forth and nourished.
+
+But no such effect can ever flow from the piratical commerce of men,
+that deformed and cruel offspring of Mammon, which riots in the blood,
+and glories in the miseries of man.
+
+It may be urged, we are not the original agents in this trade: it
+is pursued with eagerness by the Africans themselves. But are those
+who live in that transcendent light which was granted to dispel the
+mists of error--to meliorate propensity to evil--to harmonize the
+rational soul--still to delight in works so dark, still to trample
+under foot every principle of humanity; still to spurn from them
+the obligations of justice, still to set at naught the precepts of
+religion; and to make themselves accomplices with pagan oppressors,
+in tyrannizing over those hapless beings, whom a mysterious Providence
+has subjected to their power? Is the Christian trader content to put
+himself upon a level with the unenlightened despot, and coolly to put
+his blood-stained profits in the balance, against the laws of religion
+and his country; laughing at the remonstrances of philanthropists,
+as the dreams of enthusiasm, or as puerile objections unworthy of
+attention? No; it surely will not be thus. England has entered the
+path of mercy [4], let her pursue it with energy and constancy:
+and if other nations refuse to follow her heaven-enlightened way,
+to them belongs the shame and the guilt of trampling down the laws
+which bind man to his God and his fellow-man; and, for the violation
+of which, every individual must be accountable, at that tremendous
+audit, before which the oppressed and the oppressor shall alike appear!
+
+But to return to our narrative from these reflections, which the
+seriousness of the subject forced from us, and which must apologize
+for them with our young readers.
+
+The time being fixed for Irving to have an audience with the king, he
+was conducted to the palace, which was a spacious edifice, consisting
+of many large courts, entirely surrounded with porticoes, above which
+were apartments with small windows. These apartments, as well as every
+part of the palace, exhibited great magnificence in the furniture and
+decorations. Some of the floors were covered with exquisitely fine
+matting, and others with superb Turkey carpets; and the furniture
+consisted of chairs, sofas or divans, skreens, chests, cabinets and
+porcelain imported from China. The windows were not glazed, but were
+shaded with frames of fine white linen, and taffety curtains. The
+gardens of this superb palace were very extensive, laid out in long
+vistas of lofty and beautiful trees; affording a deliciously cool
+and shaded retreat, for the women immured in the splendid prison. It
+was evident to Irving, as he passed some of these apartments to the
+hall of audience, that his African majesty intended to receive him
+in great state; but whether out of respect to him, as a European and
+a slave and spirit merchant, or to display his own magnificence, he
+could not determine: nor was it of much consequence, although he well
+knew that the Europeans in general are well received, and are allowed
+to dispense with the humiliating ceremonies they scrupulously exact
+from their own subjects; and, unlike them, are granted an audience
+whenever they desire it. When Irving, therefore, entered the hall
+where the king was seated to receive him, his majesty immediately
+rose, and advanced some steps to him; took him by the hand, pressed
+it in his own, and three times successively touched his fore finger,
+which was the greatest token of amity and affection. After this,
+he desired him to sit down by his side, upon fine mats spread on the
+floor; which Irving having complied with, he displayed his presents
+to his majesty, who was astonished to find he could, with ease,
+converse with him without the aid of an interpreter.
+
+Irving could not but feel gratified at the extreme although childish
+pleasure the young monarch evinced, in receiving the presents; which
+consisted of an elegant case of English spirits, some beautiful guns,
+a superb sword, and a great variety of trinkets for the ladies of the
+seraglio. The king offered to sell him some of his discarded wives;
+but Irving respectfully declined the offer of the ladies, as not very
+well calculated for the labours of the colonies.
+
+In the audience chamber were two benches, one of which was broader than
+the other, covered with an embroidered cloth, and by it was an oval
+stool; upon this the monarch seated himself, after having received and
+examined the presents. The other bench was covered with mats, on which
+Irving was directed to sit, as the usual seat of the Europeans during
+conferences. Irving was uncovered; not, however, by order, but from
+a voluntary desire of showing proper respect; for he had not forgot
+the early lesson, "honour the king," though as a slave-dealer, it may
+be, alas! inferred, that he had little recollection of the context,
+"fear God." He made himself so agreeable, however, to the king, that
+he was invited to dine with him, and the meal was served with great
+elegance. While they were feasting, the grandees prostrated themselves
+before their sovereign; and what provisions were left were given to
+them, which they appeared readily and cheerfully to accept. Irving
+had, during this long interview, an ample opportunity of observing
+the person, the dress, and the manners of the new king of Whidah;
+and, in some degree, to form a judgment of his character. His dress
+was superb, composed of silk and gold, with strings of beautiful
+coral round his neck, arms, and wrists. In person he was tall, well
+shaped, with remarkably smooth and polished skin. His manners were
+free, urbane, and familiar; but there was discovered a disposition
+to covetousness, and the usual propensity to inebriety. Nor was it
+difficult to discover that he was indolent and pusillanimous, the usual
+companions of luxury and dissipation. In fact, the faults of the king
+seemed those of his education; and his virtues, those of his nature,
+which required only civilization, good examples, and a pure faith,
+to nourish into fruitfulness.
+
+The audience chamber in which Irving was received, was hung with
+tapestry. At the upper part of the room was a throne, formed of ivory;
+it was ascended by three steps, and shaded by a canopy of the richest
+silk. This is used on great state occasions.
+
+The king readily granted permission to Irving, to view the palace,
+excepting, of course, the apartments of the women. Conducted by
+his friend the grandee, and some other officers of the palace, he
+found it more extensive than he had supposed, having entered by a
+private passage. It consisted of several large squares, surrounded
+with galleries, each of which had a portico or gate, guarded by
+soldiers. The first gallery on entering the palace is very long,
+supported on each side by lofty pillars. At the termination of this
+gallery was a wall with three gates, the centre one ornamented with
+a turret seventy feet in height; terminated with a figure of a large
+snake, cast in copper, and very ingeniously carved. These gates opened
+into an immense area, enclosed also with a wall; then another gallery
+like the former, into another spacious court; and so on to a fourth,
+beyond which were the apartments of the king. In this spacious palace
+the king is sometimes immured for years, until he is crowned; and
+here, also, many wealthy courtiers spend the whole of their time,
+leaving trade and agriculture to be executed by their wives and
+slaves. (Note K.) These go to the circumjacent villages, either to
+trade in merchandise, or serve for daily wages; but they are obliged
+to bring the greatest part of what they obtain to their masters,
+otherwise they make no scruple to sell them for slaves.
+
+Irving and his new royal acquaintance had passed their time so
+convivially, that the negociation for slaves was deferred till the
+morrow, when he again attended his majesty to a depot, containing
+about two hundred; and as they were going to this place, they met
+nearly as many proceeding to the coast, the king's agents having
+sold them on the preceding day. Amongst this wretched group, Irving
+remarked some remarkably handsome men; and found, on enquiry, they
+were from Molembo, from whence the finest negroes are obtained.
+
+The number he was invited to examine, consisted of men,
+women, and children; and, to any but a slave-dealer, the sight
+was heart-rending. Fathers overwhelmed in silent sorrow; mothers
+expressing their anguish in affecting lamentations, audible sighs,
+or deep groans, expecting every moment to be separated from their
+tender offspring, whom they clasped to their bosoms, or endeavoured
+to hide under the folds of their pacans; youthful females shrinking
+from the brutal gaze of the trader, and dreading nameless indignities;
+the fiery eye of many a youth, indignant at the bonds which confined
+him from levelling to the ground the wretches who bought and sold him
+as a beast of the field, and tore him from the object of his love,
+whom he was powerless to save from death and bondage. But such a
+scene was of too frequent occurrence, the cry of the innocent was too
+familiar, to make any impression upon those who were bargaining. Irving
+purchased many of them; and having seen them marked as his property,
+(Note L.) left his people to conduct them to Whidah; whither, after
+having taken a cordial leave of the king, and so far conciliated him
+and the grandee as to ensure future advantages, he himself, with his
+attendants and the female slave, returned that evening.
+
+
+
+ Canst thou, and honoured with a Christian name,
+ Buy what is woman-born and feel no shame?
+ Trade in the blood of innocence, and plead
+ Expedience as a warrant for the deed?
+ Perish the thought!
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+ "And if perchance a momentary sigh,
+ For such a lot reflection may supply,
+ He follows not the feeling to its source."
+
+ Barton (adapted.)
+
+ "If ever thou hast felt another's pain,
+ If ever when he sigh'd hast sigh'd again;
+ If ever on thine eyelid stood the tear,
+ That pity hath engender'd--drop one here:
+ This man was happy."
+
+
+It will naturally be supposed, from the eagerness of Irving to make
+good the purchase of Imihie and her poor boy, that his heart was
+deeply interested by their situation, and that he had it certainly in
+his power to ameliorate it. But, alas! if, for a moment, the chord
+of compassion was touched, the feeling was transient, the impulse
+too weak to prompt to action; and, so far from being strengthened
+by the night's reflections, they, on the contrary, did but lead to
+lament his own folly, in making himself liable to the loss he would
+probably sustain by the high price he had given; as it was a condition
+of his engagement with the Company, that he was to be individually
+accountable for all losses incurred by the purchase of unprofitable
+slaves. These anticipations of pecuniary injury, were confirmed by
+the appearance of his poor captive on her arrival at the depot at
+Whidah. A fixed melancholy seemed to have absorbed every faculty,
+rendering her insensible even to the playful caresses of her boy,
+in whose sparkling eye, health "seemed a cherub yet divinely bright;"
+so happily unconscious was he of the bitterness of his lot, and the
+sufferings of his mother. Finding, from his people, that she resolutely
+rejected sustenance, Irving himself endeavoured to persuade her, but
+without success; but when self-interest, aided by the dictates of
+conscience and compassion, induced him to resort to the usual mode
+of forcing it, (nor will we question it was a painful task to him,)
+his heart must have been of adamant, not to have felt the powerful
+appeal of wretchedness and despair, when, while in the execution
+of this cruel duty, the poor captive looked up in his face, and,
+with a mournful smile, said: "Presently I shall be no more." (Note
+M.) Irving, indeed, from her appearance, began to think so; and as
+he could not now remedy her situation, nor restore her to what she
+had lost, he considered his best plan was to consign her, as soon
+as possible, to the ship waiting to receive the collected slaves,
+congratulating himself on his humanity, in having prevented the mother
+and child from being separated, even if he should thereby sustain
+some loss. He determined, also, to do all he could to ensure her
+some attention during the passage; and, with this view, determined to
+go immediately on board, to see the accommodation, and to give some
+particular instructions to the captain; leaving orders that Imihie
+should be conducted to the ship as soon as the day began to close.
+
+The ship destined to convey these miserable beings to the West Indies,
+had already on board between four and five hundred negroes. The
+captain boasted much of the superior accommodation of his vessel for
+the trade; and, to confirm his assertion, entreated Irving to visit the
+slave-rooms. Willing to conciliate any who might promote his interest,
+Irving consented. The superior accommodation he found, was, that
+every slave, whatever his size, had five feet six inches in length,
+and sixteen inches in breadth, to lie upon! The floor was crowded with
+bodies, stowed or packed according to this allowance. But between
+the floor and deck, or ceiling, were platforms or broad shelves,
+in the mid-way, which were also covered with bodies. (Note N.) The
+men were shackled two and two, each by one leg, to a small iron
+bar; these, the captain with much self-complacence said, were every
+day brought upon deck for the air; but lest they should attempt to
+recover their freedom, they were made fast by ring-bolts to the deck,
+or by two common chains, which were extended on each side the main
+deck; but the women and children, he added, were suffered to remain
+loose. Few slaves fared so well as his, he continued, for he allowed
+each a pint of water a day, and yams and horse-beans twice a day;
+and afterwards, for exercise and health, they jumped in their irons,
+which, if they refused to do, he was obliged, certainly, to flog them,
+as it was his duty to preserve them in health, if possible. Irving,
+however, learnt, in the course of this man's conversation, that it
+was usual for these miserable beings to remain fifteen or sixteen
+hours below deck, out of the twenty-four; and that, in wet weather,
+they could not be brought up for two or three successive days: their
+situation was, he acknowledged, very distressing, but he could not
+remedy it. They would cling to the gratings for a little air; draw
+their breath with anxious and laborious efforts; fight with each
+other for a taste of water; and many died of suffocation. (Note O.)
+
+Amongst the number thus confined in the hold of this ship, Irving
+remarked many whose nobleness of aspect indicated that there was a
+"spirit within," which rose even above such calamity--a consciousness
+of moral dignity, that spurned at the cruelties of the oppressor;
+but there was one in particular, before the flame of whose eye even
+Irving shrunk abashed. He was evidently a person of consequence; high,
+it would seem, in military rank, inferred from certain personal
+indications, with the meaning of which Irving was acquainted;
+and also from some articles of dress, stated to have been taken
+from him when captured; and every look (action was denied him)
+indicated that he possessed a mind not insensible to the eminence of
+his station. Irving enquired from whence he was taken, and from whom
+purchased? He was told, from Molembo, it was thought; and that he had
+been only a few days purchased from the king of Whidah, with a number
+of his countrymen, taken by treachery, and in defiance of a treaty
+subsisting at the time. This was all he could learn; and having given
+his instructions respecting Imihie, Irving returned to Whidah before
+her arrival at the ship, being desirous to avoid another interview,
+the sight of her producing a painful emotion he could neither define
+nor account for.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+ "Soft airs, and gentle heavings of the wave,
+ Impel the fleet whose errand is to save!
+ But ah! what wish can prosper, or what pray'r,
+ For merchants rich in cargoes of despair.
+ The sable warrior, frantic with regret
+ Of her he loves, and never can forget,
+ Loses, in tears, the far-receding shore,
+ But not the thought that they must meet no more."
+
+ Cowper.
+
+
+Night shed her silent influence over the mighty deep; the firmament
+was bright with myriads of glittering worlds; the moon, in full and
+mild lustre, rode majestically, like a sphere of silver light, on the
+summit of fleecy clouds, and was reflected, in many a fantastic form,
+by the tossing waves, the gentle ripplings of which were mingled
+with the distant sound of "All is well," borne on the gale from the
+fort, the regular tread of the watch on deck, and the boatswain's
+shrill whistle. The rush of the shark, "cutting the briny deep,"
+as it instinctively followed the floating receptacle of misery, was
+the only sound that interrupted, painfully, the heavenly calmness
+of the scene and hour; a calmness, alas! little according with the
+soul-sickening agitations of the wretched beings, now silently borne
+from all held dear and precious, and on their way to all the horrors
+of a life in chains. Cargoes of despair they may truly be called!
+
+Imagination, in its loftiest flight, must come short in attempting to
+embody in words, the smallest part of the aggregate of misery which
+exists on board a slave-ship; it will, therefore, not be attempted:
+one only being of the wretched number must appear a moment on our
+theatre of woe; he who had so forcibly arrested the attention of
+Irving, when visiting the slave-rooms.
+
+Confined promiscuously with such a multitude of his wretched
+countrymen, the agony of his feelings is not to be described. With the
+form and visage of a man, he felt, indignantly felt, that his destiny
+was that of the beast of the field, and his soul seemed bursting from
+the frame that confined it. Wearied nature at length found a short
+cessation from the unutterable pangs of woe, in sleep--in consoling
+visions! He dreamt he was in his own beloved country, in the enjoyment
+of honour and command, caressed by his family, served by his wonted
+attendants, and surrounded with the comforts of his former life:
+his spicy groves exhaling sweets, his palm-tree's refreshing shade,
+his rivers teeming riches, his domestic endearments, his war-like
+preparations, and his hard-earned triumphs, came in succession on
+his fancy. But the sweet delusions were too soon dispelled: he awoke,
+with a hurried start, to the sad, sad reality, that he was a slave in
+the midst of slaves. The rapid retrospect of former happiness with
+existing misery, rushed on his soul; and the dreadful reverse drew
+from his manly breast the most affecting lamentations. Every dear
+object of his regard flitted before his mental view; but, alas! there
+was no reality but misery--interminable bondage: there was no fond eye
+to behold, no persuasive tongue to soothe, no attentive ear to listen
+to his woe. Mingled with the meanest of his subjects, whom he had no
+power to relieve; subjected to the cruelty and insolence of wretches
+a thousand degrees lower in the scale of humanity and intellectual
+endowment, yet arrogating their superiority as Christians, and the
+proud distinctions of national advantages, his soul refused comfort,
+and he determined upon death. Little did he think this foe to nature
+was so near; little did he imagine the horrid form in which he would
+present himself; and that there might be circumstances which, at the
+moment of expiring nature, would make him cling to, and even give
+value to a life of perpetual bondage!
+
+The vessel made considerable way during the night, and the morning
+rose, with glorious splendour and beneficent freshness, upon the
+world of waters; on the majestic bosom of which, floated such an
+accumulation of moral turpitude and excelling misery! The hour
+arrived when the slaves were to be brought on deck for air and
+exercise. The sable warrior anticipated it with a gloomy joy, as
+the most favourable opportunity of effecting his designed purpose of
+self-destruction; and when he found he was to be fastened to the deck,
+he violently resisted. This, however, did but provoke his oppressors
+to increased indignities. In the midst of this struggle, he became
+calm as a lamb, resistless as an infant. The sound of a female voice,
+singing a mournful African air, seemed to have bound him by a potent
+spell. (Note P.) His eyes appeared as if bursting from their orbits,
+his whole frame trembled; while the big tear rolled silently down
+his sable countenance, which assumed a mingled expression of doubt,
+hope, and agony. He at first directed his piercing eyes to the air,
+as if he thought the song proceeded from some hovering, viewless
+spirit. He again renewed his efforts to get free, and fixed his gaze
+intently on the remotest part of the ship, from whence the sound
+seemed to proceed, but nothing met his view: the song, however, still
+continued, only interrupted, at intervals, by deep sobs of anguish,
+and the scarcely-heard voice of infantine distress.
+
+Rendered desperate by the confinement under such powerful emotions,
+he called loudly on the spirits of his fathers, to avenge him on the
+Christian tyrants; and while enduring, in consequence, the cruel
+scourging and insulting mockery of the barbarian crew, a piercing
+scream was heard, and the poor Imihie was seen rushing from an
+obscure place, (in which the captain had indulged her to remain,)
+with the infant Samboe clinging to her bosom. In a moment the names
+of Tumiah! Imihie! were interchanged; and the exhausted Imihie,
+letting her child fall from her relaxing arms, threw herself upon
+the panting bosom of her enchained and manacled husband.
+
+We invade not the feelings of that moment: language has nothing to
+do with them. The Being who formed the heart of man, can alone judge
+of its emotions.
+
+The maternal affection was not, however, long absorbed in the conjugal;
+and the half frantic Imihie recollected, that Samboe was not enfolded
+with her in the arms of Tumiah. She loosened herself with difficulty
+from his embrace, to restore her child to his wonted protection within
+her own; but, at the moment she arose for the purpose, a tumultuous cry
+resounded through the ship, of "fire! fire! Loosen the slaves! loosen
+the slaves!" The fire, however, spread with such violence, bursting
+from the spirit-room, that the sailors, apprehending that it was
+impossible to extinguish it before it would reach a large quantity of
+gunpowder on board, concluded it necessary to precipitate themselves
+into the sea, as offering the only chance of saving their lives.
+
+However, they did first endeavour to loose the chains by which the
+slaves were fastened to the deck; but in the confusion the key
+could not be found, and they had but just time to loosen one of
+the fastenings, by wrenching the staple, before the vehemence of
+the fire so increased, that they simultaneously jumped overboard;
+when immediately, the fire having gained the powder, the vessel blew
+up, with every slave that was confined by the unloosened chain, and
+such others as had not possessed the power to follow the example of
+the sailors.
+
+We hardly know whether to style it fortunate, that any circumstance
+should save these victims of avarice from a watery grave, after
+escaping that which, to the sense, seems more terrible. Providence,
+however, ordained that there should be some vessels in sight; which,
+putting out their boats, took up about two hundred and fifty of the
+poor souls that remained alive; but the most of them being those who
+had been fastened together with shackles, had, from the violence of
+the shock, and the confinement of the irons, experienced dreadful
+fractures of the limbs; which, inflamed by the struggles they had
+instinctively made, the heat, and the agitated state of the blood,
+quickly mortified, and ere they were scarcely sensible of their
+increase of calamity, released them, for ever, from all fear of it
+more. Among the number who thus yielded up his manly spirit, was
+Tumiah, rejoicing in the belief that his Imihie and Samboe were also
+removed to a land of spirits--a land where no man-stealer can enter,
+no treachery gain access, no violence invade. He might have adopted
+the words of the poet:
+
+
+ "Now, Christian, glut thy ravish'd eyes;
+ I reach the joyful hour:
+ Let, let the scorching flames arise,
+ And these poor limbs devour.
+
+ "O Death, how welcome to th' opprest!
+ Thy kind embrace I crave;
+ Thou bringst to Misery's bosom rest,
+ And freedom to the slave!"
+
+
+The fond belief, however, of the expiring Tumiah, that his wife and
+child had escaped the horrors of bondage, was fallacious. Previously
+to the calamity, the feelings of the wretched Imihie had been wrought
+up nearly to their utmost height; the sight of the quick-advancing
+flames, therefore, was sufficient to augment them to frenzy, and with a
+strength which frenzy only could impart, to a frame exhausted by want
+of nourishment and continual grief, she snatched the infant Samboe
+from the deck, upon which he had fallen, and where, unheeded by one
+pitying eye, he remained, without uttering any cry or attempting to
+move; for, overcome by terror of the noise and brutality of the crew,
+the sight of the immense ocean, and the want of that nourishment which
+he in vain sought from the exhausted bosom of his wretched mother,
+the suffering child seemed unable to move, or even to utter any sound.
+
+Imihie pressed him closely to her breast, turned a momentary and
+frenzied glance upon her enchained husband, and uttering a faint cry of
+terror, cast herself and precious burden into the foaming deep. But it
+was not decreed to become her tomb. Almost by miracle, she was thrown
+near a boat which had put off from a Spanish slave-vessel, and was
+picked up by the crew, with Samboe still closely entwined within her
+arms; without, however, exhibiting the smallest appearance of remaining
+life. But the vital spark was not yet extinct. She was immediately
+put on board the ship, and means of resuscitation used with both her
+and her child, as well as several other equally miserable victims of
+avarice. Heaven decreed these efforts to be effectual: and thus was
+the widowed mother transferred, by the sudden calamity, from one set
+of mercenaries to another, yet still doomed to slavery! The vessel
+had taken in her cargo at Rio Pongos, and was bound for the Havannah;
+but her stowage was too small to allow her, with impunity, to keep the
+increase occasioned by the casualty of the fire. She therefore put
+into a port, and disposed of them to a ship bound for Jamaica. This
+occasioned considerable delay; in consequence of which, when the
+transferred slaves were at length on their passage, they were subjected
+to all the evils of improper seasons; water failed, provisions became
+spoiled and scanty, and many of the slaves the victims of disease,
+ere they entered the magnificent harbour of Port Royal.
+
+Arrived at Kingston, they were put in store, until notice should
+be given of sale, which was immediately done by advertisement: "On
+Tuesday next will be put up for sale, in their store, fifty superb
+negroes of the coast; to the purchasers of which will be afforded
+all the facilities wished."
+
+
+ * * * "What man reading this,
+ And having human feelings, does not blush
+ And hang his head, to think himself a man?"
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+ "Authority usurp'd from God, not given.
+ He gave us over beast, fish, fowl,
+ Dominion absolute. That right we hold
+ By his donation: but men over men
+ He made not lord; such title to himself
+ Reserving, human left from human free."
+
+ Milton.
+
+
+Had Irving now seen the once attractive Imihie, and her playful boy,
+as he even beheld them in the slave-room of the African courtier,
+he would scarcely have given credit to any assurance that she
+was the same individual. She then, recently a captive, peculiarly
+displayed in her person the characteristic feminine traits of her
+country--perfect symmetry of proportion, and beautiful, in as far as
+it did not consist in colour. Modest, affable, and faithful, these
+sweet feminine qualities emanated from her softened eyes, and an air
+of winning innocence in every look and gesture; while every word was
+pronounced with an inflection of voice so sweet, so soft, so tender,
+that cold indeed must have been the heart that could withstand its
+eloquent appeal, or listen, unmoved, to its modulations. Such was the
+young Imihie. Now, alas! how changed! Emaciated for want of food,
+sinking with illness, shrinking from exposure; almost frenzied
+with the recollection of the past, the misery of the present,
+and the dread of the future; bearing, with difficulty, her infant,
+she was conducted, with her companions in misery, to the vendue, in
+the bare hope that she might be purchased for the sake of the boy;
+who, though suffering from the effects of the voyage and want of
+his natural nutriment, still evidently displayed great intelligence,
+and much natural vigour. The first day of exhibition passed, and no
+purchaser was found for the sulky negress, (for such is the feeling
+term applied to the desponding.)
+
+On occasions like this, it is a common thing to speculate upon the
+purchase of what are termed the refuse negroes, or those left from the
+first day's sale. Some are frequently in so weak and miserable a state,
+as even to be sold as low as for a dollar; some are taken to the mart
+almost in the agonies of death; and some are even known to draw their
+last sigh in the piazzas of the vendue master. It was on the second
+day's sale that Imihie was purchased by a planter for a very low sum,
+and carried into the country, with some others, whom he intended
+to retail. The situation of these wretched captives was but little
+ameliorated, by becoming the property of this man, who was of that
+class of managers, who think that the safety of the family to which
+they are subservient, and the interest of the proprietor, renders
+severity indispensable, and oppression the only mode of subduing
+the refractory spirit of the African, whom they regard with the most
+sovereign contempt. With souls lost to all sense of compassion, they
+believe there can be but one mode of enforcing obedience, that of fear;
+and in the exercise of their delegated authority, they put in action,
+to the utmost, this ignoble stimulus, by every means which a spirit
+of cruelty and ignorance can suggest.
+
+Short, indeed, would have been the existence of the miserable Imihie,
+had she continued the property of this semi-barbarian. Confined in a
+narrow and unwholesome hut, without a single comfort; a hurdle for
+a bed, which rather served to torture than to ease her pained and
+wearied limbs, with scarcely sufficient of a coarse linen to secure
+her frame from the scorching heats of the day, and the dangerous dews
+of night; in the midst of the richest bounties of nature, and the
+abundant luxuries of art, fed on salt beef and salt cod, and roots,
+with the injurious flour of the cassava, imperfectly prepared,
+and these in quantity scarcely sufficient to support existence;
+deprived of every enjoyment; condemned to perpetual labour, under the
+rod of an unfeeling master, there could be no chance of amendment of
+health, or of reconcilement to her destiny. But Providence ordained
+she should yet feel the happiness of sympathy. Her tyrant master,
+finding that her labour was very inadequate to the expences of
+retaining her, would have separated her from her child, and sold
+her for the smallest possible sum; but a neighbouring proprietor of
+a small plantation offered a satisfactory price for them together,
+and they were removed to a comparatively comfortable situation, in
+the hope that, with rest and better food, she might be enabled to
+become a house-slave to the wife of the purchaser.
+
+It has been remarked, by observing travellers, that the women of the
+West Indies possess great natural kind feelings; but that the habitual
+view of oppression, and the free exercise of power over the slaves,
+renders them very insensible to the sufferings of the negro women,
+and totally regardless of promoting their happiness, or of studying
+to ameliorate their hard lot; and that the instances are by no means
+uncommon, in which they treat and have them punished with the utmost
+severity: that they can raise, to no gentle tone, their soft voices,
+and exert, with no little energy, their spiritless frames, when
+provoked by the awkwardness, or jealous of the influence of their
+sable captives. Ah! much to be lamented is that state of oppression
+on the one part, and debasement on the other, which can convert the
+expression of that distinguishing feature of beauty, of female beauty
+more especially, from that which indicates right feeling, to that which
+betrays a superiority the God of nature designed not. A woman's eye
+should melt with tenderness, sparkle with innocent animation, weep
+with those that weep, and beam with the rays of joy at the happiness
+of another.
+
+Such was the expression which shed its consolation on the desolated
+Imihie, upon the visit of her new mistress to her lowly hut. This
+amiable woman was young, but her mind had been early matured in the
+school of adversity: a hapless fate had fixed her residence in a
+remote part of Jamaica, but she had also learnt, from precepts which
+will never lead astray, "in whatsoever situation she was, therewith
+to be content." From the same Master who had inspired this lesson of
+the apostle, she had also learnt the only cure for the rebellion of
+the mind; that force defeated its object; that it was the interest of
+those who possessed power over their fellow-beings, that they should
+be attached to life, for nothing could be expected from them, the
+moment that they no longer feared death. Guiding her conduct by this
+principle of enlightened reason, derived from a far higher source,
+the most genuine sentiments of humanity were in constant exercise, by
+a corresponding course of action. She could not, indeed, as an obscure
+and solitary individual, break or remove the yoke which oppressed
+her fellow-creatures; but she could render it easier to be borne, and
+could, sometimes, even for a time, dissipate the cruel sense of it,
+by promoting and favouring the natural tastes of her poor slaves. Their
+lodging, clothing, and food, were all attended to by persons she could
+depend upon, and regularly inspected by herself. Far from regarding
+the occupation degrading, she persevered in it as a commanding
+duty; and she reaped her high reward, by the grateful affection of
+her poor servants. By various simple methods, she roused from the
+apathy of despair, and awakened the sensibilities. Little festivals
+conducted with judgment, innocent recreations, and simple rewards,
+preserved her slaves from the continual melancholy, which had too
+just a foundation. She sympathized with mothers, and delighted to
+share with them the caresses of the children.
+
+Her husband, although possessing not her intelligence and elevation
+of mind, nor actuated by the principle that directed the energies of
+his amiable wife, yet was induced, by her unostentatious usefulness,
+and evident success in her plans, to accede to most of the humane
+innovations she proposed to him; convinced, by her arguments, that it
+would be his interest to be humane. Hence, their plantation exhibited a
+picture of comfort seldom seen, and their slaves had every appearance
+of health. They were allowed wholesome provision in ample quantity,
+with as much fruit as they wished; they had the liberty of keeping
+poultry, and to cultivate a piece of ground with esculent roots;
+their huts were comfortable, and when sick they experienced the
+kindest attention; and they were frequently suffered to associate
+with each other in little parties, for recreation and amusement.
+
+Such were the proprietors of the poor Imihie and her hapless boy, who
+soon began to find the benefit of kind treatment; and it is probable,
+had Providence ordained that it should have been enjoyed, immediately
+after landing on a foreign shore, that the miseries of the voyage,
+and even the horrors of bondage, might have been overcome by youth,
+and that wonderful buoyancy of the human mind, that seems to force
+itself above the swelling waves of misfortune. But the arrow had sunk
+too deep: its barb had been too powerfully poisoned, for human effort
+to withdraw, or to antidote it. Imihie was evidently the victim of that
+disease which hurries to an untimely grave, so many individuals of
+her hapless country; and which, throughout the world, may be termed,
+although not yet classed, a broken heart. The first symptom of this
+disorder among negroes, became evident; namely, the black and glossy
+skin assumed an olive hue, the tongue became white, and the poor
+sufferer became overpowered by such a desire to sleep, that it was
+found impossible to resist it, a deadly faintness preventing the
+smallest exercise. In fact, a languor and general relaxation of the
+whole wonderful machinery of the human frame, seems to threaten death
+day by day, yet the sufferer still survives. So great is the state of
+despondency accompanying this distressing malady, that those afflicted
+will suffer themselves to be beaten, rather than attempt to move or
+walk. Happy was it for Imihie that she had not a task-master's whip to
+dread; and that the loathing which she had for mild and wholesome food,
+was not attributed to obstinacy, but to what it really was, a symptom
+of the disease which was insiduously undermining the vital principles
+of life. It made rapid advances upon her delicate and youthful frame:
+her respiration became laborious and painful, the extremities became
+swollen, and suffocation seemed frequently to impede the action of
+the heart. In this state she languished and suffered several months;
+but Imihie had her consolations, under an infliction, the natural
+consequence of melancholy upon the organs of the human frame.
+
+We have said, that the humanity and enlightened reason of the
+excellent Mrs. Delany, were derived from a high source; even from that
+source which exalts feeling to a principle: the one is frequently as
+transient as the excitement, the other is founded upon a firm basis;
+offering a permanent and pure incentive to action, by adding a value
+to existence, as connecting it with a future. Such is one of the many
+blessed fruits of a Christian faith. Mrs. Delany felt its commanding
+power: she was a Christian in deed. Hers was not a speculative creed,
+but a practical code: it was her daily, hourly study to act upon.
+
+It is true, Jamaica, at the period of our narrative, enjoyed not
+the high privileges it now possesses of Christian instruction, and
+of Christian example; but Mrs. Delaney was one amongst the few, who,
+feeling and enjoying the light and the consolation of religion, were
+anxious to impart a portion of what cheered their own hearts--of that
+which directed their steps, to those who yet "sat in darkness and
+the shadow of death." Deeply interested in her hapless slave, from
+the moment she saw her, Mrs. Delaney had soothed, by truly maternal
+attention, her bodily sufferings, and her mental anguish. She inwardly
+deplored her total ignorance of that grand source of consolation, the
+knowledge of which was so open to those who despised it. She gently
+prepared the feelings and the understanding for the reception of that
+light, which she fervently prayed might be imparted to her benighted
+mind. She gradually led her docile steps, her mental view, to Him who
+invites the heavy laden to resort to him for rest; to seek Him who is
+the strength and the fortress of those that trust in him; to adore,
+with unfeigned humility, that transcendent mercy, which became poor
+that we might be rich. What heart is there, bereft of all earthly
+good, all earthly hope, but must expand with joy, to receive into
+its most inmost recesses the precious promises of Christianity?--of
+that mild and beneficent religion, which so tenderly sympathizes with
+every emotion of the weak, the frail, the lacerated bosom? Was it
+then surprising, that the poor Imihie, with feelings too powerful for
+utterance, hung upon the mild accents of Mrs. Delaney, as she described
+to her the sufferings of the Redeemer--the abyss of wretchedness from
+which he rescued mankind--the dreadful penalty from which he saved a
+rebellious world? Was it surprising, that, with an eager gratitude,
+which gave a heavenly expression to her languid eyes, and displayed
+itself in every varying feature, she listened to the glorious truths
+of revelation, unfolded in terms suited to her expanding capacity;
+and that, with all the simplicity of unsophisticated nature, receiving
+the noblest impressions of Deity, she bade Mrs. Delaney thank her great
+good God for his marvellous kindness to wretched captives, and for the
+unsearchable riches of his grace. Never was she wearied in hearing
+her kind instructress recount the sufferings of the incarnate God:
+tears, the offspring of genuine feeling, chased each other down her
+altered countenance, as Mrs. Delaney directed her imagination to the
+garden of Gethsemane, to the judgment-hall, where He, whose throne is
+heaven, and his footstool earth, was exposed to insult, contumely,
+and scorn; scourged, buffeted, spit upon; betrayed by one friend,
+denied by another, and abandoned by all; subjected to a painful, a
+cruel, and an ignominious death, in the presence of insulting foes:
+the very spirit clouded by the momentary abandonment of heavenly aid,
+forcing from the lips of the sufferer the agonizing exclamation:
+"My God, my God! why hast thou forsaken me?" and all this for the
+love he bore for those who became his murderers.
+
+Thus would Mrs. Delaney, in language suited to the capacity of her
+pupil, recount the affecting history of our Redeemer, and gradually
+open her mind (aided by the Spirit of grace constantly implored
+to direct her) to the grand truths of the gospel. The soul of the
+dying Imihie imbibed the soothing balm, felt the powerful energy,
+and gladly received the consolation the religion of Jesus alone has
+power to give. Her tears, it is true, still flowed for Africa, and for
+Tumiah; but they were no longer bitter tears. The heavenly ray which
+had been communicated to her soul, had not only enlightened it, but
+stilled its perturbations; and captivity was deprived of its horrors,
+in the enjoyment of those lively instructions in the way of holiness
+and peace, so impressively imparted by her truly Christian mistress.
+
+Often when administering some relief to her bodily suffering,
+Mrs. Delaney would ask her how she felt herself. She would say, with
+a serene smile, "weak, weak; but joy, joy here," laying her hand on
+her bosom, then pressing that of her compassionate benefactress. No
+murmur, no complaint, proceeded from her lips; but her mind appeared
+ever tranquil, and her soul happy. Sometimes, indeed, while caressing
+Samboe, the tear would swell in her eyes; but she had learned the
+comprehensive prayer, "Lord, let thy will be done!" and a frequent,
+affecting repetition of it, while she pressed her boy to her bosom,
+spoke volumes to the sympathizing Mrs. Delaney.
+
+During this daily increase of spiritual strength, her frame gradually
+sunk under the pressure of her disease, which resisted every
+tried means of relief, and finally came to its usual termination;
+viz. suffocation. Thus closed the mortal career of the youthful
+Imihie, one of the many thousands of victims to a commerce, which,
+it is feared, the mercenary will always cling to; in which desperate
+men will ever be found to hazard; and, even in Africa, tyrants ever
+be ready to supply the horrid market; (Note Q.) while few, it is to
+be feared, will, like the poor Imihie, after a series of misery, find
+a Mrs. Delaney to soothe their sorrows, and point to realms where all
+tears shall be wiped away, and sorrow and sighing shall flee for ever.
+
+
+ To Heaven the Christian negress sent her sighs,
+ In morning vows, and evening sacrifice;
+ She pray'd for blessings to descend on those
+ Who dealt to her the cup of many woes;
+ Thought of her home in Africa forlorn,
+ Yet, while she wept, rejoic'd that she was born:
+ Ennobling virtue fix'd her hopes above,
+ Enlarg'd her heart, and sanctified her love.
+ With lowly steps the path of peace she trod,
+ A happy pilgrim, for she walk'd with God.
+
+ Montgomery, (adapted.)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+ The spreading palm-tree o'er her grave shall wave,
+ Emblem of bliss eternal!
+
+ "See on the grave in which she sleeps,
+ The soften'd savage sits and weeps;
+ And the sweet voice of gratitude
+ Oft names her in the desert rude."
+
+ The Missionary.
+
+
+The infant Samboe, thus bereaved of his suffering mother, was yet too
+young to feel the full magnitude of his loss; yet his little heart
+experienced emotions he had no power to utter, when he was told she
+would never more awake to his call, nor could he feel happy, when,
+with expressions of joy, he saw the negroes of the plantation remove
+his "silent mother" to the burial ground, with every demonstration
+of joy. (Note R.)
+
+An ever kind Providence has, however, made the griefs of children to
+be transient; and Samboe, the favourite of Mrs. Delaney, from his
+sweetness of disposition, great activity, and early intelligence,
+would probably have presented a pleasing exception to the unhappy
+lot of his enslaved countrymen--might justly have enjoyed the title
+of the happy negro--had his benefactress been spared to bless the
+sable dependants on her kindness. But life, at all times and in all
+situations transient and uncertain, may be said to be peculiarly so
+in the West Indies; the progress of disease being so rapid, and the
+excitements to it so many. That dreadful visitation, the yellow fever,
+broke out in the district of the Delaney plantation: numberless were
+the victims to the "pestilence that walketh in noon-day;" and among
+them were Mr. Delaney and his amiable wife.
+
+Those who were capable of appreciating their worth, who had felt
+their benevolence, had enjoyed the privileges they allowed, and knew
+how rarely they were found in the plantations, mourned them with
+unfeigned sorrow, their loss closing up the avenues of consolation and
+of hope; and those too young to feel how much they were deprived of,
+were quickly made sensible of a change from a system of Christian
+love and benevolence, to that built upon the mere hope of worldly
+gain. As it is not the custom in the English colonies, as in the
+French, for the negroes to be attached to the plantation, those
+of the Delaney estate were, upon the sale of it, dispersed amongst
+different purchasers; and the infant Samboe became the property of
+a cruel mercenary, who employed the poor child to wait upon him,
+when indulging in all the luxurious ease of an occidental despot. By
+those who have seen the various caprices of a temper altogether
+uncontrouled, the whims of a mind destitute of cultivation and
+obstinate in ignorance, the cruelty of a disposition formed by the
+possession of a precarious power over helpless individuals; by those,
+and those only, will the various species of suffering to which the
+innocent child was subjected be understood; and the terrors which were
+produced by the horrid imprecations, the unmanly abuse, and vulgar
+epithets of this brutal master, upon the gentle and timid character
+of the poor little Samboe. It was then he began to feel the loss,
+and to pine for the tenderness of his mother and his benefactress;
+and there is little doubt but he would have soon followed them to
+the tomb, had not an incident occurred, that emancipated him from the
+tyrannical controul by which he so acutely suffered. One day, while
+attending his master at breakfast, just as he handed the coffee his
+foot slipped, and it was thrown over a beautiful cimar, which the
+luxurious planter highly valued, as the gift of a lady to whom he
+was partial. He rose in haste and in anger, and aiming a blow at the
+now kneeling boy, missed the blow, and fell himself to the ground,
+striking his head by the fall against the edge of a sofa. Seeing him
+suddenly fall, some attendants in waiting rushed to his assistance,
+but in vain: the blow had been fatal, he had fallen to rise no more
+on earth! Happy was it for Samboe that there were witnesses, white
+witnesses of the scene, who could exonerate him from all intentional
+connexion with, or wilful provocation to the catastrophe. The alarm,
+however, of the unoffending child was distressing: the countenance
+of the planter at all times bore evidence of his ill-regulated mind
+and indurated heart, and the awful hand of death fixed them in an
+expression the most horrid. With little idea of such sudden death,
+the poor child thought he was but in a violent passion, and, in the
+most piteous accents, clasping his hands together, besought "massa to
+forgive poor Samboe, who would not break cup any more, would not spoil
+dress any more." But his supplication was alike unheeded by master
+and attendants, except by one, who kicking him as he passed, said:
+"Get out of the way, ye little whining dog, or I'll make ye." Samboe
+crept from the apartment, and crouching under some furniture, felt
+all the bitterness of a life of slavery, of which nature, in its first
+fresh feelings, can be capable. Happily again for the infant captive,
+the wife of the planter could not bear to retain in her service the
+innocent cause of her husband's death; at least, secretly rejoicing
+at her own emancipation from his arbitrary disposition, she affected
+so to say: consequently, she expressed her wish of selling him to
+the manager of a neighbouring plantation, but as her recent loss
+rendered it impossible for her to have a personal interview, she
+thus communicated her wish by note to this person: "Unable to bear
+the sight of the young author of the death of the best and tenderest
+of husbands, Mrs. Williamson requests the favour of Mr. Martin to
+take charge of, and dispose of him, in any way he may judge most
+conducive to her interest, and to employ the proceeds in the purchase
+of a more effective, that is, laborious slave. Mrs. W. relies on the
+known kindness of Mr. M. to render this service to the disconsolate
+widow of his late friend." My young readers will doubtless be shocked,
+that Mrs. Williamson should thus profess grief for the loss of a man
+she married for his wealth, without either esteeming or loving him;
+but it is no fancied picture, and is presented to show, that, unless
+the heart is continually watched, and the mind sedulously cultivated,
+in situations favourable to indolence and self-indulgence, the moral
+feelings quickly become blunted, and the individual can easily,
+and without any self-reproach, assume any sentiments and any line
+of conduct which best suits the whim or caprice of the moment;
+and she hated the little Samboe, because she once overheard him,
+in a moment of unusual gaiety, telling a circle of slaves what
+merry dances they had at Delaney, when dear Missy Delaney danced
+with poor Samboe. Upon such trifles will envy condescend to feed its
+insatiate appetite. Good, however, to Samboe, was educed from all this
+evil. Mr. Martin was the respectable and humane manager of the Moreton
+estate; (see "Twilight Hours Improved," page 85;) subjected to his
+superintendence during the minority of Mr. Frederick Moreton, by the
+will of his deceased father; and whose humane treatment of his negroes
+had excited the displeasure of the young man's guardian, Mr. Penryn,
+who firmly believed the African race created only to become the slaves
+of Europeans. Mr. Martin lost no time in complying with the request
+of his fair neighbour. He well remembered frequently having seen the
+little Samboe in attendance upon his imperious master, and never failed
+to admire his extreme docility, mildness, and intelligence; and he
+looked upon the circumstance of Mrs. Williamson's desire to sell him,
+as very fortunate, as he had, only a few days previous, received the
+commission to send to England a negro boy for his young master.
+
+The purchase was soon made, and Samboe was once more under the roof of
+an indulgent master. Every attention was given, in order to establish
+his health, and improve his personal appearance, that he might credit
+the choice of his purchaser, and please the young eye of his future
+master. He only remained at Jamaica to effect these purposes, when he
+was consigned to the care of the captain of an English West Indiaman,
+with instructions to have him safely conveyed to Mr. Penryn's,
+Portman Square.
+
+Samboe evinced the greatest reluctance to go on board; he clung
+to Mr. Martin, who himself conducted him, and trembled violently,
+declaring he could not go into great ship, or on great wide sea. No one
+could account for this extraordinary reluctance and evident terror; for
+they knew not that the young heart of the little negro was throbbing
+with recollections for which he had no name, and which he had no
+power to express. It is true, they were vague, like the confused
+remembrance of a troubled dream, but they were powerful; and it was
+with the utmost difficulty Mr. Martin soothed him, by gentleness,
+promises, and assurances; and, after all, was obliged to leave him,
+when he had cried himself to sleep upon a coil of rope on the deck,
+no one being able to prevail upon him to go below, and Mr. Martin
+positively forbidding coercion.
+
+The grief and terror of the poor boy were renewed, when he discovered
+he had been left by Mr Martin; but a series of kind treatment, and
+many little indulgences granted him, after a while reconciled him
+to his new situation; while his simplicity and quickness greatly
+endeared him to the sailors, with whom he became quite a pet. The
+voyage passed in this manner without any particular occurrence; and
+Samboe was introduced, one evening, to the dining room of Mr. Penryn,
+filled with elegant company.
+
+Had he been one of the wonders of the world, he probably would not have
+excited more attention, or elicited more remarks. The ladies admired
+his eyes and his teeth; the gentlemen enquired if he was a Molembo,
+or from the Kroo country, and began an animated debate on slavery,
+and the slave-trade. Each lady gave her opinion of the most becoming
+dress to contrast with the jet black of his skin. One asked him if was
+not glad to come to England; another enquired if he was sorry to leave
+Africa; a third enquired if they flogged him at the plantation; while
+a fourth, by way of compliment to the lady of the house, observed,
+he was a happy black boy, to have such a charming mistress. To all
+these remarks the poor child could give no reply; nor, it would seem,
+was it expected; and, much to his joy, he was dismissed to the care
+of the groom, until his apartment and employment about the person of
+his young master could be arranged.
+
+The groom, however, was highly indignant that a vile neger boy
+should be committed to his care: "Did they fancy he would let a
+black get between his sheets? No, indeed; there was the hay-loft,
+the stable-boy should pull him a truss of straw in the corner there:
+surely that would be a better bed than most negers got. Sleep with
+me, indeed; no, I'd lose my place first, and tis'n't a bad one,
+neither. Had they told me to take Caesar the house-dog, or Neptune
+the Newfoundlander, I should not have so much have minded; but a
+neger boy! surely my master was half-seas over to think of it." This,
+and much more of the same refined objection, passed in the kitchen
+of ---- Penryn, esq. and, according to the groom's kind arrangement,
+Samboe was indulged with some clean straw in the stable-loft.
+
+The children of oppression and calamity quickly sympathize; a kindred
+feeling draws them together: thus it was with Samboe the African,
+and Frank the English stable boy. An orphan from his cradle,
+and a parish apprentice, Frank had been early subjected to every
+oppression--exposed to every temptation; but a certain buoyancy of
+spirit, and a persevering ardour of mind, enabled him to rise above
+the one; and the latter was rendered less dangerous, by his constant,
+unremitted love of employment. He was busily engaged mending his
+shoes, when his master, the groom, introduced the young negro to his
+acquaintance. "There, Frank," he said, "there is a companion for you,
+my lad; take care he don't touch the horses, and mind he don't run
+away. Lock him up when you come in for your supper: you may offer him
+some, but I don't know what negers eat, I'm sure. Master should have
+told us that, I think, for I don't expect they live as we do. Eh! my
+lad, do ye mind me?" he added, with a raised voice, as he saw Frank
+take the hand of the timid Samboe, and ask him if he was tired. "Oh
+yes, sir!" he replied, touching his fur cap, "I will be sure to take
+care of him."
+
+Glad to get quit of the restraint which the charge imposed upon him,
+the groom was in high good humour with Frank, and promised, if he would
+attend to his orders, he would give him a shilling. Astonished at his
+unwonted generosity, Frank repeated his assurances; and having made
+his new companion understand that he desired to make him comfortable,
+with the happy facility of children to be so when left to themselves,
+they quickly became acquainted. Frank found that negers could eat
+good bread and fresh meat; that they had no objection to tarts; and
+that even a custard, given by the cook as a treat to merry Frank,
+was equally relished by the neger boy. After this luxurious repast,
+during which, if it was not the "feast of reason and the flow of soul,"
+there was, most unquestionably, innate benevolence on one side, and
+genuine gratitude on the other, the new-made friends sought repose on
+the same clean truss of straw, and together enjoyed the refreshment
+of "nature's sweet restorer." Not long, however, after they had thus
+lain down, Frank was roused from his yet imperfect slumber, by a
+slight rustling and a low voice, very near him. He spoke gently to
+his new bed-fellow, but received no reply. Frank had that tincture of
+superstition which usually attaches to the ignorant and uncultivated;
+and the unusual sound, his new situation, and the profound darkness,
+aided the impression; while a thought of the little negro became
+associated with the recollection of several marvellous ghost-stories he
+had heard. He ventured, however, (not without considerable reluctance,)
+to feel if his sable companion was by his side, and discovered, to
+his amazement, that he was not there. The murmur still continued,
+and Frank, trembling all over him, made a desperate effort, and
+called lustily, "Samboe, Samboe!" "Samboe here," replied the boy,
+in a soft and gentle tone; "Samboe here, but wicked boy."
+
+Frank's courage returned at the sound of Samboe's voice clearly
+pronouncing these words, although he was at a loss to account
+for his self-accusation. "Why, what have you done to be wicked;
+where are you?" he enquired. Samboe's imperfect knowledge of the
+English language, permitted him not to understand the full import
+of these questions; and it was not until Frank, with renewed courage
+at finding his companion was really a mortal, contrived to make him
+understand his repeated enquiry, why he had risen, and why he called
+himself wicked? "Because Samboe forgot lesson dear Missy Delaney teach
+him. Pray to great God before sleep; pray to great God when eyes open;
+pray to good God give food; pray to good God give friends."
+
+Frank now understood, that Samboe, in the novelty of his situation,
+and probably from the effects of a little porter he had taken,
+had forgotten to offer his simple tribute of thanks and respect to
+the omnipotent Creator, which the good Mrs. Delaney had taught him
+habitually to do; although he was too young when she died, to admit
+any further religious instruction, or to understand more than that
+a great God, beyond the blue sky, observed all his actions.
+
+Samboe had never, until this night, neglected this lesson; but, with
+uplifted hands and bended knee, was accustomed to acknowledge the
+protection and the support of the Being he had been taught to regard,
+as ever beholding, and with unwearied care protecting, all men. Sleep,
+however, had not closed his eyes, ere the omission was recollected,
+and he had crept out of the straw, to offer his simple orison, the low
+murmur of which had so much alarmed his new friend. Having concluded,
+he returned to his straw couch, and slept the sleep of innocence,
+untill awaked by Frank rising to his morning duty in the stables.
+
+Frank possessed an intelligence of mind, as well as activity of spirit,
+which required but opportunities to develope themselves. The incident
+of Samboe's forgotten prayer, impressed his youthful mind. How was
+it he had never been taught to pray? He had never seen it practised
+among those he had been with. He thought people went to church to
+pray; yet surely if a black boy thought it right to pray, a white
+boy ought. Perhaps it was a custom among them? Yet, such was the
+innate impression he had, that it was right and proper, that he
+felt a species of shame to answer Samboe in the negative, when he
+artlessly enquired if he did not pray to great God, to take care of
+him; he, too, who knew so many things: for, to Samboe, Frank seemed
+a miracle of cleverness, when he described his various employments,
+and displayed, to his astonished visitor, the results of his ingenuity,
+which he did with no little self-complacency.
+
+Samboe seemed now the happiest of human beings. He suffered nothing
+to pass unnoticed; asking the reason, the use, the name of every
+thing he heard, or saw, or touched. This he contrived to do, either
+by broken words, gestures, or signs. The new-made friends thus passed
+several hours of the morning, before the groom made his appearance;
+for, although his apartments were above the stables, he did not often
+occupy them, finding numerous engagements more pleasant than attending
+to his duty.
+
+The only unpleasant circumstance of this morning of delight to
+Samboe, was its chilliness. It was one of those which frequently
+occur in May, as if to reprove the hastiness of the family of Flora,
+in putting forth their fair forms; and its asperity was severely felt
+by the little African. Frank determined to make him as comfortable
+as he could; and having received no orders to the contrary, lighted
+a fire in the groom's room, and invited Samboe to its genial warmth,
+while he quickly prepared a comfortable mess of milk-pottage.
+
+They were thus enjoying themselves, when the master of the house
+appeared, half awake, and storming at Frank for a lazy dog, for not
+having swept the stable-door. But he supposed he and the beggarly
+neger had been idling away their time together. Frank, who was used
+to his arbitrary temper, said little; but, making signs for Samboe to
+return to the loft, he quickly prepared every thing for his master's
+toilet, and proceeded to rectify the omission of not having swept the
+door-way. While thus engaged, a servant from the house arrived with
+an order to the groom to take the negro-boy to a clothes-shop, and
+have him neatly clothed, until a a proper dress could be fixed upon;
+as he was to have an interview with his mistress and young master,
+who neither of them could bear the smell of tar, exhaling from the
+filthy things he wore.
+
+This message, delivered in due form to the groom while he was shaving
+himself, nearly endangered his cutting his throat, by the resentful
+agitation it caused, that he should be appointed to wait upon a
+neger. It was a degradation which he could not, nor would not submit
+to. Following, therefore, the example of his superiors, he delegated
+the office to his subordinate; and calling loudly for Frank, as soon
+as the messenger had left him, he desired him to take the black he
+seemed so fond of, to Mr. Draper's, and get him rigged. "And mind
+ye, Frank, boy, call at the 'potecaries or 'fumers, and bid 'em
+pour some musk or lavender, or something sweet over the lad, for
+missis is very particular; and as to Master Fred, I shall have him
+trying how my legs will bear the exercise of his new hunting-whip,
+if I do not please him about this black, who, I dare say, will not be
+long before he feels it. But I suppose he has been used to flogging,
+so it will be nothing to him."
+
+Frank, highly pleased with this important commission, called the
+shivering boy from the hay-chamber, and in no long time he was
+completely equipped, in a suit according to the taste of Frank and
+the vender: certainly as stiff and ill made as it well could be;
+while the effusion of lavender-water was completely accomplished,
+even till the poor boy's eyes became filled with tears, from the
+potency of the perfume, and every person he passed on his return,
+half stopped, at meeting with the unusual odour.
+
+Samboe, however, had yet some hours to become reconciled to his new
+habiliment; and his friend Frank had so many modes and sources of
+employment and amusement, that those hours passed insensibly away. At
+length, about four o'clock, the groom again appeared to conduct him
+to the house; and when arrived, a footman desired him to follow him to
+the apartment of his lady, previously to her taking her morning airing.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+ "I would not have a slave to till my ground,
+ To carry me, to fan me while I sleep,
+ And tremble when I wake, for all the wealth
+ That sinews bought and sold have ever earn'd."
+
+ Cowper.
+
+
+From the reciprocation of the heart's best affections, which had
+marked the short period of Samboe's acquaintance with Frank, we may
+now follow the young stranger to the inanity of an Anglo West Indian
+boudoir; in which were Mrs. Penryn, reclined on a chaise longue, a
+young lady spangling some delicate muslin, and Mr. Frederick Moreton
+standing at a distant part of the room. The footman having opened the
+door, pointed to Samboe to enter, and immediately closed it upon him,
+leaving the timid boy to the scrutinizing looks of Mrs. Penryn, the
+oblique attention of the young lady, and the supercilious glance of the
+boy, who was engaged in the humane employment of holding a live mouse
+by the tail, as high as his arm could reach; while a kitten, eagerly
+attending to its writhings, kept springing, instinctively, to catch
+it, and as often, from the violence of the exertion, fell back on the
+floor. Had it not been for the chill which pervaded his frame, in his
+way to this apartment, Samboe might have thought himself in the West
+Indies, both as to the temperature, and the luxurious ease displayed
+in the arrangement of it. An elegant Persian carpet, entirely covered
+it; sofas, ottomans, and couches, invited to indolence and repose;
+ornaments of the richest and most expensive materials, vases, cabinets,
+&c. adorned it; and a number of tropical birds, of beauteous plumage,
+displayed their captive state in superb cages of various elegant forms;
+while shells of great magnitude and exquisite beauty were displayed
+in different parts of this superb room, with considerable judgment
+and taste; and a rich glow seemed communicated to every object, from
+the light passing the draperies of beautiful rose-coloured taffety
+curtains. Plants of the loveliest bloom and most exquisite odour,
+completed the fascinations of this luxurious apartment, tastefully
+arranged in beautiful baskets and vases, reflected by the superb
+mirrors, of which there were several on each side of the room.
+
+Mrs. Penryn, half raising her pale and spiritless form from the
+sofa on which she was reclining, was the first to break the silence
+which followed Samboe's introduction. "Come, Fred, do give Frolic the
+mouse, and look at this boy. He will serve to amuse you, I hope; for
+I think the dogs, the cats, the mice, and the flies, have had enough
+of you. Come, did you ever behold such an uncouth creature as George
+has made him: why the boy looks as if he were in a wooden case. He
+must not appear about you, till he has something fit to put on."
+
+This feeling harangue did not divert the young gentleman from his
+amusement for some minutes, till at length, more it would seem from
+his own fatigue, than from any motive of compassion for the poor
+animals, he gave the cat its natural prey; and it retired swearing,
+as its murmur of triumph is styled, to enjoy the feast, under a sofa
+at the further part of the room. "Now, Lavinia," said Mrs. Penryn,
+addressing the young lady, "give us your opinion, my dear; your taste
+is so good: what dress shall we have for Fred's page? He will like
+whatever you decide upon, I dare say."
+
+"Dear me, do you think so?" replied Miss Lavinia, in the most affected
+tone: "Mr. Frederick seldom asks my opinion, I think."
+
+"He is but a boy, and you will excuse him, I'm sure; but really this
+dress must be left to you."
+
+"Certainly," replied Lavinia, "he must have something different from
+that he now wears, which is only fit for the stable."
+
+"And a very good place too, I think," remarked the polite young
+gentleman, as he threw himself at his length on a sofa, rousing by
+the action a little white terrier, which had been reposing quietly
+upon it. The dog uttered a cry, and jumped on the floor.
+
+"Poor Erminet cannot be quiet even here," said Mrs. Penryn, angrily:
+"I wish, Fred, you would look before you lie down: I dare say you
+have lamed my pretty Erminet."
+
+"I dare say I have done no such thing," retorted the respectful nephew:
+"But I have no desire to stay, I assure you. I am sure, though Lavinia
+talks of the stable, I had rather be there, than shut up in this hot
+room. So make haste and determine about the boy's dress, for I cannot
+stay shilly-shally here all day."
+
+"I wonder when you will learn to be civil," said Mrs. Penryn: "I think,
+if you had had a few lessons of politeness interspersed with Greek
+and Latin, it would have made you more agreeable." "That is all you
+women know of the matter. But let me have no preaching. Have you done
+with me?"
+
+"Why, Fred, how provoking you are: did you not bid me send for the
+boy? And now he is come, you want to go without settling any thing
+about him. Remember, he is your property, and you must do what you
+please about him. I shall trouble myself no more about him."
+
+"Very well, then leave it alone," said the young barbarian; and
+striding past the trembling Samboe, he quitted the room, shutting
+the door with violence after him.
+
+"What a pity it is," said Mrs. Penryn, after a short pause, "that
+Frederick is so hasty: such a good-hearted lad as he is. I wish,
+Lavinia, you would undertake to soften down his manners: he is really
+worth your trouble, my dear girl."
+
+The young lady simpered, half blushed, expressed her doubt of having
+any influence over Mr. Frederick, who was, indeed, a fine manly
+boy. There was nothing she could refuse to dear Mrs. Penryn and her
+guardian, and she would certainly endeavour to please Frederick,
+that she might refine his manners a little."
+
+"Well, begin then, my dear girl, and fix upon a tasty dress for the
+boy. I know Fred will be pleased when it is done. I intend Samboe to
+be his constant attendant: he is to sleep in the little anti-room,
+to be ever at hand to attend Frederick's pleasure; and, in short,
+he is to do what he pleases respecting him. Mr. Penryn says he will
+have hundreds under his power when he goes to Jamaica."
+
+This reference to the taste of Lavinia, was the dictate of policy;
+for she was recently become a ward of Mr. Penryn, was an orphan
+of immense property, and only a few years older than Frederick. The
+prudent Mr. and Mrs. Penryn were very desirous to favour an attachment
+between them; and Mrs. Penryn was directed, by her husband, to seek
+every opportunity of doing so.
+
+The young lady was of that negative character, so often met
+with amongst those who, in large boarding-schools, lose every
+discriminating trait in the general application of certain rules and
+certain pursuits. Dress, admiration, and gaiety, alone had power to
+animate her pretty features; from which, however, no intellectual ray
+ever beamed. She was highly flattered by the desire of Mrs. Penryn to
+exercise her taste in the choice of a dress for Samboe. That choice
+could not be difficult, for one who had so frequently seen the variety
+of costume exhibited on the stage; and as vanity, ostentation, and
+singularity, not congruity, were to dictate the choice, it was soon
+fixed, as the young lady thought, of that elegant form and expensive
+material, which could not fail to please the young planter; and it
+must be owned, that when, a few days subsequent, Samboe made his
+appearance in the elegant costume of Persia, that he exhibited a very
+fair specimen of juvenile negro beauty. The blue and silver vest and
+caftan, the full girdle, the capacious trowsers, and the perfectly
+white turban, with its golden cord and sparkling gems, contrasted well
+with his sable skin and slender form; giving a lightness to his air,
+which even the pressure of slavery was not able materially to injure.
+
+Lavinia's taste was loudly applauded; and even Frederick condescended
+to say the boy looked something like what he ought to do. But
+poor Samboe, like many a white boy and girl, felt the misery of
+fine clothes, being continually reminded that he must not do this,
+he must not lie there, lest he should soil his dress.
+
+His young master would never suffer him out of his sight: not that
+he cared a button for him or his clothes, but because he could not
+allow of any cessation in tormenting a poor being over whom he had
+full controul; and he was continually racking his invention, to
+devise some new species of torment and teasing. With a mean species
+of jealousy, as soon as he found Frank the stable-boy was the only
+kind being who regarded the poor black boy as a fellow-creature, he
+interdicted Samboe from ever going into the stable, or from speaking
+to his good-tempered friend.
+
+This was a cruel stroke to poor Samboe, thus to deprive him of the
+only portion of comfort in his bitter draught of slavery. His mind
+was in danger of becoming callous from oppression, and in proportion
+to the degradation he was subjected to. He had no motive for action,
+but the dread of punishment. Without voluntary agency, a mere passive
+instrument in the hands of others, his mind would assuredly have become
+irrecoverably contracted, and the powers of soul even destroyed,
+had not the very tyranny and caprice which were producing these
+lamentable results, transferred the suffering boy to the benevolent
+care of Captain Tremayne, and his young nephew, Charles Roslyn. (See
+"Twilight Hours improved.")
+
+Become the property of the latter by the hasty gift of Frederick,
+how different was the lot of Samboe, from a state of cruel coercion,
+of degrading slavery, which was daily debasing every manly sentiment!
+
+
+ "When, to deep sadness sullenly resign'd,
+ He feels his body's bondage in his mind,
+ Put off his generous nature, and to suit
+ His manners with his fate, put on the brute."
+
+
+Such, indeed, is slavery most justly termed, "the grave of
+virtue." Under its cold and ungenial influence, every generous, every
+warm emotion must languish and die. Through the gloom which envelopes
+the soul subjected to its dark power, no ray of intellect, no beam
+of joy, no sun of cheerfulness can pierce. And yet man, inconsistent
+man, while condemning his fellow-being to this soul-paralyzing state,
+expects from the poor victims qualities and virtues only to be planted
+in the soil, only to be nourished by the sun, of liberty--of Christian
+liberty, of Christian charity:
+
+
+ "For slaves by truth enlarg'd are doubly freed."
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+ "Thy lips have shed instruction as the dew,
+ Taught me what path to shun, and what pursue.
+ Farewell my former joys! I sigh no more
+ For Africa's once-lov'd, benighted shore:
+ Serving a benefactor, I am free,
+ At my best home, if not exil'd from thee."
+
+
+Samboe, placed with the respectable Mr. Llwellin, made rapid progress
+in reading and writing, and in the elements of general knowledge. His
+quickness gained the entire attention of his preceptor; while these was
+a charm and freshness in all he said, which could only be derived from
+quick perceptions and a warm heart--a buoyancy of fancy and a fervid
+feeling, which won the affections of all those who had to instruct
+him. With the deepest attention he would listen to Mr. Llwellin,
+as in a simple and impressive manner he explained to him the general
+principles of religion, the nature and duty of worshipping God, the
+creation of man, his fall from virtue and happiness, and the promised
+restoration through the merits of the Redeemer. It is a mistake that
+these subjects are beyond the comprehension, and excite no interest in
+the hearts of children. Practical devotion and the Christian duties,
+have a forcible influence on the ductile minds and unsophisticated
+hearts of the young. Hence the transition of instruction is easy, and
+perfectly understood by them, from the duty and privilege of prayer
+and praise, to the truth that we are unable to do either, or even to
+think what is right, without superior guidance and continual aid. The
+conviction of this at once gives an object and a fervency to prayer;
+and he who prays fervently and believing, however young he may be,
+will not be unheeded when thus imploring the divine aid.
+
+It was the invariable custom of Mr. Llwellin to assemble his family
+in the evening. He then read a portion of the Holy Scriptures, and
+explained them with admirable simplicity and pathos to his little
+auditory. It was now that the prayers Samboe had said, as it were
+mechanically, were now repeated with an earnestness which fully
+indicated that they were not merely the offering of the lips; and
+so much did he profit by the pious instructions, example, and care
+of Mr. Llwellin, that he was admitted into the Christian church by
+baptism; but, at the request of his young protector, retaining his
+former name as his usual appellation although he received, at the font,
+that of Henry.
+
+So anxious was this interesting youth to attain all useful knowledge,
+that he was always the first at his scholastic duties; and when
+dismissed from them, after a little recreation, enjoyed with all
+the zest of health and youth, he would occupy his time in religious
+reading and study, drawing, and little mechanical works; equally
+proving his strength of intellect and his active ingenuity. Though
+his temper was frequently severely tried by the taunts and ridicule of
+the boys, he never betrayed anger or resentment: he disarmed them by
+his humility, patience, and meekness; so that scoffers he converted
+into friends. He was lively in his disposition, but taciturn from
+thought, except when with his teachers; when he seemed to expand
+every faculty of his mind to receive their instructions, while any
+accession of knowledge caused his naturally brilliant eyes to beam
+with added intelligence and delight.
+
+With all these qualities of mind and heart, it is not surprising
+that Samboe was a universal favourite; and unfeigned, indeed, was
+his joy, when he was permitted to write to his dear massa Charles,
+whom he never named without his eyes filling with tears of grateful
+affection. "Oh!" he would say, "my dear massa, I shall never forget
+his goodness." Years passed on in this progressive improvement, during
+which a regular correspondence was kept up between Charles Roslyn and
+his protege, when an incident occurred which opened a field for the
+exercise of those attainments it had been the laudable and unremitted
+study of Samboe to acquire.
+
+Colonel Roslyn was entertaining a party of gentlemen, among whom
+were admiral Herbert and his nephew Fitzhugh. Charles Roslyn was the
+favourite midshipman of the admiral, and the conversation turned upon
+the topic of the day; namely, the slave-trade, and the probabilities
+of its abolition, as well as the capacity of the negroes to profit
+by their freedom. Many were the arguments adduced for and against;
+and Colonel Roslyn was naturally led to relate the circumstances of
+Samboe's becoming Charles's protege, and the high reward they had
+experienced in the sweet disposition, high intellectual capacity,
+moral worth, and genuine religious principles of the young negro. "I
+have the sincerest pleasure," observed Colonel Roslyn, "in stating
+this individual instance of the moral and intellectual worth of an
+African, of which, doubtless, there are many similar instances,
+where instruction and kindness have elicited and fostered the
+qualities of the mind and heart. But we all remember the period, my
+friends, when the African's claim to the character and privileges
+of man was even disputed--when they were considered as somewhat
+of a superior species of ourang outang [5]. This false and inhuman
+estimate, succeeding years have disproved. It has been in numberless
+instances shown that they are not only men, but capable of becoming
+intelligent and virtuous men; and not only virtuous men, but pious,
+unaffected, sincere Christians. I am not, however," continued the
+colonel, "an advocate for giving personal liberty to numbers of men,
+unless, at the same time, I impart the principles of religion and
+the arts of civil life. It is only by giving freedom to the soul,
+and by encouraging the virtuous energies of man, that we can make
+him capable of properly appreciating the blessing of liberty, and
+preserve him from becoming a pest to society, instead of a useful
+member of it. Without these correcting and restraining principles,
+liberty would soon degenerate into licentiousness, and the possession
+of power be exercised in deeds of violence."
+
+"I entirely agree with you, colonel," observed the admiral;
+"and therefore be so good as to pledge me in a glass of that
+excellent claret, when I offer my sentiment: 'Let the empire of
+Britain be the empire of mercy; and let no shore re-echo with the
+thunder of her power, but which shall also smile under the blessing
+of her beneficence.'" This sentiment of the admiral's was warmly
+received. During this conversation, a young man at the lower end of the
+table appeared deeply interested in it. His animated and penetrating
+countenance drew the attention of Colonel Roslyn, and he expressed
+his pleasure, in observing to the admiral, that an interest for the
+enslaved Africans seemed to animate his young relative; for it was
+Fitzhugh, whose whole soul seemed engaged in the subject.
+
+"Yes, indeed," observed the admiral, "Fitzhugh is a very enthusiast
+in the cause, and I love him the better for it: it is honourable to
+his feelings, and to those generous sentiments which ought to pervade
+the heart, and direct the conduct of a British officer. Have you not
+heard that he has obtained a very responsible and active appointment
+in the new settlement of Sierra Leone, and that, in a short time,
+he will sail for Africa? I doubt not his conscientious attention to
+the duties devolving upon him, nor do I think the directors could
+have made a more judicious choice; for, young as he is, his firmness
+of principle, his rectitude in action, his genuine feeling, and his
+cultivated mind, render him peculiarly eligible to attend to the
+duties, and to surmount the difficulties of an infant colony. He will
+form one of the council, which will be sent from England, for the
+government of the colony. This council is particularly instructed
+to secure to all negroes and people of colour, equal rights, and
+equal treatment, in every respect, as the whites. They are to be
+tried by jury, as the whites, and every facility given to them to
+exercise their peculiar talents; employments being allotted them
+according to their progressive capacity of discharging them. They
+are especially, to be instructed in the principles of religion and
+morals. Public worship and the reverent observation of the sabbath,
+the general instruction of the adults and the judicious education of
+the children, are the means to be used to draw this now wretched race
+of men from the night of ignorance to the glorious light of divine
+and temporal knowledge. In fact, the grand object of the Sierra
+Leone Company is to substitute, for that disgraceful traffic which
+has too long subsisted, a fair and legitimate commerce with Africa,
+and all the blessings which may be expected from it."
+
+"I thank you, admiral, for this account," replied Colonel Roslyn, "and
+pray, with all my heart, that the benevolent exertions of the Company
+may be crowned with final success; and I believe I may assure you, that
+such is also the prayer of every individual of the present company."
+
+"Fitzhugh," said the admiral, "I have been telling Colonel Roslyn that
+you are an enthusiast for the abolition of the slave-trade--that it
+is your dream by night, and your stimulus by day."
+
+"If, my dear Sir, an ardent desire to use my individual influence and
+exertions to remove from my country such a stain upon its humanity;
+if as ardently to desire an amelioration of the wretched state of the
+African; if to cherish and to bring into action all those charities
+which distinguish reasoning man from instinctive brutes: if to be
+all this constitutes an enthusiast, then do I, indeed, plead guilty
+to the charge of enthusiasm. Nor am I likely to become less so: on
+the contrary, the intelligence I have just received from my young
+friends here, (directing his eyes to Alfred, and Charles Roslyn, who
+sat near him,) has confirmed me in the assurance, that we have every
+thing to hope from the judicious and liberal plan, of the Company to
+which I have now the honour to be attached; and which has so highly
+flattered me, by appointing me, in conjunction with others, to carry
+into effect their beneficent purposes. But you know, my dear Sir, my
+deep abhorrence of slavery is derived from the practical display of its
+cruelties; as well as from a deep reflection on its moral turpitude,
+its impolicy, and its inconsistency with the boasted honour and
+religious code of my country. Let those who question the feasibility
+of the plan of civilization and emancipation, visit, as I have done,
+the colonies, (more especially the Spanish colonies and the Portuguese
+dominions in South America,) where the inhuman traffic of slaves is
+carried to the greatest possible extent, forming the immediate and
+private revenue of the crown; let them be but faintly impressed with
+the horrors that constantly there occur, and I scruple not to say,
+if they fail to enter their protest against a system so barbarous,
+they deserve not the name of men, and make their religion but an
+impious mockery.
+
+"A myriad of instances might be adduced, to bear me out in my
+assertions. The labour, of whatever nature it may be, or however
+laborious, is performed by slaves, and seldom more than six negroes
+appointed to remove the heaviest burdens. I have, for instance,
+seen at Rio de Janeiro, four only, groaning under a pipe of wine,
+which they have had to remove through the city. Many of these poor
+creatures are bred to trades, and are sent out daily or weekly, with
+peremptory orders to bring home a certain sum, at the expiration of the
+agreed time. What they can earn over, they have to themselves; but they
+are always so highly rated, that it is with the greatest difficulty
+they can raise the sum nominated; and, in case of defalcation, it is
+attributed to indolence or laziness, which subjects the unhappy victim
+to punishment. An awful instance of the despair produced by cruelty
+and oppression, occurred during my residence at Rio. A barbarous and
+remorseless wretch had a few slaves, whom he used to send out upon
+the plan I have named, subjected to the penalty of a severe flogging,
+if they did not, within a prescribed time, earn the sum required and
+their food. One of these men was a hair-dresser: he used to attend me
+very regularly, and always was quiet, industrious, and even active,
+to promote his master's interest.
+
+"After a little time, however, I observed him to be gloomy and
+melancholy. I asked him the reason for the change, and was informed
+that he had been unsuccessful, and could not render to his master the
+sum required; and that he had little hopes of being able to raise it,
+consequently was liable to punishment, I gave him something towards
+it, but, being obliged to be absent a few weeks, knew not the result
+until I returned; when I was informed, that, as the time approached
+when he was to render his account, he became greatly distressed,
+and despaired of accomplishing his engagement. He went, however,
+in great distress, and tendered what he had gained; assuring his
+master he had used every exertion to obtain the specific sum, and
+imploring from him a remission of punishment, or a suspension, at
+least, for a few days. This was at length granted him, but with horrid
+threats of many additional stripes in case of failure. The time fast
+approached when he must return, and he was still deficient. He reached
+the door of his master's house, when, in despair of being forgiven,
+and dreading the ordeal he had to undergo, he took from his pocket a
+razor, and, with a desperate violence, nearly severed his head from his
+body. This horrid deed had no other effect upon his inhuman master,
+than to increase his severity towards his other slaves, on whom he
+imposed heavier burdens, to recompence him for the loss sustained by
+the death of the miserable suicide [6].
+
+"It is a usual practice," continued Fitzhugh, "when slaves become
+desperately ill, for their masters to disown them, and turn them
+into the streets, to evade the expences of their funeral; and,
+thus abandoned and exposed, their miserable existence is soon
+terminated. I have to apologize for trespassing upon your attention
+so long, gentlemen," observed this intelligent young man; "but I have
+only recounted one of a thousand instances which have come under my
+own observation, of the barbarous abuses of power exercised over the
+miserable captives."
+
+The party expressed their obligation to Fitzhugh, for the relation he
+had given them, and their united hope, that every effort made use of,
+to ameliorate the situation of the already enslaved, and to check
+the inhuman traffic for the future, might be crowned with success;
+all agreeing, that every exertion that England makes to stop the
+bleeding wounds of Africa, will cause her to rise in her national
+character more resplendent, and must meet the approbation of every
+good, and what may be justly called great men, at home and abroad,
+and, above all, the approbation that of God who holds in his hands
+the destiny of nations [7].
+
+"Have I not heard you, Fitzhugh," enquired the admiral, "express a wish
+that you could meet in England with two or three intelligent negroes,
+who would be willing to enter into engagements with the Company,
+as instructors to the children, and whose habits of civilization
+might give them an influence over their countrymen without exciting
+any jealousies?"
+
+"You have, dear Sir," replied Fitzhugh; "and from what I have learned
+of the mental and moral qualities of my young friend's protege, I am
+anxious for their permission to visit Aberystwith, in order to enquire
+if he has any objection to accompany me to Africa. A few such young
+men as he is described to be, would do more to effect our plans, than
+any other mode I can think of; and as he has not yet made any choice
+of a profession, I should feel myself most grateful to Colonel Roslyn
+and his friends, if they will second and sanction my application to
+the youth, who owes so much to their benevolent kindness."
+
+Colonel Roslyn said, "Call upon us tomorrow morning, my dear Sir, and
+myself and sons will be happy to co-operate, as far as in our power,
+in your philanthropic exertions."
+
+This being cheerfully accepted, the conversation took a general turn,
+until the party broke up.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+ * * * "My heart surpris'd, o'erflows
+ With filial fondness for the land you bless."
+
+ "Theirs the triumph be,
+ Instead of treasure, robb'd by ruffian war,
+ Round social earth to circle fair exchange,
+ And bind the nations in a golden chain.
+ To these I honour'd stoop."
+
+
+Fitzhugh was punctual to his appointment at Colonel Roslyn's; and after
+an interesting conversation, and the perusal of a number of Samboe's
+letters to his protector Charles Roslyn, it was agreed that Fitzhugh
+and Alfred Roslyn should proceed to Wales, in order to ascertain the
+sentiments of Samboe upon his projected removal, respecting which, his
+own unbiassed choice was to be consulted. The intended visit of the
+young men was to be announced by letter to Captain Tremayne; and, as
+Fitzhugh possessed all the ardour, promptitude, and zeal of a Clarkson,
+in the cause of humanity, the letter was immediately written, and an
+early day fixed for the journey. In the correspondence of Charles
+and his protege, the interesting debates in the English senate,
+respecting the slave-trade, frequently formed a part; and Samboe had
+even so far expressed his sentiments upon the subject, that, when the
+colony of Sierra Leone was first formed, he regretted that his youth,
+and the mediocrity of his attainments, would oblige him to forego all
+hope of being useful to his poor benighted countrymen; and he had
+very sensibly felt disappointment at the ill success of the first
+establishment: an ill success which sufficiently proved the truth
+of the observation, that, "if the restraints of slavery be removed,
+without corresponding culture of the mind and heart, the mere enjoyment
+of temporal benefits will not make the man either grateful or happy."
+
+Charles Roslyn greatly regretted that the hourly-expected departure of
+his ship, precluded him from the pleasure of accompanying his brother
+and Fitzhugh to Aberystwith. Having taken leave of him, and bearing
+his good wishes and tender remembrances to his kind relatives and his
+affectionate Samboe, the travellers commenced their journey, early in
+a lovely June morning, when every scene they passed, manifested the
+riches and the bounty, the wisdom and beneficence of the Creator. The
+meeting was what might be expected from refined feeling, generous
+ardour, and virtuous exertion, on the one side; and grateful respect,
+modest worth, and conscious ability, chastened by the most engaging
+humility, on the other. Tears of unfeigned joy and gratitude started
+into the eyes of Samboe, as he heard Mr. Llwellin assure Fitzhugh,
+he had no hesitation in saying, that if Samboe acceded to his proposal
+of accompanying him to Africa, he would be found a valuable coadjutor
+in the projected work of mercy: "For he is," continued the good old
+man, "not only fully capable of imparting the elements of general
+knowledge, but has a happy and peculiar manner of instructing others
+in those divine truths by which he regulates every action of his own
+life. Nor do I think you would easily find a more fit instrument among
+us, for promoting the great ends of civilization, and the moral and
+religious instruction of his countrymen. I make no scruple in paying
+this just tribute to the character and abilities of my dear pupil,
+in his presence, because he well knows they are so much my genuine
+sentiments, that I have advised his directing his attention to the
+instruction of others; and Providence seems manifestly to favour
+the suggestion, by the present offer enabling him to put it in
+practice. May his now benighted and ill-fated countrymen become more
+and more sensible of the extensive blessings preparing for them;
+and may my dear and docile pupil, Samboe, be one of the favoured
+instruments of Heaven, (assisted by the Spirit of grace,) to diffuse
+the light, to communicate the blessings of religion, and to lead the
+now idolatrous African to rejoice in the high privilege of communion
+by prayer and praise with the great Creator and compassionate Saviour;
+all distinctions of colour and country being lost, in that generous
+sympathy which should flow from the relation which all bear to that
+Saviour who died for the redemption of all men [8]."
+
+There was such a heartfelt earnestness, such an affecting energy,
+such genuine piety, in the voice and manner of the good Llwellin,
+while he uttered his philanthropic wishes, that it made a forcible
+impression upon his young auditors. Tears of respect, gratitude,
+affection, and hope, filled the eyes of Samboe. The intenseness
+and contrariety of his feelings became painful; and, unable longer
+to restrain their expression, he threw himself at the feet of his
+venerable instructor, and sobbed aloud, uttering broken sentences of
+obligation; and when a little composed, earnestly praying that God,
+the Almighty God, would enable him to assist in the realization of
+all the generous plans of his future employers; and so to act in
+every situation of life, as to do honour to the precepts of his dear
+instructor, and to gladden his aged heart, with the knowledge that
+those precepts had not been given in vain.
+
+Encouraged to self-confidence by the unequivocal approbation of
+his revered friend, Samboe hesitated not in his determination of
+accompanying Fitzhugh in his important mission; and a few days
+subsequent to the interview we have related, was fixed for the
+departure from a spot, endeared to the affectionate heart of the
+African by many a tender tie, many an affecting remembrance. Parting
+moments are painful to experience, and are so fraught with emotion,
+that they admit not of correct description; it must, therefore,
+suffice to say, that after a general adieu, and loaded with many a
+token of affection and good will, cheered by many a blessing, and
+fortified with many a prayer from those who loved him, Samboe quitted
+Aberystwith with Fitzhugh and Alfred Roslyn. The intelligence, as
+well as simplicity of his remarks, upon the different objects which
+engaged his attention during the journey, rendered it peculiarly
+interesting to his companions. He was equally delighted with the
+various objects of curiosity and interest which London presented,
+and particularly with any thing which enlarged his views of any
+branch of knowledge he had acquired, or which promised to assist him
+in his future exertions to benefit his country. Fitzhugh found in
+him, a companion who entered with ardour and untired zeal into every
+plan his fertile benevolence devised, and determined to retain him
+under his own immediate care and inspection. Every day increased his
+confidence in the abilities and integrity of his companion; and every
+succeeding day more strongly proved that they were built upon a basis,
+which ensured their permanence and stability; even that of a rational,
+a deep, a vital piety.
+
+The period of sailing approached; and happy in the exercise of the best
+feelings of humanity, and the highest energies of mind, Samboe believed
+nothing could add to his felicity, when an incident occurred which
+called forth all his gratitude to the Being who showered his blessings
+upon him. He accompanied Fitzhugh to the house of a gentleman who was
+ardent in the cause of the Africans, and who freely lent the resources
+of an ample fortune to further every beneficent plan, although habitual
+ill health precluded him from all active exertions. On the arrival
+of the friends, this gentleman was just mounting his horse for a
+morning airing. Seeing, however, Fitzhugh and his companion advance,
+he ordered the groom to lead his horse back to the stable, until his
+visitors left him, and he then entreated Fitzhugh to enter. While
+this was passing, a mutual look of surprise and recognition passed
+between Samboe and the groom, but nothing further: the man leading
+the horse away, and Samboe following Fitzhugh into the house.
+
+After some conversation relative to the approaching voyage,
+Mr. Courtney said: "Well, Fitzhugh, you have inspired many an honest
+heart with the same glowing philanthropy which animates your own; and,
+amongst the number, my excellent boy, Frank Wilson. He is determined,
+if you will permit him, to accompany you to Africa." "Permit him,
+my good Sir? I shall be happy to have in my service, a young man who
+does honour to his rank of life, and whose severely tried principles
+have resisted many attacks: his ingenuity too, and industrious habits,
+will make him essentially useful. But how can you part from him,
+or how will Frank bear to be separated from his revered benefactor?"
+
+"Oh, I believe we have not thought of ourselves," replied Mr. Courtney,
+good humouredly: "all is settled between us, provided you did not
+object. Will you permit me to ring for him?" "Most willingly,"
+said Fitzhugh.
+
+During this short conversation, the emotion of the grateful Samboe
+was powerful. The features of the young man holding Mr. Courtney's
+horse, were familiar to him: he had marked the glance of recognition,
+and the name confirmed the vague hope he had formed, that, in this
+young man, of whose character he had just heard so high an eulogium,
+he had seen the first kind friend he had known in England: he who had
+lightened his troubles, and cheered his oppressed spirit; and this
+friend, this generous hearted youth, was going to Africa, and was to
+be in the service of his valuable friend, Fitzhugh; and they were
+all animated with the same spirit. How delightful the thought! how
+transcendently kind the Almighty Disposer!
+
+While these thoughts were rapidly passing the mind of Samboe, Frank
+Wilson appeared; and it would be hard to decide which of the party
+was most gratified by the disclosure of the two friends, who in each
+other's arms were not ashamed to weep.
+
+Frank immediately entered upon his new duties; and every thing having
+been benevolently and equitably settled by the directors to ensure
+the comfort and advantage of the colony, the ships sailed for their
+destination. It is not necessary to detail the circumstances of the
+voyage, or to attempt to describe the emotions of the young African,
+when he landed on his native shores.
+
+Every individual possessing a manly mind and virtuous soul, is
+patriotic: he rejoices in the weal, he mourns in the miseries of
+his country. Samboe possessed a manly mind and a virtuous soul. He
+was a patriot, and shrunk not from its high responsibilities. We
+detail not his individual exertions; it will be sufficient to say,
+that he took an ample share with his companions in the good work;
+that every thing had been so judiciously arranged; that the conduct
+of the servants of the Company was marked with such propriety, being
+sober, moral, and exemplary, in the discharge of their respective
+duties; that the efforts and zeal of the clergymen were attended
+with the happiest effects; that, before the expiration of two years
+from the settlement of the colony, order and industry exhibited
+their benign fruits in a growing prosperity. The fame of the colony
+not only spread along the whole western coast, but penetrated into
+the remotest interior: embassies were sent by far distant monarchs;
+and the native chiefs, with a pleasing and entire confidence, sent
+their children to the colony, to be instructed in reading, writing,
+and accounts, and to be initiated in the Christian religion. In fact,
+there was every reasonable ground for hope, that the joyful period
+was advancing, when, by the blessing of Heaven upon the endeavours
+used, the continent of Africa would be rescued from the darkness
+that obscured her, and would exhibit the soul-cheering scene of
+light and knowledge, of civilization and order, of peaceful industry
+and domestic comfort. But these anticipations were destroyed by the
+treachery and faithlessness of a government, which professed to hold
+the rights of man as sacred. We shall give a cursory narrative of
+this event, as extracted from a letter of Fitzhugh to his friends in
+England. (Note S.)
+
+"I have distressing news to communicate, but we do not despond. The
+French have appeared with an armed force before our neat and rising
+town, upon which they have pointed their guns. It was not until
+they had done this that we perceived they were enemies; for they
+had English-built vessels, rigged in the English mode, displayed
+the English flag, and had all the sailors, which appeared on deck,
+dressed like English sailors. Thus treacherously did they approach
+our peaceful colony. Conscious we had no strength to resist, the
+governor directed a flag of truce to be hoisted. Yet, after this
+order was executed, the French continued to fire on the town, doing
+much damage, and killing several persons.
+
+"Terrified at the suddenness of the attack, and conscious they
+possessed no power of resistance, the alarmed inhabitants fled to
+the woods, with such of their property as the confusion and limited
+time would allow. When the enemy landed, therefore, they found the
+town almost destitute of inhabitants, but rich in stores and clothing.
+
+"Plunder was the order of the day; and what they did not want, they
+destroyed, burnt, or threw into the river. They also killed all the
+cattle and animals, not sparing even the dogs or cats.
+
+"During a week this work of devastation continued; and when they found
+nothing more to plunder, they set fire to the public buildings, and all
+the houses belonging to the Europeans; entirely ruining the beautiful
+and prospering colony, and leaving the colonists in the most deplorable
+state of destitution; without provisions, medicines, clothing, houses,
+or furniture. Sickness soon followed these privations, and many have
+died for want of proper food, and exposure in the woods.
+
+"When you read the above hurried account of our misfortune, you will
+scarcely believe that these wanton cruelties have been perpetrated
+by individuals of a nation, whose Convention boasted of spreading
+'light and liberty through the world.' Alas! that light is the blaze
+of anarchy, that liberty the most daring and gross licentiousness!
+
+"Sierra Leone colony was established for the godlike purpose of
+abolishing the slave-trade; to enlighten the Africans; to render them
+virtuous, rational, free, and happy; and yet these powerful advocates
+and patrons of the rights of man, could wantonly destroy, in its
+healthful infancy, a settlement in which those rights were peculiarly
+studied and held sacred. 'By their fruits ye shall know them.'
+
+"But it will yet, like the phoenix, arise from its ashes. It was
+formed to promote the cause of justice, mercy, and religion; a
+cause which possesses, in itself, the principle of re-animation--an
+ever-renewing means of rallying its resources, overborne, for a time,
+by a base treachery and unmanly violence.
+
+"My faithful Samboe, and no less faithful Frank, have been like
+ministering angels to the distressed, in this season of calamity. 'My
+poor country,' said Samboe, 'and my generous friends, what a sad
+reverse is here! But though grieved,' he added, 'I am not in despair;
+for has not the Almighty said, (He in whom is no variableness nor
+shadow of turning,) 'I will never leave nor forsake those who trust in
+me. Commit thy way unto the Lord, and he shall bring it to pass.' I
+cannot conclude my letter better, than by assuring my dear ----,
+that such is the trust and confidence we all repose in the Being,
+who out of evil still educes good."
+
+Now, to resume and conclude our narrative, we have but to say
+we may speak of these difficulties in the past tense; they no
+longer, praised be the great Disposer of Events, they no longer are
+experienced at Sierra Leone; but have vanished, gradually, before the
+enlightened policy of the superintendants, and the mild influence of
+Christian doctrine. The enjoyments of the present life, the bright
+hopes of a future state, are now communicated to thousands of our
+fellow-creatures, formerly in a state of mental and moral darkness,
+and obnoxious to the most frightful miseries, victims of the basest
+passions, subjects of the most alarming fears.
+
+Justice, mercy, and courageous perseverance, are now reaping their
+high temporal reward; and the blessing of the Almighty upon patient
+continuance in well-doing, enables England to boast that she has
+overcome the most inveterate prejudices, the most firmly-established
+interests, built upon the basest passions; and this by the simple
+power of experiment, and the eloquence of truth.
+
+Sierra Leone, where this experiment has been made, now presents itself
+as a medium of civilization for Africa. "And in this point of view,
+(it has been most justly observed,) is worth all the treasure that
+has been expended upon it; for the slave-trade, which was the great
+obstacle to this civilization, being now happily abolished by the
+universal voice of England, there is now a populous metropolis, from
+which may issue the seeds of reformation to this injured continent,
+and which, when sown, may now, watered by the genial dews of heaven,
+be expected to grow into fruit, without check or blight. New schools
+may be transplanted from thence into the interior; teachers and
+travellers be sent from thence in various directions; the natives
+resort in safety to it from distant parts, mark the improvements,
+witness the comforts, taste the enjoyments, and feel the protection
+of it. Hence will mistrust give way to confidence, emulation will be
+raised, imitation be encouraged, a desire of instruction be excited,
+and the predatory ignorant savage be gradually moulded into the useful
+citizen and the rational man.
+
+Let then each English heart rejoice, that the moral stain, so long
+apparent on our statutes, so long exhibited in our national character,
+is now erased from the one, and expunged from the other; that the
+impious doctrine so long contended for, that the law of force was
+justifiable under certain circumstances, is now banished from the
+deliberations of our senate; and man, whatever his country, whatever
+his colour, is restored to his moral rights. Let us rejoice that we
+have not only been the advocates of the oppressed--have triumphed
+by perseverance and constancy over the oppressor; but that England
+has become the favoured and glorious instrument of a God of mercy,
+to make his light to shine upon those who sat in darkness and the
+shadow of death. May every nation, feeling the blessing of that light,
+which is upheld by that mercy, follow the example of our favoured
+isle! May the rich stream of mercy flow, and diffuse throughout
+far-distant lands its fertilizing influences! May the spirit of a
+Wilberforce and a Clarkson, inspire the breasts of the powerful; and
+may the gratitude and the intelligence of Samboe, glow in the heart,
+and animate the conduct of every African!
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+NOTES, FROM AUTHENTICATED AND OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+
+NOTE A.
+
+The arrival of a slave-ship in any of the rivers, is the signal of
+civil war and disorder; the hamlets are burned, and the miserable
+survivors are carried off, and sold to the slave-factors.
+
+In the countries contiguous to Senegal, when slave-ships arrive,
+armed parties are sent out to scour the country, and bring in captives
+to the factors. The wretched beings are to be found in the morning,
+bound back to back in the huts; whence they are conveyed, tied hand
+and foot, to the slave-ships. These ships set sail in the night,
+that the wretched captives may not know the moment when they quit
+for ever their native shore, and all the tender ties that endear it.
+
+
+
+NOTE B.
+
+Coosh-coosh is corn beaten in a wooden mortar, and sifted to a coarse
+flour; it is then put in an earthen pot pierced like a colander,
+which is luted to the top of an earthen pot, in which is boiling
+water, and sometimes broth, exactly as our steamers are. The rising
+steam cures and hardens the flour; and when it is done sufficiently,
+the broth and cooked flour are mixed, and considered a delicious dish.
+
+Coliloo resembles, and is eaten like spinach.
+
+
+
+NOTE C.
+
+Slave-factories are established in almost every native village. The
+kings of Dahomy and Whidah are the most noted for the infamous trade
+in slaves. It is usual when the slave-ships lie in the rivers, for a
+number of canoes to go up the inland: these go in a fleet, with thirty
+or forty armed natives in each. Every canoe is also furnished with a
+four or six pounder fastened to her bow. Thus equipped they depart,
+and are usually absent from eight to fourteen days. It is said they
+go to fairs held on the banks of the rivers, and at which there is a
+regular show of slaves. On their return, they generally bring down from
+eight hundred to a thousand of these captives, for the ships. They lie
+at the bottom of the canoes, their arms and legs having been bound with
+ropes of the country. It has been disclosed, by undoubted evidence,
+that the crews of these canoes go up the rivers till they arrive to
+a certain distance of a village; they then conceal themselves under
+the bushes which hang over the water, until the shades of night,
+when they enter the village and seize the wretched inhabitants, men,
+women, and children, who have no time to escape.
+
+Nearly three hundred years have the European nations traded with
+Africa in human flesh, and encouraged in the negro countries, wars,
+rapine, desolation, and murder. The annual exportation of slaves
+from this quarter of the globe, has exceeded one hundred thousand;
+numbers of whom are driven down like sheep, perhaps a thousand miles
+from the coast, and are generally inhabitants of villages that have
+been surrounded in the night by armed force, and carried off bound
+in chains, and sold into perpetual bondage.
+
+A slave-merchant thus wrote to his factor: "You will observe to make a
+present of five gallons of rum to the Suma, with the usual compliments
+on the Company's behalf; and to assure him, and other useful persons
+near you, of the Company's intentions to give very great encouragement
+to trade in those parts, more especially for slaves, dry goods,
+elephants' teeth, wax, cotton, &c. and the Company desire me to inform
+you, that they have settled your commission at five shillings a head,
+for every merchantable slave, and so in proportion for other articles,
+in the hope it will encourage you to dispose of their goods to the
+best advantage."
+
+
+
+NOTE D.
+
+The following list of African articles, as exhibited to Mr. Pitt and
+the House of Lords, by Mr. Clarkson, will illustrate the ingenuity of
+the Africans, and the possibility of making its natural productions
+a branch of lucrative and legitimate commerce. These articles were
+contained in a box, formed of four divisions; the first of which was
+filled with specimens of woods, polished; amongst them, mahogany of
+five different sorts, tulip and satin-wood, cam and bar-wood, fustic,
+black and yellow ebony, palm-tree, mangrove, calabash, and date; and
+also seven species retaining their native names, viz. tumiah, sarnaim,
+and jimlalie, each of a beautiful yellow; acajou, a deep crimson;
+bask and quelle for cabinet work; and bentin, the wood of which is
+used for the native canoes. Various other woods, one of which was a
+fine purple; and from two others a strong yellow and deep orange, and
+also a flesh-colour, could be extracted. The second division included
+ivory; and four species of pepper, the long, the black, the Cayenne,
+and the Malaguetta: three species of gum, Senegal, copal, and ruber
+astringes; cinnamon, rice, tobacco, indigo, white and Nankin cotton,
+Guinea-corn, and millet; three species of beans, of which two were for
+food, and the other yielding an orange dye: two species of tamarinds,
+one for food, the other to give whiteness to the teeth: pulse, seeds,
+and fruits of various sorts; some of the latter of which, Dr. Sparrman
+had pronounced, from a trial made during his residence in Africa,
+to be peculiarly valuable as drugs.
+
+The third division contained an African loom, with a spindle and
+spun cotton round it; cloths of cotton of various kinds, made by
+the natives, some white, others dyed, and others, in which they
+had interwoven European silk; cloths and bags of grass, fancifully
+coloured; ornaments of the same material; ropes made from a species
+of aloes, and others, remarkably strong, from grass and straw; fine
+string made of the fibres of the roots of trees: soap of two kinds,
+one of which was formed from an earthy substance: pipe bowls made of
+a clay of a brown red, one beautifully ornamented with black devices,
+burnt in and highly glazed; another from Galam, made of an earth which
+was richly impregnated with little particles of gold. Trinkets made
+by the natives from their own gold; knives and daggers formed from
+bar iron; and various other articles, such as bags, dagger-sheaths,
+quivers, gris gris, all of leather, of native manufacture, dyed of
+various colours, and ingeniously sewed together. The fourth division
+contained the instruments of confinement used on board a slave-ship,
+to which were added those of punishment used in the colonies; such
+as iron collars, manacles, scourges, &c.
+
+
+
+(NOTE E.)
+
+Raynal gives the following description of the mode frequently used
+in conducting the slaves from the interior: "Slave-merchants collect
+themselves into companies, and forming a species of caravans, in the
+space of two or three hundred leagues, they conduct several files
+of thirty or forty slaves, all laden with water, corn, &c. which are
+necessary to their subsistence in those barren deserts through which
+they pass.
+
+"The manner of securing them without much incommoding their march,
+is ingeniously contrived. A fork of wood, of from eight or nine feet
+long, is put round the neck of each slave. A pin of iron, rivetted,
+secures the fork on the back part, in such a manner that the head
+cannot disengage itself. The handle of the fork, the wood of which is
+very heavy, falls before, and so embarrasses the person who is tied
+to it, that, although he hath his arms and legs at liberty, he can
+neither walk nor lift up the fork. When they get ready for the march,
+they range the slaves in a line, and support and tie the extremity
+of each fork on the shoulder of the foremost slave, and proceed in
+this manner from one to another, till they come to the first, the
+extremity of whose fork is carried by the guide. Few restraints are
+imposed, that are not felt by those who impose them; accordingly, in
+order that these traders may enjoy the refreshment of sleep without
+uneasiness, they tie the arms of every slave to the tail of the fork
+which he carries. In this condition he can neither run away, nor
+make any attempt to recover his liberty. These precautions have been
+found indispensable; because, if the slave can but break his chains,
+he becomes free. The public faith which secures to the proprietor the
+possession of his slave, and which at all times delivers him up into
+his hands, is silent with regard to the slave and a trader.
+
+"Reader," continues the animated historian, "while thou art perusing
+this horrid account, is not thy soul filled with the same indignation
+as I experience in writing it? Dost thou not, in imagination, rush
+with fury upon those infamous conductors? Dost thou not break those
+forks with which these unfortunates are confined? and dost thou not
+long to restore them to liberty?
+
+
+
+(NOTE F.)
+
+This instrument is also in general use in Congo, and is there called
+the marimba.
+
+
+
+(NOTE Q.)
+
+The profits of this nefarious trade are so large, that mercenary men
+will incur any risk. At present, says the Report, 1822, speaking of
+the French favouring the trade, the rate of insurance does not exceed
+fifteen or twenty per cent, while the gains of the trade are proved to
+amount to from two hundred to four hundred per cent. It appears, from
+papers found on board Le Succes, that two hundred and forty slaves,
+which she landed on the island of Bourbon, cost nine thousand nine
+hundred and forty-three dollars; and that the proceeds of the sale
+of these slaves amounted to twenty-nine thousand five hundred and
+sixty-four dollars. And there is also an account of an outfit of
+fifty-three thousand francs producing a net profit of one hundred
+and sixty-six thousand francs.
+
+These facts need no comment. But let not England be discouraged: she
+has stood alone in many a fearful struggle, when apparently sinking
+under the pressure of a hostile world. She has led the way in the
+work of mercy; let her pursue her path with unfaltering firmness,
+and fearlessly oppose those who dare to violate the solemn engagements
+they have formed with her.
+
+
+
+(NOTE R.)
+
+Nothing can more forcibly prove the misery of the slaves, than the
+fact that funerals, which in Africa are attended by lamentations and
+sorrow, are in the West Indies celebrated with expressions of joy.
+
+
+
+(NOTE S.)
+
+This relation is derived from a letter of Mr. Arfelius who was an
+eye-witness, and a great sufferer from this treacherous attack upon
+the colony. See "Rees's Encyclopedia," article, Sierra Leone.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+FOOTNOTES
+
+
+[1] A society of merchants, established by king Charles II. for trading
+to Africa; which trade was laid open to all his majesty's subjects,
+and those of succeeding monarchs, until the abolition took place, 1807.
+
+[2] Capital of Whidah, situated about four miles from the factory
+at Whidah.
+
+[3] It is necessary to apprize our readers, that the remarks and
+descriptions contained in this volume, apply to Africa as it was some
+years since.
+
+[4] The slave-trade was abolished in 1807.
+
+[5] See Mr. Wilberforce's speech, at a meeting of the Church Missionary
+Society, 1822.
+
+[6] See Shillibur's Voyage.
+
+[7] See Cohen's Letter to Governor Macarthy, African Report, 1822.
+
+[8] See Discourse of the Bishop of London, before the Society for
+the Propagation of the Gospel, October 1817.
+
+
+
+
+
+ THE END.
+
+
+
+ Harvey, Darton, and Co. Printers, Gracechurch-Street, London.
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's Samboe; or, The African Boy, by Mary Ann Hedge
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