--- Page 1 --- --- Page 2 --- Ciu4 abudyit 2A C 1e B N a THE JOHN CARTER BROWN LIBRARY Bequctef MAURY A. APRIL 25, 1919 -OCTOBEI BROMSEN R 11, --- Page 3 --- --- Page 4 --- --- Page 5 --- --- Page 6 --- MEMIEK TH OR (L Sltak rtkek E L 7 : T N W M TC N mne' a fo sOoas PM - Philhy Har maand. saly R l T T of (arte Tionn Josept Cigrilbonyuir n Dhy Tmoa ) C A N rlo E ( D Cape V L ropi ofCancer E Tomia Prnum AVatilka sa de Janchio Pain AdEEA "Caya - p (ade sttntin Cde Coruente Q R Frmcas 2 lnvz da a nhaullic WYUT M OH > DOMINGO Yv he seOF duer atn ar Bre N T E à Citkant L I. 1ola lartni I (iunter anch Lr ins Nock RUtkts A R I B B AL IN S TC A J M alh nne rI - Vr ne a TT Bar Lraznt iah frnulaur "link T HI pede. yule Pme hela HA WEST INDIES M.AI Crilel Pupa lela fialera from ihelacs-Aushoreis Cde. SCntdia 2E os tu € R Cort Berr 707 NDamunge Tulados Vr Encmndhrde CBlann A ionoex ISTORY WEST INDIES Briish, Fomour ARike R 21 R M olde Jeat aC 3 temat or 10r 200 300 400 abriged firom EDWARDS cale Covnr a U TC I A MI J R I U Ta Cobe ITON pade Haniaie CIE RE EROIAAS at AMMELINE CMSILIaM TAL AEEA leat SI DEUH 7.5 70 Denres Lonoit 65 nesto Lendon Go 8o J05 --- Page 7 --- Anaai TH E HISTORY CIVIL AND COMMERCIAL, OF THE BRITISH COLONIES IN THE WEST INDIES To which is: added, AN HISTORICAL SURVEY OF THE FRENCH COLONY IN THZ ISLAND OF ST. DOMINGO. ABRIDGED'FRON THE HISTORYV WRITTEN By BRYAN EDWARDS, EsQ. ILLUSTRAITED WITHA MAP. Printed for Ckosay LONDON: and near Paternofter LEPMERMAN, For MUNDELL and Row; Sintidncrs.Comt J.MUxDELL, Sox, Edinburgh; and Collegc, Glafgow. --- Page 8 --- - AN HISTORICAL SURVEY OF THE FRENCH COLONY IN THZ ISLAND OF ST. DOMINGO. ABRIDGED'FRON THE HISTORYV WRITTEN By BRYAN EDWARDS, EsQ. ILLUSTRAITED WITHA MAP. Printed for Ckosay LONDON: and near Paternofter LEPMERMAN, For MUNDELL and Row; Sintidncrs.Comt J.MUxDELL, Sox, Edinburgh; and Collegc, Glafgow. --- Page 8 --- - --- Page 9 --- CONTE I T S. ADVERTISEMENT, Page. XV BOOK I. CHAPTER-I Geographical Arrangement. Name. Climatc. Sea Land Wind. Animals and Brecze and Mountains, &c. Vegetables. Sublimity of the &c. CHAPTER II. Of the Caraibes, or Ancient Inhabitants of Iflands. Origin. Charaéter. the Windward meftic Habits. Education. Manners, Perfons, and Dogion. Arts and Manufadtures. ReliConclufions on the whole, CHAPTER III. Of the Natives of Hifpaniola, Cuba, Their Numbers, Jamaica, and Porto Rico. Perfons, Genius and ment and Religion. Mifcellaneous Difpolitions. Governtheir Arts and Agriculture. Obfervations refpeéting Cruelty of the Spaniards, CHAPTER IV. Land Animals ufed as Food. Fifhes. Wild Method of Fithing and Fowl, Indian Conclufion, Fowling. Efculent Vegetables, &c. APPENDIX TO BOOK I. Containing a Short Differtation on the Origin of the Caraibes, --- Page 10 --- Vi CONTENTS BOOK II. YA M A IC A. CHAPTER I. Page, Difeovery by Columbus. Columbus's Deccafc, Takes Procedings of his Son, Diego, after humane Charaéter of Poffeflion of Jamaica, The of the Iland by Sir Efquivel, the firft Govemnor. Invalion Eflablifhment and Anthony Shirley and Colonel Defertion of the Town Jackfon. Deftruétion of the Indians, St. of Suilla Nueva. Gives Title of Jago de la Vega the [land is Marquis to Diego's Son, Lewis; founded. verts to the Crown granted, Defcends to his Sifter, to whom of Spain, Ilabella, Re43 CHAPTER II. Vindication of the Charaéter of tions of thofe Hiftorians Cromwell againft the Spaniards in the Welt who blame ltim for Allegathat Indies. The attacking the People defcribed, in direét enormous Cruelties of 1630. State of Violation of the Jamaica on its Capturc. Treaty of CHAPTER III, Proccedings in the Ifland after its Mortality among the Army. Capture. Difcontents and Brayne appointed to the Exertions of the Prote@or. it. His Defeat of the Command. De Oyley of Cuba. Regular Spanifh Forces who invaded the reaffumes Illand Government putes with the Mother eftablifhed in Jamaica. Dif. Country, &c. &c. Situation. CHAPTER IV. Climate. Face of the Country. Advantages derived from them. Soil. Mountains, and Woods. Rivers. Ore. Uncultivated Lands. suce' and Fruits, Vegetables. Kitchen Garden pro62 contents and Brayne appointed to the Exertions of the Prote@or. it. His Defeat of the Command. De Oyley of Cuba. Regular Spanifh Forces who invaded the reaffumes Illand Government putes with the Mother eftablifhed in Jamaica. Dif. Country, &c. &c. Situation. CHAPTER IV. Climate. Face of the Country. Advantages derived from them. Soil. Mountains, and Woods. Rivers. Ore. Uncultivated Lands. suce' and Fruits, Vegetables. Kitchen Garden pro62 --- Page 11 --- CONT E N TS. vii CHAPTER V. Page. Topographical Defeription. Towns, Villages, and Parifhes, Church.Livings, Veftries. Govemnor, or Courts of Judicature. Public Oflices. Commanderin Chief. habitants. Trade, Coins. Militia. InShipping. Exports. Imports, BOOK III. ENGLISH CHARAIBEE ISLANDS. CHAPTER I. EARBADOES. Firft Arrival of the Englih on this Ifland. and Termination of the Proprietary Origin, Progrefs, granted to the Crown. Origin of the Government. A& Revenue Situation and Extent of the Ifland. Soil of Navigation. pulation. Its Decline. and Produce. PoExports and Imports, CHAPTER II. GRENADA AND ITS DEPENDENCIES. Difcovery and Inhabitants, French Invafion in mination of the Natives. The Ifland 16fo. Exterde Cerillac.. Mifconduct of the conveyed to the Count lony reverts to the Crown of France. Deputy-Coremor. The Coglith. Claim of the Crown to Captured by the EnProduce exported. Decifion lay a Duty of 41 per cent. Gn on this Point. of the Court of King's Bench Diffenfions. French Tranfaétions within the Colony. Internal unconditional Invafion, 1779. Brave Defence, and Surrender of the Garrifon. towards the Englith Planters. Reftored Hardhips exercifed Peace. Prefent State of thc to Britain by the Colony, CHAPTER III. St. Vincent's and its Dependents, and Dominica, 1O3 --- Page 12 --- Viit CONTEN N T S. Leeward Charaibbean CHAPTER IV. Fage. Chrillopher's, Nevis, Illand. Govemment, comprehending St. Iflands. Hiltory and Antigua, Montferrat, and the Virgin fits of Defeription of each, the4t per cent. Duty. Exports. ProConiclafion of the Hitory, BOOK IV. CHAPTER I. Summary accoant of the Clafles. Emigrants from Inhnbitants Great of the feveral IAands. dominant Charaéter of the Britam and Irelands Pre-. or Natives. Effedt of Climate. European Refidents. Creoles, men and Children. Oft the Charaéer of the Creole Woferent Cafts or Tribes. People of Colour, and the dif. Mulattoes. Their Chara@erat Reftrictions on the Free Blacksand length, Of Negroes in a State of CHAPTER II, Origin of the Slave Trade. Slavery. Prelininary Obfervations, African Coaft. Negroes introduced Portuguefe Settlement on the kinssVoyage African at Hifpaniola. HawFirft. Charters granted, Company eftablifhed by James the Forts and Faétories. Exports Defeription of'the African Coaft. of Negroes who are at prefent from Great Britain. Number State of the Trade from exported to the Britifh at this Time exported 1771 to 1787- Number of Colonies. Europe, annually to the different Nations Negroes of 136Maindingocs,or CHAPTER III. Their Wars, Natives ofthe Windward Coaft. or Manners, and Perfons. Mahometans. Negroes of the Gold Coaft. Their Koromantyn Negrocs, pofition Jamaica in difplayed'in an Account of the Ferocioufnefs Negro of Dif 1760. Their National Rebellion in Manners, Wars, and Su- this Time exported 1771 to 1787- Number of Colonies. Europe, annually to the different Nations Negroes of 136Maindingocs,or CHAPTER III. Their Wars, Natives ofthe Windward Coaft. or Manners, and Perfons. Mahometans. Negroes of the Gold Coaft. Their Koromantyn Negrocs, pofition Jamaica in difplayed'in an Account of the Ferocioufnefs Negro of Dif 1760. Their National Rebellion in Manners, Wars, and Su- --- Page 13 --- O N T E N T S. ix Page Natives of Whidaw or Fida. Their Good Quaperftitions. Perfons and Tempers. Cannilities. Natives from Benin. Survey ofthe Chabals. Natives of Congo and Angola. of Slavery, raéters and Difpofitions of Negroes in a State CHAPTER IV. Slaves in Africa. Obfervations thereon. Means of obtaining immediate Abolition of the Trade Objections to a direét and of fuch a by, the Britifh Nation only. The Confequences of Sexes in the Negrocs Meafure conlidered. Difproportion Mode of tranfporting Neannually imported from Africa. eflablifhed by Aêt of Parliagrocs, and Regulations recently ment. Effeêts ofthofe Regulations, CHAPTER V. Arrival and Sale in the Weft Indies. Negroes newly purchafed. of and employed. Detail of the Management How difpofed Plantation Mode of obtaining them. of Negroes on a Sugar Care. Abufes. Late ReguHoufes, Clothing, and Medical Caufes of their lations for their Proteétion and Security. in its mildeft Annual Decreafc. Polygamy, &c. Slavery ProGeneral Obfervations. Form unfriendly to Population. the Condition of Slaves, pofals for the further meliorating with which the fubjeêt concludes, BOOK V. AGRICULTURE CHAPTER I. Cane. Known to the Ancients. Conjeêures concernSugar Conveyed from Sicily to ing its Introduétion into Europe. and from thence to the the Azores, &c. in the 1sth Century, himfelfcarried it from Weft Indies. Evidence that Columbus of Labat's Reathe Canary Iflands to Hifpaniola. Summary in the foning to fhow thât it was found growing fpontancouflyi Botanical Name Weft Indies. Both Accounts reconciled. b RICULTURE CHAPTER I. Cane. Known to the Ancients. Conjeêures concernSugar Conveyed from Sicily to ing its Introduétion into Europe. and from thence to the the Azores, &c. in the 1sth Century, himfelfcarried it from Weft Indies. Evidence that Columbus of Labat's Reathe Canary Iflands to Hifpaniola. Summary in the foning to fhow thât it was found growing fpontancouflyi Botanical Name Weft Indies. Both Accounts reconciled. b --- Page 14 --- - - X CONTEN N T S. and Defeription, Soils beft Pagc. their Varieties deferibed. adapted forits Cultivation, and Method of Boiling and Ufeand Superiority of the Plough, Planting, CHAPTER II. Crop Time, the Seafon of Health and ingthe Canes. Ofthe Cane-Juice Fefivity. Mills for grindProcefs for obtaining Raw and its' component Parts. and its Difpofal. Procefs of or Mufeavedo Sugar, Melaffes, Still-Houfes and Stills. making Clayed Sugar. Of Rum, Windward Iland Procefs, Cifterns and their Ingredients. ftillation. Due Jamaica Method of Double DiSwects afcertained Quantity of Rum from a given and ftated, Qnantity of CHAPTER III. Capital neceffaryi in the Settlement tation of a given Extent. or Purchafe of a Sugar Planfeparately confidered. The Lands, Buildings, and Stock from the Propertics, Particulars and Coft. Grofs Returns various contingent Annual Dilburfements. Nett ference not Charges not taken into the Account. Profits, the Profits commonly attended to in the Dif. of an Englith Eftate and Way of elimating Infurance of Weft India Eflates one in the Weft Indies. ether occafional Deduétions. in the Time ofWar, and vation of the Sugar Ilands The Queftion, why the Cultiragements, confidered and continues under fo many Difcoudifculfed, Of the minor CHAPTER IV. various Species, Staple Mode Commedities, viz. Cotton, its Growth of Cultivation and and Imports of this Article into Great Rifks attending it. cruing from the Manufaéures Britain, and the Profits.acCultivation and Manufa@ture. produced by it. Indigo, its Planters in Jamaica, and Opulence of the firft Indigo of this Branch of Cultivation Refleétions coneerning the Decline that of the Weft Indics is in that Inand. Coffe, whether equal to the Mocha. Situation and Mode Commedities, viz. Cotton, its Growth of Cultivation and and Imports of this Article into Great Rifks attending it. cruing from the Manufaéures Britain, and the Profits.acCultivation and Manufa@ture. produced by it. Indigo, its Planters in Jamaica, and Opulence of the firft Indigo of this Branch of Cultivation Refleétions coneerning the Decline that of the Weft Indics is in that Inand. Coffe, whether equal to the Mocha. Situation and --- Page 15 --- CONTENT S. xi Page. was fubjedt in Great BriSoil. Exorbitant Duty to whichit the Plant and curing tain. Approved Method of cultivating and Returns of Eftimate ofthe annual Expences Pithe Berry. Cacao, Ginger, Arnotto, Aloes, and a Coffee Plantation. aento, BOOK VI. AND COMMERCE. - COYERNMENT CHAPTER I. Of the Captain-General, or Chief Colonial Eftablifhments. Some Reflections on Governor ; his Powers and Privileges. Officc. LieuteChoice of Perfons for this High the General and Prefident. Of the nant-General, Lieutenant.Govemer, Funétions. Origin of their Claim Council; their Office and Propriety, and in the Legilature. Its Neceffity, to a Share Some Correêion in the Conftitution Legality confidered. of this Body propofed, CHAPTER II. denied to be inthe 'Crown of Houfe of Affembly. Prerogative Conflitutions lefs free than that of eftablithing in the Colonies Britifh Weft Indian Iflands fetGreat Britain. Moft ofthe Mother Country. Royal Profrom the tled by Emigrants Confirmations of Ancient clamations and Charters are only Iflands originally made Barbadoes and fome other Rights. Their Local Legillatures how conftituCounties Palatinc. pointed out. Their ted, and the Extent of their, Jurifdiation the Crown of Great BriAllegiance to, and Dependence on, Extent of Parliamentary tain, how fecured. Confitutional Influence over them, CHAPTÉR IIL. the Britifh Weft Indies and"North America pre. Trade between American Supplics. Ships and Seamen: vious to the War. bij are only Iflands originally made Barbadoes and fome other Rights. Their Local Legillatures how conftituCounties Palatinc. pointed out. Their ted, and the Extent of their, Jurifdiation the Crown of Great BriAllegiance to, and Dependence on, Extent of Parliamentary tain, how fecured. Confitutional Influence over them, CHAPTÉR IIL. the Britifh Weft Indies and"North America pre. Trade between American Supplics. Ships and Seamen: vious to the War. bij --- Page 16 --- A xii CONT E N T S. Advantages of the Trade to Grcat Britain. Page. vernment at the Refloration of Meafures of Gogrocsin confequence of Scareity. Peacc. Deftruction of Ne286 Objections CHAPTER IV. againft the Weft Indian Colonics Advantages arifing to Britain from her Weft Indian Commodities confidered, Whether the Duties on and in what Cafes. imported fall on the Confumer, the Terms, and their Drawbacksand Bounties, of ftrated. Origin and Explanation Of the Monopoly Property traced and demonReftrictions on the Colonifts, Compa@, its Nature and Origin. Britain. and Bencfits thence Advantages which would accrue to refalting to Revenue, and the Public, from the Planter, the the Weft Indies to refine their permitting the Inhabitants of fiumption. Projeét of raw Sugar for Britifh ConWeft Indies under the Protedion eflablifhing Sugar Plantations in the Remonflrances which of Government confidered. Meafures. Conclufion. might be offered againft this and other APPENDIX, 31I HISTORY OF ST. DOMINGO, Political State of St. CHAPTER I. Domingo previous to the year 1789, From the Revolution CHAPTER II. of a neral Colonial 1789, to the Mecting of the Firft Affembly, Ge329 CHAPTER III. Proceedings of the Generel Colonial folution, and the Embarkation Affembly, till its final Dif. of its Members for France, --- Page 17 --- CONTE: N T S. xiii CHAPTER IV. Page. Rebellion and Defcat of Ogé, a Free Man of Colour, CHAPTER V. Proceedinge in France. Death :, of Colonel Mauduit. of the National Afembly of the I5th Decree fequences in St. Domingo. May 1791. Its ConNegroes in. the Northern Rebellion and Enormities of the Men of Colour and Provinces. Truce between the mation Inhabitants of Port au Princc. Proclaby the National Affembly of the 2oth of September, CHAPTER VI. Repeal ofthe Decree of the Isth of May. Civil War Port au Prince deftroyed by Fire. Cruelties renewed. Arrival of the Commiffioners On each Side. and from France. Proceedings of the New Commiffioners. Appointment of Golbaud. Hoftilitics on both Sides. The Appointment groes called in. Maffacre of the Inhabitants revolted Neçois, and Conflagration of the of Capc FranTown, CHAPTER VII. - Situation, Extent, and General Origin of the French Defcription of St. Domingo. and Population. Colony. Defcription of its Produce Shipping and Exports, CHAPTER VIII. Overtures to the Britifh Government. French Commiffioners. Slavery abolifhed by the Surrender of at St. Nicholas. Defeat Jeremie and the Mole Princc. Sicknefs and at Tiburon. Capture. of Port au Revolt of the Mulattocs dreadful Mortality among the Troops. Tiburon. Gallant at St. Marc. Second Attack of Efcape of the Garifon, CHAPTER IX. Ancient State of the Spanifh the Town of St. Colony. The Eftablifhment of Numbers and Domingo. Pillaged by Drakein 1586. Charaéter of the prefent Inhabitants, --- Page 18 --- eat Jeremie and the Mole Princc. Sicknefs and at Tiburon. Capture. of Port au Revolt of the Mulattocs dreadful Mortality among the Troops. Tiburon. Gallant at St. Marc. Second Attack of Efcape of the Garifon, CHAPTER IX. Ancient State of the Spanifh the Town of St. Colony. The Eftablifhment of Numbers and Domingo. Pillaged by Drakein 1586. Charaéter of the prefent Inhabitants, --- Page 18 --- --- Page 19 --- ADVERTISEMENT to offer any apology for the Ir is unnecelfary in its fo interefting abridgment of a performance of the following work. The nature as the original regard reader of modern hiftory muft undoubtedly Indian Iflands, their difcovery, their prothe Weft in improvement, as no ductions, and their progrefs department of his inquiries ; and to inconfiderable to learn economift, it is of importance the political with fo conthe nature and extent of our commerce of the Britifh dominions. : It muft fpicuous a part the that in a work fo limited as prebe confeffed, ftudent of thefe fubjeéts may fent, a very minute of information; ; but not poffibly find every article the bulk of readers, it is apprehended, the utility to of fadts and circumftances, oft the work, as a relation with will be admitted. It has been the abridger's of thenarration that could be reto omit no part he ceived ; fo that, fatisfied with being perfpicuous, aimed at clegance of expreffion, a quality has not of facts. difficult to unite with a clofe compreflion The work of Mr. Edwards is highly valuable for ftate papers which it the interefting and important --- Page 20 --- 10X a xvi ADVERTISENENT. contains, and which the writer's fo well enabled him peculiar fituation and to obtain. In the fupport of facts that are liable illuftration papers of this nature to contradiction, have been therefore are eminently ufeful; they as the limits of admitted to as great an extent der an abridgment would to recompenfe the reader allow, in' orin fome amuling appendixes of the degree for the fervation original. The fame obapplies to the lifts of the article of thipping, &c. under been taken Commerce; and the fame, care to infert has tilated. them, as far as poflible, unmuThe remarks and have not been opinions oft the original at all times taken author ment; but where into the abridgthey are troubled with no counter introduced, the reader is In taking notice of remarks from the abridger. a paflage from one opinion of Mr. a well known Edwards, This may be author is fubjoined. departing from the fridt abbreviation; butin the path of troduced, it was thought scicunthacawheekn inthe author quoted entirely neceflary; and as writes upon the fame digreflion is lefs to be remarked. fubjed, the --- Page 21 --- HISTORY OF THE WESTINDIES BOOK I. CHAPTER I. Breeze and Geographical NwmaNeSa3s of the Land Wind-Animals and Vegmabla-Sublinhy Mountains, &c. &c. THE ever-memorable Columbus was induced to fet fail in queft of a new continent, from the received opinion of his time, that a nearer paffage might be explored to the Eaft Indies, by a voyage the weftward. The difcovery of the Pacific to demonftrated this miftake; but ftill thofe Ocean which Columbus had vifited, retained the iflands A maNeSa3s of the Land Wind-Animals and Vegmabla-Sublinhy Mountains, &c. &c. THE ever-memorable Columbus was induced to fet fail in queft of a new continent, from the received opinion of his time, that a nearer paffage might be explored to the Eaft Indies, by a voyage the weftward. The difcovery of the Pacific to demonftrated this miftake; but ftill thofe Ocean which Columbus had vifited, retained the iflands A --- Page 22 --- D HISTORY OF THE appellation of the Weftern flinétion to the Indies of Indies, in 5 contradiUnder this the Eaft. name are group of iflands which compreliended that large Florida extend in a curve from fhore, on the north the to the Gulf of peninfula of America, nifh navigators Maracaybo, on the fouthern. have divided Spaand Lceward them into Windward friét (Bortavento and language, the term Windward Sstavento); and, in Caribbean Iles; and applies to the ones, Cuba, Jamaica, Leeward, to the four larger But, in Englith Hilpaniola, and Porto Rico: : cording to the geography, courfe they are divided acWindward of the iflands trade-vind; the the Leeward terminating with Martinico, and Rico. fretching from Martinico to Porto As all the Weft India tropic of Cancer, there is iflands lie beneath the rature, except fuch as arifès little variety of tempeland. from the elevation of The vernal feafon- in thefe commence with May. The parts may be faid to aghange their afpect, from parched favannahs now felh and delightful a withered brown, to. a ers prefently fet in, green. Gentle fouthern fhowcafion a bright and which, falling abcut noon, OCriod, the medium rapid vegetation. At this pe75°. height of the thermometer is After thefe vernal fhowers about a fortnight, the feafon have continued for and the tropical fummer advances to maturity, burns in its full glory. --- Page 23 --- WEST INDIES. fome hours in the morning, when the land During up, the blaze of the fun breeze has not yet fprung but as foon as this agreeis fiérce and intolerable; warmth is abated, able wind arifes, the extreme in the and the climate becomes even pleafant The thermometer now ftands generally fhade. 75° at funrife, and 85° at noon. of inconvenience the inhabitants But whatever from diurnal heat, it is - thefe iflands may fuftain and ferenity of recompenfed by the beauty amply The moon rifes large and refulgent their nights. horizon: The Milky Way and in the cloudlefs unknown the planet Venus glow with a brightnefs The landfcape is fair and beautiin our heavens: ful, and the air cool and delicious. thermometer About the middle of Auguft the breeze height. The refrefhing rifes to an unwonted red clouds that fkirt the dies away, and the large of rains. fouthern horizon betoken the approach towards the mounThe clouds roll horizontally from peak to tains : The thunder reverberates and peak, and the whole fcene becomes impreflive thofefublime. Itis at this period that hurricanes, vifitations of Divine vengeance, are fo irrefiftible frequently felt. the north wind In November or December It is at firit attended with heavy commences. fhowers of hail, till at laft the atmofphere brightand the weather, till March, may be called ens, however, remote from the yinter. It is a winter, A ij clouds roll horizontally from peak to tains : The thunder reverberates and peak, and the whole fcene becomes impreflive thofefublime. Itis at this period that hurricanes, vifitations of Divine vengeance, are fo irrefiftible frequently felt. the north wind In November or December It is at firit attended with heavy commences. fhowers of hail, till at laft the atmofphere brightand the weather, till March, may be called ens, however, remote from the yinter. It is a winter, A ij --- Page 24 --- rsNeAN L HISTORY OF THE horror of northern delicious. feverity ; cool, wholefome, and This defeription of climate muft minutely applicable to all the not be held as Size, WeR India cultivation, a mountainous iflands. unnoticed circumitances, furface, and other of climate may occafion a diverfity throughout the whole, Prejudiced and ignorant writers the Weft India iflands, have defcribed Spanifh when firft difcovered navigators, to have been noxious by penetrable deferts. To be and imfertion is falfe, we need convinced that this af. fions of Columbus only confult the expref. vereign Ferdinand bimfelf, when he informs his of his fonions. 6 There is a river newly acquired domi66 charges itfelf into the (he obferves) which dif, 46 ed Porto Santo, harbour that I have of fufficient namgable. I had the depth to be navi66 found eight fathom. curiofity to found it, and 46 that I can eafily Yet the water is fo a The banks difcern the fand at the limpid, of this bottom, ce lofty palm-trecs, river are embellifhed with c6 frefhnefs to the whofe fhade gives a delicious 6 flowers air; and the birds are and the 66 delighted uncommon and beautiful. with the Iwas fo 46 to the refolution fcene, that I had almoft come 66 of of ftaying here the my days ; for remainder 6 tries far believe me, Sire, thefe coun66 fure and furpafs all the reft of the world in 66 obferved conveniency; 5 and I have pleato my people, that, with all frequently my endea- --- Page 25 --- WEST INDIES. to Majefty'an adequate 6 vours to convey your 6 idea of the charming objeêts which continually to our view, the defcription 6 prefent themfelves $ will fall greatly fhort of the reality." whofe Such is the admiration profeffed by a man has never been fufpedted. If at any time veracity of beauty and fertility relapfed into thefe regions it muft be attribarrennefs or noxious vegetation, culbuted alone to the extirpation of their original tivators, by the fanguinary emigrants of Spain. The truth is, that, in their original flate, thefe by cultivation. Their iflands were highly improved abundance of Turkey favannahs or plains yielded cleared below, afwheat, and their woods, being forded a conftant and agreeable Ahade, excluding the blaze of the fun, but admitting the circulation of the air. orchards and woods Such were thefe blooming unknown to the of perennial verdure, of a growth frigid clime and lefs vigorous foil of Europe. What foreft ever gave birth to a ftem like the European which, hollowed into a veffel, has been ceiba *, hundred ; or the ftill known to carry an perfons fig-tree, the fovereign of the vegemore gigantic table ereation-itfelf a foreft. of the groves is heightBut the majeftic fcenery them. The foened by the forms which inhabit have Difpofer of created beings feems Ito vereign partial to thefe iflands, in leaving been fingularly Wild cotton tree. birth to a ftem like the European which, hollowed into a veffel, has been ceiba *, hundred ; or the ftill known to carry an perfons fig-tree, the fovereign of the vegemore gigantic table ereation-itfelf a foreft. of the groves is heightBut the majeftic fcenery them. The foened by the forms which inhabit have Difpofer of created beings feems Ito vereign partial to thefe iflands, in leaving been fingularly Wild cotton tree. --- Page 26 --- 2 2 HISTORY OF THE them deftitute of thofe noxious which infeft other ferpentine tribes, The regions of the fame alligator is indeed feen on their latitude. Icannot be perfuaded by all that banks; but the fierce nature of this has been faid of and even animal, but that he is cowardly: at all times thy, quifh the haunts of men. As difpofed to relinare fportive and harmlefs, to their lizards, they Anciently their woods were fmaller ipecies of the monkey frequented by a innocent little race, a pleafant and tiful fporter. But thefe, like the flamingo, a large and beauthe brighteft fearlet, have elegant bird, arrayed in Still, however, the been nearly. extirpated. ven their woods. But parrot and the parroquet enlithe the boaft of thefe humming bird ; whofe minute groves is mage of glowing, rich, and form and pluder it the moft beautiful and diverfified luftre, renthered race, furprifing of the feaIt is true, the beauty of they have to recommend tropical birds is all that are not deftitute of them; yet their woods mock-bird is highly barmony. The note of the myriads of bufy pleafing ; while the hum of of ftock infeéts, and the plaintive doves, form a concert, melody awaken the faney, which, ifit cannot and give may at leaft footh the harmony to repofe, affections, But leaving thefe minuter fixed in deeper objects, the mind is enormous hills of contemplation thefe in looking to the the ftorms, and regions, which rife above repofe in eternal fhow. To the --- Page 27 --- WEST INDIES. down from thefe heights, the fpectator looking While all whole fcene appears like enchantment. the clouds is calm and ferene in the higher regions, fides of the below fweeping along the are feen vaft bodies, till, growing more ponmountains in they fall at length in torderous by accumulation, The found of the rents of water on the plains. above ; is diftinaly heard by the fpedtator. tempeft is feen to irradiate the gloom; the diftant lightning reverberated in a thoufand while the thunder, echoes, rolls far beneath his feet. fcene appears like enchantment. the clouds is calm and ferene in the higher regions, fides of the below fweeping along the are feen vaft bodies, till, growing more ponmountains in they fall at length in torderous by accumulation, The found of the rents of water on the plains. above ; is diftinaly heard by the fpedtator. tempeft is feen to irradiate the gloom; the diftant lightning reverberated in a thoufand while the thunder, echoes, rolls far beneath his feet. --- Page 28 --- HISTORY OF THE CHAPTER II. Of the Caraibes, or ancient Inhabitants of the Windward bitsand Illands and CnAaanie Education--Ams Domeftic Hafions on the whole. Nesdoentepeelt HAvING thus delineated and the climate and attempted to imprefs the feafons, faint idea of the reader with fome which the hand of beauty and magnificence with iflands, I Thall next nature hath arrayed thefe inhabitants to whofe proceed to inquire after thofe were chiefly found fupport and conveniency they to the fubfervient when they firft knowledge of Europe, came Hifpaniola was the firft ifland nour of receiving which had the homoft wonderful Columbus, after a hiftory. and important that is voyage the He found that the recorded in the three other iflands, poffeffors of this and tors were denominated which by Spanifh the navigaple, hofpitable, and happy Leeward, were a fimformed that there lay people ; but he was inand warlike to the eaftward a nation called barbarous. race of cannibals, who Caribbees or Caraibes, a curfions on their more frequently made terrible incarried havock and peaceable neighbours, and quered. Columbus devaflation wherever they condifcovered, in his fecond voy- --- Page 29 --- WEST INDIES. that thefe ferocious cannibals were inhabiagc, Ifles. tants of the Windward by what Hiftorians have laboured to difcover in caufes two nations, fo remote extraordinary fhould have lived in fuch propinquity charaéter, of this of fituation. Rochefort, an hiftoriographer plaufible reafons for fuppocountry, affigns many iflands were fing, that the natives of the larger and of the aborigines of the Weft Indies; remnants emigrated in a that the fiercer Caraibes having had extirfwarm from the Indians of Apalachia, thofe whom pated all the original natives, except of inhabithe fize of their kingdoms and number tants had defended from entire devaftation. has But Martyr, a ftill more fagacious hiftorian, above powerful arguments againft the produced It would be too tedious, however, to fuppofition. Certain it is, that enter minutely into this difpute. difimilar traits of the the different languages, and of their origin two nations, exclude all fuppofition emibeing common ; but from what nations they or from whence they drew their lineage, gruted, and unworthy of inveftiis diflicult to determine, gation. let us procéed to feleét Leaving this inquiry, communicaté an fuch uncontroverted faéts as may and charaéter. In performidea of their manners we are for materials, ing this taik, circumferibed as be drawn in the very important conclulions may ftudy of fhuman nature. individual The courage or the cowardice of an B ibeing common ; but from what nations they or from whence they drew their lineage, gruted, and unworthy of inveftiis diflicult to determine, gation. let us procéed to feleét Leaving this inquiry, communicaté an fuch uncontroverted faéts as may and charaéter. In performidea of their manners we are for materials, ing this taik, circumferibed as be drawn in the very important conclulions may ftudy of fhuman nature. individual The courage or the cowardice of an B --- Page 30 --- Io HISTORY OF THE is always a prominent nations are not lefs feature in his charader, and by the extent and difinguifhed than individuals The Caraibes nature of thefe qualities, were rage was that of courageous 3 but their couand difgraced barbarians, bloated with their by cruelty. Inured to revenge youth, and taught to arms from highly as military fame; prize no blefling fo adivity, to cultivate at home incapable, from habits of the tranquillity, or the comfortable blandifhments of regarded war as the main arts of peace ; they y and peace as a mere object of their exiftence, cruit them for new paufe from hoftilities, to reTheir ardour in battle revenge. for they devoured rofe to infatiable fury; fuch enemies without remorfe the in as they had killed or bodies of war. taken prifoners This fact, fo difagrecable in relation eflablifhed), was at one period (though by thofe European ftrenuoufly denied maintaining the philofophers, who, zealous in the dignity of our nature, veracity of all thofe who impeached of cannibals, But afferted the the difcoveries difcovery voyagers have made leave which recent truft the exiftence of fuch us now no room to dif. the Caraibes, the degraded beings. As to charge is ted; for Columbus completely fubftantiarelates, that, Guadaloup, he beheld in feveral having landed at and limbs of human bodies, cottages the heads evidently kept for occafional recently feparated, and Thus far, it muft be repafts! confeffed, the difpofitions --- Page 31 --- WEST INDIES. II impreflion of the Caraibes leaves no very pleafing circumftance on our minds. In contemplating confider this them as in their manners, we can hardly was lawful human beings, but as monfters whomit from exiftence. But the whole porto extirpate character does not correfpond to this trait of their the Caraibe, warm difagreeable trait: We beholdin of friendfhip, energetic and dignified independence mind, and fome fhare of the focial paffions. of that with regard to the people It is allowed, of them had acquired their Europe, whenever any referve. Their confidence, it was given without was as warm as their enmity was implafriendfhip Caraibes of Guiana ftill fondly cherifh cable. The alliance, and to this day the tradition of Raleigh's which he left them at preferve the Englith colours parting. loftinefs of their fentiments, and their Of the no way partial to abhorrence of flavery, a writer, 66 There is them, gives the following illuftration : Labat) more jealous s not a nation on earth (fays and than the Caraibes; 66 of their independence behold the deference 4 when at any time they his obferves to fuperiors, 66 which an European flaves who can be fo 66 they defpife us as abject 6 bafe as to crouch before an equal." of had it been that fuch confcioufnels Happy adorned with mildnefs or humadignity had been paflion for war reprefnity; but their prevailing which the voluptufed thofe inftincts of nature, The oufnefs of climate had otherwife produced. Bij ence 4 when at any time they his obferves to fuperiors, 66 which an European flaves who can be fo 66 they defpife us as abject 6 bafe as to crouch before an equal." of had it been that fuch confcioufnels Happy adorned with mildnefs or humadignity had been paflion for war reprefnity; but their prevailing which the voluptufed thofe inftincts of nature, The oufnefs of climate had otherwife produced. Bij --- Page 32 --- HISTORY OF THE paflion of love was not ed, from the nature of firongly felt: They feem. defirous ofimprefling their decorations, rather admiration terror, than ; and, indeed, the being objects of disfigured their faces, their hideous fcars which diesy and the quick wild mufcular and ftout bofeemed an emanation roll of their eyes, that rendered their whole from their martial ipirit, rible. As foon as a Caraibe appearance ftriking and. terfprinkled with his father's child was born, he was wyas painful, in the blood. The ceremony fubmitted, from a belief extreme, to the father; but he played on fuch occafions that the hardinefs he dif. the fpirit of his infant fon, would be ingrafted upon Before the youth himfelf the honours of manhood, could be admitted to ments were made the moft painful experiSpartan youth, he upon his fortitude. Like the his neareft relation, was tortured by the hands of reputation and like him, he eflablithed tience had upon contempt of pain. When his his outbraved <6 is a man like ourfelves" their perlecution, 4 Now pa- he thenceforward admitted (they would fay); and fociety, him to their battles and The faine admired boy to the honours of fortitude, which uplifted the teft of fuperiority, when manhood, was alfo made the didates for the ambitious became canthe moft principality. The warrior was deemed excruciating torture, before he put to capable could be Caraibe who arrived ofacing as chief, The to this dignity muft ambitious have pur- --- Page 33 --- WEST INDIES, chafed his honours at a dear price. From a fo fiercely people independent, no fpontaneous could be expedted. The chief had to confole obedience felf with the glory of his title, with the himpoffefled of appropriating female liberty he felf, and with the gifts he captives to himtiful daughters of his received, the moft beaucountrymen, From this laft tribute, perhaps, the polygamy arofe. But, though beftowed pradtice of ward of valour, the females as the reflaves than domeftics. were treated rather as cies of degrading They fuftained every fpes labour, were treated without humanity or refpect, and denied the ing in fociety with men, Such is privilege of eatwomen the fate of all in among favages. The progrefs of a every thing valuable and humane is marked people the-dignity and happinefs of the female fex. by Befides the feather that was inferted in the forated cartilage of his nofe, and the teeth of perdevoured enemies that were his and arms, the Caraibe ftrung round his legs warrior could not have - any ornament be faid to or drefs; ; nor indeed could clothing be neceffary in a climate where the nefs of winter was never felt. A chillboot, wove of cotton, was bufkin, or half ter the age of worn by the women af. captive puberty; ; but to this diftinéion no female could afpire. Their lonig black hair conftituted the chief nament of both fexes ; an ornament alfo orcaptives. Like all other denied to ted the beard in its firft Americans, they eradicagrowth ; a circumftance thing be neceffary in a climate where the nefs of winter was never felt. A chillboot, wove of cotton, was bufkin, or half ter the age of worn by the women af. captive puberty; ; but to this diftinéion no female could afpire. Their lonig black hair conftituted the chief nament of both fexes ; an ornament alfo orcaptives. Like all other denied to ted the beard in its firft Americans, they eradicagrowth ; a circumftance --- Page 34 --- A HISTORY OF THE which led fome to believe that turally beardlefs; but ocular Americans are nafhown the miftake. demonftration has The moft remarkable perfons was altering the circumftance about their which being configuration of the head, applied fqueezed at birth between two before and behind, made boards, hinder head refemble the fore and miferable remnantoft two fides ofa (quare. The Vincent fill retain the natives in the Mfland ofSt. fembled this cuftom. Their an European villages rebeing made of poles drawn encampment, their cabins with the leaves of to a top, and covered each village ftood palm-tree. In the middle of ed, and eat in a large hall, where they conventheatres of exercife, common. Thefe halls were alfo the ed to hardihood where their youth were train. by athletic emulation by the games, and fired to Their fpeeches of their arts and manufictures, orators, played a degree of though few, dif from a people fo little ingenuity not to be expected animal nature. removed from a ftate of mere Columbus of fubftantial obferved an he vifited cotton cloth in all the iflands abundance ; and the natives which ftaining it with various pofleffed the art of delighted chiefly in red. colours, though the Caraibes bammocks, Of this cloth or hanging beds, fuch they made at fea ; for Europe has as are now ufed tern, but not only copied the wife preferved the name. patthe art of making veffels They poffeffed likewhich they baked in kilns for domeftic purpofes, like the potters of Eu- the iflands abundance ; and the natives which ftaining it with various pofleffed the art of delighted chiefly in red. colours, though the Caraibes bammocks, Of this cloth or hanging beds, fuch they made at fea ; for Europe has as are now ufed tern, but not only copied the wife preferved the name. patthe art of making veffels They poffeffed likewhich they baked in kilns for domeftic purpofes, like the potters of Eu- --- Page 35 --- WEST INDIES. rope. From the ruins of thefe, latély Barbadoes, we learn that dug up in made by the they far furpais thofe Negroes, in' thinnefs, fmoothnefs, beauty. Their baikets, and compofed of leaves, were fingularly palmetto that their bows, elegant; and we are told arrows, and other played a neatnefs and polifh which weapons, difpean artift would have found it a fkilful Eurocelled, even with his own tools. diflicult to have exWe are not accurately informed ture and extent of their as to the naa rude people, the right agriculture. of Among fuch not be definite. We find, private property could was a community of accordingly, that there labour, and a goods in every village. All community of oftilling and partook of the labour fowing; and each family had from the public granary. its fhare of their eating human Except the circumftance flefh, their food feems refpects to have been the fàme with in all tives of the larger iflands. that of the nafively voracious, But, although excefl bounties of they rejedted fome of the beft nature. They never tafted ry, or Mexican hog ; the the pecathe turtle. Some have manati, or fea-cow; nor aferibed this thefe delicious rarities to the abhorrence of motives; and fanciful influence of religious that the Jews had hiftorians have not forgot mals. a fimilar diflike to fimilar aniIn tracing out their religious few the ofispring of cuftoms, we find a perftitious and genuine nature; ; others, fux unaccountable. On the birth ofia ed ry, or Mexican hog ; the the pecathe turtle. Some have manati, or fea-cow; nor aferibed this thefe delicious rarities to the abhorrence of motives; and fanciful influence of religious that the Jews had hiftorians have not forgot mals. a fimilar diflike to fimilar aniIn tracing out their religious few the ofispring of cuftoms, we find a perftitious and genuine nature; ; others, fux unaccountable. On the birth ofia --- Page 36 --- HISTORY OF THÉ child, the father fafted for a whole which no rational motives day, a practice death of a father, their could influence. At the pious; they bewailed his behaviour was decent and row, then lois with unaffeéted forturning from the ereéted it in a different place of his abode, In their religious belief place. been a mixture of theifmn there feems to have devotion was at all times and idolatry; but their than of gratitude. rather the refult of fear ing were Their ideas of a Begrofs and indiftina ; and Supreme which they offered up to him, their prayers, dium of inferior deities, through the meprotection, but were not to implore his his vengeance. merely to deprecate the terrors of the gods of the Thefe inferior deities were, like fubordinate Romans, divided into fuperior and beings, national and tors ; and what renders the domeftic protec. Roman and Caraibbee fimilarity between the belief that every individual worfhip complete, was their deity, had his own peculiar mythology. correfponding to the genius of the ancient But befides their benevolent adoration to other fpirits, in rites deities, they paid ftition. To avert the wrath of ofa darker fuper. magicians offered thefe demons, their up their facrifices ers in confecrated places. and their prayOn thefe worlhipper wounded himfelf with occafions, the conceiving, perhaps, that the fierce horrible gafhes, mon was delighted with the fpirit of the deappeafed by the groans of mifery, and plentiful flow of human blood. --- Page 37 --- WEST INDIES. Such are the moft ftriking outlines in the racteriof the favage Caraibe. The chafemblage of hard and picture is an af. uncouth features, whofe expreflion, if not pleafing, is yet their mafculine boldnefs. impreffive, from with the Let fuch as are flruck barbarity of thefe habits and manners ware of afcribing them to the benature. Such ferocious genuine dictates of favagenefs is not a ftate congenial to man. Had not the bias of been in ftrong contradiction to fuch humanity would not have required fuch manners, it pline to fteel the heart of the unremitting difcirifing Caraibe againft every feeling of fympathy and remorfe. fion and kindnefs conftitute the Compaf. and happinefs of our life; and chief ornament humanity, to the honour of they are the earlieft propenfities of nature, our C efs is not a ftate congenial to man. Had not the bias of been in ftrong contradiction to fuch humanity would not have required fuch manners, it pline to fteel the heart of the unremitting difcirifing Caraibe againft every feeling of fympathy and remorfe. fion and kindnefs conftitute the Compaf. and happinefs of our life; and chief ornament humanity, to the honour of they are the earlieft propenfities of nature, our C --- Page 38 --- - HISTORY OF THE CHAPTER III. Of the Natives of Hifpaniola, Their Cuba, Jamaica, and Porto Ricoment and Nne-Rober-Giasia and Difpofitions-Govmn Arts and Keligion-Mifellneouse Obfervations refpeéting their Agpiedture-Cructy of the Spaniards, I AM now to give an account paratively cultivated of a mild and comHilpaniola, Cuba, people, the ancient, natives of there is no doubt that Jamaica, and Porto Rico; for iflands were of one the inhabitants of all thofe fame common language, poflefling the origin,-fpesking the in the praétice of fimilar fame inftitutions, and himfelf treats them fuperilitions. as fuch; ; and the Columbus cotemporary hiftorians confirms teflimony of By the formerly-mentioned: his opinion. ward Iands, thefe iflanders natives of the Windfcended from a colony of were confidered as deGuiana; and there is no Arrowauks, a people of fition of the Caraibes room to doubt the nion is on this occafion. Their fuppofited Guiana fupported by Raleigh, and others, opiand Trinidad two who viHiftorians centuries ago. tants found difagree as to the number of iflands. by Columbus on his firft inhabiL. Cafas computes viliting thefe fix millions; but, from the the whole amount at rians equally accounts of other hiftothe whole accurate, I am inclined to number at three, rather eftimate than fix mil- --- Page 39 --- WEST INDIES. lions. Indeed, fuch are the accounts of the carnage made among thofe poor people by the niards, that we are willing to hope their Spanumbers have been exaggerated original of Columbus, from by the followers a fond propenfity to the importance of their difcovery. magnify The children of both fexes, amongft this people, went entirely uncovered; and the only fimple vering for man and woman was a piece of COcloth, tied around the waift, and, with the cotton falling down to the knees. In their women, were elegant and well fhapes, they than the Caraibes; proportioned, and taller lar. Like the though by no means fo mufcuCaraibes, they altered the ration of the head; but their method configurent; for the forehead was was diffean unnatural thicknefs depreffed, fo as to give to the hinder part. The Spaniards, in relating this fact, give us an at the fame time, by what humane inftance, they difcovered it. Herrara experiments broad-fwvord could relates, that a Spanifh not cleave the fkull at but would frequently break fhort one blow, was uniformly black, ofit. Their hair curl; their features without any tendency to were hard and face broad, and the nofe flat; but, unfightly ; the was fomething in their altogether, there countenances frank and gentle difpofition. expreflive of a Modern philofophers, in delineating their character, have grofsly mifreprefented deed, combined fuch them, and, innot mingle in the fame inconfiftent qualities as could temper. They have been Cij blow, was uniformly black, ofit. Their hair curl; their features without any tendency to were hard and face broad, and the nofe flat; but, unfightly ; the was fomething in their altogether, there countenances frank and gentle difpofition. expreflive of a Modern philofophers, in delineating their character, have grofsly mifreprefented deed, combined fuch them, and, innot mingle in the fame inconfiftent qualities as could temper. They have been Cij --- Page 40 --- HISTORY OF THE accufed of cowardice, feeblenefs of mind, indolence, and as well as of infenfibility; Their military fpirit was conflitution. rior to the favage enthufiafm unqueftionably far inferior; but coldnefs of the Caraibbee warof their character. to fenfual pleafures was no part this The truth is, that love happy race was not a, tranfient with paflion; ; it was the fource of all or youthful great object of their lives. their joys, and the never gave A thirft for afperity to their revenge heightened the tempers, ànd climate a people, fenfibility of their paflions. That the poffefling the means of neceflity of toil, fhould be luxury, without is a circumflance addicted to no way luxury, labour might in fome furpriling. The want of dies; and this conclulion degree enervate their boout degrading their may be admitted, withclimate (as fome have natures, or pronouncing the compatible with ventured to do) to be inTheir bodily vigour. limbs, however, were they delighted and excelled pliant and adtive; ; dancing; and to that in the exercife of cool hours of night, amufement 66 they devoted the It was their cuftom Herrara) to dance from (fays 66 and although fifty evening to the dawn i 56 were frequently thoufand men and women 66 cafions, they feemed affembled together On thefe OC46 impulfe, actuated by one common 46 with their keeping time by refponfive hands and motions 4 nefs truly wonderful." their feet, with an exact. Another diverfion was prevalent among them, --- Page 41 --- WEST INDIES. called the bato; which, by the accounts it, feems to have refembled the given of cricket. The players Englifh game of were divided into two ties, who alternately changed parelaftic ball, thrown places ; while an forwards, dexteroufly backwards and was received on the head, the the foot, and repelled with elbow, or table force. Such aftonifhing and inimiexertions belong not ple incurably enervated and flothful. to,a peoEuropean writers, not fatisfied with tiug their perfonal depreciapronounced their accomplifhments, have likewife natural genius inferior own. Such philofophers to our ed, that their fituation ought to have recolled. other reafons, alone, without recurring to of their ideas. fufliciently accounts for the paucity Energy of mind the nature, but in the circumftances originates not in ened European. He is of an enlightintelledlual and plifhed, not from intuitive accomthat cultivation of his knowledge, but from or ambition powers which his neceflities may excite. But whatever thefe Indians wanted was amply made up in the fweetnefs in energy, politions; fince, from the of their dif the candid as well evidence of all writers, as the bigotted, they are fented.to have been the moft reprelent of the human race. gentle and benevoAmong other inftances of their following is not the leaft benevolence, the Columbus's firft arrival remarkable. Soon after fhips was wrecked at Hifpaniola, one of his on the coaft. The natives, amply made up in the fweetnefs in energy, politions; fince, from the of their dif the candid as well evidence of all writers, as the bigotted, they are fented.to have been the moft reprelent of the human race. gentle and benevoAmong other inftances of their following is not the leaft benevolence, the Columbus's firft arrival remarkable. Soon after fhips was wrecked at Hifpaniola, one of his on the coaft. The natives, --- Page 42 --- HISTORY OF THE feorning to reap to fea with advantage from his diftrefs, eagernefs to his relief. - put noes were in motion A thoufand cathe goods faved ; not a life was loft; and of loft or from the wreck, not an article embezzled. was ed next Guacanahari, the waitday on cacique, the thip itfelf, and Columbus; and perceiving that fome of the ftanding all exertions, cargo, notwithdoled with Columbus was irrecoverably loft, conprife and admiration in terms that excited furhis ; and offered, with eyes, all that he poffeffed in tears in pair his misfortune. Who the world to reout fecling the can be informed, withfrongeft exampled benevolence indignation, that this unwith the bafeft was repaid, by Europeans, fell a ingratitude? The Spanifh facrifice to the juft fury of the ruffians Guacanahari was covered with Indians; but ing them from his wounds, in protect. ed, and.the counttymen. Columbus returnlent generous attachment of thefe people once more revived, benevoBartholomew Columbus, who was puty governor in the abfence appointed deus a pleafing account of the of Columbus, gives in his progrefs hofpitality he met with The through the ifland to levy caciques, tributes, Spaniards for gold, underflanding the fondnefs of the and thofe who had willingly gave all their. none gave ftores; Among the latter was provifions or cotton, lieutenant and his attendants Behechio, who invited the the Spaniards drew to his dominions. As by his thirty wives, near his palace, they were met who faluted them firft with a --- Page 43 --- WEST INDIES, dance, and next with a general trons were fucceeded fong. Thefe maby a train of virgins, diftinguifhed as fuch by their appearance ; the former wearing aprons of cotton cloth, while the were arrayed only in the innocence of latter Their hair was tied fimply with pure nature. foreheads, or fuffered a fillet over their fhoulders and to flow gracefully on their bofoms. Their limbs were finely portioned, and their complexions, prowere fimnooth, fhining, and though brown, were ftruck with lovely. The Spaniards heldthe dryads admiration, believing that they beofthe woods, and the nymphs fountains, realizing ancient fable. ofthe which they bore in their hands, The branches with lowly obedience they now delivered to the lieutenant, ing the palace, found a who, enterthe Indian way of plentiful, and (according to living) a fplendid repaft provided, At night they repofed in already mocks, and next morning cotton ham. cing and were entertained with danfinging. For three days were the thus nobly entertained, and on the Spaniards tionate Indians fourth, the affecregretted their The government of thefe iflands departure. ablolutely was purely and monarchical; but the native their charaéters feems to have infufed mildnefs of even into the exercife of unlimited a gentlenefs their monarchs trampled authority. Had their prerogative upon their rights as far as extended, their been too debafed to be fubjects muft have fity as I have related. capable of any fuch generoTheir caciques were hereditary, and had other the affecregretted their The government of thefe iflands departure. ablolutely was purely and monarchical; but the native their charaéters feems to have infufed mildnefs of even into the exercife of unlimited a gentlenefs their monarchs trampled authority. Had their prerogative upon their rights as far as extended, their been too debafed to be fubjects muft have fity as I have related. capable of any fuch generoTheir caciques were hereditary, and had other --- Page 44 --- c HISTORY OF THE chiefs fubordinate to themfelves.. that thefe princes were under Oviedo relates, fonally the obligation of attending at the command of the percique in peace as well as in war. Thus Grand Cament feems, in its their govern. outlines, to have ancient feudatories of refembled the ter parts of their Europe; but as to the minuconftitution, Spanith not fufliciently informed hiftorians have cique we find was us. The power of the caus, that one of the hereditary; and Oviedo informs held many wives of the as reigning queen, and that the cacique was lady, according to children ofthis the father's priority of birth, fucceeded to honours; ; but in default of iffue favourite princefs, the fifters of the by the place of the cacique's children cacique took It is plain that this by his other wives. vent difputes regulation was intended to preamong a number of candidates throne, whofe pretenfions for the The principal were equal. dants in cacique furpaffed his feudal exterior ornament and depenauthority. Like the nabob dignity, as well as carried from one of the caft, he was quarter of his ther upon the dominions to ano-. fhoulders of his was the fupreme law; whatever fubjedts. His will even though his orders might be, his commanding the own executioner, the unhappy viétim to be hefitation, from a belief fubject fubmitted without been an that refiftance would have unpardonable offence of heaven. againft the delegate Their fovereign, when dead, veneration : his body was ftill an objedt of was preferved by embowel. --- Page 45 --- WEST INDIES. ling, ifhe died at home; but if his be procured, from his corple could not having fallen in battle, his mory was fondly cherifhed by the zealous metion ofhis countrymen. admiraSongs were compofed in his praife, which called arietocs. The recital of thefe were of confiderable was a cermony public importance; ; it was made at their dances, and accompanied with their wild, but impreflive mufic of the fhell and the drum, exploits of the dead prince in war, and his The ty at bome, wcre the themes of thefe benignithey inftruéted the effufions : thus dead, living, while they cclebrated the In tracing their religious opinions, by hiftorians to a fingle we are guided indicate, that definite anecdote, which. feems to notions of future lity for the adlions done in this life refponfibi-- into their were received mythology. A venerable old Ifland of Cuba, man, in the approaching Columbus, bafket of fruit into his hands, and prefented a thus : 46 Deign, O addreffed him ftranger, to accept of this You are come into our gift. ( ther able nor country, and we are nei66 willing to refift you. you are mortal like Whether 4 66 if you ourfelves, we know not; but, expectto die, remember 66 to come, the fituation of that, in the world 6e be widely different. the good and bad thall 4s If.you believe this you certainly will not hurt truth, 66 jure you." But their thofe who do not inideas of futurity, precife, were not fublime : their heaven though paradife of was like the Mahomet,or the elyfium of the Pagans. D Whether 4 66 if you ourfelves, we know not; but, expectto die, remember 66 to come, the fituation of that, in the world 6e be widely different. the good and bad thall 4s If.you believe this you certainly will not hurt truth, 66 jure you." But their thofe who do not inideas of futurity, precife, were not fublime : their heaven though paradife of was like the Mahomet,or the elyfium of the Pagans. D --- Page 46 --- HISTORY OF THE Still, however, true to the their nature, they fondly believed affectionate feclings of cipal happinefs would confift in that their prindeparted friends. the fociety of their Like the Caraibes, they had an one Supreme Creator, but this indiftinét idea of with childifh belief was clouded lated that their abfurdities; for their mythology refrom the fun deity changed his abode at to the moon, like a town and pleafure, houfe ; and that his aged father and country ftill alive, mother were To this fupreme creator they dence over bis works; but affigned no providifferent to the reprefented him as inThey believed, happinefs or mifery of his creatures. in however, that his original creating the univerfe was intention the fubordinate benevolent; although gods, to whofe confided his affairs, had management he had kind, and introduced evil grown malicious to manidols were hideous and and confufion. Their them not with frightful: they implored reverence, but with pious hope, but fuperftitious terror; not with Their bohitos or priefts diftruft. openly village to invoke thefe affembled in every ple. Thefe men added demons in behalf of the to the profits of peoprofeflion, the practice of their holy tion of children of the firft medicine, and the educaof interefts and rank : A combination refpectable have made them profeflions, which muft tyrants of Here, as well as in Europe, confiderable authority. infrument of civil religion was made the defpotifim, The venerated bo- --- Page 47 --- WEST INDIES. hito fanétioned the words of the cacique, by nouncing him the irrefiftible delegate of God, pro- and it would have been horrible impiety for the to have controverted the decree. fubjeét Columbus and his people, on one occafion, detected this procefs of impofture, by dafhing down the idol which uttered forth the oracles of the tube was thus prieft : A difcovered, which was covered with leaves, and ran to the inner apartment, where the prieft applied his mouth and fpoke. The entreated Columbus to keep this deteétion cacique as from this mode of a fecret, wealth chicanery he acquired his and maintained his authority. In, point ofi improvement in thofe arts, which diverfify the comforts of life, a comparifon has been inflituted between this people and the natives of Otaheite. Ithink the priority may with little hefitation be afcribed to the Weft Indians. Their agriculture has been reprefented as imperfeét; but the direét teltimony of the brother ofColumbus covers that their progrefs in cultivation difderable. 66 The fields about Zaabra was confi4 (fays Bartholomew) were all covered with maize, like the 4 fields of Europe, for above fix corn leagues Dr. Robertfon, among other authors, has together.," unfavourable account of their given an founds his conclufion agriculture; but he on no other proof than that their implements of hufbandry were made of hard wood, The Docor was not only the foil of thefe parts, elfe he would acquainted have with known Dij 66 The fields about Zaabra was confi4 (fays Bartholomew) were all covered with maize, like the 4 fields of Europe, for above fix corn leagues Dr. Robertfon, among other authors, has together.," unfavourable account of their given an founds his conclufion agriculture; but he on no other proof than that their implements of hufbandry were made of hard wood, The Docor was not only the foil of thefe parts, elfe he would acquainted have with known Dij --- Page 48 --- HISTORY OF THE that the foil is incapable of much be ploughed with materials refiflance, and can In a country fo fofter than iron. fimple, and with delightful, in a fate of fociety fo lent, thefe natives difpofitions fo gentle'and benevomuft have enjoyed almoft perfection of human the hended what felicity; ; but they little appre: when vipers they cherifhed in their they admitted the emigrants of bofoms, confidence and hofpitality. Spain to their moft outrageous The enoriities of the convulfive tyrants, who ever fported with the agonies of their fellow finitely fhort of the crimes creatures, fall inin the conqueft which which were committed New Europe acquired over the Hemifphere. Ten millions cies were, at a low ofthe humanfpericà and the Weft computation, facrificed in AmeIndies, to the barbarity, or religious (it fhould be avarice, wanton bigotry of Spain. called infernal) The amiable inhabitants of at the arrival of Hifpaniola amounted, Within the fpace Columbus, of to a million at leaft : ed to fixty thoufand. fifty years, they hardly amountlike wild beafts in the They were hunted down, dogs, who were trained fields, by a fierce fpecies of and to lap their blood. to feed upon their flefh, the Spanifh murderers The more religious part of water for would force them into the baptifin, and cut their moment left they fhould throats the next common pradtice to burn apoftatize. It was alfo a morning, in honour of or hang thirteen in a our Saviour and his twelve to fixty thoufand. fifty years, they hardly amountlike wild beafts in the They were hunted down, dogs, who were trained fields, by a fierce fpecies of and to lap their blood. to feed upon their flefh, the Spanifh murderers The more religious part of water for would force them into the baptifin, and cut their moment left they fhould throats the next common pradtice to burn apoftatize. It was alfo a morning, in honour of or hang thirteen in a our Saviour and his twelve --- Page 49 --- WEST INDIES. apoftles. 4 To keep their hands fituted games, where their in.ufe," they in. emulation was excited by laying wagers, 66 who could 46 head with ftrike off an Indian greateft dexterity." The at home heard of all thefe Spaniards had neither enormities; ; but they juftice nor compaflion to proteét the nocent. When at laft the delightful inpaniola were almoft plains of Hif. ginal entirely delpoiled of their oricultivators, grants were iffued by the court to fupply the mines, which Spanifh to be dug upon the ifland, by thofe were now begun ers, whom they could fieze and remaining iflandTo effect this inhuman drag to captivity. tothe Lucayos, whofe plan, veflels were fent out natives, that they had commanders informed the land where their come to convey. them to the this delightful forefathers now lived ; and that in paradife they would live in happinefs with their departed friends. perpetual lous people were The credudeceived, and thus forty were allured to the mifery which awaited thoufand the difmal mines of Hifpaniola. them in ans, finding their miferable The poor Lucayall miftake, would refufe fufenance, and retiring to the fea-fhore of Hif. paniola, which lay oppofite to their own would caft many a look towards their country, and inhale native iflands, witheagernef the fea breeze which from that * fprung exhaufted quarter : When nature was at with grief and hunger, they length out. their arms, as if to 'take a laft farewell would ftretch and expire upon the coaft. embrace, Philofophers have * One of thefe wretched fomeLucayans, more inventive than his ore of Hif. paniola, which lay oppofite to their own would caft many a look towards their country, and inhale native iflands, witheagernef the fea breeze which from that * fprung exhaufted quarter : When nature was at with grief and hunger, they length out. their arms, as if to 'take a laft farewell would ftretch and expire upon the coaft. embrace, Philofophers have * One of thefe wretched fomeLucayans, more inventive than his --- Page 50 --- , HISTORY OF THE times afferted, that no human being will unjuft or barbarous action, commit an without the view of ing an actual benefit to himfelf, reapfurely its motive ; but can it be Every action has profpect of explained from what. advantage the following horrid, but thenticated action was committed auexecutioners of by the accurfed Spain? L. Cafas hiftory fhortly after thefe (who wrote his ed, and who muft have enormitics were perpetratuttered a been eafily deteéted had he falfehood) gives us the to which he was an eye witnefs, following relation, 6 A Spanifh 66 afternoon commanding oflicer had gone to his" flumbers, and left 66 to tranfact the bufinefs his officer on guard of the afternoon, was only to roaft four or five which 46 death. The oflicer principal Indians to them executed his duty by ing to a flow fire; but the apply66 ture, which the fcreams of tor66 poor wretches as loud to difturb the emitted, wère fo 66 from commander and keep him fleep : he fent orders that 46 ftrangled; but the officer they fhould be 66 name, fays L. Cafas, on guard (I know his 66 caufed and his relations in their mouths to be Seville) gagged, that their cries might not be heard, and 46 his own ftirring up the fire with hands, roafted them 46 all expired! !" deliberately till they countrymen, having been accuftomed to build in country, framed a canoe out of a jaruma cottages his own ocean, in company with a man and tree, and put out to the fperous for 200 woman. His voyage was miles 3 but alas ! when almoft within prolong wifhed for thores, he was taken fight of his back to mifery! by a Spanifh fhip, and carried --- Page 51 --- WEST INDIES. CHAPTER IV. Land Animals ufed as Food-Fifhes-Wid Fowl-Indian thod of Fithing and Fowling-Efeulent Meclufion. Vegetables, &c.-ConIwthe Windward Iflands are found feveral animals which are not fpecies of iflands poffeffed by the four : and it is likewife larger animals found in thefe obfervable, that all the iflands are found in From this a very probable Guiana. : ved, viz. that the conjedture may be deriCaraibbee Iflands were from the fouth. Oft their animals the peopled able are the following: moft remarkThe agouti, or Indian coney, called by Linnaeus the mus aguti, and by Pennant and Buffon the cavy, is an animal which appcars to be of an intermediate fpecies between the' rat and the rabbit. is feldom or never feen in any of the iflands It windward, but to the frequently in Hifpaniola, Porto and the higher grounds of Jamaica. Rico, The pecary, or Mexican hog, called by Linnaeus the fits tajacu, was found in abundance in the Weft Indies at the arrival of the is now totally exterminated. Spaniards; but it its ; moft probably from courage, which we are told prompted it to turn upon its purfuers, and thus reach of fhot. It is brought it within the now brought from the nent as a curiofity : I think it differs contivery little iola, Porto and the higher grounds of Jamaica. Rico, The pecary, or Mexican hog, called by Linnaeus the fits tajacu, was found in abundance in the Weft Indies at the arrival of the is now totally exterminated. Spaniards; but it its ; moft probably from courage, which we are told prompted it to turn upon its purfuers, and thus reach of fhot. It is brought it within the now brought from the nent as a curiofity : I think it differs contivery little --- Page 52 --- HISTORY OF THE from the'hogs of Europe, except in the the back, which aperture of of a mufky kind. difcharges a much efteemed fcent, mifphere, what the The aleo was in the New Hedog is with us. The ever, although fimilar in moft other aleo, howdog, did not poffefs the refpects to our nifh hiftorian informs power ofbarking. A Spathat of a fox; and us, that its nofe refembled much attached adds, that the Indians were fo to this little ried it about with them favourite, that they carThe monkey wherever they went. the was found in great prejudice of variety. From this animal cuftom, we are apt to look as unfit for food; it has been upon however, by thote who were reduced found, it, to be palatable and to make ufe of like that of a hare. nourifhing : its flavour is The iguana, or guana, is a (a clais ofanimals which fpecies of the lizard to rank as hiftorians helitate whether generally found quadrupeds or infedts). The guana is fedly gentle and harmlefs among fruit trees; it is a perpearance cannot be the aninial; moft although its apnerally three feet long, and inviting, being geIts flefh wâs held in high proportionably thick. and I have been informed eftimation by the Indians; ters of tafte, thatit is by a connoiffeur in matThe French and no way inferior to green turtle. it could be found; Spaniards made ufe of it wherever in their ; but. the Englifh, more palate, feldom ferved it at whimfical Labat informs us, that the mode genteel tables. animal was as follows: of catching this They beat among the bulhes --- Page 53 --- WEST INDIES. till they found their game bafking on a tree. A' Negro then began whifling with all his might, and the charmed guana fat fill and liftening, till the man came near enough to tickle his neck with a rod which he carried in his hand. This was alfo highly pleafing to the animal, who at operation turned on his back, and fell like length the fire. The afleep, a cat before Negro then flipt a noofe over his head, and carried him home alive. The mountain crab is the moft furprifing animal to be found in thefe iflands. It now furvives in few places, and I am afraid it will be foon only extirpated. This fpecies of animals live in totally a ftate of focial fociety, and migrate in millions to the fea fide once a year. The Jine of their.journey is trically direét, and nothing will turn their geome from a ftraight line, unlefs they meet progrefs, with a ftream. They divide into feparate bands, of which the eft take the lead, and march like ftrongpioneers before an army. They prefer marching in the night, unlefs it rains ; but if the fun fhould break fuddenly them, they halt till the exceflive heat is over. When upon at laft they reach the fhore, they waih the fpawn from their bodies. The'eggs are hatched in the fand, and when the yonng crabs have formed, parade back to the mountains, in equal they and with equal regularity. The old crabs numbers, alfo turn, after ditburdening themfelves of their reThey, now begin to fatten, and fpawn. holes, prepare for retiring to feparate moulting or changing their coats. During this change they remain quite inadtive, till E reach the fhore, they waih the fpawn from their bodies. The'eggs are hatched in the fand, and when the yonng crabs have formed, parade back to the mountains, in equal they and with equal regularity. The old crabs numbers, alfo turn, after ditburdening themfelves of their reThey, now begin to fatten, and fpawn. holes, prepare for retiring to feparate moulting or changing their coats. During this change they remain quite inadtive, till E --- Page 54 --- HISTORY OF THE the old fhell burfts, and the only with a thin membrane, animal, now covered degrees. In this extricates his limbs by moulting ftate, doubt, one of the moft delicious they are, without can afford. morfels that nature Of all the delicious birds which woods produce, the moft the Weft Indian ortolans. They are birds juftly celebrated are the iflands in October, which ufually vifit thefe grate from Carolina whither, it is fuppoled, they miis not, however, when the rice grows hard, It degree of within our plan to treat, with minutenefs, of the any and fowls which thgir different Ipecies of birds We fhall marhes and forefts only at prefent defcribe produce. methods offowling and two very fingular of Oviedo, by thefe ffhing practifed, in the times & Their iflanders. 4c method of filhing to take out a (fays that hiftorian) is €6 gularly educated remora, or fucking fifh, which is re46 a fpan long; it is to the fport. The fith is about 6t mariy fathoms in fecured to the canoe by a line c6 ceives a fith in the length, and as foon as it < upon its water, it darts like per46 prey. The Indian loofens lightning keeps it from the line ; but 46 mnakes it float finking by means of a buoy that et When the upon the furface of the remora feems perfedtly water. dragging about the fatigued with 4 and buoy, the Indian takes it 66 turtles feparates the fucker from its up have been prey. 6 fingle caught of fuch Thus, man could fuflain." weight, as no To catch their wild-fowl, they adopted a plan --- Page 55 --- WEST INDIES, equally ingenious. When they perceived them fwimming upon the water, a man covered his with a calabafh, or gourd, and flipt head pond, keeping only his head above gently into the leaving the water, and apertures for his breath and fight. As the gourd was no uncommon object to the fowls, they were not frightened to fee it fo the Indian had an floating; that opportunity to approach them gradually, till at. laft, by pulling them one after another, with a hafty jerk below the water, he faftened as many as he could to his girdle, and turned loaded with reprey. It were needlefs, at this period, to give a circumftantial account of all the valuable efculent vegetables which are produced in the Weft Indies, Authors of great information and affiduity have favoured the world with voluminous thefe produétions in deferiptions of ; particular, Sloane, and Hughes, have been fyftematical Brown, ject. There is ftill, upon the fubhowever, a deficiency in treatife, which the curious reader confults every. ly, the want of punduality in ; nameindigenous diferiminating the fpecies of vegetables, from thofe which have been'i imported from abroad. E vegetables which are produced in the Weft Indies, Authors of great information and affiduity have favoured the world with voluminous thefe produétions in deferiptions of ; particular, Sloane, and Hughes, have been fyftematical Brown, ject. There is ftill, upon the fubhowever, a deficiency in treatife, which the curious reader confults every. ly, the want of punduality in ; nameindigenous diferiminating the fpecies of vegetables, from thofe which have been'i imported from abroad. E --- Page 56 --- à HISTORY OF THE APPENDIX TO BOOK I. Containing a Short Dillertation on the Origin of the Caraibes. Tax origin of the Caraibes is higheft importance, and not a fubject of the which afford certain there are few materials one fuppofition proof of the juftice of either or another with ceftry. The queftion, refpedt to theiranof much learned however, has been matter I fhould mention difputation, the and it is proper that clined me to form an arguments which have inWhatever opinion on the fubject. American may have been the origin of the other nations, the the Caraibes (at leaft) probability feems to be, that Eaft. derived their origin from the The advocates for this acknowledged) have fuppofition (it is to be they are not fatisfied ftretched their theory too far; was, in all probability, with proving, that America before the date of vifited by Europeans long vigators paffed backwards Columbus ; but affert, that nato fhore, and that the and forwards from fhore well known to the ancients. Weftern Hemifphere was We have no proof of a veffel riod returned from having at any pethis proof does not eflablifh America; but the want of vifited by Europeans that America was not previous to the idate already --- Page 57 --- WEST INDIES. mentioned. On the contrary, there is direét evidence that fuch a circumfance there is ftrong was poflible, and place. probability that it adtually took From the authority of Procopius, the of the celebrated Belifarius, fecretary the Pheenicians, we are aflured that Egyptians, and Canaanites navigated the Weftern Ocean many hundred fore the Chriftian era. The years bethe Azores ; their fucceffbrs;the Plicenicians difcovercovered the Canaries; and of the Carthaginians, naval dif latter people we muft form no fkill ofthis their baving failed mean eftimate, from in five along the African coaft, withdegrees of the line, two centuries half before the birth of Chrift. and a ficiorum, which The vefigia adithey there difcovered, are an advanced ftate of fociety proofs of noticed in tradition. among a people unNotwithftanding the bold affertion of that celebrated hiftoriographerof America that all accounts of Pheenician (Dr. Robertfon), and voyages, received through the mediun Carthaginian and Roman of Greek writers, are of fufpicious cannot help fuppofing, that from the authority ; I authenticated fact, ancient following well of as great voyagers were capable P oppofite coaft undertakings as that of failing to the of America. 66 Lybia (fays is 46 rounded Herodotus) every where fur66 by the fea, except on that fide where joins to Afia. Pharaoh Necho it 66 feft. After he had. defifted made this manj. froni his project of writers, are of fufpicious cannot help fuppofing, that from the authority ; I authenticated fact, ancient following well of as great voyagers were capable P oppofite coaft undertakings as that of failing to the of America. 66 Lybia (fays is 46 rounded Herodotus) every where fur66 by the fea, except on that fide where joins to Afia. Pharaoh Necho it 66 feft. After he had. defifted made this manj. froni his project of --- Page 58 --- HISTORY OF THE 66 digging a 'canal from 66 Gulf, he furnifhed the Nile to thc Arabian 66 fhips, a body of Phaenicians with fea by commanding the Pillars them to enter the northern 66 route to Egypt. of Hercules, and return by that 66 ing from the Red The Phenicians, therefore, fail. 66 Ocean. At the Sea, navigated the Southern 66 and, end of autumn they going afhore, fowed the anchored; who make a ground, as thofe 66 the harveft. Lybian voyage always do, and ftaid Having cut the corn, Thus, two years they failed. 66 to Egypt, having elapfed, they returned pafling by the Pillars of relating a Hercules, and 66 credit, circumflance, which I can namely, that fearcely 66 rofe on the right hand." failing round Lybia, the fun Iwould afk how Herodotus Africa was came to know that unlefs fuch encompaed a with water to the voyage had been fouth, It is true, fuch an acually made, pradticable to the limited attempt would have been imor Roman nautical fkill of a Greek commerce of voyager; but there is no doubt that the Phaenicia and art of thip-building and Carthage brought the height, in very remote navigation to a great though the fpirit of periods of f-antiquity, aldarknefs, till it was difcovery revived lay' for many ages in of the fifteenth by the improvements century. The foregoing relations evince were acquainted with the that the ancients ern Ocean ; and if we navigation of the Wefttho winds and inquire into the nature of currents on the African coaft, we --- Page 59 --- WEST INDIES. muft admit that it could not poflibly happen that fome veffel, but fhe proceeding on fuch' a voyage, if happened to lofe her mafts, muft have been carried before the wind towards the Weft or Brazil. Indies In modern times, accidents of a fimilar have feveral times occurred ; and furely nature no room to conjeéture that there is, more remote they did not occur in periods. Where the fame exift, the fame effeéts muft follow. caufes Glafs, in his Hiltory of the Canary Ifles, us, that a fmall bark, bound from informs Teneriffe, was driven by ftreis of Lancerota to courfe, and weather from her obliged to drive weftward at the mercy ofthe waves, till fhe was met by an cruizer, within two days fail of Caracca, Englifh relieving their diftreffes, direéted who, after of Guaira on that coaft. them to the port The fame author relates, that, when he St. Jofeph's in Trinidad, a fmall was in to Teneriffe, and bound for the veffel, belonging driven from her courfe, and Canaries, had been and currents into that carried by the. winds ifland. The wretched men, having only fome days feawere worn down with provifion on board, appearance of fkeletons hunger and fatigue to the port. before they reached the An additional proof that America other nations before was vifited by being difcovered bus, is the well known fact by Columof Columbus himfelf fmall was in to Teneriffe, and bound for the veffel, belonging driven from her courfe, and Canaries, had been and currents into that carried by the. winds ifland. The wretched men, having only fome days feawere worn down with provifion on board, appearance of fkeletons hunger and fatigue to the port. before they reached the An additional proof that America other nations before was vifited by being difcovered bus, is the well known fact by Columof Columbus himfelf --- Page 60 --- men HISTORY OF THE having found the ftern ihore at Guadaloupe. poft of a fhip lying on the It muft have been fome like nature which drove accidental voyage of the mentioned by the colony of Martyr to have been Negroes, requa in the Gulf of Darien, found at Quathe American fhore. from the African to Although the vocabularies of ing picked up voyagers, from befixed figns for among a people, who, deftitute of nite pronunciation, language, muft have a very indefi-. fervable yet I efteem the between the Caraibe fimilarity obguages to be a ftriling and oriental lannally the fame. proof of their being Rochefort's Ifthe curious reader will origiCaraibe confult oriental dialeéts, he Vocabulary, will with the ancient very vifible refemblance, certainly acknowledge a the And emigration of the Caraibes confidering that place many centuries muft have taken plainer likenefs of words ago, it is evident that no by nations fou could have been kept blance remote, The inflances of up are, at any rate, too refemthey originated in accident. numerous to fuppofe Herodotus tells us that the were wont to land on the Lybian voyageis corn. Such a praclice muft coafts, and fow their putes with the natives, who have occafioned dif on thefe intruders muft have looked as vagabond uppretty fingular that the plunderers. It is this tranflation in Arabic. name Cbaraib has exadtly --- Page 61 --- WEST INDIES, It is no lefs worthy of tice of obfervation, that the pracgathering up the feet of the we are informed by Herodotus and dead, which - verfally pradtifed Cicero was uniamong the ancient which by the - expreflion of nations, and 66 up the feet of the feripture, 66 gathering valent cuftom dying," we know was a preamong the pofterity of was found to be ftill retained Abraham, of the New among the Caraibes in this World, who always buried their dead pofture. By the teftimony of Mofes, we learn, for the lofs of a much-loved that grief eftablifhed part of the friend made it an religious 'ern nations, to wound the flefh, folemnities ofeaft. hair. The and cut fhort the Jews, to be fuure, were abftain from fuch a barbarous commanded to grief; but the furrounding demonftration of to the praétice. The heathens ftill adhered American the violence of his Caraibe expreffed grieffor a departed actly in the fame manner. friend, exThe well-known habit of caftern Indians ing the betele, prepared chewfhells, is too with a mixture of calcined ftriking a fimilarity to Caraibbee ners to be omitted. Other manblance might be traced inflances of refemilluftration, it will out; but, from the above one conjedture appear plain, that if there be the origin of the more probable than another, as to Caraibe 66 they muft have Indians, it is this, 66 that 6 the Eaft." emigrated, at fome period, from F ele, prepared chewfhells, is too with a mixture of calcined ftriking a fimilarity to Caraibbee ners to be omitted. Other manblance might be traced inflances of refemilluftration, it will out; but, from the above one conjedture appear plain, that if there be the origin of the more probable than another, as to Caraibe 66 they muft have Indians, it is this, 66 that 6 the Eaft." emigrated, at fome period, from F --- Page 62 --- cathbye --- Page 63 --- BOOK II. SAMAICA CHAPTER I. Difeovery by lumbus's Decenfe-Takes Calumbar-Broendinghe ofhis Son, Diego, afterCo. Charaéter of Efquivel, the firit Pofifeflion of Jamaica-The humane by Sir Anthony Shirley and Govemor-Inafion Colonel ofshe Ifand and Defertion of the Town of Suilla Jackfon-Ehastihmnent Indians-St. Jago de la Vega Nae-Detridion of the quis to Diego's Son, founded-Gives Title of Mar. ed-Defcends to his Sifter, Lewis; to whom the Ifand is grantSpain. Ifabella--Reverts to the Crown of JANrAICa was not difcovered fecond by Columbus till voyage to the New World, his is well known, had returned Columbus, it. cided whether Cuba to Spain, quite undeOn his return was an ifland or a to Hifpaniola, he fet continent. to afcertain the fail from thence, defcried point ; and, in this fhort at a diftance the Blue, voyage, maica. He accordingly Mountains of Jaday; and, after a came up to the iland Next habitants, took very faint oppofition from its inin' the name and poffeflion ofit, with the ufual form, authority of the King of Spain. Bij --- Page 64 --- HISTORY OF THE The origin of the name has been it Is moft probably of Weft Indian difputed ; but the word is written, by the oldeft origin ; becaufe Xaymayco; which fignifies, in the Spanifh authors, Indians, a country language of the In his fourth and abounding laft in fprings. vigator was driven for voyage, this illuftrious nailland, after fhelter into a port of this peftuous weather, lofing two fhips of his fleet by temin honour of his On gaining this harbour name, was called St. (which, Cove), he found his fhip fo Chriftopher's to prevent him from terribly damaged, as lancholy fitnation, his putting to fea. In this meevery circumfance that miferies were aggravated by could turn againf him. His treachery and barbarity at thaininfligation, the natives people revolted; and, mies. His brother and alfo became his' enedying befide him; his fon lay ftarving and and sfllieed with while, enfeebled with old the age, gout, without medicine, infapportable pains of the the grenteft and worthieft and without compaffion, fered to languith in man,of the age was fuf he wrote a letter to his afliction. In this fituation, intercepted by his fovereigns which, being records of Jamaica. enemies, is ftill préferved in the fions cfa Itis replete with the ofits'i generous mind, confcious ofthe exprefTullerings; and, I injuftice cd, the heart even of the believe, would have meltFerdinand, had-it been ungrateful and befotted is prebable he might fuffered to reach him. It upon this inhofpitable have languifhed to death fhore, had not his well. cepted by his fovereigns which, being records of Jamaica. enemies, is ftill préferved in the fions cfa Itis replete with the ofits'i generous mind, confcious ofthe exprefTullerings; and, I injuftice cd, the heart even of the believe, would have meltFerdinand, had-it been ungrateful and befotted is prebable he might fuffered to reach him. It upon this inhofpitable have languifhed to death fhore, had not his well. --- Page 65 --- WEST INDIES. known device of terrifying the Indians, by the diétion of an eclipfe, reftored him to preand authority. He returned to Spain, reputation but fell martyr to the fenfibility of his mind, which could 3 not obliterate the remembrance of his former merited fufferings. unHis fon Diego, the heir of his fortune, continued his entreaties at the court of Spain for a till at laft, jndignant at the falfehood long time; he commenced a bold and of the king, gainft his liege, Ferdinand, unexpedted procefs athe Indies at Seville before the council of ; and, by a decifion equally unexpected, was conftituted viceroy of all the countries difcovered by his father, and the tenth part ofthe gold and filver found entitled to dominions. Dicgo, in thefe ed by his accordingly, was acknowledgfovereign to be viceroy of for which fettlement he failed with Hifpaniola; tinue, and landed on the ifland a fplendid reJuly 1508. in the month of Confidering himfelf to be entitled, by the fentence of.the Indian prior council, to nominate vernor of Jamaica, he fent a gothither, the year, Juan de Efquivel, with following vel was a brave foldier, and feventy men. Elquihis behaviour to his rival, a generous man; as played., Ojeda had been Ojeda, eminently dif. appointed (unlawfully indeed) by his fovereign to the government of Jamaica; and, at the time of Efquivel's being about to depart to the continent, he arrival, ly threatened Efquivel, that he thould be publichanged , he fent a gothither, the year, Juan de Efquivel, with following vel was a brave foldier, and feventy men. Elquihis behaviour to his rival, a generous man; as played., Ojeda had been Ojeda, eminently dif. appointed (unlawfully indeed) by his fovereign to the government of Jamaica; and, at the time of Efquivel's being about to depart to the continent, he arrival, ly threatened Efquivel, that he thould be publichanged --- Page 66 --- HISTORY OF THE as a robber, if at any time found Ojeda, however, was upon Jamaica and, being unfortunate in his in lhipwrecked on the coaft of voyage; 3 danger of perifhing for Cuba, was fource but to beg from his want. He had no rehearing his fituation, fent enemy. for Efquivel, on him with kindnéls. him, and received ted, and they became Their enmity was obliteraUnder this benevolent immutable friends. of Jamaica continued prote@tor the iflanders adminiftration peaceable and was virtuous'and happy. His cheerful inhabitants laboured gentle ; while the ànd raifing other valuable in rearing cotton, It is to be lâmented, commodities. this illuftrious however, that the reign of and, in all governor was but for a few his probability, his fucceffors years : example, to imitate the abandoned fanguinary men who were barbarities of thofe carnage among the natives by this time fpreading To this caufe of Hifpaniola, extirpation of the we may afcribe that complete doubt, took Spaniards, which, ifland. place at fome period or beyond all other in this The town of Sevilla Nueva arifen to fome confideration. (New Seville) had fications had been erected, Churches and fortiftimony of Sloane, who as we find by the te. 1688. This author informs infpected their ruins in a pavement us, that he from the fea; running to the difance of difcovered the 3 and as the town two miles beach, its fize muft have began clofe upon been confiderable, --- Page 67 --- WEST INDIES, But dians unfortunately the triumph of the was but of fhort duration. poor In. it is probable, returned in The Spaniards, deftrudtion ; for, out of greater numbers to their poffeffed it, not an individual 60,000 natives who once the Englifh took was found alive when poffeffion of To this day, there are difcovered Jamaica. tains caves almoft in the mounbones. Itis difcovered entirely covered with human preternaturally by the fkulls, which are other than the compreffed, that thefe can be no remains of the gines, who, probably unfortunate abori. the Spaniards, retiring from the fwords of places. perifhed for want in thefe folitary Diego Columbus left three fons and ters. His eldeft fon, Don two daughof his minority, Lewis, at the expiration of the Weft finding his right to the Indians difputed by the viceroyalty Spain, commenced a lawfuit Emperor of his father Diego had donc. againft the court as a compofition, by which Don The matter came to Duke of Veragua and Lewis agreed to be Marquis of Jamaica and Veragua, and Vega, accepting claims. He died without renouncing all other bella fucceeded iffue, and his fifter to all his rights. Ifamarriage with the Duke of Owing to her all her rights to the houfe of Gelvez, the gave over 1640, when John Duke of Braganza 5 fo that in, of Portugal, the Ifland of Braganza became King crown of Spain. Jamaica reverted to the This fufficiently accounts for the influx of Por. Marquis of Jamaica and Veragua, and Vega, accepting claims. He died without renouncing all other bella fucceeded iffue, and his fifter to all his rights. Ifamarriage with the Duke of Owing to her all her rights to the houfe of Gelvez, the gave over 1640, when John Duke of Braganza 5 fo that in, of Portugal, the Ifland of Braganza became King crown of Spain. Jamaica reverted to the This fufficiently accounts for the influx of Por. --- Page 68 --- " HISTORY OF THE tuguefe into Jamaica, which loufy in the old Spanith excited fo much jeathat from this fettlers. It is probable, Spaniards and irreconeileable averfion between the Anthony Portuguefe, the Englith, under Sir Shirley, met with fo little 1596, when they refiflance in Forty years after, it plundered the capital itfelf the Windward was invaded by a force from but on this occafion Illands, under Colonel the inhabitants Jackfon ; remarkable gallantry. behaved with the lofs of forty Jackfon was defeated, with his adtivity, in men, at Paflage Fort; and had not Vega, enabled him entering the town of St. Jago de la habitants, he would to lay a contribution on the infrom the ifland with have been, obliged to retreat The moft remarkable neither credit nor plunder. with in perufing the annals occurrence that we meet fon and capture by the of Jamaica, is its invathe Englith in 1655, proteéorfhip of during this point fhall be confidered Cromwell, whofe conduét in in the next chapter, --- Page 69 --- WEST INDIES, CHAPTER II. Vindication ofthe Charaéter of Cromwell ofthofe Hiforians who blame him for againft the Allegations in the Weft Indies-The, attacking the Spaniards deferibed, in direét Violation enormous of the Cruelties of that Pcople Jamaica on its Capture. Treaty of 16g0-State of HISTORIANS of oppofite political united in cenfuring the condudt of principles have invafion of Jamaica. Mrs. Cromwell in his capture of the ifland C6 MCauley terms his <6: ca)," and Hume difhonourable and pirati66 warrantable condemns it as 66 a moft unviolation of treaty. >2 But ift the candid inquirer will confult the Papers of Thurloe. (the Stateficient Sccretary), he will find fuf. grounds to diffent from this fevere upon the Protedtor's condud: He will fentence Spain, by her prior behaviour, find that an act juftly merited fuch ofhoftility; ; that Cromwell was not greffor, but the meritorious defender of his the.agtry. I thall adduce a few remarkable fadls counport this affertion, to fupIn 1630, three years prior to the Protector's ufurpation, a treaty was concluded between and England; by the firft article of which it Spain fipulated, that there fhould be an amicable was relpondence between the fubjects of both cordoms in all quarters of the globe. The kingcircumG fuch ofhoftility; ; that Cromwell was not greffor, but the meritorious defender of his the.agtry. I thall adduce a few remarkable fadls counport this affertion, to fupIn 1630, three years prior to the Protector's ufurpation, a treaty was concluded between and England; by the firft article of which it Spain fipulated, that there fhould be an amicable was relpondence between the fubjects of both cordoms in all quarters of the globe. The kingcircumG --- Page 70 --- HISTORY OF TIE fances which diétated this ly urgent, as the Spaniards, treaty were exceedinghad arrogantly affumed previous to this time, nication with the New a monopoly ofall commutence had committed World, and under that prebarities upon all other the moft unwarrantable barfeas. and the fettlers of navigators to the American habited Weft Indian every other nation who inAll poffeffions. Europe was infulted by this famption ; but England was exorbitant af. to exert her energy in peculiarly provoked fhe had already colonized maintaining her rights; for St. in Virginia, Chriftopher's, and Bermudas, of which Spain had Barbadoes; territories fome of which fhe had not even difcovered, and none ever occupied. In 1029, the perfidy ofthe played in a very odious Spaniards was difmanner. Under attacking the Dutch fettlement colour of ted out a fquadron of in Brazil, they fitand fifteen frigates, under twenty-four fhips of force, Frederic de Toledo. The the command of Don under fecret orders to admiral, however, was to the ifland of St. proceed, in the firft place, from thence the French Chriftopher's, and and extirpate ably poffeffed it. Englifh, who peaceThe Spanifh force was too, The French great to be refifted. and the planters fled to the Ifland of Englifh to the mountains. Antigua, fered to treat with their The latter ofced to unconditional conquerors, but were forinvaders, therefore, fubmiflion. Their inhuman felected fix hundred of the 3. --- Page 71 --- WEST INDIES, 5I firongeft Englifhmen for the mines, drove the with the women and children, from the reft, duced the ifland to a defert, and ifland, retheir voyage. proceeded on The abovementioned treaty of 1630 did a ftop to their enormities: not put fair juft related, eight years after the af. Ifland they made a defcent on the little child ofTortuga, and put. every man, woman, to the fword ! and England would have avenged their was at that time herfelf a blood-fained deaths, but civil war; fo that the mercilefs theatre of ed in their career of guilt Spaniards proceedSanta Cruz was the next unmolefted. tion. In 1650 object of their depredawhich they acted again the fame they had exhibited at tragedy even-the helplefs Tortuga, butchering women and children. The being made a defert, a colony of Dutch place for fome time, fettled onit but, on the return of the were maflacred in their turn. To fulfil Spaniards, fure of their guilt, the the meaother very thipwrecked mariners of nations, who were driven to their thores, were condemned for life inhofpitable mines of Mexico. to labour in the Numberlefs applications were, in thefe barbarities, prefented confequence of him to retaliate to Cromwell, requiring cruelty and upon Spain, and wreft from their which they had oppreflion thofe tracts of country to of the no title but the arrogant donation Pope. The moft confpicuous of thefe applicants was a Gij mariners of nations, who were driven to their thores, were condemned for life inhofpitable mines of Mexico. to labour in the Numberlefs applications were, in thefe barbarities, prefented confequence of him to retaliate to Cromwell, requiring cruelty and upon Spain, and wreft from their which they had oppreflion thofe tracts of country to of the no title but the arrogant donation Pope. The moft confpicuous of thefe applicants was a Gij --- Page 72 --- HISTORY OF THE brother of that Sir Henry Culham Bridge, in 1644; Gage who was killed at probable means of who pointed out the moft her Weft Indian fuceceding, in depriving Spain of author alfo potleflions. The fame 66 Survey of the publithed a book, entitled, ingenious 66 A New Weft the fubjedt of the Indies," in which he handled territories with great Spaniardsesclufive right to thefe Cromwell was roufed per/picuity. prefentations he received to indignation by theré. and determined of Spanifh deavoured upon acts of inhumanity, to avert the ftorm hoftility, Spain enof negotiation ; but the by the moft paltry adts cit, and declared a fixed court of England was explipeace, upon no other refolution of continuing in poffeflions in the Weft terms, than fecurity for thein the horrors exercifed Indies, anda modification of The Spanifh by the inguifition. mands were 4 like ambaffador replied, that thefe de. could not be granted. afking bis mafler's tzuo eyes," The and pared for war. Protedtor therefore preHilpaniola was the of was firft concerted. objeét the expedition there ; but The fleet was unfuccefsful which Jamaica, The accomiplimed their point in unfortumately capture was made May conquering tion, Gage, who had 1655; but perifhed in its execution. planned the expediNot above fifteen hundred upon the ifland when the whites were found of it. A great tract of Englif took the poffellion country was covered with eaftward part of the horfes and' horned cattle of was firft concerted. objeét the expedition there ; but The fleet was unfuccefsful which Jamaica, The accomiplimed their point in unfortumately capture was made May conquering tion, Gage, who had 1655; but perifhed in its execution. planned the expediNot above fifteen hundred upon the ifland when the whites were found of it. A great tract of Englif took the poffellion country was covered with eaftward part of the horfes and' horned cattle --- Page 73 --- WEST INDIES. in fuch abundance, that they ran wild country. For four in the amufed months, the Englifh foldiers themfelves with fhooting this game, and flaughtered to the number extraordinary of This appears to me an almoft 20,000. of the affertion before inconteftible proof was at one period advanced, that the country tants depopulated of its white by the arms of the natives. inhabiThe floth and penury of the when the Englifh Spanifh planters, principal landed,. was extreme. Their export was hogs-lard, hides, and a commerce no way more cacoa ; which is carried refpeétable than that on-by the favages of They had almoft tno intercourfe Madagafear. were ignorant and unrefined, with Europe; they had to do was managed The little work they immerfed in floth and by African flaves; fo that, have been in ignorance, their lives muft fpent a gloomy ftate of It muft be confefled, degeneracy. a degenerated from- their however, that if they had feverance, fathers in aftivity and perthey had alfo loft the ferocity and gotry of the firft conquerors of biAmerica. Upon the whole, their charaéter leave no fhadow of excufe was fuch as to ercifed for the inhumanity exupon them by their Englifh The terms impofed upon them conquerors. their flaves and effects, and were, to furrender turned from the quit the ifland. They afterwards, propofals with indignation, and Englifh, by their defperate refiftance to the fhowed the impolicy of the vanquiflied by feverity and provoking even injuftice, --- Page 74 --- HISTORY OF THE CHAPTER III. Procedings in the Ifland after its tality among the Army-Exertions. Capture-Difconterts: and Morappointed to the Command-De of the Proteaoi Brayne feat of the Spanith Forccs who invaded Oyley re-affumes it-His DeRegular Government eftablifned in the Ifland of CubaMother Country, &cc. &c. Jamaia-Difputes with the JANAICA having thus fallen into the Englith, it continued hands of the juriflidion, till the to be governed by military fequent reftoration of Protedor's death, and the fubbeen indeed left Charles, 1 Commiffioners had on the ifland, rity was intended to whofe civil autholaw; but thefe temper the rigour of martial fole command devolved having returned to England, the er of the army, and upon Fortéfcue command. Soon after Fortelcue Goodfon admiral of the fleet. next in died; ; and Colonél De command, fucceeded Oyley, prefident of the military to his authority as was the fituation of the council. Such, indeed, the terrible incurlions Englith at that time, from and fugitive of the difpoffefed Negroes, as to require the Spaniards cipline that martial law could ftriéteft dif. Cromwell, however, enforce. ing his conquefts. feemed bent upon maintain. held out to the inhabitants Encouragement was liberally as well as to the of the Windward fettlers in North Ilands, change their fituation for America, to fettlements in Jamaica, uation of the council. Such, indeed, the terrible incurlions Englith at that time, from and fugitive of the difpoffefed Negroes, as to require the Spaniards cipline that martial law could ftriéteft dif. Cromwell, however, enforce. ing his conquefts. feemed bent upon maintain. held out to the inhabitants Encouragement was liberally as well as to the of the Windward fettlers in North Ilands, change their fituation for America, to fettlements in Jamaica, --- Page 75 --- WEST INDIES. From fimilar offers, vaft nuibers were allured emigrate both from Scotland and Ireland. to Meanwhile the foldiery in the ifland of their refidence, idle, and licentious. grew tired employed themfelves at firft in They had fcattered cattle of the thooting down the and for a while lived Spaniards, like wild beafts, profufely. But the ftock now began to grow exceedingly fcanty, and no ments could perfuade them to arguger of famine, by timeous anticipate the danprovifions. Defirous of application to raifing that home, and they were to be ftationed for life apprchenfive in temperate climate, they refolved this infupporting their to abftain from own wants, that be tired with the government might But-the expences of fupplying them. confequences of this refolution were fatal than expectation. The horrors more fpread abroad ; they were' reduced of faminé and unwholefome to devour vile animals, fnakes, lizards, and every fpecies of vermin; an epidemic difeafe became prevalent, and the miferable foon rifhed in thoufands, colonifts peThe Proteétor falfely imagined, that the mities of Jamaica were owing to the Governor calaOyley's want of attachment to his caufe. Del able commander was therefore This lonel Brayne, from recalled, and Coplace. Lochaber, appointed in his. Brayne fet fail from Scotland, and at Jamaica, December landed England 1656. His firft letter to defcribed, in frong language, the able difradtion which miferprevailed in the colony lie --- Page 76 --- HISTORY OF THE requefted a fupply of 5oool. for ereding forts ; and the purpofe of he found fo few men concluded, by that e lamenting bufinefs." But upon the ifland 66 cordial to the were not carried into Brayne's projedted improvements ment; for execution under his firm though a very governman. He foon feemed fagacious, he was not a way cordial in the to become himfelf no about his health, bufinefs; he grew Previous returned to apprehenfive to his departure, England, and died. ted De Oyley his however, he had nomingfucceffor, and difecrning his merit, ratified Cromwell, probably The fucceflion of this the appointment. ment of Jamaica, gallant man to the governcolony. His foldiers, proved the benefit of the contents, amid all their rifing and manifold mutinous dif. mired his character diftreffes, efteemed and adfeen, manifefted ; and, as will be their immediately nal intrepidity in attachment by the moft figThe proteding the ifland. the governor ofCuba had learnt with difcontents, the fatisfaction had brought plague, and the famine, which earnefly wilhed Jamaica to the very brink of to avail ruin, and ing therefore correfponded himfelfofits miferies. Havfion with the viceroy of upon his intended invaChriftopher Arnoldo, with Jamaica, he fent out Don fantry, to capture the place. thirty companies of in. On the 8th of May the Rio Nuevo, and pofefled Spanifh force landed at with 700 Engliltumen, the harbour. Dc Oyley, ed their watched them by fea, form-. fortifications, and drove them, with the lols ruin, and ing therefore correfponded himfelfofits miferies. Havfion with the viceroy of upon his intended invaChriftopher Arnoldo, with Jamaica, he fent out Don fantry, to capture the place. thirty companies of in. On the 8th of May the Rio Nuevo, and pofefled Spanifh force landed at with 700 Engliltumen, the harbour. Dc Oyley, ed their watched them by fea, form-. fortifications, and drove them, with the lols --- Page 77 --- WEST INDIES. ofcolours, ammunition, grace from the ifland. and half their men; in dif They turned from this nourable, namely, the victory to a labourlef honiards who, driven purfuit ofthofe wretched had Rill lurked from their paternal Spain the mountains. properties, gorous Rand, were atlaft Thefc, after a viings ofthem driven to their overpowered, and the gleanThe appearance of the countrymen in Cuba, brighten. Agriculture colony now began at home, and their was pradifed indultrioufly to, broad. Letters of commerce became extenfive athofe marque being alfo the immenfe ektraordinary adventurers called granted to Spanith prizes which Bucaneers, brought into the harbours of they took were moting a fpecdy Jamaica, and by prothe efforts of the circultion of wealth, fimelated at that time induftrious. The troubles agitated which little to increafe the England, contributed not a cially in 1660, at the population of the place; efpcof the late ufurpation, Reforation, when the friends fentment, fought for afylum apprehenfive of Charles's rethey knew to be adherents among a people whom On the acceflion of of Cromwell. ate the affections of the Charles, the king, to concilivourite Dc Oyley people, nominated their fathe people from governor in chief, and dicarure, military law, ereéted relealing and ordered them to be courts of jualfembly eledted by the governed by an Thefe indulgencies people themfelves. this from the eflablifhment ofthe natural crown, or rather rights of the inhae H On the acceflion of of Cromwell. ate the affections of the Charles, the king, to concilivourite Dc Oyley people, nominated their fathe people from governor in chief, and dicarure, military law, ereéted relealing and ordered them to be courts of jualfembly eledted by the governed by an Thefe indulgencies people themfelves. this from the eflablifhment ofthe natural crown, or rather rights of the inhae H --- Page 78 --- HISTORY OF THE bitants, was fucceeded by the American cluded betwéen Spain and Great treaty, confirmed to the poffeffors of eftates Britain, which conright over their in Jamaica the entire which property. A furmife had arifen infinuated, that as the was made under the capture of Jamaica right of the Englifh aufpices of the Protedtor, the nion, that the was not valid. The vulgar opifefs the landed Spaniards ftill pretend a right to difpof. tinuation of this proprietors of Jamaica, is only a condrid is, however, error. The treaty figned at Maand formally cedes perfedtly explicit on this the Weft fubjedt, the king of Britain 66 to his Indian pofleflions of is well known, however, heirs for ever." It diminifh the liberty ofhis that Charles's propenfity to towards the laft of his people grew very ftrong concert with bis days. While he was buify, in fubverfion of minifters, in forming plans for the of bis poffeflions liberty at home, he did not lofe abroad. fight ginning of the year Accordingly, in the betion of the 1678, he began to open rights of the inhabitants violaconfitution was framed, of Jamaica, A was enaéted, that all by the terms of which it fhould be fufliciently bills (money bills excepted) by the valid, if they were governor or his fuggefted his council, and majefly; while the legillative fanctioned by. by the people, had no other affembly, eleded blindly ratify thefe tafk than to meet and nor and king. arbitrary dictates of their goverThe moft probable caufe of on the part of the Britifh this unjuft feverity government, was the ftre- ould be fufliciently bills (money bills excepted) by the valid, if they were governor or his fuggefted his council, and majefly; while the legillative fanctioned by. by the people, had no other affembly, eleded blindly ratify thefe tafk than to meet and nor and king. arbitrary dictates of their goverThe moft probable caufe of on the part of the Britifh this unjuft feverity government, was the ftre- --- Page 79 --- WEST INDIES, nuous refufal they had felves with an Jately made to burden cent. to the enormo us internal revenue of them. ifland. crown, on the grofs 4: per The Barbadians produce of the to impofe this tax had meanly confented and minifters, upon themfelves and not follow their difappointed to find that pofterity, ifland ofthe example, refolved to Jamaica did bleflings of deprive the The affembly freedom. indignation. rejected the néw conftitution nel Among other zealous' with Long, at that time patriots, Coloforward with undaunted chiefjudge of Jamaica, flood injured countrymen. fortitude in defènce deavoured Lord Carlifle the ofhis ing to extinguif the Ipirit governor ened home, as a prifoner of fate, ofliberty, by fend. gentleman; but on his arrival this ditinguif. pointed out, with fo much at England, he the fatal tendency of thofe energy and precifion, they meditated defpotic laws which ment thought it impofing on Jamaica, that fa fure, and appointed convenient to abandon the governmaica in the Colonel Long mcaroom ofLord governor of JaThe conteft between Carlifle. colony did not terminate the mother country and her poffeffed the power here. The aflembly ftill quired the concurrence ofenading decrecs, but it reena@ments the force ofthe crown to give thefe to confider oflaws. Government feemed tenfions to therabandoning alter the their former unjuft vour, and greedily conilitution, as a preca continued looked for fome requital. pofitive faobltinate in refufing this Jamaigratuity, ,allegH ij not terminate the mother country and her poffeffed the power here. The aflembly ftill quired the concurrence ofenading decrecs, but it reena@ments the force ofthe crown to give thefe to confider oflaws. Government feemed tenfions to therabandoning alter the their former unjuft vour, and greedily conilitution, as a preca continued looked for fome requital. pofitive faobltinate in refufing this Jamaigratuity, ,allegH ij --- Page 80 --- et e a HISTORY OF THE ing, with propriety, that fuch a gift Ciarles to the moft improper would be put by vercign, to punifh their purpofes : and the fofent to their decrees. contumacy, ftill refufed af, continued for fifty Thus the laws of Jamaica ed lituation yearsin a perplexed and ; till at laft a perpetual undecid. per annum mollified the grant of 8oool. brought the matter temper of the king, and In 1687, to a compromife, ated by Chriftopher Duke of Albemarle was time James II. governor of this cre. did government affume ifland. At no ipect than under this a more tyrannical aWe may judge ofhis proud man's adminiftration. viour in one afiembly general charaéter by his behamember having which he called. A exclaimed, 66 Salus patriotic lex;" the intolerant populi fuprema in baie, took the tyrant broke up the aflembly ed him 6ool. for the gentleman into cuftody, and finIn 1692, the heinous offence ! town of Port up by a tremendous Royal was fwallowed weie hardly earthquake. The inhabitants were alarmed recovering from its terrors, when by the rumours they In June 1694, Monfieur De ofinvafion. Bay. and landed 800 who CudeappearedefCow vage the men, had orders to diers country as far as Port Morant. raobeyed their orders witb The iolbutchering and defroying Aricnefs, inhumanly Caffe on their return failed wherever they went. De which was feebly defended round to Carlifle Bay, upon the point of by 200 militia. He was country, after forcing proceding thefe upwards to ravagethe defenders of the breaf. ofinvafion. Bay. and landed 800 who CudeappearedefCow vage the men, had orders to diers country as far as Port Morant. raobeyed their orders witb The iolbutchering and defroying Aricnefs, inhumanly Caffe on their return failed wherever they went. De which was feebly defended round to Carlifle Bay, upon the point of by 200 militia. He was country, after forcing proceding thefe upwards to ravagethe defenders of the breaf. --- Page 81 --- 5 WEST INDIES. work to retire, when five companies of rived from Spanith Town. militia arthough they bad marched Thefe hardy troops, frefhment, thirty miles without trecharged the énemy with drove them to their fhips with their vigour, and quired plunder, inglorioufly ac- --- Page 82 --- HISTORY OF THE CHAPTER IV. tages senatlehearisre dérived from ieadel-theatieres Cawy-excoatsisted Advan. Fareaeriee Fruits. Garden Lands-Woods Produce and Jawuca is fituated in the four thoufand miles Atlantic Ocean, about the Ifland of fouthweft of England. It has north, the Gulfof Hifpaniola to the eaft, Cuba to the great eontinent of South Honduras to the weft, and the The centre of America to'the fouth. titude, and 76° 45 Jamaica is about 18° 12' north laThe reader will we(t longitude from readily London. fituated muft be almoft perceive, that a country fo the feafons of the invariably hot, during all fhort, and the difference year; that the twilight will be nights inconfiderable. in the length of days and As you afcend up the fhores of Jamaica, the country from the northern tle fwell of the hills, eye is' charmed with the between and the genfo them. The dark fpacious vales that lie beautifiully difpofed green woods of a delightful upon thefe pimento, below. contraft to the frefh mountains, forms From the nature of verdure of the turf forefts are not the pimento tree, the the nature of the entangled with underwoal; and iis an Englif lawn, foil, the grafs is as fimooth and from To gratify at once the foft ear and the between and the genfo them. The dark fpacious vales that lie beautifiully difpofed green woods of a delightful upon thefe pimento, below. contraft to the frefh mountains, forms From the nature of verdure of the turf forefts are not the pimento tree, the the nature of the entangled with underwoal; and iis an Englif lawn, foil, the grafs is as fimooth and from To gratify at once the foft ear and --- Page 83 --- WEST INDIES. the eye, a refrelhing rivulet valley, and a cafcade dafhes wanders through every The viewofthefe from every tains, which cataraéts gleaming from mountain. the overhang the mounlightfal to the thirfty thore, is peculiarly defor land. voyager, who has long wifhed As you approach the menfity of forefls prefents centre of the ifland, an imthe diftant Blue Hills, the view which clouds. and thefe again meltsinto are loft in the In eye is approaching rather the ifland from the fouth huge aftonithed than delighted, fide, the precipices, when the at firft prefent abruptly mningling with the you difcern thel themfelves. As you come fky, fcene, and the hand of culture nearer mountains Rowing line ofthe enlivening the a becomes apparent. At lower range of profpedt of the wide length you gain only bounded by the ipreading favannahs, onel ocean, and plains nefs landfeape the verdure of dilplaying in fels ofautuma; while the fails fpring and the rich. upon the diftant main, of numberlefs vef. beauty ofthe profpedt. complete the diverfified In attending to thefe ground from the level ofthe majeflic fwvellings of the mark with gratitude the country, we ought to referve. In afcending fingular benefits which ica fenfible thefe heiglits, the they to the pleafure to éfeape from the travellerfeels purer regions of the heat below, higher grounds the atmofplere. On thefe thermoreter changes many de- of numberlefs vef. beauty ofthe profpedt. complete the diverfified In attending to thefe ground from the level ofthe majeflic fwvellings of the mark with gratitude the country, we ought to referve. In afcending fingular benefits which ica fenfible thefe heiglits, the they to the pleafure to éfeape from the travellerfeels purer regions of the heat below, higher grounds the atmofplere. On thefe thermoreter changes many de- --- Page 84 --- G4 HISTORY OF THE grecs; in many places thei cal latitude is hardly felt. inconvenience of a tropi. Jamaica is one hundred and fifty miles and, at a medium, forty miles in in length, computed breadth. Itis thus (fuppoling it a level 3,840,000 of acres ; but fince the country) to give mountain is greatly fuperficies of.a compute the total larger than its bafe, I would By returns at 4,080,000 acres. madei in that out of all this tract Novembers783, of it was found, 1,9071580 acres were in ground, not more than a fate of expence of obtaining culivation: the thought more than the patents from the crown being from cultivation' of new profit, which could accruc lands. By the lateft gar returns, we find the number of fuplantations on the ifland to be 900 acres to each of thefe 710. Allowing referved for firewood and (of which one third is number of acres under that common pafturage), the will be 639,0co. fpecies of cultivation are 400; Ofpens or breeding farms there allowing to each ofwhich amount is 280,co0. About 700 acres, the may be allowed to one half ofthat number ger, which makes the pimento, cotton, coffee, and fum total ginThe overplus of unculivated of'acres 1,059,000. acres, of which not above land is 3,000,000 of fit for cultivation, the one fourth, Ibelieve, is The reft being inaccefible productions of thefe ridges. are, however, nat without uncultivated mountains fpecies ofwood, their ufe. Ofthe harder vita; they produce in abundance logwood, iron-wood, and bully lignumtrees. Ofthe --- Page 85 --- WEST INDIES, fofter kinds, wild-lemon 6s gany. When the fituation tree, bread-nut and mahoproptfetor to export tlefe of the land enables a profit is confiderable; varieties of timber, the the new fettler finds butin the upland to his forefts, it his intereft to countries; and clear his land apply the torch Oftheir rivers, none are intantaneouly. navigable, although there fulficiently deep to be the ifland. Black Riverin are above an hundred in mits flat bottomed boats St. Elifabeth, indeed, adfowing water. The moft and canoes : it is a is that in the eaftern remarkable of their gently from a rock, and parifh of St. Thomas, fprings It is of a fulphureous ofa heat intolerable to the flowing alleviate that quality ; peculiarly touch. dreadful adapted to yacbes complaint, called the dry bel. be Ancient writers affert that gold and abundantly found in the ifland filver might many places, the ; and fertion alpect of the foil indeed, in ; but the confirms the af. ter employed, than prefentinhabitants in the are perhaps betlued refources. purfuit of thiefe highly vaSugar, indigo, coffee, and important of their éotton are the moft in future give a minute productions. Of thefe we fhall fent to make remarks account; but at tables, On thofe other proceed prewhich, though claffès of to their unfit for vegecomfortable commerce, minifter corn, fubfiftence. produces a double Maize,or Indian ever there is rain, and crop: it is planted whenper acre, Guinca yields abour thirty bufhels corn, planted in September and T important of their éotton are the moft in future give a minute productions. Of thefe we fhall fent to make remarks account; but at tables, On thofe other proceed prewhich, though claffès of to their unfit for vegecomfortable commerce, minifter corn, fubfiftence. produces a double Maize,or Indian ever there is rain, and crop: it is planted whenper acre, Guinca yields abour thirty bufhels corn, planted in September and T --- Page 86 --- HISTORY OF THE gathered in January, yields 2 about acre. Various kinds of calavances fifty bufhels per are alfo (a fort of pea) the labour produced of ; and laftly, rice, but to no extent : tably negroes being thought to be applied in its' 'cultivation. unprofiThe ifland produces abundance of digenous and extraneous. grafs, both innerally called Scots The fpecies which is geed an herb.of grafs, has been by fome efteemfuaded, from its foreign origin ; but I am fully perand defert ipontaneous growth in the fiwamps, tive ofthe places'of ifland. Jamaica, that it is truly a naIt has a longj jointed grows to the height of five or fix feet. ftalk, that pounds ofit will feed a horfe for a Fifty-fix computation an acre will day; fo that by twelvemonth. fupport fix horfes for a The other fpecies of grafs is by far the portant ; for, to the importation of this moft imifland, we may afcribe the herb into the ble breeding farms, origin of thofe innumeramaica. The which now cover the face of Jaintrodudion of this grafs was accidental: a Mr. Ellis, chief juftice of merely had been prefented with fome the ifland, and fome grafs feeds of this kind extraprdinary birds, Coaft: of were fent from the Guinea as their food. The to die, and the feeds were thrown birds happened to a neighbouring fence; but carelefsly afide inflourifhing, they attraéted the foon Ipringing up and Mr. Ellis cattle by their flavour. his fortunately took notice of the cattle to this new fpecies of propenfity of ly colledted, and fowed grafs : he accordingthe feeds ofit, which thriv2 of this kind extraprdinary birds, Coaft: of were fent from the Guinea as their food. The to die, and the feeds were thrown birds happened to a neighbouring fence; but carelefsly afide inflourifhing, they attraéted the foon Ipringing up and Mr. Ellis cattle by their flavour. his fortunately took notice of the cattle to this new fpecies of propenfity of ly colledted, and fowed grafs : he accordingthe feeds ofit, which thriv2 --- Page 87 --- WEST INDIES. -ing in a fhort time, a the country, becamean univerfal bleffing to European garden-fiuft flourifh fuperior flavour to thofed of their here, even, with a and the markets of indigenous climate ; with efculent Kingfton are as well fupplied native vegetables vegetables as any in the world. of the country The wholefome and delicious are, perhaps, more growth, No vegetables than thofe of foreign pofes of domeftic can furpafs, for the eddoes, ufe, the yam, the purcaflavi, and fweet plantain, the plantain is by Europeans and potatoes. Indced, the faperior to bread itfelf natives confefled to be Their niore ciegant fruits delightful, No country are both numerous and produéions than the can boaft of more fragrant papa, the guava, the pine apple, the tamarind, the, ple, the cocoa nut, the cafhew far apple, the cultard apthe avocado pear, the apple, the grenadilla, the nefbury, the mammée, hog plum, the pindal nut, ptickly pear. From Spanifh gooleberry, and the orange, the Spain I believe were imported dock, the fig, and lemon, the the lime, the vine, the fhadcontributed but a fmall pomegranate. fhare . England has ftrawberry imported thence to their fock 5 the fedtion in a high mountainous will only come to perIt would be fituation. ney to omit injuflice to the merits ofLord Rod. nuine cinnamon, mentioning, that the mango, the tal and feveral geplants, were prefents from otherinvaluable his oriening found thele plants Lordfhip. Havon board a French fhip which Lij --- Page 88 --- HISTORY OF TIE secidentally fell in his way, he to Jamaica. generoufly fent them The cinnamon is now almoft the ifland; and the a native plant of orange. mango is as common as the --- Page 89 --- WVEST INDIES, 6g CHAPTER V. Topogmaphical Decipaisn-Toens Charchalinags Villages, and ParificsCourts of JedicaturemPitlie Valtine-Ciomenen,e or Commanderin ChiefEC LECRENACH Jaaca is divided.into Middlefex, and. Surrey. three counties ; Cornwall, Middiefex has eight The parifhes, and chieftown is Spanith thirteen villages, nor refides, and where Town, where the court the chancery and goverofjudicature are convened. fupreme Cornwall contains three The moft difinguifhed towns, and five fide ; viz. Montego ofi its towns are on the parifhes, north ter was, as late as Bay, and Falmouth. The lathoufes, and poffefled 1771, compofed of only Its progrefs, however, a thipping of only ten eighteen veffels. fince that rapid, as it now contains time, has been houfès, and upwards two hundred and very ferior craft. of thirty large fhips, befides twenty inMontego Bay contains two houfes, and fix hundred white hundred and fifty rich and profperous town, with inhabitants. Itis a derable extent, a fhipping of confiSavannah la Mar was to ruins by an once almoft entirely fhaken extent of about earthquake; feventy ; butis now rebuilt to the houfes. els. fince that rapid, as it now contains time, has been houfès, and upwards two hundred and very ferior craft. of thirty large fhips, befides twenty inMontego Bay contains two houfes, and fix hundred white hundred and fifty rich and profperous town, with inhabitants. Itis a derable extent, a fhipping of confiSavannah la Mar was to ruins by an once almoft entirely fhaken extent of about earthquake; feventy ; butis now rebuilt to the houfes. --- Page 90 --- HS PNs HISTORY OF THE It fometimes happens that, for the nience, two or more of thele fake of conveed into one : thefe, like the parifhes are confolidat. verned by a magiftrate who is fingle parifhes, are goand juftices of the called Cufos Rotulorum, ftices can decide peace. A quorum of thefe juty upon difputes not pounds ; and a fingle one, exceeding twenceeding forty thillings. upon matters not exJamaica contains eighteen each of which is provided churches and chapels, ings of thefe are from with a reétor. The livthe incumbent allo 3001. to 2000l. per annum : ed by the enjoys a houfe and glebe parifh; ; or elfe isentitled provid.: of fifty pounds to an equivalent a-year. makes the-falary The.addition of the glebe very as reprefentative of his comfortable. The governor, of all thefe majefly, has the livings ; he has alfo the patronage fufpending from duty, in cafe of prerogative of. the incumbent. mal-bebaviour in fion from It'imuf be obferved, that duty is equivalent to fufpenbeneficc. fulpenfion from the The veftries, which arc fome juftices, the reétor compofed ofa cuftos and ed by the frecholders, and ten veRry-men eledt. priating taxes, have the fole power of approthe civil and ecclefiaftical repairing highways, and colledting Similar to the Englith contributions. at: Spanifh Town ana courts of judicature, is held It is compofed of affembly called the Grand Court. as afliftant judges gentlemen of the ifland, who act thefe without fee or reward. conftitute a quorum, and the Three of chief juflice of. os and ed by the frecholders, and ten veRry-men eledt. priating taxes, have the fole power of approthe civil and ecclefiaftical repairing highways, and colledting Similar to the Englith contributions. at: Spanifh Town ana courts of judicature, is held It is compofed of affembly called the Grand Court. as afliftant judges gentlemen of the ifland, who act thefe without fee or reward. conftitute a quorum, and the Three of chief juflice of. --- Page 91 --- WEST INDIES, the ifland fitsasi decided prefident * Ifthe action upon be above 300l. they have governor and his an appeal lies to the death, to the councilg if the cafe be governor alone. felony or By an ingenious mode of of thein affizes, the inbabitants arranging the periods gularly every month in the have a law Court rethefe, they have the year. In. addition 1 to. and the admiralty. chancery court, the No ordinary, the fupreme court to that appeal can be had. from cifions in the aflize ofthe aflizes, but the deconfequents of the court, coming as the immediate confidered other, both thefe as the deterinination of decifions are The governor of Jamaica one body. cellor, from the nature of his prefides as fole chanthis vaft fource of emolument office. In addition to ordinary for granting letters and influence, he is 'is the fole officer for the of adminitiration, and falary is exadtly 5cool. probate of teflaments. His fees of various courts he currency a-year : from the 25501 : from the farm draws an and the polink, which is allotted emolument.of to his is, like the or' provifion in the ufe, former ufufrud, mountains, which negroes, he fhould enjoy plentifully ftored with revenue muft be Ioocl. So that his whole it is well known paramount to Goool. the expences of his ftation Sterlings and genteelly defrayed upon one half of may be The office of that fum. nifh enrolmentsi is held Town. . In this uniformly at Spa- * The regifter the laws are kept in re300o1, per annum. included, Conmetizemometeee amounts to about mountains, which negroes, he fhould enjoy plentifully ftored with revenue muft be Ioocl. So that his whole it is well known paramount to Goool. the expences of his ftation Sterlings and genteelly defrayed upon one half of may be The office of that fum. nifh enrolmentsi is held Town. . In this uniformly at Spa- * The regifter the laws are kept in re300o1, per annum. included, Conmetizemometeee amounts to about --- Page 92 --- HISTORY OF THE cord, as likewife wills, deeds, It is neceffary that patents, and fales. - weeks on the ifland every perfon who has ftaid fix this court before he fhould obtain a pafliport from are debarred, quits the iland; and from by a penalty of a thouland fhipmafteis admitting any ohe.on board their pounds, provided with fuch a pafs. veflels unand pofleffors of mortgages Guardians of orphans gifter here the annual are alfo obliged to retheir tuition. produce of the eftates under The profits of this oflice are held patent; their amount by his Majefly's per andum, but the labour cannot be lefs than 60ool. ed by clerks oft the bufinefs is cheaply hired. performIt was mentioned in a former that Jamaica was, at that part of the book, period, under Accordingly we find the remains of military law. authority in the oflice of this fpecies of a office of high rank and He pemnob-matilolgengnl holds hisoflice from the confiderable prerogative: thorities are various, and he crown, his powersand aupointing deputies over the has the power of apTheoflice of clerk of the whole ifland. - manner held by a crown fupreme court is in like deputation. It was at one patent, and performed by rency, though now diminilhed period worth gcool. curThere are numberlefs in value. lucrative nature, held both other oflices of a vety miflion, and executed by a patent and com. to the pofleffors in Great by deputations wlich remit fum of Britain not 30,0001, lefs than the power of apTheoflice of clerk of the whole ifland. - manner held by a crown fupreme court is in like deputation. It was at one patent, and performed by rency, though now diminilhed period worth gcool. curThere are numberlefs in value. lucrative nature, held both other oflices of a vety miflion, and executed by a patent and com. to the pofleffors in Great by deputations wlich remit fum of Britain not 30,0001, lefs than the --- Page 93 --- WEST INDIES Theldegilitive neraly body is compofed lofacaprasiniges arcohnanderinethieds goa appointed byt thes "crowns and a counciliof twelve conliftings ofr Moy-shrelinemibens houfesof allembly, thatévery clector poffefsa itsisn requilite and thatt therepretentatiter frechold of 1ola A-ycargr ayenr.rorg 3000l. of Pollefsan efate of 3oool, a bill has obtained the perfonal property. As foon as into lawyrand governor's aflent, ut continucs a to be pafles royal be heldias fuch till - dhlapprobation the The-inatti object expreffed, nt netn thofe local circumftances ofenacting fuch laws iss toi fuit gland'cinnot be applied * to which theslawiof Ens ftemiwill in partapplyl Where the Epglithiys it has been altered and butlis fure. modified endrmocenes Pse he to-fuit theit! pleaz ler The Tevenues ofthe iflandn fois be is mid perperualg the are either annbal or tioned, was yielded Tatterrerenud, as. wasnbefore mens up as a Beunigonemmenes peace-offering to the ly allowancel by the'aiftemblye The nesirar whole product ofn the 12,6601. TUhe annual révenue reventeslaw may be fent to 70,0001. It muft be may'a laniount ati pre? inane provition which islallotted remarked, that the hus fident in this ifland to ithe! military rethis fum's every cominimhohed requires a gteat propoftion of ed 20S. per wéek, befides" his officer being allowevery Private majenty's T 5S. Thé wives pay; and maa t and children: of Aaiolisonn de the Thusin MRemengetsgnnfomymbe a K ad laniount ati pre? inane provition which islallotted remarked, that the hus fident in this ifland to ithe! military rethis fum's every cominimhohed requires a gteat propoftion of ed 20S. per wéek, befides" his officer being allowevery Private majenty's T 5S. Thé wives pay; and maa t and children: of Aaiolisonn de the Thusin MRemengetsgnnfomymbe a K ad --- Page 94 --- HISTORY OF THE foldiers are alfo entitled to a fharel of The fum this expended on thefe provifion, Befides occafional fupplies puipel@ababoutaocel bly, as neceflity requires, voted . by the affemtax on negroes there is a regularly raifed wheel imported, and negroes keptas carriages, ftock, fpirits retailed flaves, ed, and laftly, a tax (the moft and liconfumof 131. or fometimes 261: produaivé of any) proprietorsiof flaves who per annum, on all, thole man for every thirty blacks do not keep one white, J The current coins in in their Poffeion. valued in Jamaica are half England at 36s. each, here at johannes, Spanifh gold coins they have 55S. Of 51. 5S. and piftoles at 26s. 3d. dubloons, valued at filvér coins, from the milled They have Spanifh bitt at 5d. Sterling. A dollar at 6s. 8d. to the This, however, is guinea paffes for 32s. 6d. rate ofexchange, by confiderably more than the ufual which Iool. Sterling currency: gives 1401. The fituation of Jamaica litia ; and accordingly, requires a powerful miman from fifteen to in ftrictnefs of. law, every Frovide his clothes and fixty ought to carry arms, and not, however, very exactly accoutrements. This lawis in times of the greateft oblerved; forthey do not, 7000 effedtive troops. danger, mufter more than The bulk of the people of men; for Europeans come here Jamaica are unmarried but to acquire riches. From not to get families, is difficult to ftate, with this circumflance it white men in the whole precifenefs, ifland. the number of By a computation --- Page 95 --- WEST INDIES. inade in 1796, their 25,000. number was eftimated at A number of loyal Americans themfelves in Jamaica ; fo have finee fixed and feafaring that, including people, their troops zmount to 39,000, number may probably Of the freed negroes and are, upon an avérage, people of. colour, there (thofe 500 in each parifh. negroès who fought for Maroons after obtaining it, retired their freedom, and illand), have certainly to the interior of the very much of late. In increafed in their numbers 885; their number, by the 1770, lateft they amonnted to vanced to 1400, computation, is ad. The negroes fill in a ftate at the laft made of Mavery amounted, been made to appear, caleulation, to 210,804. It has from the fraudulent however, pretty probable, that lefs than 40,000 have concealment been of polleffors, not tion. The total number, kept out of the calcule. tants of Jamaica therefore, of the inhabi. mounts to (at the neareft 291,400. calculation) aThe trade ofthis ifland will from the be following lift ofthe bef-underfood all kinds, which cleared number of veflels of entry in Jamaica in the from the feveral ports of fmaller craft, year 1787, exclulive of K lefs than 40,000 have concealment been of polleffors, not tion. The total number, kept out of the calcule. tants of Jamaica therefore, of the inhabi. mounts to (at the neareft 291,400. calculation) aThe trade ofthis ifland will from the be following lift ofthe bef-underfood all kinds, which cleared number of veflels of entry in Jamaica in the from the feveral ports of fmaller craft, year 1787, exclulive of K --- Page 96 --- HISTORYIOETHE 34 Setsmins eswi 151 Number, d For of Veffels. c8y: a Great Britain Tomnage. Men. Cod Ircland fay - 63:471 American States IO soirim J231 9I Britith Amenican? 133 elgt 13,041 . Colonics. 66 O 6133 ed Foreign Welt Indies Africa I 20 he ICO Total OIt muft 85.888 bel oblerved, however, that many articles in the great part of into Jamaica from the preceding other account are brought Britith manufadtures iflands, and are paid in medium, quantitiés of andi negroes. By the fame tain, of whichir no bullion are imported into BriThe account of precife account can be procured. thus : de Ls imports into Jamaica will Aland --- Page 97 --- WEST INDIES. O m - - - - - ae loah Tolr --- Page 98 --- HISTORY OF THE may not be entireItis poffible, that this account ariling from the exand that the furplus lefs than here ftatly exact; may be more Or the mother ceis of exports final profit centres in ed; but fince the of little importance. To country, this is a point let us attend of this conclufion, Commiffhow. the propriety made by the Lords toan extradt ofa report Plantations, in the year 1734 fioners for Trade and to Jamaica is, at amount of exports the 4t The yearly 147,6751 25131d. In offour years, 18s. c, a medium medium ofimports is 539-4991. 6e' fametime, the is therefore 391.824l. ce 3:d; the excefs of imports excels is not a debt from JaBut this to the 46 15S. 112d. moft of it muft be put maica to Britain; the Weft Indies, of fent to Spanich ano66 account goods by way of Jamaica ; is made for 6 whole return to African trades 66 ther to the debt of Jamaica America, who gives, and a third to North 46 flaves; of Britith debts, configaments that in part payinent produced by her fupplies to s from, Jamaica, is clear profit made upon The remainder Africa, or 6 ifland. whether by the medium of < our trade, leads me 6 direaly." of the Spanith Wett Indies which The mention of the trade naturally to give an account and thefe iflands, and fublifted between Jamaica is in fact ftill carried on. this which of the prefent century, anAbout the beginning Britain as to caufe an trade was fo beneficial to goods, exaeeeandngnea nual fale ofBritilh anxious to encourage in valuc. Spain, more Africa, or 6 ifland. whether by the medium of < our trade, leads me 6 direaly." of the Spanith Wett Indies which The mention of the trade naturally to give an account and thefe iflands, and fublifted between Jamaica is in fact ftill carried on. this which of the prefent century, anAbout the beginning Britain as to caufe an trade was fo beneficial to goods, exaeeeandngnea nual fale ofBritilh anxious to encourage in valuc. Spain, more --- Page 99 --- WEST INDIES. ports from her own harbours, good of her colonies, than to promote the Weft Indies to ordered her fubjedts in thole of the accept of the mother rewethemmuadured than dently unfit to provide country; them althongh,the was evipurtion of the articles with any tolerable fenfible of this they required. The colonifs, procommerce with cireumftanee the kept upa contraband with their own veffels Englith, whom they guided mot fit for conduding intothofe fequeftered harbours, the articles thus imported; fecrer. trade. In return for into the Britifh Weft the Spaniards every way, asp India iflands other imported horned requilite for their articles cacplosmales convenience, viz, turn of commodities horfes, and bullion. This was in on the part of the rethe Britifh fachincoufitent with the navigation Spaniaeds, of.her colonies government, more fincere to the a@s but punithment than tbe court of intereft of this beneficial Spain, declinedthe The Britifh minifter, deviation from the law. ed this however, in 1764. the navigation indulgences and, adhering to the difcontinu. Weft laws, ordered all rigour. of Indian ports to be Spanifh vellelsinour pletely gratifying, the wifhes confifcated. of This was comvery. ienousijury to our own Spain; but it did a year following, the colonies; for, in the 168,0001. Sterling. exports A to Jamaica fell fhort true, reftored the forfner fucceeding minifiry, it is ter coming to the ears of indulgence ; but the matto counterad the meafiare, Spain, they endeavoured than formerly to. her Weft by laying an opener trade India ilands, by which gratifying, the wifhes confifcated. of This was comvery. ienousijury to our own Spain; but it did a year following, the colonies; for, in the 168,0001. Sterling. exports A to Jamaica fell fhort true, reftored the forfner fucceeding minifiry, it is ter coming to the ears of indulgence ; but the matto counterad the meafiare, Spain, they endeavoured than formerly to. her Weft by laying an opener trade India ilands, by which --- Page 100 --- HISTORY OFTHE the rempration'to Englilh Sill-howeveh 1E1 commerce might ceafe: Britifn probable that the manuficurest would 3 have fecured fuperiority of matket, ifthie portsof Dominica themn'a notlbeen laid epen : to/ al foreigne andJamaies had means the jealouly of thel Spaniardsn Veflelsi By this thiey procured by Tome fecret was alarmieds regifter which means'a copy ofi the ofall perfonsin waskepe ati the Britifh free- ports, Thefeere Spain concerned in the illicit madel immediate victims" s"of trade: venge, and fubjeaedo the public rel tiesin 7 Britain recalled the moft deplorable cruei: ports when orders forio the ar opening too much caufe eenatobine, to decline for thes Spaniards had A contraband trade, any farther connection! Spanifh iflands byl Tuch however, is fill kept up to the gilance of the guarda veffels'as can elude the vic fa. With coftas. ES regard to the propriety ofthe there are many arguments in its favour! free port bill, that, upon pretence of the Itis true, ful commodities, entering ports with lawmany of the finaller run up the unfrequented crecks, Veffels might traband articles; ; fuch 'as French and diftribute conbrandy, &c. it cambries, wines, the partial commerce Admitting to be the-cale, that injured by thefe of Jamaica inight have been nifited the practices; fill tliey-mut bave be: empire at large, as theindigo and imported througt the médium cotton, are articles fo cflentially oforeign commnérce, factures. Thefe views neceflary to Britifh manu. of Commons, powerfully affected the Houfe when, in 1774, they ordained the --- Page 101 --- WEST INDIES, trade to be frée, by an act Indeed, the moft forcible which is Aill continued. fubject, was, thatthe free argument urged on the a market for the African ports would thus become brought in by the owners flaves, who would be ofhaving ready money for throughi the tomptation An illuftration ofthe their cargoes, very lignally truth of this remark Company dilplayed, when the Spanifh was. having obtained Alliento flaves from the permifion to purchafe that neighboucing illands, purpofe to Jamaica The applied for willing to ençourage the Britifh govemnment, tation poil-tax ttallic, took offthe that forithel ppon negroes; and the exporceeded next ten years. the refult .was, that of the ten former iruport of flaves exHaving thus bricfly defcribed by 22,000 and odds. merce of Jamaica, we the trade and comcount of its progrefs in proceed to give a fhort ac. paft. cultivation for a century. As far back as 7000 whites, andi 1673. we find the ifland contained tions were, at that g600 negrocs. Its chief time, producAbout this period the cacao, indigo, and hides. gun. As'late as 1722, manuficture no of fugar was be. heads ofthis article more than 11,000 were hogsIn 1734; the ifland produced. 66,c00 negroes, and contained about 7000 whites, ports to Britain 76,000 head of cattle. 3:d. were then valued at ItsrimSterling 539:4991 18s. In 1744, the whites amounted to gooo,the neL Its chief time, producAbout this period the cacao, indigo, and hides. gun. As'late as 1722, manuficture no of fugar was be. heads ofthis article more than 11,000 were hogsIn 1734; the ifland produced. 66,c00 negroes, and contained about 7000 whites, ports to Britain 76,000 head of cattle. 3:d. were then valued at ItsrimSterling 539:4991 18s. In 1744, the whites amounted to gooo,the neL --- Page 102 --- HISTORY OF THE WEST INDIES. groes to I12,000, and the cattlel exports were now valued at to 88,0co. The In 1768, the whites, 6oo,ocol. Sterling. 17,000, the negroes were fuppofed to have been ports at 1,400,0001. 166,000, and the value of exIn all parts of Jamaica Sterling, ing a rapid progrefs; and cultivation in was now makexports was allowed by the 1787, the fum total of mount to 2,000,0001. in/pedor-general to aEarly in the following Sterling. between. the mother year, the unnatural war out; and the guiltefs country and America broke its baneful effects to inhabitants of the ifland felt their other a terrible degree. Above all in the fpace calamitics, of feven five hurricanes, which came the general deftruction. years, contributed to fpread however, with Itmuft be the laft gratitude, that fince acknowledged, the have hurricane in 1786, the fcafons period of. been exeeedingly and crops In bountiful. eftimate computing the value of the the value of the flaves at ifland, we may in all 12,500,00ol. The 501. Sterling each; ty, at 25,000,0001. landed and perfonal towns, and the The houfes and property proper. in the the whole amount thipping, of the at 1,500,p00l, more; fo that at 39,000,000 of Britifh ifland may be fairly ftated money. --- Page 103 --- BOOK III. ENGLISH CHARAIBEE ISLANDS CHAPTER V. BARRADDES Firft Arrival ofthe Termination ofthe Englif on' this Ihandaorigis to the Proprietary Progrefs, and Extent Cros-Originels ofthe the Ad Gsmmms-Reente granted Iland-Soil and RechiMpaise-Shester and cline-Exports and Imports, Dodemhoelisaini De, Pagvous to the year 1600, it, does Barbadoes was at all obferved in not appear that Charibes, for reafons which geogmaphy. The had abandoned it; and we cannot underfand, covered it probably the Portugucfe, who merica, on fome voyage to dif it with beftowed, no more care it South Afwine. upon than to ftock The crew oft the Olive from London, by Sir Olive Bloflom (a thip fitted out Englith who ever landed Leigh) were the firft made, however, but on Barbadoes,. a fhort fiay, and They proceeded Lij which geogmaphy. The had abandoned it; and we cannot underfand, covered it probably the Portugucfe, who merica, on fome voyage to dif it with beftowed, no more care it South Afwine. upon than to ftock The crew oft the Olive from London, by Sir Olive Bloflom (a thip fitted out Englith who ever landed Leigh) were the firft made, however, but on Barbadoes,. a fhort fiay, and They proceeded Lij --- Page 104 --- HISTORY OF THE on their voyage, flored with the found on the ifland. provifions they had A thip of Sir William driven upon it by frels of Courteen's afterwards was which they made ofit in weather; and the report furer, Earl England induced the trea-, for poffefling Marlborough, it. to obtain a crown rough, Courteen, Under the patronage : of Marlbo- patent who agreed to make engaged about thirty adventurers rithed with a fettlement on the place. Furfite for a new provifions, colony, tools, and every thing requiand they fet fail from landing on Barbadoes late in Englands founded the city of James the year 1624, the reigning Town, in honour fovereign. of - Among the numerous this perfons of rank who about period.engaged with ardour in the colonizing the New World, the bufinefs of was James Earl of Carlifle, moft difinguifhed this nobleman had In the reign ofCharlesi. grant ofall the Gharaibee obtained from the Crown a included in the number. Handss Barbadoes being er iffued out, than it The grant was no foon. Marlbgsough occafioned a difpute between the new patentee (undoubtedly the legal poffeffor) and this Carlifle, Theit conteft ended agreement, that Carlife fhould in annum to Marlborough, and that pay 300l. per abandon bis claim. the other fhould Marlborough, on Batching rival in poffeffion, up this treaty with his Courteen, who was immediately deferted his friend Carlifle, It was in now vain expofed to the injuftice of that in Carlifc's abfence difpute between the new patentee (undoubtedly the legal poffeffor) and this Carlifle, Theit conteft ended agreement, that Carlife fhould in annum to Marlborough, and that pay 300l. per abandon bis claim. the other fhould Marlborough, on Batching rival in poffeffion, up this treaty with his Courteen, who was immediately deferted his friend Carlifle, It was in now vain expofed to the injuftice of that in Carlifc's abfence --- Page 105 --- WEST INDIES, fiom the in his kingdom, the Earl lof Pembroke fecond interefis, and procured for embarked in title, a grant of Courteen, as his The inconftant monarch, Barbadoes by patent. could not refift the upon Carlifle's return, the laft requeft of his patent, and favourite, recalled thus pollefied of the reftored the former. Carlifle fending vout Charles ifland, fold it in parcels; and Sir William Tufton Woolferitone as obliged Courteen as governor of the manager, new and and colony, thority. bisfiendst to P lubmittohisau" But the condué ofTufron lifle, a governor of the dimplealing Lord Car. out to difplace him. His name of: Hawley was fent to condemn Tufton firft exertion' of his power was pretence that the predeceflor tobe fhot, upon pointment of a new remonftranees he made to theap-. dience and mutiny. governor were aéts of difobe. ing injuftice of his Theindecent hurry and fhocktion of every execution, excited.the ple were perfon in the ifland. But the indigna. all his crimes indignant to no purpofe; peoof on his head, was Hawley, with England, and fent back protedted at the court ty to the with renovated mained governmene of the ifland. authoriodious to the Here he reunable to refift the public inbabitants, till at laft he was dilgraceful indignation; veral reign, was driven from the and, after a governors fuccceded country. Seftudied with fome attention him, who feem to have and wholefonde the introduction lays ; but the imprellions ofjuft ofdifguft fent back protedted at the court ty to the with renovated mained governmene of the ifland. authoriodious to the Here he reunable to refift the public inbabitants, till at laft he was dilgraceful indignation; veral reign, was driven from the and, after a governors fuccceded country. Seftudied with fome attention him, who feem to have and wholefonde the introduction lays ; but the imprellions ofjuft ofdifguft --- Page 106 --- HISTORY OF THE at the proprietor ftill continued fo authority grew gradually weaker. ftrong, that his The civil war at home now berlefs emigrants broke.out, and numthel wonderful crowded to Barbadoes. Such was thatin increafe in the fpace of 1680, 10,000 wbite twenty years, cavalry, could turn men, and a regiment of The out in defence of the new adventurers did not ufe the ifland. purchafing their grounds, but ceremony of thought proper; fo that the planted wherever they and title to payments, proprietor's authority, In 1646, when their was.at laft tacitly deferted, lic admiration, the foncof profperity began to attraét pubclaims. He was the patentee put in his loughby, who fupported by the Earl of Wiland'a leafe fipulated for one half of the ofthe ifland for: 21 profits, ened this bargain by years. He frengththe obtaining the place. He was gracioufly received government of habitants, and would havey by the invying the general probably fucceeded in lethe tribute, at one time granted planters; but nine years before his lcafe by pired, Cromwell's was exlie was of ufurpation had taken place, and confequiences difmiffed from his At the Reftoration authority. authority, ;and the Earl heapplied of for a renewal of his the Earl of Kinnoul, his Marlborough being dead, application for-his thare fucceffor, made a joint bitants by this time ofthe profits. The inhathefe claimants perceiving that theintention of wealth at home was only to prey of Barbadoes, remonfrated upon the domupon the hardAtip with great free-' they were likely to fuffer, iences difmiffed from his At the Reftoration authority. authority, ;and the Earl heapplied of for a renewal of his the Earl of Kinnoul, his Marlborough being dead, application for-his thare fucceffor, made a joint bitants by this time ofthe profits. The inhathefe claimants perceiving that theintention of wealth at home was only to prey of Barbadoes, remonfrated upon the domupon the hardAtip with great free-' they were likely to fuffer, --- Page 107 --- WEST INDIES. in being burdened with who had been payments to, - thofe men their ifland. expoled to no expence in colonizing While the matter was difeufled cil, fome gentlemen of in the-privy counlegated by the planters Barbadoes, there who had been des jefly in their behalf, offered to plead with his Mater, by paying an annual to compromife the mat: was gracimfy rent to the kinga the Barbadians, pleafed to grafp at the Charles on propofal; but had been made, difelaimed undentanding the offer which fuch a tax, and denied that all willingnefs to pay any right to propofe it. their Freprefentatives bad This occalioned a new contelt. At laft a determination dificulty in deciding the opprefliveand wasir made, does. Lordi unjuft to the inhabitants of equally to affume the Willoughby was ordered Barbagovernment ofithe inmediately pafled into a aw, that an illand; and it was per cent. fhould be exaéted in eternal revenue of 4: commodities, the growth of the fpecie from all dead to any part of the world. ifland, thipped inThe' whole of this the crown ; but in the revenue wasat laft to revert to ance was to be made to mean the time a proper allowCarlifle's creditors, and Lord Earl of Kinnoul, Lord Among the gentiemen of Willougaby, mently oppofed this Barbadoes who vehcmer took a leading fhare. unjutimpofition Colonel Far. vours were baffled by But his patriôtic He the endeawas arrefted on defpotifn of the court. pretence of mutiny, fent in --- Page 108 --- HISTORY OF THE chains'to England, and kept in tedious The perfecution of this man confinement. pofers of the law, and the overawed the other opcompelled to fubmit to a Barbadians were thus injurious and tax, which is to this day oppreflive. Lord Clarendon, who had beenthe in'advifing his Majefty to this principal hand indeed afterwards unjuft meafure, was Britifh brought to account for it by the parliament; ; but thofe who fruction of Clarendon had fought the dethan the relief of other objeds in view minality of the tax Barbadoes, fo that after the crimodified. was admitted, its rigourwas not In 1680, Colonel badoes, informed the Dutton, on his arrival at BarMajefty was willing'to council and affembly, that his valent fum of commutethe tax for an equimoney. It was to farm the 41 per cent. for eleven' therefore propofed annual rent of 6ocol. years, for the examination, being Sterling; but the offer, upon judged too pofal was rejedted, and the moderate, the proBut an impofition ftill tax continued. laid upon Barbadoes, harder than the former was tion act. This by the pafling of the navigathe parliament celebrated law had been made after the death by in revenge for the deteftation ofCharles I. partly had expreffed for the death which the Barbadians partly with-a view of their and the to prevent the fovereign, Englith were at that time Dutch, to whom having any further very hoftile, from India iflands, communication with our Weft proBut an impofition ftill tax continued. laid upon Barbadoes, harder than the former was tion act. This by the pafling of the navigathe parliament celebrated law had been made after the death by in revenge for the deteftation ofCharles I. partly had expreffed for the death which the Barbadians partly with-a view of their and the to prevent the fovereign, Englith were at that time Dutch, to whom having any further very hoftile, from India iflands, communication with our Weft --- Page 109 --- WEST INDIES. On the 16th ofOgober mnanded the Parliament's 1651, Ayicue, who comdoes. He fpeedily reduced fprces, arrived at Barbaobliged them to fubmit, the whole ifland, and this enadment of the among other articles, to foreign thip fhould trade Commonwesth, with viz. that no tions, ànd that no the Englifh goods fhould be plantaEngland or its imported into veflels, or in fhips dependencies of that in any but the merchandife European nation of Englifh which arofe the famous imported was the produce. Thus been evidently infliéted navigation act, which, as'it had ofa upon the panihment, the Barbadians coloniesin the way prifed to fee continued were not a little fur. a monarch to whom under the reign of Charles II. much, to their they had been own detriment. attached fo gratitude on the part of Whether this innot ofbad Charles' was pinefs of the confequenees to the produdive or place, will be feen population and hapBarbadoes lies 13° Io' north hereafter. weft longitude from London, latitude, and in 59° fronted by the mouth On the fouth it is St. Lucia, and St. roftheOroonoko, on the and eaft it is bounded Vincent's, and on the weitby has different by the Atlantic. north moft forts of moulds, but the The ifland fugar favourable. By the aid of black is the only inferior to manure it yields As far back as the that.ofSt. Kitts, that Barbadoes year 1670, we are informed pofleffed 50,000 white, and twice M the fouth it is St. Lucia, and St. roftheOroonoko, on the and eaft it is bounded Vincent's, and on the weitby has different by the Atlantic. north moft forts of moulds, but the The ifland fugar favourable. By the aid of black is the only inferior to manure it yields As far back as the that.ofSt. Kitts, that Barbadoes year 1670, we are informed pofleffed 50,000 white, and twice M --- Page 110 --- 9a HISTORY OF THE as many black inhabitintss and that it ployment to 60,000 tons, of gave emEven fhipping * allowing that this ftatement fomewhat exaggerated, may have been that the inhabitarits there is fuflicient evidence have the numbers rapidly declined. In were no more than 16,000 1786, people ofcolour, and 62,000 whites, 800 The produce of negroes. cline of pppulation, fugar has kept pace with the dethe average crop of Weareinformed, that in 1761, On an average fugar was 25,000 hogfheads, calculation' from exports of fugar did not exceed 1784to 1786, the The hurricanes, it muft be 9554. been fo fatal and frequent confefled, which have years, have contributed within thefe latt twelve both of commerce their fhare to the decline and of which took place on the population. The ftorm particular, fwept Ioth of October 1780, in bitants. away no lels than 43260fits inha- * The carlieft planters of Barbadoes awaythe Americans of the were accufed of The Speétator has handed neighbouring continent into decoying hiftory of Yarico's down, to the execration of flavery. It being fold to pofterity, the may not be flavery by the difagreeable to the who ungrateful Inklc. poor Yarico, to hear that fhe bore reader, has fympathized with grace than might have been her hard ufage with a better chanced afterwardst to be expeded. Ligon 66 being got with child by a rclates, that fhe very great, walked down to a Chriftian fervant, and ponde of water, and woode, where 46 felfto bedde, and thereby the fidc of the there was a 66 arms, in three hours came home ponde with brought hercver, will a.lufty boy; frolic and lively." a child in her admit of no palliation. Incle's behaviour, how. --- Page 111 --- WEST INDIES, Neither has the aielioration fioned that return of ofthe fealons occabeen expected. The prolperity which might have be expedted to calamity ofthe ifland cannot preflive and ceafe, till it be relieved of that tude of Charles enormous burden, which the opII. fuffered to be ingratiBarbadoes contains five impofed. rifhes. The capital of the diftriéts and eleven, pawhich is Aill. the chief ifland is Bridge Town, The governor's refidence of the out of the falary is 2000l. per annum, governor. There is little exchequer from the 41 per cent. paid variation between duty. ment of Jamaica and that the civil governthe court of chancery in the ofBarbadoes, except that the governor and council, latter is compofed of er, the governor is chancellor whereas, in the formhe always fits in the alone. In Barbadoes latively; in council, even when Jamaica, never. The adlinglegif. feffions, common pleas, and courts of grand in Jamaica, but united into exchequer, are diftiné The reader one in Barbadoes. carried may form fome idea of on by Barbadoes, from the commerce ment. Between the 5th of the following ftate: 5th of January 1788, there January 1787, till the cleared from -Barbadoes, Veffels Number of tons Men 26,917 Value of cargoes (Sterling) - L. 539,605 M ij ions, common pleas, and courts of grand in Jamaica, but united into exchequer, are diftiné The reader one in Barbadoes. carried may form fome idea of on by Barbadoes, from the commerce ment. Between the 5th of the following ftate: 5th of January 1788, there January 1787, till the cleared from -Barbadoes, Veffels Number of tons Men 26,917 Value of cargoes (Sterling) - L. 539,605 M ij --- Page 112 --- HISTORY OF THE CHAPTER II. GRENADA AND ITS DEPENDENCIES, Difcovery and nation of the Iohabiants-French Natives-The Invafion in Cerilla Mifconduét ofthe Ifland conveyed to 16s0-Exicrni. the Count de reverts to the Crowa of Deputy Govemor-The Claim of the Crown to Francc-Captired by the Colony Exported-Decifion. of lay a Duty of 411 per.cent. on EnglithTranfactions within the Court of King's Bench on this Produce point Invafion 1779-Brave theCdlosy-Ietermal IDMiftalfions-Freach the Defencc, and unconditional GarinuHlandhipe éxercifed towards Surrendero of -Reftored to Britain by the the Englifh Planters lony. Peacem-Prefent State ofthe CoCHRISTOPIEE vered this ifland Colambus, in his third *, Its voyage, difcorous and warlike inhabitants were a numethat Europeans people; but it does not jedt of looked upon them as a appear invafion, until Monficur de proper obFrench governor of Parquet, the avaricious and Martinico, in 1650, planned an unprovoked The want of territory attack upon the ifland. apology for this could not be pleaded as an Martinico and invafion; for the fertile iflands of fure, uncultivated Guadaloupe : were mill,in a great meamander colleéted neverthelefs, the French about 200 comto his Aandard, and fet fail defperate "adventurers for the ifland of * Anno 1498, Grena- --- Page 113 --- WEST INDIES. foldiers; previous to_ their embarkation, da. The facrament, and; upon their landall partook of the God for fuccels. ing, prayed fervently to perhaps to his wifhes, The Frenchman, contrary. by the natives ; fo that, was received with hofpitality in his dealings, he prebeing obliged to affect juftice of the ifland, by prefenttended to. make a purchafe and beads to the people; ing fome knives, hatchets, with tavo bottles of brandy. and regaling the chief a fort in order to fecure He proceeded next to build Le Compte and left his kinfman his honeft purchafe, fead. The firft accounts which as governor in his conduet in his governwie hear of this gentleman's impreffion of his ment, leaves no very favourable regarding the barcharaéter. The natives, juftly rob them of their pretence to gain as an infulting refifled their invaders, and Le native country, had tofecure Compte. could think of no better expedient of the 1 than the total extermination the fettlement, followers obeyed his orders with alaCharaibes. His the bufinels of crity, and ftill farther, to accelerate to from Martinique death, 300 men were difpatched to their afliftance. expeditions, the hiftorian In one of thofe mercilefs butchered on informs us that forty Charaibes were and forty others, running to a precipice, the fpot, into the fea *. A beauthrew themfelves headlong and gwo French tiful young woman was taken alive, whence thefe miferable Charaibes threw them- * The fpot from called the French Le Morac de felves into the fea, is to this day by Sauteurs i. e. Leapers Hill. itions, the hiftorian In one of thofe mercilefs butchered on informs us that forty Charaibes were and forty others, running to a precipice, the fpot, into the fea *. A beauthrew themfelves headlong and gwo French tiful young woman was taken alive, whence thefe miferable Charaibes threw them- * The fpot from called the French Le Morac de felves into the fea, is to this day by Sauteurs i. e. Leapers Hill. --- Page 114 --- HISTORY OF THE officers difputed about coming up, decided pofleffing her; but a third the quarrel by through the head. The French fhooting her and, after burning the loft only one man, provifions, came back in cottages, and rooting up the After high fpirits. extirpating the natives, the ed next to butcher each other. French proceedteft, which it is needlefs After a long conto detail, the party gained the governor's tune advantage ; but De forbeing much injured by the Parquet's to fell his poffeflion of the ifland ftruggle, he agreed lac for 30,000 crowns, tothe Count CerilCerillac, injudicioufly nominated to the ment ofthe place, a proud and governer, whofe tyranny at laft rapacious command. driving the defpair, he was tried for his inhabitants to ration of his noble crimes, and in confidehanged. birth, was fhot in' place of being From Cerillac the property ofthe the French Weft India ifland paffed to rendered it to the Crown, Company, who, in 1674, furThis was lefs favourable to the ifland change of poffeffors been expected; for we find than might have beginning of this that, even as laté as the century; the ifland more than three contained no digo, cultivated plantations of fugar, and two ofinTheir by 251 whites, and 521 unfortunate fituation might have negroes. for a long time; had not the continued. fupply their inhabitants, in order to and flaves, difidvantages in the want of commerce the entered into an illicit intercourle Dutch; a refource which with operated fo powerfully than might have beginning of this that, even as laté as the century; the ifland more than three contained no digo, cultivated plantations of fugar, and two ofinTheir by 251 whites, and 521 unfortunate fituation might have negroes. for a long time; had not the continued. fupply their inhabitants, in order to and flaves, difidvantages in the want of commerce the entered into an illicit intercourle Dutch; a refource which with operated fo powerfully --- Page 115 --- WEST INDIES, in their favour, that in came poffeffors of the ifland, 1762, when' the Englifh beproduce to be no lefs than they found its annual gar, and 24,000 pounds of I1,000 hogtheads of fu. The fipulationsin indigo. furrender of Grenada favour to the thè rertbecintibifaneact Their privileges and taxes Britifh, were as follows: with thofe ofthe other were to be on a footing ther, with refpect Leeward to Mflands; and fura footing with the Roman religion; they were to be upon In 1763. his Majefly Catholics of Canada. claring, that all iflued a joy the benefit inhabitants of this proclamation, ifland deof the laws of fhould enpeal to the King and Council, England, and of apexprefs orders had been Italfo declares, that form, in co-operation given to the governor, with the council to Reprefentatives, fible a (yftem land houfe of to the fpirit ofthe oflaws as agreeable as pof General Englifh ed. The Melville was the firft fyftem. I and a affembly met for the firft governor appoint. queftion of the time in ted to their greatef moment was 1765, The confideration. fubmit. reader has been tence the unwarrantable informed upon what been laid upon the Iand duty of 4; per cent, prethefe of Barbadocs. had right which pretences were, fill more Unjuft as the royal defpotic was the without even the apparent prerogative affumed, when, duty oft the fâme nature confent of the Grenada. and amount people, a was laid upon That Grenada ) was a conquiered country, was the , The confideration. fubmit. reader has been tence the unwarrantable informed upon what been laid upon the Iand duty of 4; per cent, prethefe of Barbadocs. had right which pretences were, fill more Unjuft as the royal defpotic was the without even the apparent prerogative affumed, when, duty oft the fâme nature confent of the Grenada. and amount people, a was laid upon That Grenada ) was a conquiered country, was the --- Page 116 --- HISTORY OF THE main apology offered for the in addition to this humane meafure, It was urged be asi impolitic to argument, that it would than'our other put Grenada in a better fituation as it would be to Leeward Illands of the Weft paid put her in a worfe, Indies, more taxes, it would be If Grenada paid lefs, the inequality injurious to her; iffhe others. - would be baneful to the The cafe was fubmitted Beneh, and, after four to the Court of King's ment was pronounced elaborate pleadings, by Lord judgnour ofhis integrity, Mansficld, to the'hoItis againft the Crown. pleafing to colonifts, becaufe it contemplate this victory of the difplays the unditinguibing uncorrupted and which the uprightnefs of that court before fomewhat queftion was tried; but our abated, when we confider fatisfaction is upon which Lord Mansfield the grounds this impartial decifion. went, when he gave The noble Lord refted his upon this determination argument, that the folely by which it was declared King's to proclamation, - were entitled to choofe the inhabitants that they their governed by the laws of their reprefentatives, and be fied out own previous to the mandate affembly, was if controverted revenue. Had for collecting the this prior declaration, not his Majefly Lord given by the rights of Mansficld allerted, that pofe upon the inhabitants conqueft he was entitled to im. taxes he thought fit. He whatever regulations or tions of this then adduced, as illuftrapofition, the feveral cafes of Wales, Ire- their governed by the laws of their reprefentatives, and be fied out own previous to the mandate affembly, was if controverted revenue. Had for collecting the this prior declaration, not his Majefly Lord given by the rights of Mansficld allerted, that pofe upon the inhabitants conqueft he was entitled to im. taxes he thought fit. He whatever regulations or tions of this then adduced, as illuftrapofition, the feveral cafes of Wales, Ire- --- Page 117 --- WEST INDIES. 97. New York; in all which cafes land, Berwick, and his argument, 46 that he èndeavours to fubflantiate as lawsimreceived their laws from England, not as reguthey country, and pofed upon a conquered lations of their own adopting. of argument, that Adiitting *, for the fake laws a right to impofe Britain had confitutionally fabrication upon a conand taxes of her own far from which, by the way,.is do fo quered country, it cannot be her right to being felf-evident, If ufage be an honourfrom the diétates ofjuftice. which reafon condemns, able pretext for an act have no right to Grenada, and the other colonies, authority imconftitution but what the royal of any and truth be independent pofes: : but if juflice themfelves; if it be the in cuftom, and immutable fellow-men the fame duty of men to beftow on their ; this which they affume to themfelves privileges difcuffion upon the inbere enters into a minute * Mr. Edwatds &c.in which he combats, with greatability, Rancesof Ircland, Wales, ChiefJuitice, and fhows.pretty elearlysthat, this opinion of Fthe Lord Grenada, as a colony of Great the ground of ufage, the King of even upon taxes upon herfefandchatt Britain, had a title to impofe country, can impofe no conGreat Britain, even upon a' conquered It is a pity, however, that the fitution but that of England. of this kind. Suppofing it to be queftion fhould be put to a trial at one period impofed arbithe falt, that the Kings of England what has that to do withi trary laws upon conquered countries, of every people : We cerGrenada 2 Is not felfitaxation the right Aruéture of our own conftituacknowledge that it is by the what they would tainly Britons to deny to fellow-fubjedis tion, and ought not part with thenfelves? N ution but that of England. of this kind. Suppofing it to be queftion fhould be put to a trial at one period impofed arbithe falt, that the Kings of England what has that to do withi trary laws upon conquered countries, of every people : We cerGrenada 2 Is not felfitaxation the right Aruéture of our own conftituacknowledge that it is by the what they would tainly Britons to deny to fellow-fubjedis tion, and ought not part with thenfelves? N --- Page 118 --- HISTORY OF THE colony has a right to annul what her own reprefentatives every' revenue butaforementioned is moft didate, and the tax The firft unwarrantable injuftice. met in the affembly, as was juft now year 1765. At this mentioned, was folely engroffed by the time their attention already detailed, but a queftion of felf-taxation was now difpute of a different In preparing to break out. nature 1768 orders were iffued that the Roman Catholic out by the Crown gible into the legiflative capitulants fhould be elinor's council, as alfo that allembly and the goverof adting as juftices of the they fhould be capable of his Majefty's occafioned peace, This mandate in the ifland. The a very ferious agitation the palpable Protefant party declaimed the Catholics infingement of.the teft act, to upon rejoined, that the teft act wiich applicable to England and Berwick was only Minifters, however, continued upon Tweed. determination to maintain the unfhaken in their tholics, fo that the zealous privileges of the Careprefentatives part of the Proteftant triumph over thofe finding it impoflible to from the houfe of the oppofite creed, acquire a in a fit of illiberal retired conceiring that the fole good difguft, meanly to the public. was the they could perform but their own. fuppreflion of every opinion Their apollacy was produdive rious, of the moft ficient confeqtences. At no period was' injubody to be colleéed there a fuf. gency required. Atlaft the when the public exi. French, underfanding from the houfe of the oppofite creed, acquire a in a fit of illiberal retired conceiring that the fole good difguft, meanly to the public. was the they could perform but their own. fuppreflion of every opinion Their apollacy was produdive rious, of the moft ficient confeqtences. At no period was' injubody to be colleéed there a fuf. gency required. Atlaft the when the public exi. French, underfanding --- Page 119 --- WEST-INDIES. the perplexed fituation of the 7y fuccefsfully ifland, formed, and Twenty-five conduéted, a plan for its recapture: fhips of the troops, arrived, on the 2d of lineiofirigates, and 5000 St. George. July, in the harbour of tacked, with Eftaing, the commander, next day atwhich defended 3000 men, the fmall body oft the Hofpital Hill, troops . confifling of the aSibreginent,3co French militia, and I50 at laft fucceeded in feamen. The loft 300 men in the confliét. carrying the poft, but - thén governor of Grenada, Lord M-Cartney, followers, took retiring with his braveofthe harbour. poffeffion of the old fortat the foot fuch fuperior It was in vain, however, to force. The guns taken refift party at the from, hisown and he was reduced Hofpital were turned upon the fort, ditional furrender. to the fad neceflity of unconit ihould.be To the honour of the told, that the French be plundered by the town, though liable to from pradtice of war, was outrage, and, fafeguards protedted applied. granted to all who But the fubfequent behaviour not quite fo generous. of the French was Atridl orders that The. new governor no debtor fhould gave charge his debts to a, prefume to diffor which a Briton Briton, or even thofe debts nalty. Thofe was fecurity, under a fevere Englith eftates, alfo, which were poffefled peabfentees were by a tribe of devotiters, pofleffed in the interim by oftenfible duty, called Confervators, whofe pradice was to was to preferve, but whofe real plunder, the property configned to. N ould gave charge his debts to a, prefume to diffor which a Briton Briton, or even thofe debts nalty. Thofe was fecurity, under a fevere Englith eftates, alfo, which were poffefled peabfentees were by a tribe of devotiters, pofleffed in the interim by oftenfible duty, called Confervators, whofe pradice was to was to preferve, but whofe real plunder, the property configned to. N --- Page 120 --- IOO HISTORY OF THE their protedtion. It muft be that report of this confeffed, however, France than it injuftice was no fooner made and the was condemned in whole crew of by-adminilration, The peace of 1783 reftored confervators difcharged. other of herifands which Grenada, along with Great Britain. the French had captured, fubieribe to Every friend to my with, that thofe humanity muft which made it fuch an unhappy difputes France, may never, at eafy prey to the arms of vived. any future period, be re. We fhall conclude the a fhort account of its hiftory oft this ifland with . trade : to which it will population, be agriculture, and that, fince the peace of neceflàry to premife, has been drawn from 1783, a line of difindlion and Union Ifland, eaft to weft between pendages the latter ifland and all Cariacou its St. Vincent. being now attached to the apgovernment of Out of 80,0co acres of land have èver been cultivated, not above 50,000 tered with fprings, and The country is wathough no parts of it various in its furface, alhigh lands of Jamaica. are fo impradicable as the foil; but in general the There is a vaft variety of producions are almoft ground is fertile, and its this ifland and its minor numberlefs. The exports of valuable than 6oo,c0o1. iflets, in 1776, were no lefs ît to be the Sterling, which, produce of confidering ther furprifing, 18,c00 negroes, was altoge- --- Page 121 --- WEST INDIES. It contains fix IOI Cariacou forms parifhes, and its a feventh. dependent ifland to Britain, the Protefant Since its being ceded blifhed religion. has been made the eftaeftablifhed There are, clergymen, whofe accordingly, five currency, and 6ol. for a houfe. lipendsare cach 360l. belonging to the Roman The church lands confent of the' Crown, Catholic clergy were, by fupport of the Protefant applied, partly to the better buted among the Romith clergy, and partly diftri. The capital of the ifland difenting priefts. pital under its French is St. George, the caThe remaining towns poffeffors was Fort ted upon their are only petty villages Royale. From whatever harbours along the coafls. fituapulation of the white caufe it has originated, the fenfibly decreafed of inbabitants in Grenada podo not exceed late years; at prefent has known to be 1000 ; in 1771, their number they Previous fomewhat above 1600. was the black to the capture of the ifland they population amounted to in 1779, amounted to 23.926. 35,000; in 1785, But though the blacks declining in numbers, and whites have of the the fame cannot been people of colour. In be afferted this mongrel breed 1787, the number tempts have indeed was upivards of I100. of minifh this been made Atmixture of blood, to,prévent or diupon by manumifion; but the law is impofing fines forting to another place. evaded by reThe governor here, as in Jamaica; is fole chan. ; in 1785, But though the blacks declining in numbers, and whites have of the the fame cannot been people of colour. In be afferted this mongrel breed 1787, the number tempts have indeed was upivards of I100. of minifh this been made Atmixture of blood, to,prévent or diupon by manumifion; but the law is impofing fines forting to another place. evaded by reThe governor here, as in Jamaica; is fole chan. --- Page 122 --- IO2 HISTORY OF THE cellor. His falary is 32001. currency. per annum of Grenada Their legillative members ; their council alifembly is compofed of 26 acres gives a of 12. A freehold of right to fit as the any ofthe parifhcs, and a reprefentative of or for life, rentoften pounds in qualifies a voter. fee, Their courts are of different a court of grand kinds. They have feflions, of common chequer, of admiralty, and pleas, of exby the governor and council laftly, a court compofed appeals from the court of for deciding upon all In all cafes not. common. pleas. ifland, the common anticipated and by the laws of the, the are made the ftandard ftatute law of of-Englant of Weftminfter Hall is decifion. The practice cccur. Itis but reforted to when dificulties of their juftice to fay, that the aflembly are at all times decifions eminent degree. impartial in an All that remains is to take notice iilands or ofthe Grenadines, the principal dependent riacou and Ifle Ronde. ofwbich are Caingits labourers, Cariacou, befides maintain: ofcctton. yields annually a million of IeRondei is ofr much fmaller pounds entirely devoted to extent, and In pafturage and rearing of cotton: reader eftimating thek commerce of Grenada, may form a tolerable the tent from the following conception of its exIn January ftatement : 118 fhips, 178y there cleared from Grenada containing in all wrought byr826 men,and 25.764 tons burden, Sterling. valued in all at 6r4.9081. ton. yields annually a million of IeRondei is ofr much fmaller pounds entirely devoted to extent, and In pafturage and rearing of cotton: reader eftimating thek commerce of Grenada, may form a tolerable the tent from the following conception of its exIn January ftatement : 118 fhips, 178y there cleared from Grenada containing in all wrought byr826 men,and 25.764 tons burden, Sterling. valued in all at 6r4.9081. --- Page 123 --- WEST INDIES, ie IO3 CHAPTER III. S7. FINCENT'S ANDITS Ix DEPENDENTS, AND the patent which the DOMINICA. from Charles the Earl of Carlifle obtained India iflands Second to colonize the of), were included (a circumftance before taken Wef and Dominica. the two iflands of St. notice The Englith, Vincent's period, made feveral even as early as that into fubjedtion by attempts to get the natives French being equally enfparing pradlices; but the fame objea, they afliduous in all were at laft purfuing the thoughts of obliged to give At the treaty of becoming mafters of the ifland. up two iflands, with fome Aicis-Chapelle in 1748, thefe - clared in a ftate of others, were thercfore de. No fooner had this fubjedtion to neither tered into, mutual kingdoms: than both agreement been en-. with the compromife, parties appeared diffatisfied a very different We find the war which agreement was made accordingly at the that party feemed fucceeded that end of to remember treaty. Neither right to the dominions thatthe Charaibes had a afliumed, but fairly which they fo tion of France determined that, in confidera. unjufly Tobago, St. Vincent's, pollelling the ifland" of St. Lucia, given up to the Englith. and Dominica fhould be indeed, that by this tite It muft be the ifland (that the ancient confefled, reduced is, the yellow poffeffors of to. a miferable Charaibes) had been 1OO familics furviving in rémnant, not more than 1763. tion of France determined that, in confidera. unjufly Tobago, St. Vincent's, pollelling the ifland" of St. Lucia, given up to the Englith. and Dominica fhould be indeed, that by this tite It muft be the ifland (that the ancient confefled, reduced is, the yellow poffeffors of to. a miferable Charaibes) had been 1OO familics furviving in rémnant, not more than 1763. --- Page 124 --- HISTORY OF THE SECTION I. ST. VINCENT's. Sr. VINCENT's was fo called from the faint's by the name on whofe Spaniards, difcovered. It does not day, it was firft ever reduced them appear that the to Spaniards' people whom they at firft fubjeétion; received but another probably from compaflion, on their fhores, that conqueft which no accomplifhed in time obtain, European nation could Some time towards the end a Guinea thip, with of the laft wrecked a large of century, on this ifland. The cargo flaves, was the mountains, were fuffered negroes efeaping to tives, and in time grew fo to remain.by the namarriage with the Indians and numerous, by means of runaway flaves of Barbadoes, acceffions from the hoftilities on the natives, that, commencing bers very rapidly, and they reduced their numweft corner of the ifland. drove them to the norththe appellation of the black They acquired in time diftinélion to the aborigines, Charaibes, in contracomplexion. who were of a lighter The unfortunate Indians hardfhips alternately to the complained of their At length the latter Englifh and French, their caufe ; and landing were perfuaded to embrace began to ravage the on the ifland in 1719, Thefe, though unable plaatations of the negroes. in open fight-to refif their --- Page 125 --- WEST INDIES, invaders, became fallied out at midnight fulfciently terrible, when the mountains, from their retreats they from all They obliged the French to among thoughts of defift lence ; fo that," by mutual obtaining conqueft by vioagreed upon : confent, a peace was that the ifland the-articles of which but not the fhould remain under the compromifed, In the dominion, of France. proteaion, Britifh to year obtain 1723, an attempr was made by trivolous poffeflion of theilland, the Duke proceedings that could by the moft of Montague had be imagined. Thè fing St. Lucia, and St. obtained a grant for poffeft force which took Vincent's; ; but the Britifh ven out by the poffeffion ofthe former, were driattention towards French; fo that they turned all ly Captain oecupying the latter. their what effeét Braithwaite was difpatched According. perfuafive meafures thither, to try ducing the natives to the might have in res anchor on the ifland, Britifh yoke. Coming to all covered with crowds Braithwaite beheld the frand was one white, who of Indians, among He went, however, turbed out to be a whont his afliore in Ereuchman. little countrymen, and a Frenehman company with one oi furprifed, on getting ; but was not a armed with cutlaffes and among them, to find them him in a circle, to take frearinsand drawn diately him prifoner. round brought proceeded to carry him They imme. him at laft to their upt the country ; and fate, environed with his general, who fat in then interrogated, guards. 1 The great From whence he captain was came, and for O man. little countrymen, and a Frenehman company with one oi furprifed, on getting ; but was not a armed with cutlaffes and among them, to find them him in a circle, to take frearinsand drawn diately him prifoner. round brought proceeded to carry him They imme. him at laft to their upt the country ; and fate, environed with his general, who fat in then interrogated, guards. 1 The great From whence he captain was came, and for O --- Page 126 --- HISTORY OF THE what purpole? He replied, That he glifhman, and that he put into was an En. and water. The general the coaft for wood informed his vifit told him, That he had been pole; was meant for a different infifted namely, the fubjugation of the purupon his immediately ifland; and thores. Captain retiring from their ihip without moleftation. Brithwaiterthen returned to the: board, he fent afhore As foon as he got on bread, and beef; and fent the fhip's boat, with rum, a ral, to inform him, that mellenger to the genegers the common though he denied to ftranthat he had fent him privilege of water and wood, yet, afforded. He a part of what his mhip's ftores the general, by received in return a polite reply from in the two mefengers, who offered to fhip as hoflages, provided he fay again on fhore. Returning, wilhed to go ral, Captain Braithwaite therefore, to the genereception than before received a more gracious felf with the ; and fo far ingratiated himwith fome negro chief, as to perfuade him, others, to pay a vilit to the veffel, along opening their hearts with abundance After Englith were at laft fo candid of wine, the real object of their as to tell them the That had fuch a confeflion embafly, The negroes replied, their been made on fhore, all authority over their have prevented them from countrymen could not general indignation. becomingferilicert to the country, though They declared, That their protected by ject to her power; nor indeed France, was not fubmit to be the flaves of any would they ever fub. European nation. Braith. After Englith were at laft fo candid of wine, the real object of their as to tell them the That had fuch a confeflion embafly, The negroes replied, their been made on fhore, all authority over their have prevented them from countrymen could not general indignation. becomingferilicert to the country, though They declared, That their protected by ject to her power; nor indeed France, was not fubmit to be the flaves of any would they ever fub. European nation. Braith. --- Page 127 --- WEST INDIES, waite, therefore, would be fruitlefs, finding that all further intrigue fents, and returned difmifled the negroes with to Martinico. preAfter this period, for the thing worthy of detail took fpace of 40 years, nocept the incellant hoftilities place in the ifland, ex: the yellow Charaibes, between the black and from the diminifhed It may be ealily guefled, fide the victory lay numbers of the latter, on which markable, however, during that this thele contefts, It is rethe Charaibes) fhould have victorious people (viz, quifhed a nationaland borrowed from the van.. ly, Aattening the forcheads, extraordinary cultom; namethicknefs of the fkull. fo as to augment thei The peace of Paris gave up St. Britith. It was accordingly Vincent's to the ferent proprietors in lots. It divided,and muft fold to dif. 4 ever, very little to the credit of be obferved, how. ment, that the exterit of thefe the Britifh governby the lands inhabited fales was not limited prehended the whole by the Charaibes; but comother. Itis not wonderful ifland, from one end to the dignant at feeing their that the Charaibes, inthofe who had no title to country the parcelled out. by have: taken up arms, againft pofleffion ofit, fhould ties were feverely retaliated fuch ufurpers, Hoftiliwas the object of by the Britifh, for it but the remonftrances minifry to extirpate. the the ifland; of the military natives; obliged them to abandon employed in During the American the Icheme. pofed in a flate fo war, St. Vincent's was exdefencele6s,, that it was fubjeded Oij --- Page 128 --- I08 HISTORY OF THE to the arms ofFrance Perhaps the jundure by nO more than 650 men. formed with the which the black Charaibes French ing, made the immediately on their land. 1783 it again reverted conqueft Aill eafier. At the peace of Out of to the Britifh. 84,000 acres of well general mountainous and watered, although in Vincent's contains, about rugged land, which St. tivated; one balf of which 46,000 are at prefent cul, tifh, and the other by the is poflefled by the BriIn-the Britifh Chartibes. There is territory there are five only one confiderable parifhes, namely, Kinglton, the town in the ifland; more than deipicable capital. The others areno The (yftem of civil villages, aflimilates to Grenada. government, in all refpedts, 20001. per annum. The governor's falary is By the latt cftimate which inhabitants amounted to was made, the white In this latter number, 1400, the blacks to 11,850. negroes of. the fmaller however, we muf include the Bequia, Mullique, and dependent ilands; fuch as conliderable fhare to the Union, which contribute a reader may form a tolerable general eftimate, The which fubfifts between notion of the trade Britain, by the following St. Vincent's and Great 1787 there failed from St. fatement, In the year dages, 122 veffels, manned in Vincent's and its appencargoes were valued at all by 969 men, whofe 186,45cl. 14S. 8d. Sterling. Bequia, Mullique, and dependent ilands; fuch as conliderable fhare to the Union, which contribute a reader may form a tolerable general eftimate, The which fubfifts between notion of the trade Britain, by the following St. Vincent's and Great 1787 there failed from St. fatement, In the year dages, 122 veffels, manned in Vincent's and its appencargoes were valued at all by 969 men, whofe 186,45cl. 14S. 8d. Sterling. --- Page 129 --- WEST INDIES, SECTION II. DOMINICA, THIs ifland was fo on a Sabbath day. Little called from.being difeovered before its falling into the notice was taken of it in 1759. pofleflion of the Englify Previous to this time,it had a number of French been fettled upon by' oath planters, who, upon ofallegiance to the taking the paying a fmall quit-rent, Englifh government, and property. The were all confirmed in their. rate lots, remaining land, when fold in Sterling, brought the fum of fepa312,0921. IIS. Id; To thisi day, however, confitute the more the French inhabitants Thefe receive their numerous people in the ifland. from manners and religion Martinique, on which on as an' appendage. this ifland is looked principally Dominica uption at the was tifing into afluence eve of the and confideratained a traffic with American war: She main. India iflands, with America, with the other Weft France, and with unfortinately the conteft Spain. But try and her colonifts between the mother countions of the ifland. blafted the growing tion to this Such was the expectaonce fourifting thameful inattenhotteft of the war, no ifland, that, during the was allowed to greater military Dominica appointment men, than fix oflicers and Ioo --- Page 130 --- IIO HISTORY OF THE ly Thiscarelelfhefs attracted on the part of Britain the attention of France. undoubted. pected alfo (I know not if froi It was fuf that fome French inhabitants fufficient authority) mer mafters, invited an invafion attached to their forMartinique. On the feventh of the French from a French veffel of 40 of September 1778, a 30 fail of fchooners guns, and three frigates, and about above 2000 regular floops, having on board lunteers, appeared off troops, the befides a banditti of voneral Bouille. By the ifland, commanded by Gehabitants Fort Cafhacrou treachery of fome of the infeflion. They then was reduced to their pof. which was but feebly proceeded towards the town, batteries; and to accelerate defended by its ill provided vafion, the French inhabitants the progrefs of the intion. But the fmall kept aloof from ac.. lant defence ; and, remaining body made a galalthough their fuflicient to repel their bravery was not very honourable terms of invaders, it procured them permitted to march out with capitulation. They-were to retain their religion, military honours, and feflions. government, laws, and pof. De Bouille, after his tinique, leaving the ifland congueft, returned to Mar. Marquis of Duchilleau, under the command of the whofe years was infolent and condud during four He difarmed the tyrannical. them, under the Engilt.inhabitamts, and forbade penalty of -more than two in a being fhot, to affemble from place, He walking the freets, after prohibited them a certain hour, with. feflions. government, laws, and pof. De Bouille, after his tinique, leaving the ifland congueft, returned to Mar. Marquis of Duchilleau, under the command of the whofe years was infolent and condud during four He difarmed the tyrannical. them, under the Engilt.inhabitamts, and forbade penalty of -more than two in a being fhot, to affemble from place, He walking the freets, after prohibited them a certain hour, with. --- Page 131 --- WEST INDIES, out a candle, and téwarded, III tinel who fhot an Englidh with promotion, a cengo on board his own veffel gentleman in atteimpting to private letter, before the harbour. Every delivery, was infpection; and he fubmitted to his meannef of going himfelf frequently in defcended to the ferved, to private domeftic dilguife to liften, unobBy his fecret orders the converfations. on fire. Inflead of town ofRofeau was fet (as relieving or aflifting the fufferers fided commonhumanity would on the occafion to fee that have didated), he prebe given to the Englifh no affiftance fhould but gave permifion to the houfes that were on fire, felves with the pillage. foldiers to load them. the fufferers were On this melancholy Sterling. computed to have loft difafter 200,0col. The profperity of Dominica berty. During five years its vanifhed with her lilated. All connedion with commerce was annihi. fo that their commodities France was given land, and fold at a low were either fent to up, Dutch neutral rate, through the Engveflels thips, or elfe medium of to Oftend, and there conveyed by-imperial lower. The deftruation of vended at a rate Qill a fhort time the ruin of the commerce proved in whom abandoned their planters, numbers of length, after property in defpair. groaning five At ment of tyrants, the years under the governthe indefcribable happy day arrived, joy ofthe when, to vileges, their property, their inbabitants, their prihopes of profperity, --- Page 132 --- II2 HISTORY OF THE - were reftored by the return of. ment * the Britifh governa Dominica contains and is divided into 186.436 iquare acres ten ofland, fean, a town parifhes. Itsi capital is Roin length, and ofaniregulas figure, about half a face of the two furionigs in. breadth. mile ifland is very. The furinto bold irregular various, fometimes into wide hills, and fometimes fivelling fertile and beautiful fpreading grounds ftill retain volcanos, valleys. The higher lubrions quality. and hot fprings of Ffad The ifland is watered The foil is of various by thirty beautiful rivers. moftly adjoining the kinds. That of al black colour quality. Of fertile fhore is in general of the richeft faid to be land, however, there any confiderable cannot be It contains 50 plantations; portion in Dominica. rage of one year with ; and thefe, at an ave3000 another, hardly hogtheads of fugar. produce above It muft be allowed, more productive however, that coffee is here a crop. Theriumber of white turns in inhabitants of 1788, were 1236, free all, by re14.967, and about 30 families negroes 445, flaves raibes. Thefe are a of the native Chaprincipally by filhing quietinoffenfive and people, that live fowling, They are ama. The civil government, reinftated ofthe other iflands, Their by the Britifh, was like that nineten, a council oftyelve, legifature and was vefted in an affembly of hundred a-ycar, a gevernor, whofe falary is twelve re14.967, and about 30 families negroes 445, flaves raibes. Thefe are a of the native Chaprincipally by filhing quietinoffenfive and people, that live fowling, They are ama. The civil government, reinftated ofthe other iflands, Their by the Britifh, was like that nineten, a council oftyelve, legifature and was vefted in an affembly of hundred a-ycar, a gevernor, whofe falary is twelve --- Page 133 --- WEST TNDIES. i13 managing the bow, and difplay zingly dexterousat baikets and panniers of much ingenuity in weaving ftraw and the barks oftrees. failed from Dominica 162 In the year 1787 there the cargoesamounit veffels, wrought by 18,146 men, ing to 302:9871. I5S. Sterling. --- Page 134 --- I14 HISTORY OF THE CHAPTER IV. Leeward Charaitibenn Ifland Goverment, Ropher's, Nevis, Antigtray comprechenting St. ChriHitory-and Defeription of Montferrat, and the Virgin Ilandspercent. dety-Conclution of re-hapenaafhoatss the Hiltory. of the4 Siscz theyent 1672 thefe feveral flituted one iflands have conthority of one government, who is calied and are fubjed to the auLeeward Charaib lflands. Captain General of the vernor is at Antigua, The relidence of this go- 'the others. His although he occafionally vifits nor, who refides at vicegerent the fame is a lieutenant goverfence of both from the other place. During the abofthe affembly takes the iflands, the prefident executive anthority. SECTION I. ST. CHRISTOPHER's. Tris illand, fo called by the natives tility, was difcovered by from its ferwith his name, Though Columbus, and honoured Spaniards.itjathe oldeft never cultivated by the ments, French and Englilh. adettschenaesnfete ona voyage to Surinam, Captain Roger North, mariner of the name of was aecompanied by a guifhed abilities, to whofe Painton, a man of diftinthe utility ofa fettlement fagacity in demonitrating rence tothe continent, on this ifland in prefeEngland was firft indebted fos called by the natives tility, was difcovered by from its ferwith his name, Though Columbus, and honoured Spaniards.itjathe oldeft never cultivated by the ments, French and Englilh. adettschenaesnfete ona voyage to Surinam, Captain Roger North, mariner of the name of was aecompanied by a guifhed abilities, to whofe Painton, a man of diftinthe utility ofa fettlement fagacity in demonitrating rence tothe continent, on this ifland in prefeEngland was firft indebted fos --- Page 135 --- WEST INDIMS: the poffe@ion of Stac feaman communicated Chriltopher's This his intelligent Mr. Warner, - intention to bis. friend fect, failed with whourefolxing to put the plan into ef. whence he proceeded fourteenallociates to Virginia, from rived theré in the to St. Charitopher's He arthe fpaceof nine months month of January 1623, and lin of reared an tobacco. - excellent crop - It has been a common tlie entry of the French miflake to fuppofe that with the fetrlement of the upon-this ifland was coeval leader of the firft French Englifh. Defnambuc, the onSt. colonifts who ever landed aftcr Warner's Chriltopher's, fet fail from. France two ly arrival. The miftake has years originated in this undoubted. colony baving' been reduced circamflance, that Warner's neceflity of returning by a hurricane to.t the" voyageto'St. home, he made his fecond French. Thetruthis, Chrilophersatthe fametime with the ed in his paflage by a Delnambuc had been attackto make for this ifland Spanifh in galleon, and obliged kihdly received by the order to repair. : He was confejons ofthe Englich, who, at that time, the Indians, injuftice of their behayiour towards ftrength Fortificd were glad of an accefion, to their to the moft by this alliance, they proceeded Charaibes, unwarrantable barbarities totards the murdering their flaves of their warriors, and making their women. Initated by the of countrymen, thé natiyes of wrongs ed in numbers.to invade other iflands fockenfiued, in which the them. A bloody battle Europeans loft a hundred men Pij Indians, injuftice of their behayiour towards ftrength Fortificd were glad of an accefion, to their to the moft by this alliance, they proceeded Charaibes, unwarrantable barbarities totards the murdering their flaves of their warriors, and making their women. Initated by the of countrymen, thé natiyes of wrongs ed in numbers.to invade other iflands fockenfiued, in which the them. A bloody battle Europeans loft a hundred men Pij --- Page 136 --- I1O HISTORY OF THE upon the ficld, but remained ority of fire-arms. viétors by the fuperi, The refpedtive leaders, Warner foon after returned home, and Defmamibuc, fettlement with, in order to fortify their der the patronage fiehadvenrurens of The latter, unfor a company to trade Richelicu, to his obtained a charter fitted out for this object colony; but the fhips ceffaries, that the were fo ill ftored with need for want on the greater part of the crews perifhlanding at St. Chritophers, royage. The remainder, on and defenfive with the formed a treaty offenfive we before Englith inhabitantss mentioned, their but, as to refift the invafion of the united forces were unfit when we refledt on the Spaniards, But, indeed, miferable Charaibes, we behaviour of both to the we ferioufly condemn) can buthalf; regret who maffacred the cruelty of thofe (though The ifland them in their turn. invaders had fcarcely béen population, after being reftored to its ufual the Spanjards, than thinned by the fivords of kindled up. In the nationalaninoniftes reign of began to be French inhabirants rofe King Charles II. the them from the ifland. upon the Englith and drove peace of Breda, but again They were reftored by the when James II. had abdicated disehaway, as before, months after, the Englifh the throne. bers to retaliate returned in greater Light and hoftilities, numtraniported overpowered the In numbers oft them to enemy, 1705, a French armament Martinigue. and committed barbarous landed on the illand, devaltation on the En- fe King Charles II. the them from the ifland. upon the Englith and drove peace of Breda, but again They were reftored by the when James II. had abdicated disehaway, as before, months after, the Englifh the throne. bers to retaliate returned in greater Light and hoftilities, numtraniported overpowered the In numbers oft them to enemy, 1705, a French armament Martinigue. and committed barbarous landed on the illand, devaltation on the En- --- Page 137 --- WEST INDIES. Parliament, howéver, humanely glith property. and happily this was the recompenfed the fufferers; refentment in the ifland. By, laft difplay of national ceded entirely to the the peace of Utrecht it was inhabitants as chofe Britifh ; and fuch ofthe French allegiance were naturalized. to fwear Chriftopher's continued in our pof: Till 1782,St. it was captured by the feflion. At that period at the peace in 1783arms of France, but reftored about 43.726 acres of contains St. Chriftopher's about 21,000 are devoted to paftuJand, of which The interior of the rage and the rearing of fugar. although the country is mountainous and barren, amends for the fertility of the plains makes ample fterility of its hills. eflentially different Thefoilof St. Chriftophier'sis iflands. It is light and pofrom that of the other of virgin mould and appears to be a inixture rous, pumice. In all probamixed up with ferruginous by fubterraneous bility its qualities were occalioned of fugar it is certainly fires. For the production choice lands of this ifland yield, unequalled. The cwt. of fugar per acre annually; at an average, 32 fpots have adually and canes planted in particular 'of 8000 pounds yielded the aftonithing quantity per acre. contains nine parifhes. BafleSt. Chriftopher's ofthe ifland. Of the fum terre is fill the.capital this ifland allotted to the falary of the governor, contributes 1oool. currency. confifts of 24 members; The houfe of affembly --- Page 138 --- I18 HISTORY OF.THE the council of IO. a The lor ex officio, and executes governor ads as chancelat one period propofed his duty alone. It was the ifland to his oflice, but to join.other gentlemen of objected, that perfons thus the inhabitants rightly refted in the decifion of eleéted would be inte: There is only one every caufe that prefented. the court of jurifliction, of chiefjuflice is appointed which a falary of 6001. a bythe King, and holds The inhabitants year. 26,000 are computed. at negro flaves, and 300 free 4000lwhites, lattoes. Every white from 16 blacks and mu: with the militia, fo that to 60 muft enter confiderable. their number is They have two pretty befides a corps of blacks. regimehts of whites, In fact, the nember of militia, nature of the ifland, was and the peculiar cufe urged by a reafonable enough exthis colony with government Britifh for refufing to protedt 'tive men, well armed forces. A thoufand effecfo unequal, might and fapplied, upon ground when it was laft have eafily refifted all invaders captured, SECTION II. NEVIS, ThE ifland of Nevis rifes from the ocean, its bafe not likea lingle mountain The crater upon the fummit exceeding eight lengues, the hot fprings, of the mountain, and us no room to doubt impregnated that with fulphur, leave this fpot was a volcanic ing to protedt 'tive men, well armed forces. A thoufand effecfo unequal, might and fapplied, upon ground when it was laft have eafily refifted all invaders captured, SECTION II. NEVIS, ThE ifland of Nevis rifes from the ocean, its bafe not likea lingle mountain The crater upon the fummit exceeding eight lengues, the hot fprings, of the mountain, and us no room to doubt impregnated that with fulphur, leave this fpot was a volcanic --- Page 139 --- WEST INDIES., emitted a fmoke eruptions The fummit probably land hence it was at its firit difcovery by Columbus, the Snows, by the Spadenominated Nieves, Or niards. furface and appearance of this From the whole doubt entertained that it jfland there can be little period by an exploat fome remote mounwas produced nature. The top of the fion ofa volcanic and it contains a hollow or crater, tain is exadly which is'to a very great degree hot ipring of water, impregnated with fulphur. watered as it is beautiful. The ifland is as well fertile, but in fome the fuilisexceding In general nature. "thischowever.is, upon placesitiso ofa dry difadvantage, âs in thefe the whole, no material vegetables are abundantly places yams and other would not accommodate which perhaps foil. produced, fertile, ,but more watery fo well to a more this ifland in 1628. The Englifh firft occupied at number of its white inabitantsisetinated The blacks amount to 10,000. This 600 men ; the for them to maintain as refpectmakes it necelfary numbers will admit of. Inable a militia as their they have a troop of 50 cluded in their militia are ever" quartered in horfe, but no Britifh troops the ifland. --- Page 140 --- - --- Page 141 --- BOOK IV. CHAPTER I: Summary Account of the Cufts-Enigante from Great. Inhabitants of the feveral Inandsnant Character of the European Britain and Tredhand-Predomt --Efea of rctnus-Chunider Rendene-Creolis, of the or Natives dren-Ofthe Pcopleof Colaur, and the Creole Women and Chil. -Rellridions raéterat on the Free Blacks and different Cafts or Tribes length: Mulsttois-Theik ChaFxox the moft exaét tion ofthe Weft Indies account the prefent populas flands as follows: Whites: Jamaica a Blacks, 30,000 a Barbadoes a 250,000 Grenada 16,167 - 62,115 St. Vincent's 1,000 a 23.026 Dominica 1,450 - 11,853 Antigua 1,236 - 14:967 Montferrat 2;590 2 37,808 Nevis 1,300 10,000 St. Chrillopher', 1,000 - 8,420 1,900 - Virgin Ifles - 20,435 Bahamas 1,200 - 9,000 Bermudas 1,060 2,241 5.462 4.919 Total 65.305 455,684 Q 1,000 a 23.026 Dominica 1,450 - 11,853 Antigua 1,236 - 14:967 Montferrat 2;590 2 37,808 Nevis 1,300 10,000 St. Chrillopher', 1,000 - 8,420 1,900 - Virgin Ifles - 20,435 Bahamas 1,200 - 9,000 Bermudas 1,060 2,241 5.462 4.919 Total 65.305 455,684 Q --- Page 142 --- HISTORY OF THE Befides the four great claffes into Indians ought which Weft or. native properly to be divided, viz. Creoles; mixed whites-Europen blood--and freel whitest-Creoles of groes in flavery, there blacks-and laft of all, Nea deferve noticel From are other refidenters who North many emigrants; and the America there are trated to every quarter where Jews, who have peneexiftence, are alfo found in the human race have are permitted the exercife oft thefe iflands. They reftraint, and they have their religion without fynagogues over all the accordingly Weft abundance of cal view, they rank as inferior Indies. In a politibeing incapable of to the other whites, ing fent as voting at an eledtion, or of betheir manners reprefentatives they to any. affembly. In brethren in other exadtly refemble thofe of their countries*. It'is the common motives of improving imagination of thofe who, from home to the Weft Indies, their fortunes, retire from. cording to their wifhes that they thall liveac. bufinefs than they have been upon lefs application to to give. But the hitherto accuflomed perienced; fori in fallacy of this belief is foon bufinefs fo no part of.the world isafliduityin excontinually and indifpenfably necellary. M. Neckar gives the following eftimate of negrocs,and flaves of the French Weft the whites, free putes at 63,68z; free blacks, Indies: Whites he comtime of this eftimate their numbers 13:429; have flaves, 437,736. Sincethe probably increafed. --- Page 143 --- WEST INDIES. of thefe ifands took Indeed the firft pofleffors with. very different propolfellion of their. eftates and idlenefs. It was to ipeds than thofe of wealth religious opinions that enjoy. the liberty of civiland abandoned their homes, when the firit adventurers either monarchical or rethey faw a gavermment, contrary. I to their ereéted in England hial publican, and inclinationsa f phylie, and principles of law, At prefent the profeflions the Weft Indies by men divinity are filled up in and it is but julticero of talents and refpedlability, with liberal fay, that preRtairenserentneas Lealiandconimades public encouragement. fome individuals to confideran judices may incline of thefe men as undeferencomium on the genius let fuch perfons recolleét ved and partial; but the feeds of genius on that Nature has thrown abilities, in a, general every foil; and that fuperior and by no. means fenfe, are the refult of eultivation, a local quality. land fervice of Great Britain From the feaand to the WeftIndiesa Such numbers of fettlersacerue of hardfhips to, which. men, tired of that variety them, wifely. prefer a, more their profeflion expoles foberand induftrious life.: 7 tribe of faétors, clerks, After enumerating the attached to-t the foil, who become bufinefs is and tradelmen, notice of the man whofe we may take This profeffion, known by to cultivate the land. overfeer, and manaplanter, been - the various names.of of. thofe who have ger, is ufually compofed Qij , tired of that variety them, wifely. prefer a, more their profeflion expoles foberand induftrious life.: 7 tribe of faétors, clerks, After enumerating the attached to-t the foil, who become bufinefs is and tradelmen, notice of the man whofe we may take This profeffion, known by to cultivate the land. overfeer, and manaplanter, been - the various names.of of. thofe who have ger, is ufually compofed Qij --- Page 144 --- HISTORY OF THET educated to no particulan who bufinefs imagining the taik of atihome, and and laboursof African flaves, Mfurperintending the lives elate, to require no and managing a fugar embark in oflices for uncommon ftock of fagacity, capable. which they arei not always It will readily, therefore, generality of fettlers in the appear, that fince the grants from the mother Weft Indiesare emi. manners will be country, their habits and nearly the fame countrymen at home, withithofeof their nefs of this conclufion, Notwithflanding the faira in treating. of the lives there are authors who, Weft Indians, hold them and diipofitions of thefe radters the up to the world as chaas if, in the seateapmneditermise change of anddeteftables new, but degraded climate, Britons affumed a Britain, in colonizing ftamp her of characler; or, as if every, vicious, but not one fetiements, expatriated The pidure they have virtuous, individual. overchtanged, is too drawn being fo grofsly What fhould alter unnatural to excite their charaéer belief, worle? I confefs that, from. fo much to the fiances a and L habits of change of circummanners mufl arife ; but living, I fome difference of fhow that the change hope I thall be able to than deprave them. tends rather to meliorateIn removing to the Weft Indies, fuddenly finds himfelf the, emigrant dilinction of colourc among a people where the in point of conftitutes a marked difference refpedability. His complexion places --- Page 145 --- INDTESPT WEST is ftrongly him in that clais to which pre:emisence that to make a man attached ; and ifit be allowed is as certain' a confider himfelf as rerpectable, affume a character really method of making him him in his' own opinion refpe@table, as to degrade the level of his fuppofition, will be to fink him to that the new féttler will it' muft readily occur the fcale of true refpedtabirather rife than fall in I have mnentioned lity. Indeed the confequenee white feels himaétually takes place. The pooreft the rich than a Euro: felf more upon a Rlevel with home, and there. pean in the fame circumftancesat of franknefs and' manly fore addrefles him in a flyle a independence. writer, 44 is eftafays'a great Where flavery," of the world, thofe who are < blifhed in any part and' jealous of" far the moft proud' s free, are by Freedom is to them not only se. their freedom. kind of rank and privilege. 4 an enjoyment, but a freedom, as in countries e Not feeing there, that blefling, may be united : where it is a icommon mifery, with all abjedt toil, with great 6 with muchi liberty looks among sc the exterior of fervitude, that is more noble and li5 them like fomething ofthe fouthern colonies wberal: Thus the pcople ftrongly, and with s6 (of America) are much more attached to limore ftubborn fpirit; dt a higher and Such were thofe to the northward. c berty, than commonwealths : fuch were our 6 all the ancient fuch in our days are the Poles; e Gothic anceftors ; toil, with great 6 with muchi liberty looks among sc the exterior of fervitude, that is more noble and li5 them like fomething ofthe fouthern colonies wberal: Thus the pcople ftrongly, and with s6 (of America) are much more attached to limore ftubborn fpirit; dt a higher and Such were thofe to the northward. c berty, than commonwealths : fuch were our 6 all the ancient fuch in our days are the Poles; e Gothic anceftors ; --- Page 146 --- HISTORY OF'THE rand fuch will be all 4 not flaves themfelves." mafters of flaves, who are Thofe who are inclined to racter ofthe Weft Indians. undervalue the chation and felf importance: Tax them with oftentabe admitted; but let Thc' charge muft in part not thefe aggerated or too feverely imperfections be exvirtues of-benevolence and reprehended, when the ingly their concomitants, hofpitality are fo Arikthe latter virtue, there From the prevalenee of throughout all the Weft is not a tolerable inn To the fame Indies *, remarked arifes independent from fpirit, which I before the confcioufnefs may be attributedthe of equality, which the Weft Indian unfubmitting litigioustemper virtués grow up naturally difeovers; for vices and temper is not wholly without together, This litigious counterbalance its evil effeats, fome advantages to to' argue upon their moft Thus accuftomed acquire by habit a important rights, they fuperior to the knowlege in law matters far people ofother countries, independeferve There, to. be are detailed peculiaritics in thc whites as well as to thofe who negrocs, which can be morc ftriking than the vaft fudy their hiftory, Nothing and theirhoufes. difparity between their tables wrines, their dinner Therfide-board is ferved in is loaded with plate and choice Hovel worfe than a European up barn. twenty covers, and all this ina mimerous, but meanly habited; none but The negro attendants are fhocs or ftockings, the reft are half the principal fervant wears table, nakçd when they wait at --- Page 147 --- WVEST INDIESeE which thé exercife of their denti of that fhrewaineis 5r faculties muft occafion. features. of the Weft Indian. But for the truerd confult the Creoles charaéter, we.mult principally the Creoles are taller In their perfons or natives.mr of Europeans 5 and.aithough than the generality which is requifite, acthey want, that thicknels complete the cording to our ideas of beauty,ato. have. amazing dexfigure of a tall man, yet. they and aj graceful ealy and fuppleneis of limbs, terity There are two remarkable citeumitances carriage, bodies, which fhows how provident about their is to obviate the phyfical dif the hand of nature climate by wife and advantages of an intemperate focket of their eye is remerciful means. The by which means.the markably funk in sheic.head, fhields the fight from the impending eyebrow of the fun. In the next place, intolerable blaze coolnefs to the touch in their there 'is a conitant occafipned by fome eflecfkins, which is certaindy to preferve the tual means. which are appointed unneceffary of temperature body in a moderation of colder latitudes. to the inhabitants the Creoles are fober, temperate, The ladies of the exerJ of great felf-denial, Except and poffelled they have no. other amufements cife of dancing, volatile gaiéty; for the to excite the fpirits to a to mafquerades, gaming-tables ruinous attachment in England, is happily andrallemblies fo prevalent exceed the fobriety here unknown. Nothing can is their chief potation; of their diet. Lemonade J moderation of colder latitudes. to the inhabitants the Creoles are fober, temperate, The ladies of the exerJ of great felf-denial, Except and poffelled they have no. other amufements cife of dancing, volatile gaiéty; for the to excite the fpirits to a to mafquerades, gaming-tables ruinous attachment in England, is happily andrallemblies fo prevalent exceed the fobriety here unknown. Nothing can is their chief potation; of their diet. Lemonade J --- Page 148 --- HISTORY OF THE and their food is'in . It cannot be denied general of a vegetable that in kind; infinitely inferior in attradlions many.refpect they are countyuromeng for of perfon to our there is not much though their figures are fine, their fpirit or animation features or manners. either in indifpenblale requifite of They want, too, that of youthful vermilion complete beauty, the glow of the Englifh fair. which heightens the of But their graces complexion is inferiority in beauty of their large and recompenfed by the brilliant lufre alfo remarkably fine, expreflive eyes. Their teeth are they take to preferve owing to the ufe ofthe them clean, and the precautions conftant ftrong chew-ftick, whofe qualities detergent. operatel as a The moft prominent ter of the natives is the circumflance in the characa mind at a very carly aftonifhing progrefs of the phers of Europe have period oflife. The menon; but taken notice of this philofothe nature of arguing in an analogical phenoplants to that of manner from produced, as far as animals, they have tion. They tell us, Leanjudge, that an unfounded affer: climate rife fooner to as vegetables in a warm than thofe of perfedtion, and fooner dian mind unfolds European growth; fo the Weft ready and allo its powers at an earlier Ins fuch proportionably foon falls into period, philofophers, however, decay. Let mate fo warm the mind is recollea, that in a clicentious habits, and more eafily led into libility of confequently, with powers to the European, equal duramuf, from this --- Page 149 --- WEST INDIES. 1ig foonér fall off, without alleging natu-. circumitanée, caufé. Again, let it be rememzal imbecility as the fituation, the mind is in- 1 bered. that, from local whereupon its faculties capable of finding objeats confequentty augbe exercifed, and its vigour where may that in thofe inftances mented. - And; laftly, Indian mind has been unfethe faculties ofa Weft ipon unworthy obduced to wafteits enrlyficulticns circumftancés have injedts, and where favourable its genius has remained duced habits of refledtion, of life. undiminifhed tô a late period more conducive of the héart are But the qualities thofe of the head; and to general happinels than certainly fuppofe the in thefe qualities I cannot of his fpecies. Their Creole inferior to any other their manners are difpofitions are as generous as have no falfehood, frank and independent. They theircharaéter, and no meannefs, no concealmentin themfelves, they fufpedt not judging of mankind by difpofitions. another of fuch unamiable between the two Philofophers have been gravelled Since the refpedting the effect of climare. opinions it has . been obferved as a genehiftory ofi inankind, have come from the north. ral rule, that conquérors courageand ftrength Again, in the warmeft latitudes, ; and, when we confpicuous have - been eminently boundaries of the north; we travel.to the fartheft it the Laplander. behold the courage of man expire the confethen, that timidityis Are we to believe, that indolence may refult quence of heat? Iadmit and timidity'are from fuch a caufe ; butindolence R ory ofi inankind, have come from the north. ral rule, that conquérors courageand ftrength Again, in the warmeft latitudes, ; and, when we confpicuous have - been eminently boundaries of the north; we travel.to the fartheft it the Laplander. behold the courage of man expire the confethen, that timidityis Are we to believe, that indolence may refult quence of heat? Iadmit and timidity'are from fuch a caufe ; butindolence R --- Page 150 --- HISTORY OF THE not caufe and eflect. The eafe and pleafure; and he is Creole is-attàched to the faculties of mind, not fond of exerting lities of his foul But when the act and are excited, he dormant qua- * to think with the moft evinces ability to' perfonal courage the Creoles fpirited energy. In fedtive, as, upon innumerable are by no means defignally difplayed. occafions, they, have The Wefl Indian, it is penfity to magnify his faid, has a ridiculous progratify his imagination with hopes of prolperity, and to wealth and abfurd dreams of improbable lity in their foil or their anticipation. There is no quato this effect, as writers have climate which contributes arifes very evidently from the fancifully fuppoled. It perty, which, unlike nature oftheir protain and ftated return, European eftates, yields a cerdufiry of farmers. The when fubmitted to the inown and Weft Indian duction farmersa as the difference of becomes his with another's is one year's proWeft Indian is eafily altogether afionimhing, the accumulation of wealth. betrayed to hope for a fudden Ofthe people of mixed led people of colour, there complexion, who are calfambo is the of are various degrees. A latto oflspring a black man, or ofa a mulatto woman woman by a muThe mulatto is the by a black, man. a white man; the offspring of a black woman by latto woman quadroon is the child by a white man, and of a muquadroon woman by a white the muftee ofa man. The Spaniards J --- Page 151 --- WEST INDIES. e 131 which it is needlefs introduced nicer difindions, here to enumerate. fugar iflands, the defcen- 1 Lbelieve, over all our whom the law entitles dants of negroes by whites, freedom, are fuch as are to the full privileges of the negro venter. All. removed from - three degrees term of Malatto. below this go by the general a diftinétion beIn Jamaica there was anciently imothers and fuch as had tween thofe born of-fréed by the will of their releafed I been immediately from a maxim of law which owners. This arofe other country, and was eftafrom them of what originated overthe colonics, that the property Until blifhied ofthe mother. is born accrues to the poffeffor under the latter cirthe year 1748, perfons born mothers had been manucumflances, thatis, whofe. after their birth, were de-, mitted by their mafters held unworthy of giving nied the trial by jury, and hardihips have been in judicial evidence. Thefe remains to be done. mitigated ; but much yet their evidence is only part molt ofthe Britifh iflands, act is În thofe cafes where no particular received in accufed. The paffed ir favour of the white perfon him frotn grofs abufe ; negro has a mafter to proteét inffitation, has no but the mulatto, by this partial They are fecurity againft hardfhip and oppreflion. appointed to the lowlikewife debarred from being cannot hold the eft offices of public truft : They black corps ; nor can commiflion even in a King's at eledlions. they vote for reprefentatives that their degraded fituItis to be acknowlelged, Rij affed ir favour of the white perfon him frotn grofs abufe ; negro has a mafter to proteét inffitation, has no but the mulatto, by this partial They are fecurity againft hardfhip and oppreflion. appointed to the lowlikewife debarred from being cannot hold the eft offices of public truft : They black corps ; nor can commiflion even in a King's at eledlions. they vote for reprefentatives that their degraded fituItis to be acknowlelged, Rij --- Page 152 --- HISTORY OF THE ation is in fome degree which the members of mitigated by the generality Wef ready to grant to people of Indian affemblies are and baptifrn enticles them colour, whole education didion to exprefs ftatutes to refpeét even in contra.. Still, however, on the fubjed. not juftify the partial inftances of generolity da which this unfortunate humiliating fiate.of fabjection to loweft and mott worthlefs people are reduçed. The infolence to the beft educatéd white will behave with and as contempt always free man of colour; are unprofitable members deenadeaehanden Whatever of the they may be faid comminitye impropriety of egualizing upon the propriety or of a different thefe people with thofe wifdom and humanity complexion, can it be denied that drefs of one intolerable demand the immediate reallude to is their grievance? The injury I cven-in cafes where. incapability to appear as witnefles, juflice. What attachment théy complain of perfonal intude to the protedion to his.foil; what benefic the of laws; what motive gratiwhat fociety to which he tq dignity or independenceof belongs; or, in fine, pollels, who is confeious mind can that man paler complexion that cvery mifereant ofa Not only from may the infuit him with impunity P mulatto reafon to expec fphere above him has the free is, in an infulated and ill ulage : Situated, as he the black and the intermediate fate and envioufly hated white, he is defpifed by between the confider his by the other. The black one; fubjection to a white may man as in fome , pollels, who is confeious mind can that man paler complexion that cvery mifereant ofa Not only from may the infuit him with impunity P mulatto reafon to expec fphere above him has the free is, in an infulated and ill ulage : Situated, as he the black and the intermediate fate and envioufly hated white, he is defpifed by between the confider his by the other. The black one; fubjection to a white may man as in fome --- Page 153 --- WEST INDIES. but the idea of being the flave meafure tolerable, pfa flave he untenly-abhons. whites the mulattoes . are Ini their behaviour to however, They are accufed, modeft and implicit. of abufing their power (I am afraid with juftice) line ofconduct over the blacks. Indeed, a different The flave who is cannot be poffibly expeôted. tyrant, as madea mafter js,ever the moft unfeeling isthe moft infothe meaneft parafite of profperity lent infulter of misfortune. againit the mulatThere is one charge brought be denied, confideratoes, which, though it cannot enable us to palliate : I will tion of circumilances of their women. Thefe mean the incontinency India iflands maintained are over all the Weft if we exmiftreffes to white men. : But we as kept of thefe unfortunate women, amine the fituation reafon to blame the cruelty Thall find much more them to this difgraceful of their keepers, in inviting in accepting the offer. life, than oftheiri imprudence untaught even in maxims of morality, Uninfruaed unable to procure in the fimpleft parts of education, the whites or the young hufbands either from among (the former regardmen of their own complexion, the latter, ing fuch an. union as bafe and degrading, fuch a fettled conthemfelves to form have a too degraded they under fuch circumftances, nedlion); for their conduct. ftrong apology to plead between the keeper and Befides, this conneation of wedlock, is conthe miftrefs, if not in the light They call their fidered at leaft as equally innocent. --- Page 154 --- F34 HISTORY OF THE keeper by the endearing they are faithful and appellation of hufband ; and to the reft of alfectionate to . his interefts 5 cency and diftance, mankind they behave with dedon themfelves Few, very few to that indeed, abantion which is openly infamous fpecies of of Europe. avowed in the populous profitucities The injuftice of in all refpeas 'amiable retaining fo many beantiful, and ftate of concubinage, women, in the difgraceful But by whom fhall'the demands immediate redrefs. victims of this example be fet? By the ducers I am afraid injuftice it wwill it cannot, and by the fehumane not, be effected, To moft dilpofitions Yof thefe people of the agrecable teftimony is colour, the author, Don Antonio de given by a refpe@lable the forlorn and friendlefs Ulloa, when fpeaking of many poor circumflances to Europeans are which to the Spanith Weft reduced (who, tune, can find Indies in hopes of emigrating thefe no means of better for- (fays the Spaniard) fubliflence). Many of they have nothing left traverfe the freets till ings. Wearied with to purchafe food or lodgaffeéted by the going in queft of the employment, unfavourable dilappointment of their fick and change of climate, hopes, and churches melancholy, to lie down in the they retire, and porticoes. The fquares of difplay their genérofity, people of colour here' merchant refufes his when the rich and felfifh The mulatto and mite to relieve their tions, the negro pitying miferies. carry them home to their afflictheirhoufesstheyn nourif, éted by the going in queft of the employment, unfavourable dilappointment of their fick and change of climate, hopes, and churches melancholy, to lie down in the they retire, and porticoes. The fquares of difplay their genérofity, people of colour here' merchant refufes his when the rich and felfifh The mulatto and mite to relieve their tions, the negro pitying miferies. carry them home to their afflictheirhoufesstheyn nourif, --- Page 155 --- WEST INDIES, reftore the poor fufferer, and if they comfort, and fouls. Such is the pleafing die, fay prayers for their of the mulattoes of account of the generofity with thofe of and any one acquainted Carthagena, will not hefitate to afcribe the other Weft Indies them which we have here the fame character to affigned to the former. of the Weft ofthe Creoles or natives In treating mulattoes or thofe of mixed Indies, and of the ourfelves to thofe who are blood, we have confined white. We fhould now either partially or entirely chapter, were of the free blacks in a diftina treat between thefe and there any ftriking diffimilarity Our next chaptèr, the blacks in a ftate of flavery. ofthe. to the confideration therefore, is appropriated negro charaéter in general, --- Page 156 --- HISTORY OF THE CHAPTER IL. Of Negroes in a Stateof Origin of the Slave Siantey--Pvolniary Obfervationge: African Coat-Negroes Tsde-Porugede Settlement on the Voyage-African introduced at Charters Company eftablifhed HHfpwih-Hrokis by James the and ganted-Deforipcion of the African Firftwhoa TadoneLExpartsf are at from Coait-LForts Trade from prefent exported to the Britifh ROReeLasee 1771 to 1787--Number of Colanias-Srateofs the exported anmually to the different Nations Negroesat this Time of Europe: Tre number of Welt Indies is negroes at prefent in the no lefs than Britifh plate the fubjedlion of fo 450,000. To contemthe abfolute difpofal of many of our Ipecies to profpect; and the othiers, is no very pleafing formity when we piéure is heightened in its dewho, from their refledt on the numbers of thofe friends, have been native foil, their homes and their condition. dragged into this degrading Yet, however odious and may be, it is evident improper the traffic and yet the poffeflor that the trade may be bad, the crimes of the flaves be with which it has guiltlefs of late years to load been fafhionable of malice I him; and accordingly, tion is may excite among thofe whofe whatever too zealous to feleét the indignadignation, I fhall confider juft victims of intempting to refcue from myfelf juftifiable in atcharacters of thofe who unmerited opprobrium the are at this time fubjedted to, lor that the trade may be bad, the crimes of the flaves be with which it has guiltlefs of late years to load been fafhionable of malice I him; and accordingly, tion is may excite among thofe whofe whatever too zealous to feleét the indignadignation, I fhall confider juft victims of intempting to refcue from myfelf juftifiable in atcharacters of thofe who unmerited opprobrium the are at this time fubjedted to, --- Page 157 --- *WVEST INDIES: By what means have the popular condemnation. of Alaves in the Weft greater part of the poffeffors eflates? By inhietitance, and Indies come into their faid that they fhould abanidon bysccident. It may be find that the poftellion of - their property, when they humanity. This has in - it is not to be juftified by men in Britain, influenced fact been done. Humane for the real OT fuppofed by the univerlal (ympathy fent out orders to the injuries of the African negro, to enfranchite oftheir Veft India polfeffions faétors their eftates. They have, however,. the flaves upon that fuch well meant beneyo-. béen fince convinced with the intercût of the lence is not eveni confiltent flaves themfelves. in Great Britain for ProThe Society eftablified Parts, are allo pollefpagating the Gofpelin Foreign Weft Indies; as a colleétive fors. of cftates in the thefe men were as fenfibly body. The feelings of creatures as any alive to the fufferings of theirfellow had confidered it as and if they other Chriflians; of the negro to be immedintely it the real benefit doubtlefs have thought emancipated, they would have done fo. But, upon their moft facred duty deliberation, to their judgment ferious and mature and they have convinced them to the contrary, divide the work, to been alfo obliged, in order,to them in the fame fituapurchafe others, and keep tion. ought then to be, The fole objeat ofinvenigation India planters to their the Weft js the condudt.of defedt of Juman confidering the ordinary flaves, S --- Page 158 --- #38 HISTORY OF THE power, worfe than the fervants fhould ufage of a mafter to his We fhall properly be? fomeiaccount now proceed to lay before the flave ofthe origin and reader trade. The exifting ftate of the an account of the following chapter fhall contain fition, of their negro, his charderiand difpoWeft Indies; after conveyance which to, and treatmentin the abufes which tare faid I Thall takel notice trade. to exift in the practice ofthe ofthe Under the celebrated - in 1442, the firft African Prince Henry of Portugal, home by Europeans. flaves were carried from tured-two moors Anthony Gonzales them near Cape Bojador, and had.cap. home; but being ordered brought flore them to Africa, he fold by his Prince to re. Ora, and received from the them) at the Rio del fome gold duft. The avarice moors ten blacks and awakened by this fuccefsful of the Portuguefe was was begun on a large fcale: exchange, and a traffic of Portugal aflumed the title of Forty years the King As far back as Lord of Guinea. ployed in the mines 1502 we hear of negroes emof deed, forbade their Hifpaniols. Ovando, inwickednels they taught importation on account of the were the Spabiards in the Indians; but fo bufy people, that negroes extirpating thefe were found unhappy ceflary, and permiflion to indifpenfably nereftored. import them was again Twelve. yéars after, at the lomew, a man whofe inflance of Barthophilanthropy engaged him 1502 we hear of negroes emof deed, forbade their Hifpaniols. Ovando, inwickednels they taught importation on account of the were the Spabiards in the Indians; but fo bufy people, that negroes extirpating thefe were found unhappy ceflary, and permiflion to indifpenfably nereftored. import them was again Twelve. yéars after, at the lomew, a man whofe inflance of Barthophilanthropy engaged him --- Page 159 --- WEST INDIES. and proteét the Indians, very cordially to beffiend certain perfons 4 to vras granted entitling the a patent negroes into Spanifh import annuaily 4000 Cafasis accufed lofinconliteney Welt Indies. Las miferies of one race of men in thus alleviating the But Iet it be rememat the lexpence of another. inflicted upon different inbered, that fimilar evils invariably the fame dedividuals will not produce faw with griefand inLas Cafas gree of hardfbip: calamities of the unfrienddignation the déplorable beheld a once happy and an ed Indians. He had never known calamity innocent people, who of Enropeans, retillit was inflicted by the hands to 60,000 induced in a fhort time from 1,000,000 their flavery the more dividuals. He compaffonated better days, and were becaufe they had known that were impofed. He unaccnftomed to the taiks when he advifed calculated, therefore, very wifely, their minds muft be Spaniards, fince and the avaricious rather to devote a hardy. kept in employment, accuftomed to the fevereft tyranny favage people, than thofe to whom oppreflion at home, to the taik, minds were too delicate for and whofe was new, 1 f from Aavery. imported from Africa were, The. negroes feverity, and their their carlieft years, the objectsof inured to the pain tempers had been confequently befides, of a firmer of. it, and their bodies were, of a delicious cli: texture than thofe inhabitants fof the earth fprung up. mate, to whom the fruits could not be exfpontaneoutly. Las Cafas almoft Sij --- Page 160 --- HISTORY OF TIIE peded, unlefs endowed with the future effeds of the infpitation.to calculate therefore as humane asit traffic, and his condud was John Hawkins was judieiousa Elizabeth, by whom wasat that time ini the fervice of he was afterwards Undenlandling that flaves fetched knighted. - Hifpaniola, he was a good price at of threc fhips, one of tempted to fet fail with a fleet of 40 tons burden, 120, His another of IOO, and oné with IOO men. He fet armamient was manned 1562, and out. for Guinen, landing at Sierra Odtober horrid and unjufifiable Leone, by the mof means Touching at Hlifpaniola, he collected 300 flaves, change, and returned to made a profitable exabfence: England after II months The which with fx islbeingycarbedied was the Jefus of thips.among in his voyage 7co tons, and by. two othèrs, being joined Afterfome dilatters, proceeded to Guinen. the African coaft. helanded at Cape de Verde on tives, whom the Here he laid fhares for the as 4a hiftorian of this nagentle and loving voyage reprefents the Minion *, probably people ;2 but the crew of method he took to fhocked at the unmanly procure his warning to the unfulpeding cargo, gavea private watched for: them in natives; and Hawkins parted from the Minion,andy vain. The admiral then Alcatras. proceeded dtothelnand Onc' of the two fups to fea,, who joined Hakins after he had PHE as 4a hiftorian of this nagentle and loving voyage reprefents the Minion *, probably people ;2 but the crew of method he took to fhocked at the unmanly procure his warning to the unfulpeding cargo, gavea private watched for: them in natives; and Hawkins parted from the Minion,andy vain. The admiral then Alcatras. proceeded dtothelnand Onc' of the two fups to fea,, who joined Hakins after he had PHE --- Page 161 --- sii WEST INDIES: tried their fnares to inHere the Engillr-again They veigle the Africans, but cuheyravoidedshens fire-arms, for they followed them in vain withtheir Difappointment forced retired into the woods. ifland called Sambula. them to proceed to another were canniThe natives of this ifland, it' appears, determining to bals'; and the Englittiy bumanely their vilburnt and deftroyed punith their cruelty, The natives, however, were lages with great zoal. efeaping all their purtoo nimble for their fearch, fuits. further particulars of this gallant Leaving the the African ftore, we % proadmiral's exploits upon the French and Portuguefe'at ceed to remark, that with the natives to this time maintained a contraêt Their conduel was more fupply then with flaves. for fuch of the humane, for they only bargnined 'and who were occanatives-as were flaves already, Hawkins to the natives. fionally ufed as a repaft made a third piratical voy- (umprincipled villain:) with but, by the mercy of Heaven, perithed, agei; all his gang, in the attempt. mcrchants lin London obIn 1618, a company of trade. They were obtained a patent for exclufive their projedt, from the liged, however, to abandon which accried from their fcantinefs of the profits Charles I. it was again grantexpeditions. Under and the profits turned out ed to another application, But their fuccels atto be more confiderable. embarked in an illicit traffic; trading notice, others --- Page 162 --- HISTORY OF THE andiateriopes of all nations coaft, this pouring in upon the continued monopoly was till 1662: Ten abandoned, and never no lefs a fum than years after this period, months by the III,cool, were raifed a in nine fubferibers, for pany'; a third ofwhich fum conflituting a com pole of building forts was devoted to the purdiate benefit that refulted upon thie coaft. One imme. was the creation of from this eflablimhment, Dutch had formerly manufactures at homen The with all the ftores forthe fupplied the Guinea traders and feveral other voyage; but woollen goods now produced in Britain important-a articles of traflic ported thefe to the for theirfupply. were But the value of zo,cool. They exprolperity of this per annum, duration. Among other company was of fhort tion, the abolition ofall benefits of the Revolu! crown, was obtained, The monopolies, the gifts ofthe free, and the adventurers trade. to Africa became numerous. For fome time, who - embarked in it were who had been however, the wealth, difappointed in their merchants their attempted to maintain the profpedts of IY, their monopoly, till, by an act of continuation of right, which before William and Manow exprelsly cancelled. had.been virtually, was clared lawful for any of It was by this act de. to trade from Africa his Majefly's liege between to the fubjeds Cape Mount and the plantations in America, upon conditions of Cape of Good for exported paying ten per cent, ad Hope, goods, at the time of calorem, entry, appointed in their merchants their attempted to maintain the profpedts of IY, their monopoly, till, by an act of continuation of right, which before William and Manow exprelsly cancelled. had.been virtually, was clared lawful for any of It was by this act de. to trade from Africa his Majefly's liege between to the fubjeds Cape Mount and the plantations in America, upon conditions of Cape of Good for exported paying ten per cent, ad Hope, goods, at the time of calorem, entry, --- Page 163 --- WEST INDIES. the fame aêt, That any perIt was ftipulated by duty often per fon, for the payment of Fawadditional fhould have the ftill cent. for the goods imported, between Cape extenfive privilege of trading dumore Mount. The product ofithefe Blanco and Cape for the good of the company. ties was deftined difcontent, and innume sThis lawi gave general a gainft tit. The com-: rable petitions were prefented ruin, and their fears weré pany prophelied their own had dechined fo prolikely to be verified; for they were obliged digioufly in 1739, that the Parliament the of nine annually for fpace to : vote ro,dcol. years *. after undergoing fo many In the year 1750, flave trade affumed a new achanges, the African for its encouragement and fpect. A law was paffed it is needlefs to detail the ofwhich I fhall improvement, as the act may be confulted. particulars, of the countries now procced to give a briefaccount a a with which this traffic is maintained. to Cape St. Paul's in Angola, of From Loango, this line of coaft to the length Blanco, extends 1300 Englith leagues. the Britifh have In the province of Senegambia by the rivers GamIt isi watered counan eftablifhment: hundred miles up the bia, navigable for many and inhabited by the Mandingoes. try, the was 20,0001. which makes up the * In the year 1744 grant Parliament for the fupport of the fum: of ico,oocl, granted by flave trade. of From Loango, this line of coaft to the length Blanco, extends 1300 Englith leagues. the Britifh have In the province of Senegambia by the rivers GamIt isi watered counan eftablifhment: hundred miles up the bia, navigable for many and inhabited by the Mandingoes. try, the was 20,0001. which makes up the * In the year 1744 grant Parliament for the fupport of the fum: of ico,oocl, granted by flave trade. --- Page 164 --- HISTORY OF THE From Roxo to principally Appollonia, the fettlements dingoes, though Portuguefe. The natives are called Man. are From different in language. Coaft extends Appollonia to the river for ICOO Volta, the Gold number of miles; and is" divided petty ftates. Shantee, into a quambou, three large Akim, and Aknown, form the inland kingdoms, of which little is coaft-t the language is country. Over all this are denominated the pretty fimilar. The natives tyne, a factory Koromantees, from in very refpeclable while Koromanpoffeflion of the Englifh, it remained ficance fince it was taken butfillen into infigniThe Dext divifion by the Dutch. fome denominated is the Whidaw the Gold .country, by Popo, a principality in this Coaft Proper. From Whidaw are, by the Britifh divifion, the natives of nominated Papaws. Next traders, commonly de. pire of Benin, to this is the great emriver Lagos, and beginning on the weft bank of the The negroes on this exténding as far as Cape Lopez. Eboes. A coaftare in general name particular tribe are denominated Mocces. The dilinguithed by the from any other on the language of thefe is' different To the fouthward coaft. guefe have confiderable of the river Congo, the Portu. built and'Atrongly fortified pollefions. They have Paul's, and, extending their the city ofLoango, St. coaft, travel with caravans commerce to the eaftern In reckoning the forts quite acrofs the and facories country. ellablifhed by --- Page 165 --- WEST INDIES. we fhall find the following numEuropean fettlers, nations : eer polielted by the following By the Dutch, the Britifh, the Portuguefe, the Danes, La the Ftench, exportation 3 to From Britain there is continual Birmingham, linens; Sheflield, Africa of woollens, Gilks, cottons, cloths, arms, and Manchefter.goods ; brafs and copper, fand fevepowder, fhot, wrought which annually return to ral other commoditics, There is an immunity of England about 80o,oool. Wherever a brifk trading in few places of Africa. chief man of the, ditrade is kept up, the king, or The exchange frict, claims a duty upon all exports, different ways. Some-. ofcommodities is managed in to the houle times the Briti(h purchafer comes up the fhip black merclant, but more frequently ofthe The faétories eftablithis made the market-place. to procure cargoes fop ed on the coaft undertake the officers of the forts alfo, their own veffels; and circumftances and ability, fell according to their traders in private bargains; but flaves to the Guinea flaves cheaper. to marthemfelves bring the natives in the Britith eftablifementsket than any which takes place bePrevious to the exchange trader, there and the African tween the European merchants at different diisa continued chain of who fend them down fances, up the country, T the market-place. to procure cargoes fop ed on the coaft undertake the officers of the forts alfo, their own veffels; and circumftances and ability, fell according to their traders in private bargains; but flaves to the Guinea flaves cheaper. to marthemfelves bring the natives in the Britith eftablifementsket than any which takes place bePrevious to the exchange trader, there and the African tween the European merchants at different diisa continued chain of who fend them down fances, up the country, T --- Page 166 --- IAG HISTORY OF THE to each others hands, from diftant plored by any white.. places, yet unex. coaft is regular and Though the trade upon the deficiency of conflant, I am forry that, cure a precife accounts, I have not been able to frombeen, fince eftimate of all the prothe firtt Africans who have ments, tranfported commencement of thefe fettlefhall, however, into the Britifh Weft Indies. I mation I have been lay before the reader all the inforprobably be enabled, able to colleét; and he number by his fagacity, to may pot very remote from guefs at a It has been ftrongly fact. flave tradc, and afferted by the enemies of from 1680 and never denied by its abettors, the were reduced 17c0, no lefs than that, to flavery by 300,000 Africans the latter period till 1786, Batifimerchants, From Africa in all 610,000 into there were taken from maica. A proper efimation the fingle ifland of Jareader's mind of the number may be formed in the fame Period, to the fouthern exported, during the merica, as well as the provinces of North Aing on thefe Windward Iflands. number of grounds, we may fafely fix the Reckonnegroes imported from whole 2,139,0c0. This is a fmaller 1096c111786, at ally made, but I calculation than is ufuIt feems, that apprehend before it is founded in truth. war, the flave trade the period of the The had come to its American following has been bigheft pitch. accurate account ofthe ihips given to the public as an land to the çoaft of which failed from EngAfrica, in 1771, and of the --- Page 167 --- WEST INDIES. Its authenti-, for which they were provided. îlaves, city I believe animpcachable. Negroes. Ships. for - To Senegambia, - I1960 Windward Coaft, - 56 Gold Coaft, L - Bight of Benin, Angola, Total, Negroes. Of the above 192 fhips for - 29250 failed from Liverpool, from London, for 8810. from Briftol, for Lancafter, for 0 950 from from Great Britain, for In. the year 1772 failed the African coaft, having goods on board, va175 veffels, lued at - L. 866394.11 688110 IO II - I51 - ditto 846525 12 5 1773 - 167 - difto 2 8 1774. ditto 1775 - 152. - 470779 I I 1776 : IOI - ditto 239218 3 O - ditto IO 1777 A 58 154086 I 1778 - 41 - ditto 159217 19 7 28 - ditto be afcribed to no evident falling off can This T at - L. 866394.11 688110 IO II - I51 - ditto 846525 12 5 1773 - 167 - difto 2 8 1774. ditto 1775 - 152. - 470779 I I 1776 : IOI - ditto 239218 3 O - ditto IO 1777 A 58 154086 I 1778 - 41 - ditto 159217 19 7 28 - ditto be afcribed to no evident falling off can This T --- Page 168 --- HISTORY OF THE other caufe than the After the unfortunate American - brifker termination of it, the trade war. ofthe turn; as appears by the affumed a Britifh negroes imporred into and following account Weft India exported from the a fpace of five years. fettlements, from 1783 to 1787, Year. No. offhips. Tons 1783 - 38 5455 Negroesi imp. Negrcap, 1784 - 93 162c8 - 809 Nogretuinad - 1785 - 73 28s50 - 5263 - 15399 1786 - 67 10730 - 21598 5018 - 23287 1787 - 85 : 8070 - 19160 - 12183 - 4317 - 14843 21023 - 5366 156s7 "Ofthe whole number Africa, by the now annually exported from Holland, Denmark, fubjeats of Great Britain, lar countries whence and Portugal, and the France, was tranfmitted fupplied, the particuthe by the following account Lords of the Privy merchants of Liverpool to edly. as authentic and Council, and it is undoubt. fibly be obtained, viz. particular a return as can pof By the Britifh, No. offarcicxpane French, Dutch, Danes, Portuguefe, I0000 Total, --- Page 169 --- WEST INDIES. No.offlaves. Gambia furnithes about Of which and the adjacent rivers, 1500 Iles Delos, Mount, 2000 From Sierra Leone to Cape 30c0 Gape Mount to Cape Palmas, Cape Palmas to C.Appolonia, IOOO IOCOO Gold Coaft, IOCO 1 Quitta and Popo, Whidaw, and Bidagry, 0 3500 Porto Novo, Eppee, Lagos and Benin, Bonny and New Calabar, Old Calabar and Cameroons, Gabon and Cape Lopez, Loango.Melimba, and CapeRenda; 13500. Ambris, and Miffoula, 1OOO Majumba, and Benguela, 7000 Loango, St. Paul's, Total, 742d0 and various as the coaft is from whence Extenfive it,js perhaps impofible to thefe natives are taken, charaéter of one nation difcriminate between the flaves there is unkand that of another. Among climate on the face formity of charaéter in every to which they of the carth, from the fubjection of and the total want opportunity are yoked, of their fouls. Well to call forth the latent energies Homer, that 66 the day has it been remarked: by flave takes away half his which makes a. man a who hàs lived jn worth." A perfon, however, taken, charaéter of one nation difcriminate between the flaves there is unkand that of another. Among climate on the face formity of charaéter in every to which they of the carth, from the fubjection of and the total want opportunity are yoked, of their fouls. Well to call forth the latent energies Homer, that 66 the day has it been remarked: by flave takes away half his which makes a. man a who hàs lived jn worth." A perfon, however, --- Page 170 --- ts6 HISTORY OF THE fuch a fituation as to behold and moft minute manners of the refledt upon the obferve fome fhades of negro, will be able to has not effaced. After diftinétion which flavery fore, on thefe features fome obfervations, thereof proceed to inveftigate the diferimination, I fhall neral. negro charadter in ge. --- Page 171 --- SS1 VEST INDIES. CHAPTER III. Natives - of the Windward Cut-Mahoncant-- or Mandingoes, or and Perfos-Koronantyn Negroes, Their Wars, Manners, Ferocioufinels of Difpofition Negroes of the Gold Conit-Their Rebellion in Jamaica in difplayed in an Account of the Negro Wars, and Superditions-Na 3760-Ther) National Manuers, Good Quailitio--Nauic from tives of Whidaw or Fida-Thejr of Congo Benin-Perfons and ecen Characters and Difpoltions of Neof the and Angoli-Surey groesi in a State of Slavery. weftward and northward of VER all Africa to the in their the natives are Mahometans Sierra Leone, ftrict imitation of the founder religious faith. In at war with they are perpetually oft their religion, them in order to enforce the nations around therefore, taken in their creed: The prifoners, furely be faid to be thefe religious wars, cannot they would fuffer ufed, when it is fo likely were harfhly of their enemies death from the vengeance faétories. I am inclined they not ranfomed by the among themfelves, that, when they fight to fuppofe impelled by lucrative motives, the Mandingoes are merchants on the coaft with that is, to ferve the and take. Thele fuch prifoners as they can furprife diftances to the feathey carry down from great *, of to the beft advantage coaft, and difpofe the authority of a flave from This Mr. Edwards relatés upon relation. The flave himfelf had whofe mouth he wrote down the the among themfelves, that, when they fight to fuppofe impelled by lucrative motives, the Mandingoes are merchants on the coaft with that is, to ferve the and take. Thele fuch prifoners as they can furprife diftances to the feathey carry down from great *, of to the beft advantage coaft, and difpofe the authority of a flave from This Mr. Edwards relatés upon relation. The flave himfelf had whofe mouth he wrote down the --- Page 172 --- HISTORY OF THE The Mandingoes, tribes, very different.in though divided into many tional conformation of appearanée, have yeta nafrom perfon, and thenatives of a different cafily known tsibexamong them are pait of Africa, Some of negroes. It 1s tallabove, the common rate goes, that remarkable in all the they are lefs Mandinmore free from a fetid dilgulting in features, land cans. They. are, with fimnell, all thantariy other Afris different perforimers of thefe good qualities, inThe Koromantyn any work they are fet to. conlfideration. Their negroes comer next under firmnefs of body and charaderiftic diftinction isa fuperiority would mind, which modern ideas of which the ancients denoininate ferocioufnefse but propriate term that would have called by the apThey encounter comprehends all the virtues. ingto fhrink. danger and death without feemfeveref labour, They havec conflitutions fitted and from forthe to employment. Of thefe cuflom appear not averfe negroes there are many, bound becn kidnapped by fome of the for Jamaica. left Mandingocs and fold to a not relate many circumflatices Having his country very young, he conld fhip natives, but recolledted that they about the peculiar manners of the wards exceedingly fuperititionsa He chanted practifed a cireumcifinn, and werc but frppofed to be the Arabic La Illa fentence which Mr. Ed. God) in the Alcoran. On ill Illa (thereia no God fwallow great devotion, and (in his own Friday, he faid, they fafted with he had their fpittle,on that day. phrafe) Mr. i: was almofLheld a fin to Beautifillyinde arother fervant who could write Edwards the alfo relates that cxadly,and fome Arabic aiphabet very fle@apafiger of theAlcoran. --- Page 173 --- WEST INDIES: reduced to Weft Indian flavery, I awho, in being as thofe whom only make a change of mafters, the fubjeat, and on queitioned moft minutely on depend, informwhofe veracity I could principally fold by' their owners 'ed me that they had beed in the private wars of to the Guinea traders. But thele Koromantyn one ftate with another among happen that thofe of 1 Africans, it muft frequently themfelves poffeffors fuperior ftation, ând whorare battle: That'fuch - flaves, fhould be taken in the of fold into flavery, fhould manifeft people, when to take vengeance on moft enterprifing attémpts be wondered at. We find, their enflavers, is not to ago, when a renot many years it was inftiseconlingly.that in 1761, bellion broke outin Jamaica, negro of this degated and led on by an intrepid chiefin his own country who had béen a of St. feription, coaft. It broke out on the frontiers conon the and had not great courage and Mary's parifh, occafion by a gentleduct been difplayed on this Mr. Zachary who refided in that quarter, the revolt man be doubted but that Bayly, it cannot We Thould would have been wide and deftruétive. at this * a faét which occurred not omit mentioning reflects much honour upohithe period, and which as well as on the individual infurgents themfelves, was fhown. Abrathe, act of generofity eftate of the to whom the overfeer 0l1 the ham Fletcher was Mr. Bayly,and during. genitleman, above mentioned had behaved torthe negroes all his ndminitration We have feldom feen with julftice and humanity. TJ ould would have been wide and deftruétive. at this * a faét which occurred not omit mentioning reflects much honour upohithe period, and which as well as on the individual infurgents themfelves, was fhown. Abrathe, act of generofity eftate of the to whom the overfeer 0l1 the ham Fletcher was Mr. Bayly,and during. genitleman, above mentioned had behaved torthe negroes all his ndminitration We have feldom feen with julftice and humanity. TJ --- Page 174 --- HISTORY OF THE thefevirtues relpedted by barbarous period of revolt. Theirminds men during a the emotionsof fear and are fo a haraffed by to diferiminate the innocent revenge, that they forget was not, however, the cafe from'the guilty. This rebels. They had with the Koromantyn had his pait condudt Fletcherin been their pofleffion ; and of in any reproach, he : muft have Thape deferving now; feverely atoned for it gave rtrcoatiterniemnerhes him his life. good qualities, they nue in the dilplay offuch They did not, however, conti. to Port Maria, they moderation: : Proceding munition and arms, and provided themfelves with amby feveral being joined in their ed companies of their route by the highway to the interior counttymen, procéedcartying murder and of the country, the mean time, Mr. deftrodtion as they wént. In voured to Bayly, who had in vain endea. approach and pacify them, perfuafion inftead of force, by applying fafety but in fevere meafures, finding there was no IOO whites and faithful colleéed a body of. the blacks, and plantations to alarm the fending round danger, led on his inhabitants of their the rebels. He came party to retaliate hoftilities on ed' them, and up with them at laft, attackreft into the woods. taking many prifoners, drove the out in purfuit of.the By another party that went mantyn chief, who had negroes, Tacky, the Korocountrymen to revolt, roufed up and-led on his Some, dreadful was - killed in a fkirmifh. as were taken examples and were then made of fuch conviced of being engaged in led on his inhabitants of their the rebels. He came party to retaliate hoftilities on ed' them, and up with them at laft, attackreft into the woods. taking many prifoners, drove the out in purfuit of.the By another party that went mantyn chief, who had negroes, Tacky, the Korocountrymen to revolt, roufed up and-led on his Some, dreadful was - killed in a fkirmifh. as were taken examples and were then made of fuch conviced of being engaged in --- Page 175 --- WEST INDIES. Of which had been perpetrated. burnt. the maffacres moft feverely, onie was three that fuffered chains alive,and alive; the othen two were hungin ituation-. With afto-. in that difmal brave left to perifh thefe unfortunate viétims nifhing firmnefs did The two, in of their panilhmgents. nine the feverity in chains,though particular, who were expoled pain, feemed unaffecin hunger-and mixed with the dayskingering .and even ted by their hardihip, negroes. On the converfation of the furrounding fuppofe their torture - feventh day, when one would were obferved to have become intenfe, they was faid. to at fomething that fortitude of laugh immodersitely afcribe this iron To what fhall we their manners, and the unmind? Undoubedly to favage poffeffors of limited barbarity which the exercife over their fubflaves of the-coaft of Africa horrors of.war from their jeds. Accuitomed to the by the feverities they infancy," inured to hardfhip death and cruel: and taught to look upon them, endure: till thefe lofe the power of-imprelling for themties, oflife, and unfecling they grow regardlefs Their barbarity is not confinedfelves and otheis. theifather is barbaroully fevere to their pifonerses ; friends of the deceafed hufto his children, and the rémorfe, his wives and flaves without band facsifice, at his burial. that, when they revolve to lt is true, howèver, thefe is, to tear away the uader *: The ufual mode of treating in that dreadful fituation. jaw.andlenet them to expirei U life, and unfecling they grow regardlefs Their barbarity is not confinedfelves and otheis. theifather is barbaroully fevere to their pifonerses ; friends of the deceafed hufto his children, and the rémorfe, his wives and flaves without band facsifice, at his burial. that, when they revolve to lt is true, howèver, thefe is, to tear away the uader *: The ufual mode of treating in that dreadful fituation. jaw.andlenet them to expirei U --- Page 176 --- HISTORY OF THE humane mafters in the Wett lole that contémpt for Indies, they gradually vancing bigher in' the death, and, from actually adferocioufly cruel, and fcale ofhappinef, grow lefs. A Jamaica more attached to exiftence, negro; afked gentleman him viliting a fick why he wvas Koromantyn negro, in broken Englich, afraid a to die? The country, he ufed to defpife replied, that, in his own to the Weft Indies, had death; but fince he came life. buu learnt to know the value of At a very early period of life hardinefs of mind and does this fuperior Koromantyn negro. A body difcover itfelfin the who had parchafed gentleman in Jamaica, romantyns, and ten twenty young Africans, ten Komarked with a filver Eboes, ordered them to be operation is brand on the breaft. by no means The being dipped in the fevére; for the filver the fkin, the fpirits of wine, and pain is of no. applied tq Eboes believing it to be continuance. But the out in terror, and the ckcellively painful, fereamed operation. The gentleman delifted from the their contempt of Koromiantyn the youths, to manifeft up, and underwent the operation, voluntarily fept impreflion without ofapprehenfion. S fymptoms Whatever inhumanity thefe when they have an people may difplay it indiputably evident; opportunity that of revenge, I think mnarks of a truly energetic they frequently difcover regretted, has no mind, which, it is to be opportunities of generous and noble virtues exercifing itfelf in while kept in a flate of yn the youths, to manifeft up, and underwent the operation, voluntarily fept impreflion without ofapprehenfion. S fymptoms Whatever inhumanity thefe when they have an people may difplay it indiputably evident; opportunity that of revenge, I think mnarks of a truly energetic they frequently difcover regretted, has no mind, which, it is to be opportunities of generous and noble virtues exercifing itfelf in while kept in a flate of --- Page 177 --- 1S7 WEST INDIES: with - my obferyations fubje@ion. I dualliconclade. of their religious tenets.. giving a concife account Being, the God ofthe They, believein a Supreme of the Univerle, whom Heavens, and the. Creator, They pray to him they denominate: Accompong- facrifices along with and adore him ; but offer no :r IW their worlhip. they offer the the of the earth, Alfurus To god they facrifice a hog; fruits of the ground; to Ipboa diety, they offer.up their malicious and to Obboney, captivesi of flaves. human factifices, houfehold gods, like the ancients, They have their been once a human being who is fuppofed to have they facrifice a cock or - like themfelves. To thefe they are fuppofed to upon the grave. where themfelves in a a goat, buried, and then relax have heen focial feflival. in.a manner very Their. oaths are adminiftered mind. The: perfon imprellive to a fuperiitious with human blood and fworn drinks ivater mixed friend, wifhing that earth from the grave of a near fpeak not burft; and his bonesrotsifher his belly may relembles the oath of bitter water truth. E It ftrongly 01 g. - among the Ifraclites. Whidaw Or Fida are: beyond The negroes of imported to our doubt the: moft valuable negroes. worki with alacrity; iflands. They engage in every home, accuftomed to agrieultureat not and, from being of the ground. They have are, ufeful labourers laft defcribed, and the fierce temper of the people caft of free from the melancholy are alfo happily of bitter water truth. E It ftrongly 01 g. - among the Ifraclites. Whidaw Or Fida are: beyond The negroes of imported to our doubt the: moft valuable negroes. worki with alacrity; iflands. They engage in every home, accuftomed to agrieultureat not and, from being of the ground. They have are, ufeful labourers laft defcribed, and the fierce temper of the people caft of free from the melancholy are alfo happily --- Page 178 --- HISTORY OF THE temper fo that the prevalentiamonge the Eboes. kingdom of Weare told vated, : and is covered Whidaw is induftrioully culti. In their with. villages and farms. widely different contémpt of pain and death they hearnot from the Koromantyns, are and it is tievery name They accounted ofdechwithinurcan a mark of emotion; punifhable, to mention the rudenels, and leverely refpeclabier perfonages term in prefence ofa ty, ofthe Weft Indian They fubmit to the authori. complacency, poffeflor with patience and to punifh, and efleeming their's it the duty of their mafter Among to obey. many of the Whidaw particular the tribe called negroes, and in practifed; ; but there are Nagoes, circumcifion is know nothing of fuch a a number of tribes who The cuftom. a vaft coaft, Eboes, or Mocqes, are the natives of 3000 milesin Benin, ofthis people is univerfally length. The complexion mation of the fickly, and the conforbaboon. facebears a ftrong Natural hiftorians have relemblance to the man is more obtufe in the remarked, that of his face than figure of the lower any other part greater obtufenefs in.t the face animal; but that the cates in him a ofan European indi-. the Eboe fuperiority of mental may powers, or that to the confequently be - intelleé as well as the confidered as akin is a conclufion I am not. vifage of the baboon, The delponding warranted to draw. lefs valuable temper of the Eboe to a mafter than the makes him fcribeds for, when in dangero Face.formerly deofbardip. ,or fererity ates in him a ofan European indi-. the Eboe fuperiority of mental may powers, or that to the confequently be - intelleé as well as the confidered as akin is a conclufion I am not. vifage of the baboon, The delponding warranted to draw. lefs valuable temper of the Eboe to a mafter than the makes him fcribeds for, when in dangero Face.formerly deofbardip. ,or fererity --- Page 179 --- WEST INDIES. voluntary death to enthéy prefera of punilhment, dejection appaduring it. From the melancholy thefe a fpedaof people, rent in the countenances them more refined in tor would be apt to conclude other tribe. But the their difpolitions than any when he to the contrary, reader will be convinced civilized, the Mocoes, learns that, fo far from being cannibals. This are habitually in their own country; confeffion ofa Mocoe flave, fact is evidenced by the he had frequently fhared who acknowledged that the well known trial of two fuch repafls; and by in 1770, were tried and negroes in Antigua, who, and devouring a fellow condemned for murdering flave. faperftitious in their reli. The Eboes are grofsly one of their firft-rate gious belief, the lizard being this animal is held fo divinities. The prefence of ofits dignity is punifhed facred, that every violation inftance of this was as a crime. An unfortunate two feamen of a veffel met with in 1787, when afhore for ivater, and; by trading to that coaft went They werei inftantly accident, killed a Guiana-lizard: die. A ranfom was offered, feized and adjudged to ofthe Mocoes, fufficient to fatisfy the avidity but not fum. The captain (cerwho infifted on a larger did not choofe to purhumane man) tainly no very dear a rate, and accordingly chafe their lives at fo of the natives. What abandoned them to the mercy became ofthem was never known. come next to of Congo and Angola The negroes Their charaéter is not fArongly be confidered. --- Page 180 --- HISTORY OF THE marked : They are flender black hair and I and fkin. From their fightly, with very cility they are moft ufeful mildnefs and do-" alfo honefter and as domeftics. They are of other Africans. moreingenious than the generality We have mentioned tional traits the before, that whatever namay have, they negroes of different parts of are, by their Africa great meafure reduced to fituation as flaves, in a debafement. We thall one common Aandard of brace the whole varicties therefore of proceed to emone defeription. the negro cliaraéter in Itis true, the Koromantyn merly mentioned, are a brave negroes, as was forthem people, but the compartively with their brother fpeaking of: oppofité qualities feem Afticans ; nant in the negro mind. generally predomidour in his difpofitions. The African has no canhefitates, and anfiwers When afked a queltion, he time to circuitoufly, that he prepare a convenient may have they are equally reply. In This expert as in prevarication. thieving propenfity to vices of the vileft undoubtedly the refult nature is are indebted to that fame oftheir flavery. Still they amiable qualities in the caufe for one of the moft compaflion they feel for human heart ; I mean the diftrefs with themfelves, companions in the fame fhipmate with the The man who has been a Africa, becomes his.dear negro during his paflage from even the name and inviolable friend; and Shipmate every tendér idea of regard. expreffes among them Within this. fphere, vileft undoubtedly the refult nature is are indebted to that fame oftheir flavery. Still they amiable qualities in the caufe for one of the moft compaflion they feel for human heart ; I mean the diftrefs with themfelves, companions in the fame fhipmate with the The man who has been a Africa, becomes his.dear negro during his paflage from even the name and inviolable friend; and Shipmate every tendér idea of regard. expreffes among them Within this. fphere, --- Page 181 --- WEST INDIES. ofthe negro isgenerally however; the benevolence other they are inesorably foeonfined. To each prefents. Shoulda) young vere when an opportunity of an old, one, no become the appeentice from, the negro the mifery he endures 21 - T words can exprefs of his, countrymandd affecmercilels barbarity humanc even to the Nor are they more which follows them., Every, tionatcly, faithful dog animal of thts fpcfeems provided with an his malice, negro merely for the purpole of a venting It is very cics, who cannot retort an injury: conon a being the poor animal itielf grows remarkable, that the flave ofa flave. His fcious that he has become ; he lofes all his nature is degraded and K generous and grows fullen, crouchings tive gambols, in its fpicious. fond to deferibe every thing Hiftorians, reprefent the negro as Aurmoft plealing colours, oflove in a ftrong and fubli-, ceptible cfthe pallion de Chanvalon exclaims, matéd degree. Monfieuf, to whom meintrults her 6 Love, the childof nature, no difliculties can rewhofe, progrets 44 preferxationl, even in chains, infpires 46 sardsand who triumplis No perils can amid all his milery. ar6 the negro punillments reftrain, the e abate, nor impending He leaves his mafter's habi4 dour of his paflion. traverling the wildernefs, dif6t tation by night, and, inhabitants, fecks a refuge s regardful ofits noxious bofom ofhis faichfol and' in the d 6 from his forrows 6 affedionate mftrels. as it is cloBut this defctiption is as extravagant X who triumplis No perils can amid all his milery. ar6 the negro punillments reftrain, the e abate, nor impending He leaves his mafter's habi4 dour of his paflion. traverling the wildernefs, dif6t tation by night, and, inhabitants, fecks a refuge s regardful ofits noxious bofom ofhis faichfol and' in the d 6 from his forrows 6 affedionate mftrels. as it is cloBut this defctiption is as extravagant X --- Page 182 --- HISTORY OF THE quent. If by love we mean individual objedt, that fondnefs for an fined by heightened by efteem, I am afraid the fentiment, and rewholly defedtive in fuch a negro will be. found ing all that has been faid paflion. - Notwithftand. Rituting upon the marriage in the Weft propriery of inthat thenegro would Indies, I am affured of this nature as the regard a permanent connection infliat. If, on the other fevereft punihment you could animal inftina which hand, we mean by love the tion of this infine, the blindly impels to gratificaThey indulge this paflion negro bas a fuflicient fhare. tion, confidering the without referve or limitacellary requifite to the change of its objeéts as a neIt is true, completion of this indeed, in old age they enjoyment. predilection for begin to lofe which began in change, and the defire, is by habit attachment fHendhip. Their old age converted into able from a mutpal thus becomes comfort. Indeed, exchange of good offices: of'a' negro confidering is eafy and all circumflances, the old age men is to guard the happy. The duty of the men, and to minifter to provilion. the grounds of the woin addition to the alleviation fick. The aged negro, fame-time of his work, highly enjoys a relpedt from his at the gratifying to his pride, and countrymen ufage very conducive to his a tendernefs of times be, when he is comfort. Sad muft the barbarity of the African fuffered to want. Amid all the refpeét for age fhines forth character, the virtue of almof excufes his vices. with a luftre which Itis held as a ftrong and to the alleviation fick. The aged negro, fame-time of his work, highly enjoys a relpedt from his at the gratifying to his pride, and countrymen ufage very conducive to his a tendernefs of times be, when he is comfort. Sad muft the barbarity of the African fuffered to want. Amid all the refpeét for age fhines forth character, the virtue of almof excufes his vices. with a luftre which Itis held as a ftrong and --- Page 183 --- WESTI INDIES: impious to'omit, and. but facred duty, which it were From this tendernels common juftice to perform. inflances of longevity, to old age, it happens that fuch, a warm latitudc; are almoft inconfiftent with la Mar in Jamaica, a frequent here. At Savannah extreme age of died, in 1792, at the black woman 120 years. which the negro difcovers to be The fondnefs is a remarkable propenditinguithed as an orator, delight in fet fpeeches; fity,in his character, They prefaces; and if which have ufually very. fatiguing will amufe you at grant them a hearing, théy and you Jength on their own merits, hardfhips, addided great Much, however, as they are circumftanices, often comprefs their meanto circumlocutions they fentencés * ing into ftrong and aftonifhing in Europe, that the opinion It is a prevalent conftruéed for mufic, but African ear is peculiarly for I believe there the affertion is plainly unjuft; inftance of a negro having will hardly be found an though much performer in mulic, in the been a capital been ufed to inftruét them pains have often loudnels to harmony, fcience. In fact, they prefer their native potanga, and are more delighted with with four notes; the difmal founding guittar a who, after inftance ofthis in a nigro, * Mr. Edwards givesani thé Acor befide him while he was much fatigue, was fleeping who could On not be awakened by his repeated finithing a letter, and roufe him, and exclaimed; calls. Another fervant To attemptedito which, he replied, opening his ejesand 4 Tou NO kaar.mofa" c Slecp babno mafa (fephas no mafler)." cloling thamagainy Xij the difmal founding guittar a who, after inftance ofthis in a nigro, * Mr. Edwards givesani thé Acor befide him while he was much fatigue, was fleeping who could On not be awakened by his repeated finithing a letter, and roufe him, and exclaimed; calls. Another fervant To attemptedito which, he replied, opening his ejesand 4 Tou NO kaar.mofa" c Slecp babno mafa (fephas no mafler)." cloling thamagainy Xij --- Page 184 --- HISTORY OF THE dundo, or tabor;. and their harfh ruftic drum, Their goombay, which is a are fung extempore: Their fongs no way poetical, though not fine, have yet tunes are various, and choly. Songs of a different a pleafing vein of melan. Fetivalse; thefe are either caft are fung at their obfeenity, and fatiricalior abounding in indecent. 0E accompanied with dances equally 4t the funeral ofa themfelves in a martial refpected friend, they exercife Pyrthic of the dance, fomewhat akin to the 'mony with loud ancients, "and and accompanyl the ceremonftration of joy warlike mufic. From this dethe rooted may have probably. opinion among originnted negroes regard death as a Europeans, that the ward to their deliverarice happy event,and look fora fatisfied eye. Iam from flavery and life with confider death as no welliaware, fuch however, that they that with allthe evils welcome vifitation; and as long as poflible from oftheir life, they wifh to are the ftate of blifs flay imagined to which they time refident in anticipate. the Weft Among negrôes any lefs frequent than Indies, fuicide is much When fuch a crime' among is free and refined Britons. fpeak of it as an action ever of perpetrated, they never but afcribe it to the prudence or refolution, Obeah. infligations of the evil fpirit The mention of this notice ofa very prevalent name induces me to take Icannot do this in a. better belief among the negroes. ing entire the report of the manner than by infert. agent of Jamaica to the anticipate. the Weft Among negrôes any lefs frequent than Indies, fuicide is much When fuch a crime' among is free and refined Britons. fpeak of it as an action ever of perpetrated, they never but afcribe it to the prudence or refolution, Obeah. infligations of the evil fpirit The mention of this notice ofa very prevalent name induces me to take Icannot do this in a. better belief among the negroes. ing entire the report of the manner than by infert. agent of Jamaica to the --- Page 185 --- WEST INDIES: into the flave commillioners appointed to examine difcovered by Mr. and which was, I believe, trade, Long. - Obiah, or Obia (for itis va66 The term Obeah, conceive to be the adjettive, and rioully written) we fubftantives and that by the Obe or Obi the noun thofe whopracwords sObia-men or womenyaremenat term we fhould confider as tife Obi. The origin ofthe anfwer to the queflions proof Fno-importance in our wewere not led to difquifipoled, if, in fearchofit, to curiofity. From tions that are highly gratifying commentary upon the the learned Mr. Bryant's etymology of word Oph, we obtain a very probable language, in the Egyptian the teri- A ferpent, Aub."- 6 Obion is ftill the 6 was called Ob or c Mofes, in the name for a ferpent."- s6 Egyptian forbids the Ifraclites ever to inquire 4 name of God, which is tranflated in our Bible 4 of the demon Ob, Divinator aut Sorilegus.t e Charmer or Wizard, is called Oub or Ob, tranf4 The woman at Endor Oubaios (he: cites from and or 6 lated Pythonilla; the name of the bafilifk c Horus Apollo) was of the fun, and an ancient emblem 4 royal ferpent, Africa. 19 This derivation, which 66 oracular deity of fect, the remnant probably applies to one particular order in remote ages, of a very celebrated religious the general term to deis now-t become in Jamaica in that ifland pradtife witchnote thofe Africans who alfo the clais of or craft forcery, comprehendins or thofe who, by means what are called Myal-men, with the juice of an herb. ofa narcotic potion, niade was of the fun, and an ancient emblem 4 royal ferpent, Africa. 19 This derivation, which 66 oracular deity of fect, the remnant probably applies to one particular order in remote ages, of a very celebrated religious the general term to deis now-t become in Jamaica in that ifland pradtife witchnote thofe Africans who alfo the clais of or craft forcery, comprehendins or thofe who, by means what are called Myal-men, with the juice of an herb. ofa narcotic potion, niade --- Page 186 --- HISTORY OF THE (faid to be the branched Janum) which, calalue or fpecies of ofa certain occafions a trance or profound doa. luded pedlators duration, endeavour,to convince fleep bodics. of their. power to the dereanimate dead 66 As far as we are able to experience and information decide from our own ifland, and from the when we lived in the negroes we have ever current telimony of all the ject, the profefor.ofOut converled with on the fub. tives of Africa, and are, and always were, nabrought the fcience with none other; and they have maica, where it is fo them from thence to Jabelieve there are few univerfally of the pradtifed, that we native Africans, which large eflates them, The oldeft have not one or poffefiog more ufually attract and moft crafty are of the greateft thole- who thofe whole hoary devotion and harfh and heads, and a fomewhat confidence; fome forbidding in their peculiarly fkill in plants of the alpect, together with fpecies, have qualified them medicinal and poifonous upon the weak and for fuccefsful neral, whether Africans credulous. The negrocs impofition in and fear or Creoles, gethem; to thele oracles revere, confult, with the moft implicit faith they refort, and whether for the cure of upon all occafions, venge for diforders, the injuries or infults, the obtaining revour, the difcovery and coneiliating of fathe adulterer, and the punifhment of the thief or The trade which thefe prediction of future events. tremely luertive; they impoflors carry on is exmapufadure and fell theis and fear or Creoles, gethem; to thele oracles revere, confult, with the moft implicit faith they refort, and whether for the cure of upon all occafions, venge for diforders, the injuries or infults, the obtaining revour, the difcovery and coneiliating of fathe adulterer, and the punifhment of the thief or The trade which thefe prediction of future events. tremely luertive; they impoflors carry on is exmapufadure and fell theis --- Page 187 --- WEST INDIES. cafes and at different Obies adapted to different thrown over A-vail of myftery is Rudiouly hours are prices. to which the midnight their incantations, is taken to.conceal aillotted, and every precaution and difcovery Of the them from thé knowledge negroes, who thoroughly white neople: The deluded power, become the believe in *their fupernatural and the accomplices in this conccalment: willing them tremble at the very Rehtorihe which fouteft among the bottle or the egg-thells, of'a ragged bundle, over the door are ftuck in the thatch or hung plaintain tree, to deter the branch ofa hut, or upon cales of poifon, the natural effeêts marauders. In afcribed entirely of it are by the ignorant negroes Obi. The wifer negrocs to the potent workings of fufpicions, through a dread hcfitate to reveal their which is fulmiof incurring the terrible vengeance againft any who Thould nated by. the Obeah-men difficult therefore for'the betray them: it is very the Obeah profeffor white proprietor to diltinguifh his plantation 2 and fo from any other negro upon that but few infatuated are the blacks in general, affumed courage of their having inflances - occur mifereants. With minds enough to impeach thefe fooner find Obi fet they no the fo firmly pwepolfetied, oftheir houfe, or'in path for them riear the door give themfelves up for which leads to it, than robbed they of a fowl OT a hog, loft. When a negro is Obeah man or woman; it is he applies diredtly tothe his fellow blacks, that Obi then made known among as.foon as the latter hears is fet.for the, thief; and ants. With minds enough to impeach thefe fooner find Obi fet they no the fo firmly pwepolfetied, oftheir houfe, or'in path for them riear the door give themfelves up for which leads to it, than robbed they of a fowl OT a hog, loft. When a negro is Obeah man or woman; it is he applies diredtly tothe his fellow blacks, that Obi then made known among as.foon as the latter hears is fet.for the, thief; and --- Page 188 --- HISTORY OF THE the dreadful news; his terrified to work, no refource is left imagination begins fkill of fome more but in the fuperior eminent Obeah-man of neighbourhood, who may the operations of the other; butif counteraét the magical of higher rank and no one,can be found anally, he fhould ability, ftill or if,after gaining fuch prefently falls into a fancy himfelf. affected, he horror of impending decline, under the inceffant painful fenfation in the calamities. The lightef other part, any cafual lofs head, the bowels, or any prehenfions, and he believes or hurt, confirms his apviétim of an invifible and himfelf the devoted appetite, and cheerfulnefs irrefiftible agency. Sleep, decays, his difturbed forfake him, his Rrength out refpite, his features inagination is hauntéd withdefpondency: wear the fettled dirt, or any other gloom of flance, become his only food, he unwholcfome fubhabit ofiboly, and contraéts a morbid A negro, who is taken gradually finks into the gravc. man the caufe of his ill, inquires of the Obeahmortal or not, and within ficknefs, whetherit will prove or recover? The oracle what time he fhall die diftemper to the malice of generally defcribes the by name, and advifes fome particular but if no to fet Obi for that perfon hopes are given of perfon : defpair takes place, which recovery, inmediate and death is the certain no medicine can remove, malous fymptoms which confequence. Thofe anodeeply rooted in the mind, originate from caufes Obi, or, from poifons, fuch as the terrors, of whofe operation is Aow and --- Page 189 --- WEST INDIES. the fkill of the ableft phyintricate, will bafle fician. of occafions which the multitude of 264 Confidering the powers - the negroes to exercife inmay provoke other, and the aftonithing Obi againt each their minds, we fluence of this fuperftition upon portion - confiderable cannot but attribute- a very the negroes of among of the annual mortality mifchief. C3 Jamaica to this fafcinating compofed of a farrago of 46 The Obi'is ufually in the moft of which are enuimeratéd beaks, materials, viz. < Blood, feathers, parrotsJamaica law, téeth, broken bottles, grave46 dogs teeth, alligators 4 dirt, rum, and egg-mhells." illuftrate the defeription we 4 With a view to and its common effects, have given of this praétice, out of the very have fubjoined a few examples in ; we which have occurred Jamaica for great number to that ifland only, not that they are peculiar may be found in other we believe fimilar examples Labat, in his hiftory Weft India colonies. Pere fome which are very has mentioned of Martinico, remarkable. that a pradice 4 It may fcem, extraordinary, in Jamaica Thonld not alleged to be fo frequent check from the legillahave reccived an earlier the fkill of fome negroes, ture. The truthis, that been noticed ever fince in the art of poifoning, has with them. colonifls became much scquainted in the who pradtifed phylic JaSloane and Barham, have mentioned partimaica in the laft century, Y are very has mentioned of Martinico, remarkable. that a pradice 4 It may fcem, extraordinary, in Jamaica Thonld not alleged to be fo frequent check from the legillahave reccived an earlier the fkill of fome negroes, ture. The truthis, that been noticed ever fince in the art of poifoning, has with them. colonifls became much scquainted in the who pradtifed phylic JaSloane and Barham, have mentioned partimaica in the laft century, Y --- Page 190 --- HISTORY OF THE cular infances of it. The manner in which this fecret and infidious trated, makes crime is generally ficult. thelegal proof of it perpe: Sulpicions therefore extremely dif. but deteations have been' times rare ; thefe frequent, been murderers have brought to fome. to believe that a far juflice, but 'it is reafonable with impunity. In greater number 5 have eicaped common tricks of Obi, regard to the other and more fuch as hontlesregg-hells &c. &c. in hanging up feathers, negroes ofa order to intimidate hog-flyes, thiesihdrjofitien from or ed plunderinghuts, at by the white provifion.giounds, thefe were laughgems, contrived inbabitants as harmlefs ftrata. ring the by the more more fimple and fagacious, for deter. ferving for much the fame fuperiftitious blacks, and crows which are in general ufed purpofeas the fcarefarmers and gardeners. among our Englifh when a very formidable But in the year 1760, mantyn Or Gold Coaft infurrection of the Koroparifh of St. negroes broke out in the cvery other Mary, and fpread through diftriét of the ifland, almoft mantyn negro, the chief an old- Korothe infurgents in that infligator and oracle'of the fetifh or folemn parifh, who had adminiftered furnifhed them' oath to the with a confpirators, and was to render them magical preparation which apprehended, convidted, invulnerable, was fortunately feathers and trumperies and hung up with all his cution Alruck the about him; and his exefrom which they infurgents with a general never afterwards recovered. panic, The --- Page 191 --- WEST INDIES: taken at that period, firft examinations which were to the very danopened the eyes of the public 'and gave tendency of the Obeah practices, for their gerous the law which was then enaced the birth to But neither fupprefion 1 and punifiment. which has of this law; the ftrict invefigation of Obi, terror been made after the profeflors time td ever fince examples of thofe who from hinor the many: or have e tranfported, time have been hanged defired effect. We conclude, therto produced the like others in the that either this fect, or that fherefore, under perfecution; world, has flourifhed from the Afriare annialyintoducel frefh fupplies can feminaries. referied to in the is tbe Paper Tbe folloneing Account. preceding OBEAH PRACTICE. narratives from a planter 6t We have the following of the fridteft veracity, in Jamaica, a genrleman and ready to atteft the truth who is now in London, 1 ofthem. to Jamaica in the year 1775. 66 Upon returning of his negroes had died he found that a great many that of fuch as remained during his abfence 5 and debilitated, bloated, and alive, at leaft one halfwere Themortality con-. condition. in a very deplorable and two or three were'fretinued after his arrival, others were taken ill, quencly buried in one day; the fame fymptoms. and began to decline under Yij ft the truth who is now in London, 1 ofthem. to Jamaica in the year 1775. 66 Upon returning of his negroes had died he found that a great many that of fuch as remained during his abfence 5 and debilitated, bloated, and alive, at leaft one halfwere Themortality con-. condition. in a very deplorable and two or three were'fretinued after his arrival, others were taken ill, quencly buried in one day; the fame fymptoms. and began to decline under Yij --- Page 192 --- HISTORY OF THE Every means were tried by careful nurfing, to medicines; and the moft but in Ipite of all his preferve the lives ofthe feebleft ; went on for aboveat endeavours) this depopulation or lefs twelvemonth longer, with afcertain intermiflion, and without his' more the real catife, being able to was ftrongly though > the Obeah doctor and fufpedted; as well by practice other white himfelf, as by the as it: was known to have perfons upon the plantation, part of the ifland, and been very common in that groes of the Papaw or Popo partieularly among the neunable to verify his fulpicions, country. Still he was conftantly denied their becaufe the patients perfons of that havingany thing to do with At length a order, or any knowledge of came. one day negrefs, who had been ill for them. and informed him, that fome time, impoflible for her to live much fecling it was herfelf bound in duty, before longer, fhe. thought very: great fecret, and the died, to impart a caufe of, her difurder, in acquaint him with the true might prove the means of hopes that the difclofure which had already fiwept Rtopping that mifchief, fellow-flaves. - She away fuch a number,of her mother (awoian of proceeded the to fay, that her fepyears old, but ftill hale and Popo country, above 80 on her, as (he had alfo active) had put Obi uplately died; and that the done old upon thofe who had Obi for as. many years woman had pradifed 46 The other paft as fhe could heard ofthis negroes of the remember. plantation no fooner to their mafter, impeachment, ând than they ranin a body confirmed the truth of it, rad- proceeded the to fay, that her fepyears old, but ftill hale and Popo country, above 80 on her, as (he had alfo active) had put Obi uplately died; and that the done old upon thofe who had Obi for as. many years woman had pradifed 46 The other paft as fhe could heard ofthis negroes of the remember. plantation no fooner to their mafter, impeachment, ând than they ranin a body confirmed the truth of it, rad- --- Page 193 --- WEST INDIES. this bufinefs ever fince ding, that the had carried and.was on the terrorof the' her artival from Afica; this he repaiced diwhole seighbourhoodi I Upon ito the old woman's redly, with fix whitel fervants; doot, oblèrved the whole houfé, and forcing open the of thatch) and every. infide rof the roof (which was with the implements of crévice of the walls fuck feathers, bonesiof cats, her trade, confifing of rags, Examining further, and: a thoufand other articles: clole covered, was found a large learthen pot or jar, ai prodigiunder her bed. T It contained concealed balls of earth or elayofvarie of round the 'outous quantity large and masipshieneion with hair and ous dimenfions, fome fide, and varioufly compounded and frongly bound wich rags, or feathers ofall forts, the of the others blended with upperfedion teeth and twine ; round with" cats ikulls of cats, or fuck fome glais with human or dogs teethyrand claws, or colours'; there were 1 atforangieat beads of different with arvifcous .or gummy many egg-thells filled sofwhich he negleéted to exfubftance, the qualities with al ivariety of amine, and many little bagsitufled cdnnotrat Ithis diatticles, the particulars of which The houfe was in: fanceiof time ber recollected." with-the whole lofits conftantly. pulled down, and amidet the general tents committed toi the flames, In regard to acclamations of all his other negroes: gher toi trial the old woman, he declined which bringing would have puunder the law of the ifland, from a principle ofinunithed her with death; but, the hands of a party of manity, delivered herinto --- Page 194 --- HISTORY OF THE Spaniards, who (as the was doing fome trifling kind of thought not incapable of accept and carry her with work) were very glad to moment of her departure, them to Cuba. From the be animated with new bis negroes feemed all to no. further among them. fpirits, and the malady fpread the courfe of about The total.of his loffes in very, andimputable I5 years preceding the difcoellimates at folely to the Obeah lcaft at IOO negroes. practice, he OBEAH 6 HAVING TRIALS. on this received fome further fubjedh, from 12 information who fat another upfame upon two trials, we Jamaica gentleman, in his own words, beg leave to deliver the have already had the as a fupplement to what we 4 In the honour of oft the year 1760, the influence fubmiting. of D Obeah art was fuch, as to the profeflors ny of the negro flaves in induce a great marebellion which happened Jamaica in to engage in the gave rife to the law which that year, and which the pradice of Obi. was then made 6 Affurance againft that they was given to thele were to become deluded people, der to render them fo, the invulnerable; ; and in orthem with a powder, with Obeah men furnifhed themfelves, which they were to rub "In the firît them were killed, engagement and with the rebels, nine of mongit the latter was one many prifoners taken ; awho offered to difclofe very intelligent fellow, many important matters, on and which the pradice of Obi. was then made 6 Affurance againft that they was given to thele were to become deluded people, der to render them fo, the invulnerable; ; and in orthem with a powder, with Obeah men furnifhed themfelves, which they were to rub "In the firît them were killed, engagement and with the rebels, nine of mongit the latter was one many prifoners taken ; awho offered to difclofe very intelligent fellow, many important matters, on --- Page 195 --- WEST INDIES, 175' life fhould be, rpared ; which was condition that his the aétive part which the promifed: He then telated them by the name ofObeah negroes, known among the infurredtion; one men.had taken in propagating apprchended, tried (for reof whom was thereupon and fentenced to C convided, EE. 2 bellious 203 confpiracy), (a02 autset death. 1 90 the Obeah man i 66 N. B: This was Koromantyn alluded to in our firit paper. / he bid defiance to a At the place of execution, that d it was not in the telling him, And the the executioner, to kill him." 4 power of the white people perplexed when negroes (pé@ators) were greatly other Obeah men, whothey faw him expire. Upon various experiments at that time, lanwere apprchended and mag agic - made with electrical machines who, were little effect, except on one, terns, but with very fevere thocks, acknow: after receiving fome very Obi exceeded his own." ledged that 6, his malter's whom we have this acThe gentleman from fat twice on trials of count, remembers having both convicted of felling Obeah men, who weré which had occafioned the their Obeah preparatioos, whom they had been admi- 1 death of the parties to which, the lenity of their niftered ; norweithflanding that they were only punithed judges prevailed fo far, the fadl, two witnefTo prove cirwith tranfportation. with corroborating fes were deemed neceffary, Kumfances." --- Page 196 --- HISTORY OF THE, CHAPTER IV. Means of obtaining Slaves in jedtions to a direét and immediate ArRaobtrnasiat thercon-06. Britifh Nation only--The Abolition of the Trade bythe fdteredeaDipropotion of Confequenes Sexes in of fuch a Mesfirecos ported the Negroes hationerecentily fom-afic-Mede oft furanfporting Negroes, ainnually imRegulations. eflablithed by Aa of (Pelamemt-Eifear and Reguofthofe, Ix calculating the fupplies of probably be colleéted from negroes which might modes which are faid to be Africa by the various we cannot ufed for that dividuals. affign a greater number than purpofe, It is left, therefore, 74,000 inmeans the remaining number to inquire by what fwerto this inquiry, it has are obtained. In anare mof-minutely been fated by thofe who that not only the acquainted with the flave. trade, thofe in the interiorof people upon the coaft;.but alfo mited tyranny either ofa Africa, are fubjedted to unlical kind; on which monarchical or ariftocrati. P account the frequently, as a punifhment for fubjected flave very to the Guinea his crimes, is taken death. Thofe merchant, and if refufed, is unlimited fathers who are free Put to power over their themfelves; have inftances where fuch children; but in the few purpofe, the public deteftation power is converted to a bad the vender of his children. is very frong againft may, by many The free man himfelf rank of a llave; cireumfances, fuch be degraded to the as debt, adultery, and the ima. crimes, is taken death. Thofe merchant, and if refufed, is unlimited fathers who are free Put to power over their themfelves; have inftances where fuch children; but in the few purpofe, the public deteftation power is converted to a bad the vender of his children. is very frong againft may, by many The free man himfelf rank of a llave; cireumfances, fuch be degraded to the as debt, adultery, and the ima. --- Page 197 --- WEST INDIES. witcheraft; and in cafes of Einary crime of obiror of the accufed are involved this nature, the friends fate. in a common has been given by a number The above account evidence is difputed in many of witnelles, but their . It has been by witnelles no lefs rerpectable. that points among others, exceptin atlerted by Mr. Penny, the African mafter is the inflance of delinquency, flave, to the market; and not allowed to take his is - pro-. inteltine war the greater proportion that by Edwards, by the teftinony offeves cured. But Mr. under fuch circumwhom heexamined ral negroes, doubt that their cvidence couldftances as leave no fubitantiated very diftinétly be falle, (eems to have that the power and the formerallegacion ; namely, without the imputation of felling flaves, *. the practice among theAfrican mafters of a ctime, is common ofthe relations of thofe who were exfew * Wehave futjoineda amined. Li a who a was folen from lis father's honfe,and of a Adam; a Congo marched.dowm boy, the country for the ipace fometimes who, after being fold from one black merchant to another, he came into the months, was fomctimnes for another, till for one article, Guinea and trader. e from the hands of the two tprothiers, aged 18 and 20, Quaww and Quumina, afked the caufe ofitheir being fold, replied, relieve Gold Coalty on being debt, and that they were fold to That their mallerwas in fome him. her malter, along with Afiba, a Gold Coalt girl, was and fold'by other articlcs. cthens.for a quantity of fiinen was fold by his poffcfor, alongwith Yamoufa, a Chambie yourh, other aiticlcs, a COw, for a gun and . fomc L , Quaww and Quumina, afked the caufe ofitheir being fold, replied, relieve Gold Coalty on being debt, and that they were fold to That their mallerwas in fome him. her malter, along with Afiba, a Gold Coalt girl, was and fold'by other articlcs. cthens.for a quantity of fiinen was fold by his poffcfor, alongwith Yamoufa, a Chambie yourh, other aiticlcs, a COw, for a gun and . fomc L --- Page 198 --- HISTORYIOP TRE Mr.I Edwards examined fexes; ofwhom 15 confeffed 25 young petfonsof both flavery in their own they had been born to had been kidhapped country, and five faid by the accounts from home ; and they been the off the other five 11 ithat ditappeared prifoners ithey had ferved, thatthe ofimtérmalwata It evidence ofithefe muftibeobe creditable, from its being negroes is highly at various 21 times, 1 fo that he taken 1 by Mr, Edwards. had an sicoweringifther enlaiged opportunity of inconfifteney of their narrations. upon the truth by the Such'ares - the means by which iflands are fupplied - with the Weft India Every fecling mind will their African flaves. ence ofa commerce Do doubt regret the exift. beings to. whichidevotes fomany human ror is beexpatmiated and enflaved; but our alluaged to remember, that horgreater proportion only of 1 thefe the flavery. dig exehange to a milder That I thei. trade C among the natives encourages a fpirit of timei it deferves cannot be denied: lat thei rapine fame confideration, whether partially Oliver, from Afentee, aged about e penter, and had been taken 22, was the fon of a free He was transferred priforter in an attack of the carhe was foldto the throughrthe hands offix black merthants Frankees. Efther, mipmatter. before a day's journey agirl from the Ebo country, relates, - mother, the from the fea coaft; but being on That a helivedabout not of what village was attacked by a body of vifit to hergrand. were nation), her grandmother, negrocs (fhe knows put to death, and'herfelf Ftakento't with the otheraged perfons, thécoaft, and fold. attack of the carhe was foldto the throughrthe hands offix black merthants Frankees. Efther, mipmatter. before a day's journey agirl from the Ebo country, relates, - mother, the from the fea coaft; but being on That a helivedabout not of what village was attacked by a body of vifit to hergrand. were nation), her grandmother, negrocs (fhe knows put to death, and'herfelf Ftakento't with the otheraged perfons, thécoaft, and fold. --- Page 199 --- WEST INDIES 179, the exiftence of ithiel comand fuddenly to abolifh of real difadvantanmnerce would not bel produdive the end defired Iby thofe ges, in placeiof effeéting ftrong and fpeedy meafutes? who are cageri for fuch queflion; we muft take For folving ithis important fituation 17 of the flaves in into view; not only the the Weft Indies." Africa, ,but of thofe alreadyiin to fuppole It is falle reafoning 1 In the firf place, her ftare from the genethati Britain; withdrawing of the quantity will effea a decreafe ral démand, foralthoogh in otherkinds brotight to the markets regulated by of commerce the fupply.is inftancé generally the rule will not yet in this the the demand, African ftates are mat war, hold. When two totheir ftrength in proportion enpieeredeitenat The'old and infirm are mafficred and appearanees able to travel a long ; fuch as are all on - thel fpot the fea-coaft, and of thefe journeys are led to put to death. who are rejedted are immediately Britain to withdraw From this it appears, that be were left a fuperabundauee there would her idemand, who, unlefs boughtup ofabout 38/c0o every'yeat, be facrificed to by other. nations, mut inevitably of the black trader. Inthe difappointed avarice barbarous pradice are fo ftances, indeed, of this haye-been frequently perpenumerous, that they fo that in this trated in fight of our own thipping; abundantly more horricafe the remedy bécomes ble than the difeale. mind refledt upon Secondly, Let an umprejudiced negroes, in the Weft the ituation of the remaining Z ij 38/c0o every'yeat, be facrificed to by other. nations, mut inevitably of the black trader. Inthe difappointed avarice barbarous pradice are fo ftances, indeed, of this haye-been frequently perpenumerous, that they fo that in this trated in fight of our own thipping; abundantly more horricafe the remedy bécomes ble than the difeale. mind refledt upon Secondly, Let an umprejudiced negroes, in the Weft the ituation of the remaining Z ij --- Page 200 --- HISTORY OFITHE Indies, whoiare -fervituder Itis (uppiofed to continue in a the a fact too little attended fiate of in thefe difparity between males and femalesi to, that illands, that without a is fo men the race muft at latt new fupply lof great woiti fhould be bocomelextind. Befides, are burdened remembered, with that d numberlefs eflates to Britifh merchants covéhtants ofif fupplying fitgur. Picuire, a certain quantity of rum! yéarly and planter pernetually thénjthe condition of a.Weft India ply,and unable, dunned forihis covenanted withithe utmof fupi dofry, to cffect his firetch of FhisuinRock oflabourers, engagement-eith a Tlie flavest decaying gradually: come to feel the themfelves will alfo ftitution, At firft the work hardlhip of fuch an in20, till at laft the tafk of2 20 is performed by talk ofa very few, ofthacinumber In this becomestie. wrought beyond their cafe, they are cither into rebellion, -or the ftiength, or they are goaded theground he lays planter isio circumferibed lin capacitated from. undereufivation the and is thus inThefe diftrefles are not payment of his, juft debts. they exifted : inn drawn by, the inaginations thé period Demerara, in.all their when.the prohibition feverity, at porting flaves. was laid fuaan 20 upon im2 It. thus appears evident, 4 7217 cieéted bya fingle nation, that a diredl abolition, fale ofthoie miferable would neithen abate the to the Weft Indies, viétims who lare would nor would ita attenuate trunfported who feverely augment) the (nay, it are there already, In hardfhips of thofe addition to the above when.the prohibition feverity, at porting flaves. was laid fuaan 20 upon im2 It. thus appears evident, 4 7217 cieéted bya fingle nation, that a diredl abolition, fale ofthoie miferable would neithen abate the to the Weft Indies, viétims who lare would nor would ita attenuate trunfported who feverely augment) the (nay, it are there already, In hardfhips of thofe addition to the above --- Page 201 --- La WESE INDIESE add this fingle confis forcible argumentés weu may merits; very ferious atderation, which certainly mutual. temptation to fell tention, F Asdong asi the there will very, probaand to buy flaves contipues, purchafemand African venbly be both European the decilions even of Europe ders, in fpite ofnall reftraining it-D Andit combined 202 fydcm.of. of hardly, be, called Lup to. tiememembnance with the Weft needal man in the fmallef acquainted illicit ary towards prohibiting Indies, that an attempt. from tlie nature of the counimportation would be,f abfurde At and from their try, Smpradicable the Africans a The mode of conveying Indics isia fubject too imto, the Welt upon own country overlookeda Before entering portant to be I Ahall offer, a few obfervations this part, however, of * fexcs, to which I beforcialon the difproportion of.very refpeclable luded. Mr. Barnes, a agentleman fenfible reafons, authority, gives H us the following is not the fault which may cvince that the difparity from other ofthe purchafes, but tlintitoripinates Oub - caufes. N whed ( thc. AS number of male and in Mr. V: The difproportion from Africai (lays female Alaves exported. be imputable tothe three Barnes *) appears to meto the praéice of polygamy following caufes: rirf/To Africa. Secondly, To which prevails thronghout men are caufes of fsveryitielf; fome of the very civil offences than women, and more apt to commit of Council, 1789. * Report of, the Committee es. N whed ( thc. AS number of male and in Mr. V: The difproportion from Africai (lays female Alaves exported. be imputable tothe three Barnes *) appears to meto the praéice of polygamy following caufes: rirf/To Africa. Secondly, To which prevails thronghout men are caufes of fsveryitielf; fome of the very civil offences than women, and more apt to commit of Council, 1789. * Report of, the Committee --- Page 202 --- HISTORY OF THE in all fuch cafes, where volved in the fame males and females are in. its operation: the calamity, the firft caufe ftill has and thei imales young femalesanre are fold for flaves: keptfor wives, circumflanice that females become ttiraljy To the inarket at an much earlier unfit for the flave A soman, through period than the males: very lexeeptionable flave ebild-bearing, may appear a whereas at 22 or 23 years of ahesthywellanade man age, jedted to at. 34.or will not be obnumber of.males and 35: females confequently, if an equal fered for fale, a much of. like ages were of. males greater would - be proportion of the fe With rejededion that regard to the queftion, account only: pean traders prefer whether the Eurofemales2. I have to purchafing males rather than poflible to condudl the obferve, that though it is imor of a plantation, without bufinefs, either of a boufe. as the Dature of the flave a number of females, yet (being chiefly field fervice in the Weft Indies diate intereft of the labour) requires for the immemales, the Européan planter, a greater number of purchafe his affortment trader would of counrfe wifh to wanted; but the-fadt according to the proportion cafe, for the reafons is, be basnot an option in tbe moft parts of Africa already it is mentioned; ; fo that in can get as many faleable with great difliculty he tolerable affortment." females as will form any During the late examination Council, upon the fubjedt of the before the Privy ber of fhocking inftances llaretrade, a numwere-given to prove that --- Page 203 --- WEST INDIESI iboard the Guinea Thips! was the umngerof.n flaves.oni but itil basi fince appeared; inhuitnaniatd fevereis factsiwvere men fo difrethele that the afientors.of as7 to give but little recomipedluablein characer Itis'true, they are conmendation toi thein fories. is exercifed in no fined in irons; but that feverity requites, and the / A greater. degree than neceffity not under the fimalyoung women and children are deck between reftraint. They arel lodged upon left andi their apartments are regularly clean boards, The greatelt attention is cleaned: Their meals fumnigated-and and their diet. 1 paid toi a thein health as they have been and grains are fuch, vegetables which are to in their own country, accuftomed withfauce of meat, filh, or palm agrecably feafoned as. they choofe, and. oil. Every meal is as, plentiful with ifthe weather be cold or wet, is accompanied fall fick, To conclude, if they Ahould are a dram. with tendernefs and care, and they are treated or! a place removed either to : the captain's. cabin ate for their reception in the forecaftle. appointed act. of-t the 28th of his prefent Majefly, By an fince amended, ftrict limitations which has been to the proportion of have been made with refpeét They are alfo obliged the cargo to the flave-fhip: qualificd furgeon, to be provided with a. regularly amount, is of a very reipedtable and a premium, and the mafter, if there be held out to the furgeon of two in the hundred at no more than a mortality the conclufion of their voyage. opinion of the effedl, We may form a favourable prefent Majefly, By an fince amended, ftrict limitations which has been to the proportion of have been made with refpeét They are alfo obliged the cargo to the flave-fhip: qualificd furgeon, to be provided with a. regularly amount, is of a very reipedtable and a premium, and the mafter, if there be held out to the furgeon of two in the hundred at no more than a mortality the conclufion of their voyage. opinion of the effedl, We may form a favourable --- Page 204 --- HISTORY OF THE of thofe benevolent tioned as a fingle inflance 'inftitutions when it is men: duced, that at Montego of the melioration pros the average lofs of Bay, from 1780 to 1791, lefs than feven 38 Guineamen was per cent. fomewhat titled to the full réward Ofthefe, eight were encent. of 50 for only two mortality ; two received a per orle fchooner half premium, and had-not a fingle lois age. But perhaps a more during her voypoint arifes from the fall frikingilluftration of the Weft Indian harbours: of the mortality in the into Montego in the Of 9993 negroes imported lofs was not quite ipace before mentioned, the It mufl be, three-fourths per cent. all thefe precautionsa however, confefled, that in fpite of prevails on board the dreadful mortality frequently muft be afcribed Guinea flhips. The to its proper caufe, mifchief difgrace of'humanity, is which, to the rice of' the nothing elfe than the avafhipmaflers in their veffel is calculated purchafing more than not forry to find that to accommodate. One is reward, fince, by fuch they mcet with a very. fevere fruftrate their own hopes injuftice, they frequently lofs of property is ; but to reflect that this at thc cent lives, muf affect expence of fo many innoror and every fecling mind with horindignation *. Without endeavouring, acts of iniquity, it however, to palliate fuch may perhaps appear upon inThe lofs is frequently IS and a half at the Welt Indian per, cent, in the voyage, and four harbours. --- Page 205 --- WEST INDTES. is neitherthe fole nor the beft quiry, that abolition to the exércile of thisrefource for putting a ftop. have been made, avaricious barbarity. Regulations renewed, which and have of late been ftrénuoully wifhedfor cure. The feem tobid fairi for effecting whom. the fo much odium has Weft India planters, upon unconcernthrown, are wholly been undefervedly that may arife in the manage: ed with any.errors. they of the flave cargoes: - On a late occafion, of ment for the affembly evinced their difintereftednefs; addition that might bei Jamaica, difregarding ilaves any from the aôts of parliamade to the price of concurred in the in favour of negroes, ment palled the errors of the trade, general with for corredting zeal in the caufe of reforand even entered with ination. treated of the means by which We have, now to ftore their fhips, the Guinea traders are enabled have been adopted by which and the regulations for the mnore comfortable the Britith parliament flaves from the coaft 5 it reconveyance of thefe in the next.c chapter, of mains, therefore, to fpeak, and diftribution among fituation, their treatment, the Weft India planters: ment palled the errors of the trade, general with for corredting zeal in the caufe of reforand even entered with ination. treated of the means by which We have, now to ftore their fhips, the Guinea traders are enabled have been adopted by which and the regulations for the mnore comfortable the Britith parliament flaves from the coaft 5 it reconveyance of thefe in the next.c chapter, of mains, therefore, to fpeak, and diftribution among fituation, their treatment, the Weft India planters: --- Page 206 --- HISTORY OF THE utev serinale CHAPTER V. to.uagola swun Arrival and Sale in the Weft TAlert a How Difpofed of and Tudich-Noproce newly Purchafedi Wof Negrocs on aSugar Employed--Deatsil of the Management Houfes, Clothing, and Piatation--Mede Medical of obtaining tions for their Protedtion and CuemAbulteiae themia Regulabenaic-hlypen Securty-Caules of their Annual friendly to &c3-Shavcry in its' Mildett Form Un. further Meliorating the Condition of forthe jeêt SSSSLELS concludes. Slaves, with which theifabWies a Guinea thip arrivesin is announced by public the Weft Indies, it which formerly took advertifement. The fales, now (moft properly) place'on board the ihip, are care 'is taken that no cruel conduéted, on fhore, and fhould take place. It is feparation of relations notwithflanding the beft obvious, however, that choly. accidents fhould intentions, fuch - melanare feldom inftances of fometinerocurs but there the members of a family. purchafers willingly dividing To behold ai number of human 181 ad a captive, exiled and beings, naked, fight, affect the mind expofed for fale, muft, at firft but the victims themfelves with melancholy refledions; fcious of their fituation. feem to be hardly coning expofed, is to them The cireumftance of behave not been accuftomed, no way diflagrecable: they able climate, to wear under their own intolerare they deftitute of any quantity of clothes, nor decorationis, on which they fet ai number of human 181 ad a captive, exiled and beings, naked, fight, affect the mind expofed for fale, muft, at firft but the victims themfelves with melancholy refledions; fcious of their fituation. feem to be hardly coning expofed, is to them The cireumftance of behave not been accuftomed, no way diflagrecable: they able climate, to wear under their own intolerare they deftitute of any quantity of clothes, nor decorationis, on which they fet --- Page 207 --- WEST INDIKS. to do on the value than we are accuftomed 4 a higher articles ofapparel *. L more elegant few indications ofbeIn the market they difplay fate. Apprifed of deeply affected with their they difing of their. owners to fell them, the intention ; and when any play impatience to be purchafed: unfortunate as to be renumber is fo the reft one ofiheir defeét, on : account of fome perfonal laughter. jected, derifion by loud. and repeated exprels their is provided with the arThe negro, when fold, his drefs, and ticles which are in futurc to conftitute he is to refide t where fent off to the plantation configned in difthey are ufually - At this period, the of on provition-grounid ferent lots as penfioners allowance being made the. negroes already fettled, firft an fight this cuftom may for their fubfiftence. At the induftry of the appear a harlh impofition fhare on his hardly-carned eftablithed flave, who muft But, on due with others newly imported. from approperty of the cafe, and principally found confideration choice of the négro, it hasbeen pealing to the than a difadvantage. The to be rather a favour alfo fond of impreffing fcars upon their faces, 1. The negrocs are contribute to their better appearance. Indeed, which theyimaginc js very common among them. Igriorant marks to the praétice of tattowing trade have falfely attributed thefe declaimers on the flave the inhumanity of their mafters. were as follow : An able man + In 1791, the prices of negroes 49L; a young man, 47l.; a young in his prime, sol.; an able woman, from 451. to 4ol. Sterling, befides the woman, 461.; boys and girls, them is pretty much in difufe; The praétice oft marking dary: Aai riorant marks to the praétice of tattowing trade have falfely attributed thefe declaimers on the flave the inhumanity of their mafters. were as follow : An able man + In 1791, the prices of negroes 49L; a young man, 47l.; a young in his prime, sol.; an able woman, from 451. to 4ol. Sterling, befides the woman, 461.; boys and girls, them is pretty much in difufe; The praétice oft marking dary: Aai --- Page 208 --- HISTORY OF THE fettled negro forms' afrong who is thus configned attuchment tothe fection is to pisi youth perfedtly patronageanditbe af. young irangerit reciprocal. On the fide ofthe cicty ofhis countryment, confitutes a renovation ofithe fomore than to-be: configned whichrmuft 'certainly pleafe and, on the other hand, to the care to fpend his old the old negro ofanthite; is whofe age among his delighted fociety muft alfo adopted : fing remembrance of awaken his mind to children, a bis pleaThe above youthful days: effates ofallikinds; practice is common to Weft Indian I Thall confine but,in the following gar plantations, myfelf chiefly to the reflections, On. thefe economy of fuare ufpally feparated intol cfiates, the labourers confifts of the frongeft three gangs. The firft ofthe whole fock, wvhole individuals, men and women, ground, plant and cut the occupation is to clear the procefs of canes, and attend the of the younger fugar.making. The fecond fet confifts chief negroes and convalefeents, employment cris whofe crcife. The third weeding, orlany fuch light extended by old group is the children, women, who fuperin. cattle, or weed in the pull green meat for.the The firft gang is garden. their labour, and fummoned before fun-rife work two or three are attended by a driver. They to an hour for breakfaft, hours, and then are allowed half or vegetables, highly which confifts of boiled' roots dulged with two hours feafoned. At noon they are inp'clock they refume theirt of refrefhment. At two tafks, from which theyare old group is the children, women, who fuperin. cattle, or weed in the pull green meat for.the The firft gang is garden. their labour, and fummoned before fun-rife work two or three are attended by a driver. They to an hour for breakfaft, hours, and then are allowed half or vegetables, highly which confifts of boiled' roots dulged with two hours feafoned. At noon they are inp'clock they refume theirt of refrefhment. At two tafks, from which theyare --- Page 209 --- WEST INDIES. and, 6f their labour has been releafed at fug-let; are granted an allowHard, of the day wet, they labour amounts to ance ofrum. Thus theirishole Sundays andi holie nomore thanliten hours a-day, the they excepted * Itistrue, at cropfeafon, on the days Ato fubmit to mnight attendance are obliged from being divided into watches, fugar-n makings but and ripe canes, they and plentifilly fed with fyrup well. preferve theirhealth remarkably theinduftry ofthe The jadicious iplan ofexciting ofland to by afigning him a certain portion The negro, nowibecome exceedingly common. and cultivate,iss into a fort of tenant, flave thus is tranfitiuted accrue to gratify his palate, the furplus ofhis gains where ground and clothe him well: In Jamaica, greatly felt; and to is plenty, the efleêts ofthisiare arife from that which might prevent the mifchief to rear articles of the negroes foolifh propepfitylof every proprietor the hurricanes, for food precarinasiriom have an acre of provion-ground is bound to of the other grants he may, everyl flave, exclulive giver the negroes in Jamaica are * Befides holidays and Saturdays, for cultivating their own grouind. allowed one dayin a fortnight the manufs@uring of coarfe articles, Some of them allot this dayto At this placcthey are. which they fcll at the market of the Kingiton, number of ten thoufand, where feen to affemble on Sundays to for falted becfand iron, or fine linen, they eschangetheiri hand-work wives. There is never an inftance ofa'mafter or ornaments for their ofthe negro which his induftry has acinterfering with the property quired. for cultivating their own grouind. allowed one dayin a fortnight the manufs@uring of coarfe articles, Some of them allot this dayto At this placcthey are. which they fcll at the market of the Kingiton, number of ten thoufand, where feen to affemble on Sundays to for falted becfand iron, or fine linen, they eschangetheiri hand-work wives. There is never an inftance ofa'mafter or ornaments for their ofthe negro which his induftry has acinterfering with the property quired. --- Page 210 --- Igo HISTORY OF THE The negroes commonly into villages, which, affemble their cottages trees, produce. a pleafing being interfperfed with fruit an Englifhman might formiof profpedt. Whatever idea tainly are (confidering their huts, they cerlodgings than the ordinary climate) more comfortable Irifh peafantry. The abodesi of Ithe Scotch or I5 to 20 feet in building is commonly from interlined with length, and is reared . of hard palm leaf, and wattles. 10 The roof is of cocoa pofs The completely fhelters it from the or fome bediftead, the table, two or three rain. calabafhes, compofe the ftools, a jar, and cookery is conduaed in the furniture, and their ever indifferent the furniture open-air. But how. may be, the tradefinans of the and ondinary.flave ter provided, when their domeftic are much betmade them own private property has The independent of their mafler's clothing of the negro is bounty.. allowance of Ofmaburgh fupplied by a daily from bis proprietor. linen, woollen cloths, &c. Their fure, far from being good common garb is, to be contrive to ; but, on holidays appear not only they gaudy. decent, but even A very principal greatly conduce to the circumfance, and which muft regular attention comfort of the negro, is the tioni is attended paid to thein health. Every by a Ikilful planta, ing art; for the planters pradtitioner in the heal. formation, do not being in general men of inpermit fuch tioners as abound in England. ill-qualified pradtiThe moft loathfome difeafes which are prevalent , on holidays appear not only they gaudy. decent, but even A very principal greatly conduce to the circumfance, and which muft regular attention comfort of the negro, is the tioni is attended paid to thein health. Every by a Ikilful planta, ing art; for the planters pradtitioner in the heal. formation, do not being in general men of inpermit fuch tioners as abound in England. ill-qualified pradtiThe moft loathfome difeafes which are prevalent --- Page 211 --- 19T WEST INDIES. and the yaws. the negeoes, are the cacaby to be among CE diftemper, fuppofed The former isa dreadfule the latter, which in feriptures the lepeiymeidioseds adults, is feldoni capable ise ainfecliousit it: attacki n pafs through it, on of caresmbuts m schildrensoftens inoculated for which account they are frequently 6 ade it likei the Gmallpoxisi not to fomit mentioning af Belidesthefsy wenoughti fa fatally in-, of the tétanus; Or lockajaw, a fpecies children ; and inthe fomach-cvil, curable amongi advanced in.life. 9 The unmore commion'to thofe diforder feeis a continual crahappy viétim ofi this It was comfor earth, which he eats greedilys brutal ving among the overleers,to mon, at orie period, with the lafh. punith this propenfity in labour, are açcommaInvalids, and women and, where the and nurles, dated with hofpitals with even the proprietor is a man of generofity, diftrels. - On expenfive cordials that alleviate more for a few circumitances the whole, makeallowances remedy, and the which time wwill in'all probability happier than one negro Alave. inay be pronouneed half the peafantry of Europe. draw a si parallel-beThe réader who wifhies to. and the Weft Indian tween the peafant of Éurope fenfible comparifon than flave, cannot find a more in letters from what is given by Baron Wimpffen, that St. Domingo. < Itis certain," fays Speaking of the negro, which re- < that, thanks, to the climate, eduauthor, their wants to a mere trifle; thanks.to duces ro Alave. inay be pronouneed half the peafantry of Europe. draw a si parallel-beThe réader who wifhies to. and the Weft Indian tween the peafant of Éurope fenfible comparifon than flave, cannot find a more in letters from what is given by Baron Wimpffen, that St. Domingo. < Itis certain," fays Speaking of the negro, which re- < that, thanks, to the climate, eduauthor, their wants to a mere trifle; thanks.to duces --- Page 212 --- HISTORY OFTHE cation, which leaves them eijoyments, of which ignorant of riglits and thanks to the they can form no idea; and the ficklenefs thonghitemefr of of their charaéter, the intereft which their their haniours and, laftly, to doing, the lot of a owners have in theirwell. ed, and a elpecially negro flave, all things confider. tol when he has the belonging a mafter who doès happinefs of humanity by his avarice, is not meafure bis the peafantry lofra preferable to that of defcend to grcat part of Europe,Ler us 46 Withouf particulars: tany other retribution-o of an uncertain property-thiam the uncertain perty which nothing but the labour; or with a procan render equal to his moft adlive induftry ofthe peafant, and a neceflities, the fubliftence depends from family, freqtuently of his day to day on numerods, health, and on a accident, on the fate which it either is not in number his rofeireumftancer which, if forefeen, power to forefee, or nefs. Vietr him prove a new fource 'of wretched. fperity, always alteimately humbled by the propride of his humilinting, of his equals; by the poverty with fuperiors ; by the comparifon their of his the diftinctions which opulenéé; and, finally, by all fubordination, of which compofe the long chain of 6 He is free, it is he is always the laft link. believe fo; but what is true, at leaft he is' taught to in whatever direétion this liberty for a man, who, either he attempts to detained, or pufhed back move, is wretchednefs from which he into the circle of 2 hoped to efcape ; now by the comparifon their of his the diftinctions which opulenéé; and, finally, by all fubordination, of which compofe the long chain of 6 He is free, it is he is always the laft link. believe fo; but what is true, at leaft he is' taught to in whatever direétion this liberty for a man, who, either he attempts to detained, or pufhed back move, is wretchednefs from which he into the circle of 2 hoped to efcape ; now --- Page 213 --- WEST INDIES. which only. renders his poby the want of means, and now by the opinion verty doubly poignants : himn.but the more fenof the world, which makes VT fible of his own nullity. more clad 4 He.is : has jno. need of Remartiatementas than the negro: but the megto with.the oner is merely clothes. à The habit which withithe otheran object of an article of luxury, is indiipenlable necellity, a better furone is, larger.and 46 The cottage ofthe of the other; but its reparanifhed than the cafa alone abforb no inconfidertions,and its moveables it muft be repaired in able part of his earnings: in winter. fummer, it.muf be warmed food and - raiment, 46 The one can only provide fpecie, diflicult to be his taxes, 8c. with difcharge which the other has no need. procureds but of oflabour, of numerous e The European, by dint induftry, has fcarcely privations. and of unremitting eafe, before a fucceeded in acquiring a moment's and melancholy prefage of the future intervenes, think-of his delights. He muft blafts his fugitive upl-and of.old age children, who are growing If he looks round he which is faft approaching. in) each of the indifees his own wants multiplied him for fhelter, food, and viduals who call upon himfelf, he beraiment. If he turns an eye upon will fhortly fupholds the enervated arms combat which he has Aill to port him no more in the of three: after a fruggle wage with povertys-even 1294 : fcore years! B h muft blafts his fugitive upl-and of.old age children, who are growing If he looks round he which is faft approaching. in) each of the indifees his own wants multiplied him for fhelter, food, and viduals who call upon himfelf, he beraiment. If he turns an eye upon will fhortly fupholds the enervated arms combat which he has Aill to port him no more in the of three: after a fruggle wage with povertys-even 1294 : fcore years! B h --- Page 214 --- HISTORY OFTHE 66 The negro, too, has his' wifh to deny it: but, Halferingss I do not providing for himfelf for exonerated of the care" of family hereafter, he fuffers the prefent, and for his mnecefhrily attached to his' lefs from the haralhipe privation of certain condition) than from the enjoyinentss may meunappincoeraer fo exprefs myfelf, latter therefore is, ifI the former univerfal local and negativel that of over all his exiftence, and pofitive, It is diffufed oyer the fufure às and over all his conmedions; well-as the ception of what he fuffers, and prefent. The per. ofwhat he has fuffered, the remembrance of the fufferings he has inceflantly admoninh him < When the yet to undergo: to Rleep-and niegro Hias caten his banana he of tlie planter; though a burricane deftroy the goes ereéed at.a a. vaft though fire confume the buildings hopes commotions. expence ; though ingulph whole fubierrancous fcourgel of war fpread cities; though the or ftrew the ocean with devaftation the over our plains, fcets-what is'a all this wrecks of blankct, and to bim ! Enveloped ourfeattered in his fees with the fame tranquilly feated on the ruins, he from his pipe, and the eye, the fmoke which exhales vour the proipeds ofa torrents of flamé which de- . That the more cruel" whole generation 1 the négro have continued cireumflances in the lot of gradually alleviated, and will continue to be of the legiflature appears from the wife of late in their behalf. interference appears, from It likenasmerensiafigncer thatin cafes veloped ourfeattered in his fees with the fame tranquilly feated on the ruins, he from his pipe, and the eye, the fmoke which exhales vour the proipeds ofa torrents of flamé which de- . That the more cruel" whole generation 1 the négro have continued cireumflances in the lot of gradually alleviated, and will continue to be of the legiflature appears from the wife of late in their behalf. interference appears, from It likenasmerensiafigncer thatin cafes --- Page 215 --- WEST INDIES:.1. : vofa the mafter to his flave has where the crueltyi of thé law beeni brought to light, the vengeance the, ofiender It willhas beemnijultly ckercifed upon the reader, that ina rendily,. however, occur to, of an negro is not where. the evidence circumcountry peculiar taken, the law cmonlysinsery the flave from the vinAlances, afford a fhelter tol fhould he unforrunately didive fpirit.of his mafter, That all into the hands of fuch a proprietors &c. of fall mutilationsa the mnarratives of whippings, told, in Europe, are abioflaves, which have been affertions but lutcly falfe, would be ah impropern fo fcldom allowances muft bep made forexnggetation and in general terms disjoined from a deferiptions treatment of Weft be afferted, that the it may indulgent * Indian flaves is mild.and have, feen, a young lady, and 66 A lady, whom.I to the authority of Mr. * It may appeafa a mark of difrefpeet a quotation which, decilivery Edwards, to fubjoin in this placc, the wageof the negroes proves) him to have given. .anrolintuofs of truth demandsmorc reby.far too favourables But the.caufe and though it be deviating from. the fpect than Mr: Edwards ; fhould deem it anjuft not to contrait direét line of my fubjedl, I ofWelt Indian cruclty, with fome Mr. Edwardes evalive confellion rauthority of theiwriter lately facts drawn from the. relipedtable Mr. Edwards informs us, that thetreatquoted, Baron Wimplied. mild over all the Weft Indics. Let any,one ment ofthe negrocs is and pronounce whee the fubjoined (pecimens of barbarity, is where fuch perufe where fuch cruclty pergetinated, is ther, in a country live; the unhappy being who fubje@ted can monfters àre permitedto to their.capsicious revenge to, the bare pofibiliey of fubmitting be faidto be-mildly trented? B b-ij Wimplied. mild over all the Weft Indics. Let any,one ment ofthe negrocs is and pronounce whee the fubjoined (pecimens of barbarity, is where fuch perufe where fuch cruclty pergetinated, is ther, in a country live; the unhappy being who fubje@ted can monfters àre permitedto to their.capsicious revenge to, the bare pofibiliey of fubmitting be faidto be-mildly trented? B b-ij --- Page 216 --- HISTORY OF THE one of the handiomet in the dinner. Furious at ifland, gave a grand to'the table feeing a difhof paftry to be feized, overdone, the ordered her brought and throwm into the negro cook avitls beat- And this oven, yet slnuing name I fupprefs out of horrible Megaera, whofe infernal fiend whom refpedt to her familys this drive with every mark public. exeeration ought toy this worthy ofabliorrence from ist followed rival-of-t the ioo famous focicty; beautiful! and admired for the Chaperon is * s rich and 66 So much for what I have what I have feen. heard, and now for < The dayafter the cala of a planter my return, I was walking before when we overheard with, one - of his enclofure him bid a negro neighibours, ofthis very go into the trees which he neighbour, pull uptwo them pointed out to him, and young Ing. immediately on a terrace he was then replant 66 The ele un formnegro went : the furprifed bim in the fact, neighbour followed him, mafter, whom I had by this and brought him to his hope of witheling a fcene of time joined, in the mifed to be amufing: confulion which 66 Conceive, proSir, what on the complaint of the paffed in my mind, when, neighbout, I heard the * A planter of Stl Domingo, feeing the heat fhrivel and draw who, in the fame circumflances, Regro, exclaimed in a fury, 46 The rafcal open the lips of the unhappy laughs." --- Page 217 --- WEST INDIES.T i97 another! of his negross to- tie malter coldly order ladder, r,and give him an culprit to a ftruck with the pretended We were both iof us hundred lafhes! ftopified, pale, and Phud: fuch aftonintment, that, negro received the barderinig, while the unhappy we looked at one barous chaftifement in filence, a' fingle word without being able to utter his anotlier ordered, he whio-thus punilhed And he who inftrument of his willy at own crime on the blind and the unfeeling. once the danardly perpetrator atrocious injuftice, is heré one withefs of the moft of the law, the official protector ofthe firft organs Heavens : if a- pitiful refpect for of inidcencete to devote the name of this decorim forbids me let me at leaft be permonfter to eternal infamy, Divine Juftice will hear the mittéd to hope that and fooner or later accumi cries of the fufferer, head all the weiglit ofits late. on the tyrant's a vemgeance 1% a - of Jamilea, théy To the honour of the legillature exprefly infituted a council "of proteclion, have into the crueltics for the purpole of examliing and whenevér a comcommitted upon negroes; is received of any intelligence; plaint, or probable the fricteft inquiry is made: unjuit ponifiments, inftituition, the furgeon of Befides this humane to give in an annual every plantation is required of the flaves, account of the increafe and decreafe the caufe which declaring, in the cafe of decreale, him to afcribe. J his own unbiafed opinion leads the continuation ob The grand argument againft the crueltics for the purpole of examliing and whenevér a comcommitted upon negroes; is received of any intelligence; plaint, or probable the fricteft inquiry is made: unjuit ponifiments, inftituition, the furgeon of Befides this humane to give in an annual every plantation is required of the flaves, account of the increafe and decreafe the caufe which declaring, in the cafe of decreale, him to afcribe. J his own unbiafed opinion leads the continuation ob The grand argument againft --- Page 218 --- HISTORY OF. THE ilavery in the Weft Indies, oflife which it undoubtedijyia the wafte able to fupply themfelves decalions; and that the illands, unflaves they.already with the ollipringof the Africa, by a continuation poffefs, are forced to depopulate been forinerly brought of the trade. What has rity, between ithe males. forward and upon, the vaft difpagroes, is in partan anfwer females among thould allo be to this objedtion, thene- Butit gamy, which fublifts mentioned, that the pradtice of Polyanother very powerful among caufe the blacks, operates as tion. Iti may be, perhaps, of decreafing populaoflegal prohibition. fuppoled that theinfluence infortunate circumllance; might conduce to obviate this quainted with the habits ; but any one who is acwould Pronounce it and temper of a negro, evil. No hardthip could impracicable to reform the more-fevere (in his ellimation) be impofed upon him fidelity to one objeét. The thanan obligation of this fuperiority, of number in the natural confequence of profligacy in. the other fex, males, is abandoned expofe them to continual whofe irregular habits It need. not be denied that abortions. powerful circumflance in flavery itfelfis a very bers. Sentiment muft producing thinnefs of numfore the offpring of man combine with indiné, bes regard ; and that is a quality, becomes an objec of due flave, feldom abundant in a Numberlefs fchemes prefented to the public have, at various times, been upon the ofimproving the condition of fayourite fubjed thefe people. The --- Page 219 --- WEST INDIES. that could be followed to moft commendabile plan would bc, in the firft place, to accomplithi this end, and fixed tafk forthe aflign to the labourera certain ofwhich, all the reft of * day; after the performanée his own difpolal, and libethe day fhould remain at be held out to employ the might ral etcouragemient Their property fpare time to : his own advantage: watched over by thus, fhould be carefully notions of acquited them to right the laws; and to accultom they ought. to be between man and man, and juftice arbiters in difputes among themfelves, day of reft made Befides, the confituted into juries. than their eftaobferved Sab- - fhould be more' religiouly them to do. The blilhed cuftoms have taught fhould be to inftead of being a day of market, and an,opbath, ceffation from all employment, them a. improvement. By obferving portunity for mental and equalizing the thefe modes of imy rovement, females from Afnica, the fexes, by importing more meliorate, of the flave would gradaally condition flave trade ceafe to exift. and the which demands to be removed, But the grand evil to admit a fhadow ofpaland which is too notorious It is in vain to inliation, remains to be mentioned. of the flave, whilft he ftitute regulations in favour dreadful hardihip of being continues expofed to the he belongs, to defray fold off the property to which after he has become atthe debts of his proprietor, enriched by his intached to the foil, and fomewhat has been comfortWhen the good negro duftry. whichafforais fettled upon the previfion-greund, ably to admit a fhadow ofpaland which is too notorious It is in vain to inliation, remains to be mentioned. of the flave, whilft he ftitute regulations in favour dreadful hardihip of being continues expofed to the he belongs, to defray fold off the property to which after he has become atthe debts of his proprietor, enriched by his intached to the foil, and fomewhat has been comfortWhen the good negro duftry. whichafforais fettled upon the previfion-greund, ably --- Page 220 --- HISTORY OF THE WEST INDIES. him, befides fubiftence, fome be feparated from hiswife luxuries of life, he and and may dragged to the mines family,fold byau&ion, ded from the light OFMexico, where, excluand ofheaven, he fuffers, unpitied, not for his own unheard of fortunes of his mafter. Let guilt, but for the mif. therefore abolihed ; let the this iniquitous law be with the property to which negto be fold along no other mannér. The he is attached, but in the unhappy victim ofl his injuflice of hurrying away to regions where flavery mafter's failure and debts, aipedt, admits of exifs in its' moft Cruelties of no arguments, and no frightful a different nature, palliation. themfelves, happen though fevere in much lefs to be dreaded unffequently, and are therefore mains as it is, there is ; but, while the fyftem rethis mifery, no end to the continuance of --- Page 221 --- BOOK V. AGRICULTURE: CHAPTER I. concerning Sugar Cane-Known to the Ascions-Cojedier from Sicily to the Aits Introduétion into Europe-Conveged and from thence to the Weft Inzorcs, &cc.in the 1sth Century, himfelf carried it from the Canary dics-Evidencet that Columbus of Labat's Reafoning to fhow Iflands to Htipamide-Bennarye fpontancouly in the Weft Indiesthat it was found reconcial-Botastcnl growing Name and DeferiptionBoth Accounts and their Varieties deferibed Soils beft adaptedfori its Cultivation, of Boiling and of the Plough-Method Ufe and Superiority Planting: regard of any 'THE fugar cane arrefts the principal of the Weft Inwho attends to the agriculture one denominated, facwas by the ancients dies. Sugar by the monks into zucharum, charum, transformed into its Englifh and from therice at laft converted of Lucan, was Sugar, from the teftimony its name. and probably found well known to the ancients, period. From the from the eait at a very carly the Cruway where it was well known to in Holy Land, to the Morea and iflands faders, it made its way to the ifland of Sicily; from thence the Archipelago; Cc ients dies. Sugar by the monks into zucharum, charum, transformed into its Englifh and from therice at laft converted of Lucan, was Sugar, from the teftimony its name. and probably found well known to the ancients, period. From the from the eait at a very carly the Cruway where it was well known to in Holy Land, to the Morea and iflands faders, it made its way to the ifland of Sicily; from thence the Archipelago; Cc --- Page 222 --- HISTORY OF THE and from Sicily it by thes appears to have been Spaniards to the Azores, tranfplanted Cape de Verde Ifles. Madeira, Canary, and time when it was Hiftorians dilpute about the but, from the moft tranfported to the Weft Indies; have been introduced probable teftimony, it feems to for We are informed thither by Columbus bimfelf; val at the Weft by Martyr, that upon his arriwith which he Indies, he faw no plants' or was trees the elm. Now, it is acguainted, well except the pine and was well known in Europe afcertained, that the cane ries of Columbus; ; and it is previous to the difcove. exifted in the Weft Indies, fingular, that if it had have found it. Columbus fhould not Other hiftorians, however, a native of America, and affert, that the cane is taneoufly in all regions of was found growing milphere. the newly difcovered fponAmong the heof the queftion, is P. authors who adopt this fide argument, informs Labat, who, in of us that fupport his gives an account of Gage, an Englifh mong other fugar canes being voyager, Charaibes articles, to the crew of his prefented, aof fhip by the nues the fame Guadaloupe. The Spaniards, conti. tivated author, had at that an inch of ground in the period never cul. Their thips, indeed, Smaller Antilles. for wood and water; commonly and touched at the iflands fit of fuch of their they left fvine for the beneally land there again. counttymen as might occafiondegree, to fuppofe that Butit is abfurd, in the higheft and at the fame time they would plant fugar canes, put hogs afhore to deftroy oupe. The Spaniards, conti. tivated author, had at that an inch of ground in the period never cul. Their thips, indeed, Smaller Antilles. for wood and water; commonly and touched at the iflands fit of fuch of their they left fvine for the beneally land there again. counttymen as might occafiondegree, to fuppofe that Butit is abfurd, in the higheft and at the fame time they would plant fugar canes, put hogs afhore to deftroy --- Page 223 --- WEST INDIES. any motive for bethem. Neither had theSpaniards which they confidered ftowing this plant upon iflands except for the purpofe as of no kind of importance, that the Chahave mentioned ; and to fuppole we, aftertheir departure, raibes might have cultivated, betrays toproduaion of which they knew nothing, and charaéler. of the Indian difpofition in the tal ignorance author continues his arguments and The fame furer teflimony, following words : 66 We have of contradicbeyond the poflibility fuch as proves cane is the indigenous production, that the fugar befides the evidence of Frantion of America. For, trcatife on American plants, cis Ximenes, who, in a that the fugar cane grows printed at Mexico, afferts, fize, oll cultivation, and to an extraordinary affured by without of the river Plate. We are chathe banks Proteltant minifter, who was Jean de Lary, a garrifon in the fort of plain, in 1556, to the Dutch that he himfelf found Coligny, on the river Janeiro, on the banks of that fugar canes in great abundance vifited by the Porturiver, and in fituations never and other voyagers, bear guefe. Father Hennepan, to the growth of the teftimony, in a fimilar manner, and Jean de near the mouth of the Miflifippi, the Iand of cane produdion in Laet to its fpontancous for the plant itfelf, St. Vincent. It is not, therefore, fugar from it, that the but for the fecret of making and thefe Indies are indebted to the Spaniards, Weft to the nations of the eaft." affertions are not Thefe feemingly contradilory Canes might have howerer totally yirreconcileable. Ccij manner, and Jean de near the mouth of the Miflifippi, the Iand of cane produdion in Laet to its fpontancous for the plant itfelf, St. Vincent. It is not, therefore, fugar from it, that the but for the fecret of making and thefe Indies are indebted to the Spaniards, Weft to the nations of the eaft." affertions are not Thefe feemingly contradilory Canes might have howerer totally yirreconcileable. Ccij --- Page 224 --- HISTORY OF THE grown in the Weft Indies, carried thither by and yet have been alfo induftry of the Columbus; ; but, at any rate, the exceeded the ancient Spaniards muft have far thi Iy fugar mills moderns; fince, in the year The were eftablifhed. 1535, fugar cane is a ftrong jointed reed, yellow coloured and a pithy juice, terminating of in leaves, and ture. The a fweet the moft containing general diftance agrecable in nacane is from one to three between the knots of the ufually an inch in diameter. inches, and the reed is cane varies with the The height of! the three to feven mould, but is in fect; and general from or fuckers * The below, it fhoots into it cane thrives on ftoles appears to agree beft with that various foils; but ingly rich. St. which is exceed. cellent foil in this Chriftopher's contains the moft exmould in Jamaica refpedt. The foil called claims the next brick warm, and eafily rank. It is deep, quality of wrought;l and has the requiring no fingular teft weather. In the trenching, even in the wetthis foil greatly French part of St. lue to the abounds; and gives a Domingo, property. In favourable prodigious va. quently returned two tons and feafons it has frecane plants ofan acre. a half offugar for the The black mould is of dif. * On' the top of the cane there tains a white feed; but this often rifes an arrow, which conproof that the cancis not indigenous nevervogetater when fown : A fort of N.B. There are other to the foil. Bligh brought home one from fpecies the of cane befides this. far greater than that ofthe Weft South Sea, which was in Captain length Indian produaion, --- Page 225 --- . WEST INDIES. which it werc needlefs to particulavrize, ferent kinds, to pafs over that other (peWe ought not, however; of Trelawny, in Jacies, chiefly found in the parith aptitude for thofe fumaica, known by its peculiar refined. It has a glolly and gars which are to be when fpecimens of it are fhining appearance ; and refemble gamboge. Though dried, they' greatly dry. It is chiefdeep, it is not heavy, and naturally called ratoon canes ; that ly to be ufed for what are which have been prejs, the fuckers from the roots vioufly cut for fugar. has been Inthe cultivation Borotheriandaheptosgh is, I fear, from the ufed, which, though advantageous, of becoming univerfal nature of the lands, incapable that the pradtice of houghIt is, however, furprifing, round ridging, hatrowing the crols ploughing, and come to prevail among the fame lands, fhould have Undoubtedly a much better proprietors of Jamaicain the fpring, leave the management is' to plough and then hole, after the land fallow in the fummer, But the advantages of ancient method, in autumn. The labour of onc the plough are ineftimable. eight oxen, with a common man, three boys, and returning the ploughlingle-weheeled plough, by will cafily hole Thare along the back of the furrow, 20 acres in 13 days. laborious mode of holing is pracWhen the old The land being cleartifed, the procefs is as follows: into plots of15 or 20 ed and weeded, is divided between. Each part acres, with inte rvals for roads feet and a halfby into fquares ofthree is fubdivided eight oxen, with a common man, three boys, and returning the ploughlingle-weheeled plough, by will cafily hole Thare along the back of the furrow, 20 acres in 13 days. laborious mode of holing is pracWhen the old The land being cleartifed, the procefs is as follows: into plots of15 or 20 ed and weeded, is divided between. Each part acres, with inte rvals for roads feet and a halfby into fquares ofthree is fubdivided --- Page 226 --- HISTORY OF THE a line and wooden a row in the firft line. pegs. You place the negroes in to begin with the divifions The labourers are ordered ceed backwards, oftbefirt line, and proof 15. inches in width making in each hole an excavation and a half at the at the bottom, and two feet formed,the top. When the trenches are caneisplaced hole, and covered to the longitudinally in the cane12 or 14 days the depth of two inches. In ceffary to fupply them fprouts appear, fo that it is necourfe of four or five with new earth, till, in the pletely levelled. At this months, the banks are comimportance that the time it is of the greateft frequently cleaning overfeer fhould be pundual in Iateral fuckers them, and alfo in removing the from the which draw fo much plant, nourifhment The cane ought to be planted ginning of Auguft and between the beare planted after this November. Canes which the autumnal rains, time, lofing the advantage of rife both at joints and never fprout till May, when they in fuckers. Thofe fpring are feldom more planted late ary plant introduces fortunate; and the Janucrops: befides, diforder into the period of the being cut in wet apt to fpring afrefh, and bave weather, they are Indeed, no error can be an unconneéted juice. time the returns of the more egregious than to mif. a complicated machine, crop. An eftate being like in unifon with whofe parts muft act one another, before its effect always properly produced. it muft, can be that the Weft Indian however, be confeffed, planter (even.allowing his pru- , diforder into the period of the being cut in wet apt to fpring afrefh, and bave weather, they are Indeed, no error can be an unconneéted juice. time the returns of the more egregious than to mif. a complicated machine, crop. An eftate being like in unifon with whofe parts muft act one another, before its effect always properly produced. it muft, can be that the Weft Indian however, be confeffed, planter (even.allowing his pru- --- Page 227 --- .WEST INDIES. of avoiding every procedure dence to be capable and of adopticg the 'conneéted with misfortune, of.his eftate) is liable wifelt plans for the regulation can obviate, and no to calamities which no forelghit chief of thefe calamimanagement prevent. The ofLinnaus), which ties is called the Blaft, (the Aphe animals invifible to the confifts of myriads of little their food in the juice, naked eye. Searching for the blades, and check thefe minute ravagers wound till the cane withers and - of the fluid the circulation lefs generally deftrucdies. Befides thefe (though called the Borer, mention the grub, tive), we may in Tobago by the name ofthe and another known mentioned plague, namely Jumper Fly. The firft is never found in thofe the Blaft, I am informed, omnivora, or carniplantations where the formica Whether this be authenvorous ant is prevalent. pronounce ; but it is. ticated, I cannot decifively almoft every certain this little ant exterminates haye, indeed, told fmaller infeét. Spanifh hiftorians of this ant, ftories about the ravages exus wonderful to believe they are perfealy but I am inclined aggerated. lands in the Weft Indies The method of manuring viz. coal and veby five compofitions, is performed feculencies from the ftill-houfe, refufe, getable afhes, obtained from ftables, and, laftly, or field trafh, dung and ôther wafte places. mould from gullies when the land firt mode of manuring, As to.the effect ofthe afhes muft be very is wet, I imagine the of foil it feems falutary ; but upon the generality. --- Page 228 --- é08 HISTORY, OF THE by no means ufeful, fince it has folved in the land when been found undif of five years, But the opened up at the difance doubtedly by beft of all manures is unone field to having the cattle-pen moveable another, the urine from fully. This mode may be operating very powergrounds, but fuch as are depended upon in all It is, a common worn out with cultivation, been cut, to fet fire practice, after a field of canes it is imagined, to the ftubble, by which has Such that a valuable means; a practice in moit manure is obtained. neither good nor ill; but grounds in may poffibly do fitted for fugar, nine times the generality of foil fitive, harm. out of ten it muft do poBut, mode of notwithdlanding manuring, all thefe varietics in the nures of fea-fand and much might yet be done, lime are ufed in Maadvantage, and might Britain with tage here. The fame certainly be of equal advan: which a foft and undluous remark applies to marl, of It: may be aiked kind abounds in made? why the Jamaica. The anfiwer is experiment has never been agents and fervants eafy, In the Weft apply themfelves have neither time nor Indies, to any novelty means to practice is their only guide, and in agriculture; beaten traét their only contintation in the It is now time to objeét. ofa different kind, that conduét he the reader into fcenes nufacure of tbat commodity may contemplate the manow defcribed. wholc culture we have aiked kind abounds in made? why the Jamaica. The anfiwer is experiment has never been agents and fervants eafy, In the Weft apply themfelves have neither time nor Indies, to any novelty means to practice is their only guide, and in agriculture; beaten traét their only contintation in the It is now time to objeét. ofa different kind, that conduét he the reader into fcenes nufacure of tbat commodity may contemplate the manow defcribed. wholc culture we have --- Page 229 --- WEST INDIES: CHAPTER II. Fofay-tir forgeinding Partw-PeCrop relntireutnawesasar and its componenit its the CanesmOft the Cane-jaice Mafcavedo Sugar-Melafies and cels for, obtaining Rawor Clayed Sapar-Of Rum, Stillof making Dijatl-Priede Sils-Citerns and their MeEeNae Houfes and Method of Doible Ditiliation-Dac Ifand Procef-jamaica of Sweets afentained Quantity of Rum from a given Quanitity and Rated. is fet in action, the fickly As foon as the fugar-mill as have been hitherto looks offuch of the negroes ofhealths and into an afpeet indifpofed, are changed and mules, even the vigour. The horfes, the oxen, feaft; and partake of the general A pigs and poultry, the tops and refufe. fatten fuprilingly upon this fcene of indufry fpectator cannot contemplate of (ympathetic pica: without emotions a and plenty fure. fhould operate fo wonderfilly weeks upon That fugar as to raife i in a few the animal economy, thofe from ficknefs to vigour, may fem.iurpaifingto OF nutrition. Biit who regard it as unprodudive have béen explaied-by the benefits of this plant in medicine with fuch thole ofan oppofite creed that its utility (eéms now to convineing arguments, old Hare, a phyficinn be little difputed: He (fays to argue againft offome difiniction) whio attempts him a very ditficult fweets in general, takes upon this talk; for nature feems to have The recomimended birds of the air, tafte to all forts of animals. réptiles and flies, feent the beafts ofthe field, many D d --- Page 230 --- HISTORY or THE to be pleafed land ofall fweets, and delighted with the to dillafteits ipecific relifh cane or fugar I hold for ther contrary. Now, the gerable fiweets. To the higheft fandard of vein a great meafire, aferibed influence of fugar may be, feurvy, the plague, and the extination of the ly epidémical. many other- difeafes The 143 Jalf o. former. fugar-mill is a fimple principally of three imachine; iti confifts iron, from 30 to 40 inches uprighe cylinders, plated with to. 25 inches in diameter. in length, and from-20 compreffed through thefe The canes are twice pafled through. the firit.and rollers; for, after being to the middle one by aframe fecond, they are fixed turner, and then fgucezed called the Dumb Re. rized betwcen the otheri back till they are of the juice isa rollersagaina The pulves leaden bed, and the receiver Cane-trafh, is ufed for fuel. refufe, called Jamaica has oflate been inches in diameter. in length, and from-20 compreffed through thefe The canes are twice pafled through. the firit.and rollers; for, after being to the middle one by aframe fecond, they are fixed turner, and then fgucezed called the Dumb Re. rized betwcen the otheri back till they are of the juice isa rollersagaina The pulves leaden bed, and the receiver Cane-trafh, is ufed for fuel. refufe, called Jamaica has oflate been for an ingenious indebted to Mr Woolery tion of the fungar-mill, improvement upon the confruc. wheel, fixed to the viz. the addition of a or trundles. The middle cylinder, with lanterni ring the work effeét of this is to wallowers gallons, ofan hour, in place of produce, du500 gallons, 300 or 350 ployed, Deduding four fuppoling ten mules are emthis yields per day hours out of 24 for lofs) putation amounts 10,000 gailons, wbich fugar to 36 by comper week. 000 hogtheads of The 16'ewt.of cané-juice is water, one of fugar, compofed of one part of one of grofs oil and pure mucilagi. --- Page 231 --- WEST INDIES. oilt Thisiswith a portion of effential vary in mnous gum, eftimation, for the proportions fomea medium Oriberiablances juices of different qualities: when ground, and occatimes enter the green tops The ligneous part fion fermentation in the liquor. mixed with it; and found ofi thel cane is frequently which farrourids it between the cruft or black coat ofits colour, isiapt to the joints, from the blacknels value ofthefugar have fome effectin dimittfhtogthes the receiver to the boilingruns fromi lis received - PA The juice ofWood, lead.linediand houfe in a gutter clarifiers. Of thefe there are again into the copper muft entirely depend upon three,the fize of which to difpatch with which it is necellary the celerity of the canes. When the grinding the manufactory there are clarifiers capable mills fupply very rapidly, but in general they do not ofholding 1000 gallons; of that fize. When the cla: each exceed a third part the teache, rifier ftands at one of the boilinghoufes from 70 to IOO gal: ora boiler capable of holding end, and between thefe lons, is placedat the other boilers, which diminith in there fand three other the boiler to the clarifier. fize as they reach from from clarifier has been filled with liquor When the rid of the faperabunthe receiver, in order to get into it; which is ufux: dant acid, the temper is firred effect a feparation of ally Briftol white-linie. To praétice to allow to an this acid, it is.a common of Briltollime, This hundred gallons ofl fliquor a pint to the botoccalionsa black calx to be precipitated fo, that little and affects the fugar tom of the vellel, Ddij ifier has been filled with liquor When the rid of the faperabunthe receiver, in order to get into it; which is ufux: dant acid, the temper is firred effect a feparation of ally Briftol white-linie. To praétice to allow to an this acid, it is.a common of Briltollime, This hundred gallons ofl fliquor a pint to the botoccalionsa black calx to be precipitated fo, that little and affects the fugar tom of the vellel, Ddij --- Page 232 --- HISTORYIOF THE more thanrone balf of that and it is allo proper. toiboil quantity fecms neceflanyy From liin-ater allembly the-reafonings of-Jansica of Mr, Boufier (to his voted a reward: of nhomthe improsements in this procef), toool for fagae.mannfaduned isin upon a itappears that general asmuch fupetionin avegetabicallaline bafis cured-by lime is in grain; fo colour as thatipros probable (at leaft the that it feems highly that vegetable fireetsandi quehtion.merits prove aibetter lime, if combined, sinveiligation) would and the fcum formed tempere The fire being increafed, fufiered toj boil, but the on.the top, the liquor is not by blifters and froth. quantity of heat is denoted applied and the fire After this, the damper 1s allowed to fand, its fcum put out. The liquor being olibyiarchanthel from-thes chickensands it is drawn moft bottom, clarified, fcum tranfparent, to the grand and al on copper, while the liquoris hesergadanly lallcoff This finks unbroken till the formerronerot ebullition mode is far fuperior to that plain, that (befidesthe and feummings for it is circulatiogrefthe fluid difadrantage of labour) the particlesawebich would in-boiling mixes all the grofs In the, large (copper the othervife come tol the top.. more, sadvantogens When practice of Kcumming is is reduced by evaporation, the quantity of liguor mingis continmed, and lime the boiling and fcumrification needs it. When thrown in ifithe claladed into the third copper reduced ftill more, it is. operations continue, and boiler, where the fame at laft it is brought into is circulatiogrefthe fluid difadrantage of labour) the particlesawebich would in-boiling mixes all the grofs In the, large (copper the othervife come tol the top.. more, sadvantogens When practice of Kcumming is is reduced by evaporation, the quantity of liguor mingis continmed, and lime the boiling and fcumrification needs it. When thrown in ifithe claladed into the third copper reduced ftill more, it is. operations continue, and boiler, where the fame at laft it is brought into --- Page 233 --- A WEST INDIES Thus thère muft be threc copper the teache. clarifiers. Evaporation continues boilers and three laded, orifircks asithe phrafe in the teache tillit is being now confiderably exprefles it, into the cooler, Rf than-beiodes 4 which thicker 2 wooden veffely cooler is a fallow the The, of fugar. Here contains a aboutian thogihead cryftals, - forms into a mais sofi femiformed where fugar it is carried to the curing houfe, after which fromiit. But previous to this the melaffes drains firft, that the liquor change, it fhould be obferved, flowly; and, fecondly, in the coolenfhould cool very narrow, occafions an that the cooler, if excellively Hinfavourable fmalinefs of grain, evapo: whether the fugart be fufliciently of Toijudge the above mentioned procefs rated to undergo from the teache to the cooler,, Ariking orfor palling Experienced negroes will requires much attention. the moft common wayis to calculatel bythe eye, but thread which follows the judge by the touch. The lengths in proportion finger will break at different has boiled. On an time which the liquor little toithe depending fo much on pradtice, experiment more fcientific was farther can be faid. P A methiod of, lin an recommended by a Mr. Baker Jamaica, a fmall in 1775: <6, Provide (fays she) would call effay printed of clear crown glais, which-I thin pane this let fall two or three drops on the a trieris' on and carty your trier out fubjedt out of the other; the air. Obferve your pf the boiling houfe into whether it grains fubjeet, and more particularly more fcientific was farther can be faid. P A methiod of, lin an recommended by a Mr. Baker Jamaica, a fmall in 1775: <6, Provide (fays she) would call effay printed of clear crown glais, which-I thin pane this let fall two or three drops on the a trieris' on and carty your trier out fubjedt out of the other; the air. Obferve your pf the boiling houfe into whether it grains fubjeet, and more particularly --- Page 234 --- HISTORY OF THE freely, and whether a rates at the Imall edge little bottomi. 1 I am well ofimelaftas fepa. experience willenable fatisfied, that a pearanceithe whole you to judge what this fpecimen, which fkip will put on when cold, apufed by chemifts is'alfo cold. This by other to try evaporated method 78 faltss it 4 may feem, folutions of all, frange that it has not been therefore,; fomewhat houfe.h No ozhemetba adopted in the boiling To Mr. Baker, alfo, agitonoaeasar 52og indebted for the the Wef India FE planters are fugar by means prevalentmethod of veffels of clarifying the dampers to prevent ebullition. hung to feveral fires, and The curing houfe is a with a ciftern, the-fides large building, over which therel of which are provided with is a frame of joift work floped, and empty hogtheads without. covered hogthead has the ftalk of a headings Each fix or eight inches below plantain it, drains thel joifts.. Teafthrough The through the melaffes leaving the fugar behind, fpongy ftalle into the ciftern, three which weeks; and from this commonly dries in name of Mufcavado procefs obtains the that. manufactured fugar, ini in a different contradiftinction to Lifbon, or clayed fugar. manner, called The procefs of Ka VE The fugar from obtaining the this fugar is as follows: pans, conical downwards, cooler is put into forms or and a half for the melaffes leaving a holelof an inch hole, it muf be to drain through. The the liquor comes obferved, is clofed with a tQ la confiflteney. plug till Twenty-four obtains the that. manufactured fugar, ini in a different contradiftinction to Lifbon, or clayed fugar. manner, called The procefs of Ka VE The fugar from obtaining the this fugar is as follows: pans, conical downwards, cooler is put into forms or and a half for the melaffes leaving a holelof an inch hole, it muf be to drain through. The the liquor comes obferved, is clofed with a tQ la confiflteney. plug till Twenty-four --- Page 235 --- T WEST INDIES: Temoved, a ftratum of moi- : hours after the plugtis the. top of the pan, by ftened clay is fpread over through the fngar, which means the water oozing melafles than would carries away. more a of the is fupeThe fugar thus produced otherwife come. and the French planiters rior to the Mufcavado, but ther Britith planters deit generally; this pracife the, lols of weight tr saecompanying clare that the advantage of quality, mode more than outftrips made in the Mufeavado Where 60lbs.of fugar are in this proceis ; but manner, 40 are, only procured melafles yields about 40 per as the laft drawn off difference is reduced to about cent. of fugar, the PT one-fixth part of the weight. obfervations on the art to offer fome n We proceed Thisprocefs isfar more curious ofprocuring rum. it obtains from the very dregs thani the former, as. one of the pureft and the plant difil and feculenciesof that can be produced by moftfiagrant fpirits son: cer 10 oi lation. ToK Britifh planters are of various a The ftill-houfes of equal in extent to the fizes; in general, however, together: Some are fo boiling and curing houfes but as there asto contain 2000 gallons; extenfive we that extent, malend@eosarenake are few of correfpond toa plantadoncapable to fuch fas would 200 hogtheadslof fu in ordinary years, iof 1 of yielding, eftaté two copper ftills, one gar. For fuch an are necellary. The 1200, the other of 600 gallons, be kept ina running tank or tubs muft, if poflible, be of fufficient and in that cafe need only water, 2000 gallons; extenfive we that extent, malend@eosarenake are few of correfpond toa plantadoncapable to fuch fas would 200 hogtheadslof fu in ordinary years, iof 1 of yielding, eftaté two copper ftills, one gar. For fuch an are necellary. The 1200, the other of 600 gallons, be kept ina running tank or tubs muft, if poflible, be of fufficient and in that cafe need only water, --- Page 236 --- HISTORY OF THE width toadmit theworm. to,a tub, Afone tank is ifruning water prefersbie heats more flowly, and if cannot be had, becaufe it gallons of water, capable of holding denfe the nay be kept cool 30,000 fpirit. enough to conBelides thefe, the difiller . ciftern.of muf provide a dunder and I2 3ooogallons, a ciftern for the each, fermenting vats to contain cummingse 1200 gallons The ingredients of this drained from fugar, apparatus are melaffes or fometimes the feummings of the boiled der, and, lafly, cane juice even raw, lees liquor, dunder, and water. - Of thefe orduns alfo the water,ferve ingredients, the making the fweets combined for the purpofe of greater quantity of ipirit than with themy yield a far afford. The they would otherwife lees, and proportionsany in general, When water, one-third of each. Heummingse thefe are well mixed 24 hours the firft charge of and pretty cool, in of which fix gallons for melafles may be put in; the.l liquor in a ftate of every hundred gallons of at twice, viz. three fermentation is to be the other three per cent. the firft givem a day or two charge, and liquor is highly afterwards, when the fermentation muf fermented; but the heat of this renheit's thermometer. never exceed 94 degrecsin Fahis' fit for diftillation; In-feven or eight days it veyed to the largeft fill. after which it is to be conabovea fteady and Herei it fhould be kepti the focl.may be regular firetill it boils, and then sradually-abated. The fpirit, con3 firft givem a day or two charge, and liquor is highly afterwards, when the fermentation muf fermented; but the heat of this renheit's thermometer. never exceed 94 degrecsin Fahis' fit for diftillation; In-feven or eight days it veyed to the largeft fill. after which it is to be conabovea fteady and Herei it fhould be kepti the focl.may be regular firetill it boils, and then sradually-abated. The fpirit, con3 --- Page 237 --- WEST INDIES. fluid, then runs in a denfed by the furouiding clearand tranfparent. fream through the worm, Wines, becomes rum by called Low to o This fpirit; It may not be untimely the fecond diftiation. that in the firit procefs, thé Jahowever, than - obferve, ufe dunder - more copioully as" maica diftillers The ufe of dunder, thofe of the othieriflands. different Janguage, is to was before mentioned fweets. in Its ufe and applicadiffolve the faccharine When the fweets a ikilful mixture: the duntion requires and not of cane liquor, melafconfift ofmelaties, applied, becaufe the der fhould be liberally fubftance than the other; fes is a more tenacious. is the principal part, not but where the cane juice dunder is required. above 20 per cent. of the vinolity of the walh, In order to augment by Dr. Shaw, fubftances are recommended and thevegetable many nitre, common falt, fuch as tartar, The diftillers of St. Chriftophier's, or mineral acids. to ufe fea water as an opeindeed, are faid actually and it is looked upon rator ofthe fame tendency, improvement. Dr.Shaw as a real and confiderable into the ferthe diftiller to introduce alfo defires gallons of the vitrified fpirit," menting ciftern a few much augment the.evaporawhich, he afferts, will might refult from fol-. Whatever advantage evident that tion. is pretty: lowing thefe metemptianeins alkali : will be of. quantity of vegetable be taken in a certain but this advice muft fingular utility ; quantity be infufed, moderation, for if too largea flavour of the fpirit, will the fine effential oil, the Ee --- Page 238 --- HISTORY OF THE be kept back. The cleanlinefs in the objedt of greateft moment is tion of the rum, but cifterns, not only for the meliora. it colleéts while becaufe the foul vapour, which. the firft who uncleaned, is frequently fatal to It was approaches it. mode of mixture mentioned juft now that the is Jamaica the Leeward Mflands: different from the practice of are as follow: The proportions they obferve Dunder, one-half, or Sweets; 12 per)Melaftes, 50 gallons cent. Water, (Seummings, IOO gallons Aceording to the are drawn offina Jamaica mode, the low wines fltill of 600 butt, and conveyed to the In the courfe gallons, toi 'undergo a fecond fecond two of a day there is obtained difillation. and puncheons of rum, in which from this thus the procefs is olive oil will fink; will yet remain in the finifhed. Seventy lons of low wine ftill, fo that in fact gallons weekly yield 220 of 530 gal: are produced 12 proof Ipirits. Thus gallons of the Jamaica puncheons of rum, or IIO of the rum Aandard. The about two-thirds produced on an eftate to the proportion reader of the former to the fugar, is this from may, perhaps, have a more latter. The the following diftiné idea of fent to the ftill-houfe fatement: The are feven gallons feummings per cent. of , fo that in fact gallons weekly yield 220 of 530 gal: are produced 12 proof Ipirits. Thus gallons of the Jamaica puncheons of rum, or IIO of the rum Aandard. The about two-thirds produced on an eftate to the proportion reader of the former to the fugar, is this from may, perhaps, have a more latter. The the following diftiné idea of fent to the ftill-houfe fatement: The are feven gallons feummings per cent. of --- Page 239 --- WEST INDIES, of cane juice are rethe cané liquor; - 200 gallons of fugar, fo that where quired for every hoglhead there will be28,000 200 hogfheads are produced, melafles. This, gallons of. juice, equal toi 406601 melaffes from the cuadded to 12,0C0 gallons of 16,666 gallons of fweets, Hing.houfeumakess up in all puncheons of proof which ougbtto produce 131 rum, of IOO gailonsieachi. both upon cultivation, The above obfervations, drawn have been principally boiling and diftilling; like manner, in the fubfequent from Jamaica. In of the farther particulars chapter, when treating fuch as the firft coft, with regard to this article, which may be reacurrent expences, and returns and references fhall fonably expedted, our remarks Allowances muft, be drawn from the fame quartér. variation between Jahowever, be: made for the Ilands. maica and the other Windward Eeij --- Page 240 --- HISTORY OF THE CHAPTER III. Capital neceffary.in the tion of a given Extent--The Setilement or: Purchafe of a Sugar Plantaparately Lands, Buildings, and Stock fethe confdegel-Pamieuhun and Cod-Grofs Returns Propertis-Amur from contingent Dikufencat-Nat Charges not taken intothe Profits, various Englith commonly attended tein the Way, of Actount--Difucice not India, Efate and one in't the Weft feltinating the Profitsofan Eflatcs in the Time of War, Indis-infuranec and of Welt. dudion-The Queftion, other occafional De continnes under fo many whytheCukiration, ofthe Sugar Iflands culfed. DWlcurngeacats, confidered and' dif. Is the bufinefs of dium between immenfe fugar planting there is no meTo cmbark in this bufinefs lofs and immenfe gain. fped ofwealth, 30,0ool. is with any tolerable procapital. This no more than a moderate taken may be ealily into view that the conceived, if it be fmall eftate are more than expences attending a extent, iftaken in proportionable to its 'a large one! When comparifon with thofe attending mean cafh or folid we fpeak of capital, we cither be confidered that cltablifhed credit. It muft here ferent from thofe of Weft Indian loans are very difis marketable; Britain, where the the ; but in thefei iflands itis mortgage money is called for, there is not. When propriate the debt to himfelf no one ready to apfo that when credit and advance the fum; unfortunate is fuddenly withdrawn, the his planter is ipeedily ruined by property far below its value. felling we fpeak of capital, we cither be confidered that cltablifhed credit. It muft here ferent from thofe of Weft Indian loans are very difis marketable; Britain, where the the ; but in thefei iflands itis mortgage money is called for, there is not. When propriate the debt to himfelf no one ready to apfo that when credit and advance the fum; unfortunate is fuddenly withdrawn, the his planter is ipeedily ruined by property far below its value. felling --- Page 241 --- WEST INDIES. the fum to be We begin then withrappreciacaus be reafonably. expected paid for, and the profits to commumibus annis, 200 hogffrom, an eftate yielding, thirty punelhcons of run. heads of fiugar,-a rand examine the-lands. :. In the, firft place, we above returns cânnot be An eftate yielding the of which there are ofilels extent than goo, acres, the fame number ufually. allowed 300 for-icanes; fuch as" yams, plantains, for efculent vegetables, ofthe fame expotatoes, &c. and a third proportion native wood for fupplying tent which remains under the eftate. The general run the timber necellary for above than bélow this extent, of eftates are rather have afferted) totheavaticjous not owing (as fome but to the temper of Weit Indian whicli propiiétors, is fo exceedingly quality of the ground, to : take in large waluable as to oblige the planter produce of the one tracts in order that the fcanty the exuberant rebe compenfated by auc JJ a kind. may foil. turns ofthe more generous muit depend very much upon Thevalie of land of 600 acres, In Jamaica, an eftate for its fituation. fituation; would fell, I imagine; ina favourable per acre, i.e. ten pounds fourteen pounds currency expences upon clearing Sterling. The attendant money, to the folthis would amount, in current lowing fumns: one hundred and hundred weight each, containing * Of fixteen ten gallons cath. be compenfated by auc JJ a kind. may foil. turns ofthe more generous muit depend very much upon Thevalie of land of 600 acres, In Jamaica, an eftate for its fituation. fituation; would fell, I imagine; ina favourable per acre, i.e. ten pounds fourteen pounds currency expences upon clearing Sterling. The attendant money, to the folthis would amount, in current lowing fumns: one hundred and hundred weight each, containing * Of fixteen ten gallons cath. --- Page 242 --- HISTORY OF THE To 600 acres of land To clearing one half for La8400 per, acre canes, at 121. Clearing and planting in efculent 6 getables IOO acres, at 71. veTo clearing another pér acre Guinea IOO, and fowing grafs, at the famerate Enclofing and fencing the whole 700. Total Curtency L. or Sterling The C. 1O07I as follows: buildings on fuch an eflate may be reckoned I.. A water-mill or (ifit (ifit can be obtained), cannot) an allowance Jamaica to" what it would coft is to be cqual. Currency for either a wind-mill made mill, or for two and a cattle2. A boiling-houfe, wind-mills L.1400 f2 of three clarifiers including the coft 3. A curing-houfe and four boilers ing one-half adjoining, containIOOO melaffes of the crop, and a ciftern to contain 6000 gallons 4. A dithillery-houfe, with the one holding two ftills, 1200, the other gallons, a tank holding gallons of water, twelve 30,000 fixed in the cifterns earth, and a rum ftore Carry forward --- Page 243 --- WEST INDIES. Jamaica Currency. Brought forward L. 5800 The overieer's houfe 5- Two trathes covered with fhingles, 6. each c at 3col. and prifon rooms, 7. Hofpital,lying-in for doctor's fhop, and Hore.houfe utenfils 8. A ftable for 60 mules Shops for 'tradefmen IO. 9. Sheds for wains, 8cc. Extra expences Total L. 7000 Or Sterling money STOCK. for fuch an. eftate may be The ftock neceflary eftimated as follows: Jamaica Currency. L. 17500 250 negroes, at 7ol. each 80 fteers, at 151. 60 mules, at 281. Total L.20380 The whole amounts to14100 Lands Buildings Stock Currency L.41480 Total in Jamaica' Sterling. Which is within 5ol. of 30,0001. L. 7000 Or Sterling money STOCK. for fuch an. eftate may be The ftock neceflary eftimated as follows: Jamaica Currency. L. 17500 250 negroes, at 7ol. each 80 fteers, at 151. 60 mules, at 281. Total L.20380 The whole amounts to14100 Lands Buildings Stock Currency L.41480 Total in Jamaica' Sterling. Which is within 5ol. of 30,0001. --- Page 244 --- HISTORY OF THE To calculate in Sterling fuch an eftate will be- money, the returns of 200 hogtheads o ling offugar, at I 51. Stera Sterling! per hogthead I30 puncheons of rum, at Iol. SterL.: 3000 ling per puncheon Grofs returns L4300 Itisa common miftake to imagine that all expences of the eftate are obviated the of rum ; but the following by the return will evince the falfity of fuch eftimate of expences The annual an opinion : the following fupplies from Great Britain are of kind: I. Negro clothing, fuch as ftones, fhirts, blankets and hats. Ofmaburgh, penni: 2. Tools for the carpenters. 3: Mifcellancous articles, fuch as chains; hocs, bills, knives, nails, rivets, pipes, lead, train-oil, hioops, barrels, tobacco grindftones, &c. 4. Provifions, fuch as falted butter, foap, candles, falt, flour, herrings, beef, pork, The above peafe, groats. articles, at al not be lefs than-8so1. moderate eftimate, canTo thefe muft be added Sterling. the to overfeer, clerks, and charges of falaries men, taxes, wharfage, fervants, bills to tradef. fupplies, which, ftaves, and other occafional by computation, amount to Sterling, or 18401. Curreney, 13001. --- Page 245 --- L4 WEST INDIES: of all kinds will therefore.- The annual charges exadly one half of the amount to 21501. Sterling, In this eftimation no produce of his property. of buildings, notice is taken of the tear and.wear for legal comthe of fix per cent. himOT expence fhould he be abfent miflion to his agents, therefore) wonderful felf from the fpot. It isinot, fhould not be at all times that a Weft Indian eftate that it fhould not very a mine of wealth, or rather about the neck of the frequently be a mill-ftone deftrudion. and drag him to Weft Indian with proprietor, the value of view In comparing to hold in it is reafonable and Britifh property, is both landlord that the Weft Indian planter which he cultivates. tenant of the little eftate feafon occur, the Englifh Should an intemperate affected by the difference in proprietor is no more than in as far as he may the producc of his eftate, fituation of his (ympathize with the unfortunate does not affect Themoft deftruétive war in tenant. it docs the Weft Indian refident his eftate as unlefs he fubmit to pay a high preBritain, who, therage of the elements mium for fecurity againit muft pafs many a fleeplefs and the ravages of war, for the fubliftence of his night in dreadful fufpenfe more importunate as family, while creditors grow danger increafes. ftarts up from the naA queftion here naturally does it happen (itis deture of the fubject. How of a Weft Indian manded) that whilf the charges fo fmall, that are fo large, and the profits property. Ff preBritain, who, therage of the elements mium for fecurity againit muft pafs many a fleeplefs and the ravages of war, for the fubliftence of his night in dreadful fufpenfe more importunate as family, while creditors grow danger increafes. ftarts up from the naA queftion here naturally does it happen (itis deture of the fubject. How of a Weft Indian manded) that whilf the charges fo fmall, that are fo large, and the profits property. Ff --- Page 246 --- HISTORY OF THE fo many fhould embark in the fugarifands bei fon rapidly attempt, and the To fuch as adyance this cultivated andlimproveds fubjed cannot be held queftion, a moretion of numberlefs out to view than the proper fitu2fallen viétims to the unfortunate men, who have fuch a mode ofi misfortunes atrendant upon thefe has feeking, riches. The failure given an opportunity to of pacious temper to take othersi of a raand purchafe their advantage of their diftrefs, low rate. Like the eflates, Cornifh moft probably, at a very a thipwreck without peafants, who behold the pillot'by falfe lights, compaflion, and cven decoy port, but even delude they not only refufe the fup: rich man of this planter to ruin. The unfecling turer a fum of ftamplends the adveneftate, who, in the money fufficient to purchafe an credit, hopes of being prepares to ftock his continued in his induftry has enabled him property; ; but juft as ing creditor to do this, the unfeelpretends immediate money;'t the lawis neceflity for his are deterred from rigorous; the lender (fince others expences whichrit muft purchafing the ground by the at his own price, and yet. reguire) gets the eflate ruined for life. Thus the unfortunate planter is and misfortune in oppreflion in the the creditor, equally to advance adventurer, contribute a To the cultivation. philofopher fpeculating in his fluctunting nature of Weft Indian clofet, the feen afufficient property would barking in this object to prévent him from emfpecies of trade; yet it may be ences whichrit muft purchafing the ground by the at his own price, and yet. reguire) gets the eflate ruined for life. Thus the unfortunate planter is and misfortune in oppreflion in the the creditor, equally to advance adventurer, contribute a To the cultivation. philofopher fpeculating in his fluctunting nature of Weft Indian clofet, the feen afufficient property would barking in this object to prévent him from emfpecies of trade; yet it may be --- Page 247 --- WEST INDIES. the caufe of fo much looked upon as in reality to obtain expended in attempting money being returns. of fortunate and the advantage is variable, The price of fugar excelingly the profits caufe of: the inenpalitgyor goodthe prineipal arifes from the comparative one' which. Lit yields, Every of itsi manufadure. it as nefs or badnefs regards who fees the method of fugar-making, propenfity procefs, and, by a natural but a very fimple in the bufinefs; wilhes to engage come forto imitation, experimenters where fo many unqualified who fail than who fucceed; ward, there muft be more is certainly owing to and their want of fuccels afcribe it to the caprithemfelves, thoigh they The above may be looked cioufnefs of the market. to the rapid culupon as caufes much contributing that there are other tivation, of the Weft Indies : of improvement, caufes (perhaps more material) thefe it. were foreign.to will not be dénied ; but here to difcufs. and our purpofe minute remarks on the growth The above perhaps, be thought manufadture. of fagar may, attend to the importediousiby thofe who do not fo individuals but as mary tance of the fubjeét; with the trade and maare more or lefs connedted it is prefumed that the Hufsctures ofthe colonies, obfervations will be intereft excited by the,above their introdudtion. We sapology for the reader a' fufficient chapter, to lay before proced,inthes next could be colledted upon all the information that fuch as articles of Indian produétion, then minor Ffij y thofe who do not fo individuals but as mary tance of the fubjeét; with the trade and maare more or lefs connedted it is prefumed that the Hufsctures ofthe colonies, obfervations will be intereft excited by the,above their introdudtion. We sapology for the reader a' fufficient chapter, to lay before proced,inthes next could be colledted upon all the information that fuch as articles of Indian produétion, then minor Ffij --- Page 248 --- 2 a HISTORY OF THE cotton, indigo, coffee, cacao, which, with fugar and pimento, and ginger, the bulky rum, principally ihips freight which at prefent contribute than all the towns of employs more at the beginning of the England amounted'to prefent century. --- Page 249 --- WEST INDIES, CHAMTER IV. ai 10 Cotton, its Growth and Staple Commoditiese vize and Rifks attending itOf theminor of. Cnitivation and the Profits ac. various Speci-Mole of this Article into Great Britain, its CulImports the Manufaatures produced by it-Indigo, Planters cruing from ofthe firft Indigo of this tivation and Miesifaurce-Oplesr Refleations concerning the Decline that of in Jamaica, and in that Mland-Cofiée, whether and Soil Branch of Cultivation is equal to the Mochae-Situstion Great Britainthe Weit Indies Duty to which it was fubjeét Plant in and curing the Exorbitant Method of cultivating the and Returns of a Approved of the annual Expences Alocs and PiBery-Etinae Ginger, Arnotto, Coffee Pamtation-Caco, mento, COTTON. moft valuable gifts of a Tnts plant, one of the in all the tropical rebountiful Creator, is found America. The cotton gions of Afia, Africa, and cloth is of"two kinds, wool manufiétured into The latter is fubgreenfeed and fhrub cotton. the one of fuch a nature divided into two fpecies; from the feed by no that the wool 'can be feparated therefore, prinbut by the hand. It is ufed; which are ufed in way for wicks to the lamps like cipally could'be feparatéd fugar-boiling; although.irir be.a valuable acquilition the other kinds, it would fecond kind. of the The to our manufadures. finer than the other greenfeed, though vaftly ufed, is yet inferior in fpecies of cottons generally it has a duller green, and finenefs to the former; can be feparated therefore, prinbut by the hand. It is ufed; which are ufed in way for wicks to the lamps like cipally could'be feparatéd fugar-boiling; although.irir be.a valuable acquilition the other kinds, it would fecond kind. of the The to our manufadures. finer than the other greenfeed, though vaftly ufed, is yet inferior in fpecies of cottons generally it has a duller green, and finenefs to the former; --- Page 250 --- e HISTORY OF THE larger feeds. Both thefe kinds which bloflom from October rife into large trees, pods from to January, ànd February to June. The flowers bear Eachi leaf has but are como a EtetiCint pod, when purple Ipot at the bottom. enotfingrant and ripe, opens into three or The difcovers 4 the cotton in four The fmall and black as many white partitions, locks. : locks, Api feeds are Imeir interfpefed in thefe The fhrub cotton ton rinth bufh, and is divided refembles an European CoVP, The common into feveral varieties) ftrong, though the Jamaica, which is coarfe but dificulty ofits cleaning, brittlenefs of its feeds, and the, other kinds, makeitlets yet the profitable than ufe. obfinacy of habit keeps it in 2d, The brown bearded itaple and a better has a fomewhat finer this ratoon, but it is attended difadvantage, that it is more with 34, Nankéen, different dificult to clean. laft, and giving a only in colour from 4tb, name to the cloth called the French, or fmall after it. Eiufpaniola, is finer and feedigenemally cultivated in maica, or brown bearded, more prolific than the Jacither. -but lefs hardy than 5th, Kidney Brazil, From its chain.cotton, being or the true cotton of and eafily cleaned, it is the exceedingly good, the higheft prolific, planter to mix it with imprudence in The mode of culture any other. sicties; and as is the fame in all thefe vadrynefs is the moft lavourable cir- --- Page 251 --- WEST INDIES. of cotton, they correfpond cumftance in the growth will flourifh in. the moft in this qualityy that they has been exhaufted by fora rocky foil, provided it May to September inclus cultivation. From Eight mer for fowing cotton. the five, is the fenionifitted in every hole, becaufe or ten feeds, are buried devoured by the grub, andiof chance of fome being Theifprouts nile others rotting, muft be. calculated. muft now be taken in and great care in a fortnight, to their growth, leaving, clearing every impedimente (the frongeft) in each however, only two or threc attack them. Three hole, in cafe the grub fhould at the head four months after they are, topped end of five or fioot laterally. At the to make them outi its Sbenutifelyelbwtomene monthsthey plant puts When the 'months more the pods appear. and in two the feeds are feparated by wool has been gathered, called a Lin, commeans, of a fimple inftrument, turned in oppofite dipofed of two.patallel rollers, thefe, and the reétions: The cotton is putthrongh sin the interfpace befeeds being too large to pafs The wool is then, hind, they are thus feparated. be cleared ofall the exhandepicked, that-it which may attach to it, and, after, traneous fubftances of.about 200 pounds being packed into bags et weight, is fent to the market. in the Weft Indies, produced - In the cotton-wool difference of quality: there isconfderable ed of two.patallel rollers, thefe, and the reétions: The cotton is putthrongh sin the interfpace befeeds being too large to pafs The wool is then, hind, they are thus feparated. be cleared ofall the exhandepicked, that-it which may attach to it, and, after, traneous fubftances of.about 200 pounds being packed into bags et weight, is fent to the market. in the Weft Indies, produced - In the cotton-wool difference of quality: there isconfderable --- Page 252 --- HISTORY OF THE The wool of Per Pound: Betbice was. fold, in Demarara, from 1780, for 2s. Id. Surinam, IS. IId. to 2S. Id. Cayenne, 2S. St. Damingo, 2s. Tobago, Is. iod. Jamaica, 1S. gd. IS. 7d. Though the prices the relative valuc Aill may have fince changed, fo worthy of continues the fame, It is yet al. in the Berbice obfervation, that the dillerence and Jamaica cotton of price 35s. per cent. in favour of is from 25S. to proof that a proper choice the former: A decided neceffary. of the feed is ablolutely In eftimating the the returns to be colliofa a cotton plantation, and becaufe.the cafe expedted, I fix on a fmall here is different capital, gar plantation, where an from that of a futo the adventurer immenfe fock is rate on his firft outfet. Here neceffary beginning is perfedly a modeof the Weft Indies, land fufficient. In many may be had for fit for the rearing of parts 51. cotton as it is. proper to Jamaica currency peracre; ; but, riods, we muft allow change the ground at certain chafed which is laid double the quantity to be petherefore, under cotton, The coft pur- is --- Page 253 --- WEST INDIES:. Jamaica Cuirency. L.250 O For 50 acres, at 51. peracre, Expence of clearing and planting 175 . O O acres, at 7l. per acre, cach, 840 O O Twelve negroes, at 701. cent. 75 18 O A year's intereft, at 6 per and A year's maintenance, clothing, 120 O O medical care, Total, L. 1460 18 O or L. 1040 Sterling. mode of calculation in JaIt has been a common the acre planted in cotmaica, to allow 12olb. to offuccellive crops,Iimaton; but, fromithe average reafonable allowanice. gine that 11alb. is a more of cotton to be IS. 3d. Allowing, then, the price no more than pound, and fuppoling Sterling per on an acre, the whole proroolb. to be produced Sterling. If we deduce of 25 acres will be 1754 the amount of 251. the duét incidental expences, to is I5ol. an intereft on remainder, in Sterling money, Ifthe côtton be 2S. per the capital of 14 per cent. centr pound, the profitis 20 per this return, cotton is, in its But, to counterbalance commodity. The grub, the nature, a moft precarious threaten its deftrucblaft, and the rain continually during the year 1788, tion. In the Bahama Iflands, devoured by the worm. no lefs than 280 tons were. denied, that as the prefent It cannot, however, be at home, the cultivademand for cotton is £o great G g be 2S. per the capital of 14 per cent. centr pound, the profitis 20 per this return, cotton is, in its But, to counterbalance commodity. The grub, the nature, a moft precarious threaten its deftrucblaft, and the rain continually during the year 1788, tion. In the Bahama Iflands, devoured by the worm. no lefs than 280 tons were. denied, that as the prefent It cannot, however, be at home, the cultivademand for cotton is £o great G g --- Page 254 --- : HISTORY OF THE tion of this commojity employmentto thofe bids fair to be a it; and the who thall hereafter lucrative tention be profitswill be ftill more engage in paid to procure and enhanced, ifat. valuable fpecies of feeds: feparate the more I Thall conclude the readers the following tables, fubjed with prefenting to my fources, which cannot fail drawn from authentic couragement for to furnifh abundant en- (peculation and adventure. An Account ef Foreign Cotton-aucol Britij Wef Indies, in imported into tbe Britib Sbips. Years, lbs. - An Account of Foreign Britipy We/t Indies, Cotton-awot under imported into the the Free Port 467. Years, Ibs. - 19625co --- Page 255 --- WEST INDIES, Britilb and Foreign, imAn Accoune of Cotton-qucol, Indiesinto Great Britain. 1 portedframt the Britifh Wef. lbe. Years01 Cotton-acol imported into Great Britain, An Account of from all Parts. Suppofed Value in Manufa@ures. Years. lbs. L. 3950000 Sterling, 1784 - - 11280338 1785 - 17992888 - 1786. - - 19151867 1787 a 22600000 in Great Britain (1787)jor the Macbinery eflablifhed Cotton Manfadloiywhich coft L. 715000 143 water-mills, for fpinning 20500 hand-mills, or for jennics, the twifted yarn the fhute, (includfpun by the water-mills maing buildings and auxiliary chinery), Total, 1 L. 1000000 Ggij --- Page 256 --- HISTORY OF THE From the conftruction of the becniafferted, that a pound of machinery, ity has beén fpun into as much thread Demarara cotton has miles. In Great Britain as Would extend ple find fiupport not lefsithan from the 600,c00 peothe neareft eottonmanufsideg By maintained compuitation, the number upon ofindividuals million, fo that it are not a ametbsmmutsdess of the cotton in a docs not exceed the twofold proportion. importance INDIGO. In the Britifh Weft Indies mont ofthis plant; the firft'of there are three fpecies finer; is efteemed lefs which, though hardier and becaufe it'is not fo valuable than the other two, Ipecies agree in this prolific in its returns. Allithe on niggard foils, and quality, that though they thrive not kill them, yet thata though the longeft heat does tirely deftroys them. In fpell of wet weather enwhen cleared, is' 'divided eultivatingindigo into the land, ftréwed by the hand at the trenches, and the feed being quite fufficient for bottom; ; a bufhel of feed fon moft proper for four or five acres, The feafeems to be the month planting ip the of March. In Wef.Indies, proper feafon varies with the America, the on that feafon of continent, is fpring, which, is a child of the fun, exceedingly and various. The plant vantage nowhere but in certainly fourifhes to ad. fed'moft deftructive to the tropical countries. The inplant, is a fpecies of the prolperity of the indigo grub or worm, There is feed fon moft proper for four or five acres, The feafeems to be the month planting ip the of March. In Wef.Indies, proper feafon varies with the America, the on that feafon of continent, is fpring, which, is a child of the fun, exceedingly and various. The plant vantage nowhere but in certainly fourifhes to ad. fed'moft deftructive to the tropical countries. The inplant, is a fpecies of the prolperity of the indigo grub or worm, There is --- Page 257 --- AWESPINDIES. thie-foills and the but itor change no oitherremedy amay.berat want ofr rattention e to thik.scincumbance for the" many recent fcribed rast a folicieneresfoas The ufual return ofindifailures in this-t bufinésor for the firlt cutting, (if the grub ibe prevented), lor 6olb. of go of Pigeon's neck, isabout 8olb. peracre of tlieifubfequent cutThe yielding the the Gustimalat ifthell iland be new, fometimes tings Sislefsy but per: acreofthe whole five cuttings semduntito-scalbi the produce of five quality: For rearing: maintain fecond who can i otherwife acres, four negroés, "A themfelves, are only requiliter are necellary, the dye, two cilterns P For obtaining the other. Theifefkis called placed the one above Befides this,it the other thc Battery. the the Stéeper, with top-hole, ito have a lime-vat, from the isT neceffary at leaft eight inches lime placed the sor: pluig-hole) roomfor botton/in order rtaldavefificieics drawn off fubfide entirely before the limeawrateris are they to 2 When the plants wet, three into the battery. rillitis about laid in Arata in : the fteeper which 1 are they are then prefled with boards, from parts full; loaded, to prevent ithe-plants are wedged; or themielves are faturaied buoying up; and the plants then left to ferment; but with water. They are fhall neither draw. off care is taken that they of the great too foon, nor occafion putrefadion To the pulp them. too long. afcertain tops by retaining forthe fermentation ithe due time which is neceflary in Hifpaniof Agriculture of indigo, the Chamber experiments, and, for' the ola have made repeated ithe-plants are wedged; or themielves are faturaied buoying up; and the plants then left to ferment; but with water. They are fhall neither draw. off care is taken that they of the great too foon, nor occafion putrefadion To the pulp them. too long. afcertain tops by retaining forthe fermentation ithe due time which is neceflary in Hifpaniof Agriculture of indigo, the Chamber experiments, and, for' the ola have made repeated --- Page 258 --- HISTORY OF THE benefit ofthe public,have been the following receipt. fo kindas to publifn 165 After the indigo has been to eight or nine hours, draw Reeped in the ciftern and, with a pen dipped into offa little of the water, upon white paper. The it, make.a few ftrokes coloured; in wbich cafe the firft will probably be high fermented: This indigo is notfiliciently quarter ofan hour, operation lis. to be repeated is arrived until it lofes its every ati the true point of colour, whenit It is aftonifhing that fermentation." itfelf, if it anfiwers, fhould an experiment fo fimple in years unknown to the have been for fo many and I confefs, that,. indigo planters in general ; tunity of giving it although I have had no doubtful of a trial, I am opporits eflicacy. The myfelf fomewhat whichI give on following method, conceive, attended theauthority with of Mr. Lediard, is, I 66 Let a fmall hole be, much greater cettainty. cight inches from the made in the fteeper, fix Or ing oraperture for bottom, exclufive of the ter ; let this hole drawing off Trheimpregnated open- wayet not fo firmly likewife but be flopped with a permitted that a fmall plug, to ooze throughit. ftream may be been fleeped fome After the plants have appear hours, the fluid the beautifully green, and at the oozing out will cifern, from whence it lower edge of it will turn of a copperifh drops into the battery, hue, as the fermentation colour., This copperifh alcend upwards to the plug; continucs, will gradually and when that circum. regnated open- wayet not fo firmly likewife but be flopped with a permitted that a fmall plug, to ooze throughit. ftream may be been fleeped fome After the plants have appear hours, the fluid the beautifully green, and at the oozing out will cifern, from whence it lower edge of it will turn of a copperifh drops into the battery, hue, as the fermentation colour., This copperifh alcend upwards to the plug; continucs, will gradually and when that circum. --- Page 259 --- WEST INDIES. it is proper to ftop the fermenta: Linn 91 Atance is pereeived, 40t0 tion. part ofthe bufineis, e During the pognefrorchs be paid Cto the fmell of thould forfiould putenlaresteation from the aperture; the'liquor which weeps it will be necelfary to let it difcover any fournefs, into the batthe fermented liquor run immediately ftrength muft be and lime water of fufficient As it is tery, antil it has loft its fournefs. added to ir, mixed with a bright running off, it will appear green, the battery it will be or fraw colour, but in N yellow, ofa moft beautiful green.e the tinéture has been afehangedr-iato in > After the muft now be put battery, the procefs of churning effedted by mere practices This was at one period by means labour; but now it is performed in momanual bya cog-whedl, and kept ofleveis, wrought When the fluid appears tion by a horfe ormule. with lime-water to pro-- curdled, it is impregmiated petrefiction ; but the mote feparation, and prevent aiftinguifh the different operator muft carefully Imall a degree of agita-" ftages of this procels, too and coarle, and too tion making the indigo black. green After the pulp has much making it almot fettled at the bottom, the goamulated and the flakes taken aiay, and the dye; fapetrineumbehe water is for the market. when aried in moulds, is ft apparatus atFrom the prolific nature, and cheap as alfof from ofthe" plant, tending the manuficture requilite.for itsculture, the fmall number ofnegroes that an it is; at firft fight, a matter of aftonifhment, tion making the indigo black. green After the pulp has much making it almot fettled at the bottom, the goamulated and the flakes taken aiay, and the dye; fapetrineumbehe water is for the market. when aried in moulds, is ft apparatus atFrom the prolific nature, and cheap as alfof from ofthe" plant, tending the manuficture requilite.for itsculture, the fmall number ofnegroes that an it is; at firft fight, a matter of aftonifhment, --- Page 260 --- HISTORY OF THÈ article which fhould yield in the pound to the twenty acres, fhould proportion 1200 unfuccefsful fubjed of thave proved an many who have tried it. employment inthe hands of planters who, after Yet certain it is, that the indigo, have failed embarking with in.the cultivation of neral men of found mercantile excceding lofs, were in geperty and induftry, The mof fagacity, and of prothat canbeafighed fortheir fatisfactory reafon ful misfotunes.isthe dreadmortalityamong the negroes vapourof the fermented (arifing from the attends ân indigo liquor), which inevitably. bined with leffer evils, manufachory. This has, comquiring wealth by this blafled the hopes of actheir induftry to a different purfuit, and has diverted channel. COFFEE. Tas public has been already many'effays on the beneficial favoured with fo that it is almoft impoflible properties of this berry, thing additional to to bring forward any Among the many able recommend its advantages. ject, none has attraéted performances on the fubthan a work more general approbation which, fince oftheingenious Dr. Benjamin 1785. has gone through five Mofeley, Englifh, and has been tranflated editions in languages of. Europe. into moft of the It has been coffee is long.admitted, that the Weft inferior to the coffee of Indian been allo erroneoully Mocha; but it has fuppofed that this inferiority --- Page 261 --- WEST INDIES. M Indian being the produce of a arifes from the Welt refutation of thisfuppolis: coarfer fpecies of tree. In whole dilfterenoedepends tion, and to prove thatithe and mode of curing, itneed: upon the foil, climate, thaticofice tranfplanted from.thes only be mentioned, hot-houfe has, under proWeft Indies to an Englifh comfiderably fuperior to per inanagenient, proved from the Eaft. 3V - any that ever came both in,Arabian and ther The fmall berry, which, floping ground, is found. Weft Indies, grows in dry but theb ebeanspsodaced a; are of a dingy geeen, : which Nauesensenstiet upon ai rich deep: foil, unfit for ufe, proves the: and continue fome years cuftomerse It might be exi favourite of American while the 1 taxes impofed bys peéted, therefore, that, on. coffee were fevere,and, the Britith goverament America, was found ar more; while, of confequence, latter would be more geneprofitable market, the BriSince the 1783, howeven,the rally cultivatedi and a wonderhave been lefs enormous, has tifh duties direétion of the coffee.trade. ful changei in the demand has increafed fo taken place. The Britifh bave changed the nature rapidly, that the planters of, their cuftomers. their commodity to the-tatte as of that the: : foil before mentioned Itis true, indeed, the fmall berry, cannot always beft fitted to produce to fpeculate bebe found ; but it is of importance of foil in a country where, forchand in the Echoice be fuch variety of ground is to Indies, procured. but more elpe-; The whole of the Welt with red hills,of that warm cially Jamaica, abiounds H h ave changed the nature rapidly, that the planters of, their cuftomers. their commodity to the-tatte as of that the: : foil before mentioned Itis true, indeed, the fmall berry, cannot always beft fitted to produce to fpeculate bebe found ; but it is of importance of foil in a country where, forchand in the Echoice be fuch variety of ground is to Indies, procured. but more elpe-; The whole of the Welt with red hills,of that warm cially Jamaica, abiounds H h --- Page 262 --- HISTORY OF THE gravelly mould fo. rematkably growth of Fcof@eibearing favourable to 2 the ori good land the! high flavoured fruit. the year round; plants . may. be fafely Upprovided expofed all. ed that théy Oball h)ot be proper care be'adimimifles the Dorth wind,fo blafted iii thel bloffords by The mode of Riequentlyfitsl to this eight feet diftant planting is' tolfet the production: from cach young plants in lioles made large other, in all directions, ofthe ftem and all its" enough to hold the lower part be the ufual diftance roots. Although eight feet is often found, in rich between the plants, yet; as it f6 luxuriant as to foils, that the trees grow itis then' impede the growth of each other, cond row within adeantageots to cut down a IO or 12 erery fe. and it frequently inchés slof' the ground; in this manner will happens, that old plantations cut yield a tolerable year. bip crop the fccond The average produce of a coffec dépend apon the nature of the foil. plantation muf a pound andi a halfof On dry ground good bearing for a. fingle prepared coffee is accounted foils the produce tree; but in. rich fpongy quently fix. (thoughi inferior im flavour) is' frea be" looked Upon the whole, the A upon as an following may the trees are raifed from average old calculation: When turn may be éflimated at ones, the firft year's rethird at 600 or 700'lbs. 300; ; the next at 500; the young plants yield per acre, Tréés raifed from at the end of that nothing till the third year; and, fonably looked for. period, 750 pounds may be rea- --- Page 263 --- WEST INDIES. Ofgatbering the Crop. n015 N a the pradice of gathetACCORDING to La Roque, confidered thus: ing and curing the crop.is that the fruit is 6 When, the planters perceive clothsunder the trees, come to iaturity, they, fpread time to time, and the ripe which they fhake from thus collected are afterfruit drops off Thebernes and expoled to the fun wards fpread upon mats, they are perfcaly with the pulp on the berries.wnuil time ; after which, dry, whichrequires a contidetable from their outward encumthe beans are exticated of a large and heavy ftone brance by the preffure. dried in the fun; for the roller, when they arc again unlefs. coffee be thotoughly planters confider, that, Itis then winthere is dangerof its heating for fale." dry, nowed with a large fan, and packed better calcuThe above proce(s is favour undoubtedly, of the berry ; but I lated to preierve the method practifed in the believe the afarementioned infinitely lefs tedious, muft Welt Indies, by being furnifh the market with enable the nierchant to manufadlurer coffee than the Arabian, picker cheaper The negro who is appointed kept could procure. from.bis: neck, goes about with a bagihanging in its mouth. If indufopen.by meaneof-a hoop three bufhels per day, trious, he, may cafily pick in she.pulp. will yield and 100 e bufhels of cofiee commedity, ft forthe 1005-1 pounds ofithe prepared market. Hij Indies, by being furnifh the market with enable the nierchant to manufadlurer coffee than the Arabian, picker cheaper The negro who is appointed kept could procure. from.bis: neck, goes about with a bagihanging in its mouth. If indufopen.by meaneof-a hoop three bufhels per day, trious, he, may cafily pick in she.pulp. will yield and 100 e bufhels of cofiee commedity, ft forthe 1005-1 pounds ofithe prepared market. Hij --- Page 264 --- HISTORY OF THE Coffee lis cured either.sithi When cired with,t thei orisithiout thel pulp. to the fàn on alloping pulp on the berry, itis fpread and is ufually dry. inithe terras or platformof boards, after which the hufks fpace of three weeks; by a grinding machine, areifeparated from theifeeds moyed, as foon 122 as the coflee When:t the pulp. is rethey make ufe of ai comes from the tree pofed ofa pulping mill (a machinec comAuted-roller: a breaft grooves of the roller, and a board fitted to the them), which, when Hloping trough to feed will pulp a'bufhel in a wrought by only one negro, its parchment (kin, is then minute. The bean, ftill in and expofed to dry. wafhed in wire fieves Ithas béen long difputed of pradtice is moft which of thefe methods believe, advantageoise The gives a higher former, I inethod good coffec favour; but from either ance of age, which may is be obtained by the affif. its mof effective The.membiane or fkin, which improver. bean, is feparated by means Aill adhères to the following of a machine of conftrudion : A the rounded byi a circular perpendicularaxis isfur: 'from the level of its furface trough, and about a foot the axis four hotrizontal there are renanted in as many rollers. Thefe, arms, to which are fitted bruife the coffee, on being turned bean,and when fo-as to feparte the fkin from round, the the are carried off by a fan. feparation is effedted, the fkins will-be cleared in a day. In this manner r500lbs. by ftoves has been found The method'of fo clearing prejudicial.to the tafte : 'from the level of its furface trough, and about a foot the axis four hotrizontal there are renanted in as many rollers. Thefe, arms, to which are fitted bruife the coffee, on being turned bean,and when fo-as to feparte the fkin from round, the the are carried off by a fan. feparation is effedted, the fkins will-be cleared in a day. In this manner r500lbs. by ftoves has been found The method'of fo clearing prejudicial.to the tafte --- Page 265 --- INDIES: - WEST: fmell of the coffee, asto be now almoft fo entirely liable and Indeed there, is no fubftance which laid afiden of any thing with to imbibe the exhalations "6 Coffee berries. (fays Dr. it issin proximity. difpoledito imbibe lexhalaMofeley) are remarkably and thereby: acquire an tions from IT other bodiès, flavour. Rum,placed advepstiounand difagreenble fhort time; forimpregnate near. to coffee, will, in a the taite in a high degree ; the berries, as to injure Miller, that a few bags of andi it is related by.Mr from India, Hfome years fince, pepperon board a fhip oficoffeo.t - aibl fpoiled aiwhole.d cargo this fubjedt more properly :0 We cannot conclude eftimate lofithe expences than by drawing out an this commodity: and the atteinding the culture of expeéted from its feturns whicb may berenfonably that it is the moft advantageous crops. I conceive plant ofany that the Wett and equally produdive due regard to the arIndiesaffordss for givingrall advanced againft the gument which is' fo generally lucrative article of cultiof its being a the confumer, probability falls upon' vation (viz. that therduty yet t it is evidént, that and not upon the merchant), become fo enormous as to if the duty fhould ever ofthe article, the planter diminilh thei confumpt cultivate that commodity has lels temptation to demand.. For five than others in more general duty on coffee continued, yearssthat the exceffive into Britain, not 7.090,pc0.of pounds wereimported fupplied Europe - while St: Domingo has every. year the demand of and although with- 70,900,000; --- Page 266 --- HISTORY.OE THE Great Britain lias increafed tion of the duties, fince,t the laft diminu: reckoned too much yet to allow fixpence per lb. may ftill be beycridge. coffee to be a general Elimate ofibe Espence and Return tation in tbe Mountains of a Coffee Planthe Sea, calculated in of Tamaica, 14 miles the from being 40 per cent: wworfe tban Currency of tbat VRand, Sterling, viz. Firft coft of 300 acres of which one-half is ofmountain land, vifions and referved for proDitto of10O pafturage, at 31. per, acre, L. Ditto of 20 negroes, at 7ol. per head, mules; at 281. 700O Baildings and utenfils, mills, and tools, negro Expence ofmaintaining the firft year, before negroes the raifed provifions can be (exclufive of other annual expences charged below), 51. each, 5do Compound intereft for three fore any return can be years, beper Cent. expedled, at 6 Carry over L.13053 , L. Ditto of 20 negroes, at 7ol. per head, mules; at 281. 700O Baildings and utenfils, mills, and tools, negro Expence ofmaintaining the firft year, before negroes the raifed provifions can be (exclufive of other annual expences charged below), 51. each, 5do Compound intereft for three fore any return can be years, beper Cent. expedled, at 6 Carry over L.13053 --- Page 267 --- WEST INDIES. i1 Brought over L. 13053 viz. a1 TI ANSUAL EXPENCES, L. 200 Wiliteoverfeera and maintenance, One other white fervant, Medical attendance on the ne25 groesi - clothing, Negro-luplies, Vizar and other tools,. falted fifh,. of the provifions, exclufive produce of their own grounds, IOO Colonial taxes," mguners Total for three years, before any réturn can be expeated, - intereft, as it arifes in Compound the Teveral years, L. 15059 Total expence, D at 4!. per cwut. being the Returns of tbe fourtby, year, frvc years previouis to average price of Coffee for 1792, wiz. acres of young coffee may be From 150 L.1800 the fourth year 45.ocolbs: expeded Carried over L.1800 --- Page 268 --- HISTORY OF THE Dedué annual Broughtover L: r800 fourth charges for! the year, Sacks and faddles, L. 595 T - Clear profit, (being equal to 71. 145. per cent. L,T165 on the capital.) Returns tbe fifb and fulbfequene years, wiz.. 150 acres, yielding 750 Ibs. 112,500 Ibs. at 41. per acre, Dedudt annual L.4500 Sacks and charges, as before, L.595 faddles, Repairs ofmills, &c. 10O Clear profit (being equal to 243 on the capital), per cent. L.3725 9 CACAO. The Cacao, or Chocolate South America, and is ftill Nut, is a native of:. commerce with the an article ofconfiderable a level and theltered Spaniards. In its cultivation, planter fpot is chofen, in which digs a numberof holes a foot in the width, and about fix or length and next procefs is to take the cight inches deep. I His banana or fome, other profit (being equal to 243 on the capital), per cent. L.3725 9 CACAO. The Cacao, or Chocolate South America, and is ftill Nut, is a native of:. commerce with the an article ofconfiderable a level and theltered Spaniards. In its cultivation, planter fpot is chofen, in which digs a numberof holes a foot in the width, and about fix or length and next procefs is to take the cight inches deep. I His banana or fome, other --- Page 269 --- WEST INDIES: it within the circumference large léaf, and to place the fides of the leaf of each hole, leaving, however, after which he rubs fome inches above the ground, till the hole is filled.. He in' the mould very lightly for each hole, folds the leaf, then fclects three nuts covered them with over them, after having fmall lightly ftone on the top to premould, and places a At the end of cight or ten vent their opening. and the plant is then days the leaves are opened, ftuck in the ground;and fheltered with palm leaves bean tree, for the young ca-, alfo the Erythrina or the thade. If the three cao will only flourifh in them is cut down as foon as nuts fpring up, one of inches high. It feldom the plants are 18 or 20 root. happens that the other two. take eighthy year, and The treeisin full perfedtion atits of cafrequently bears for 20; but many plantations caufe. The cao have peri(hed without any vifible comets as harbinfuperiftitious have always regarded of this fatality, But in fpite gers. of its deftruction. abounded in the Britifh Weft Indies at one period and its cultivation plantations of this commodity, andl profitable were would ftill continue extentive' minifterial exadion. it not for the heavy hand of of any.acAt prefent, the only. cacao plantations Grenada and Dominicount, in our colonies, are in which iflands, I ca; the quantity exported from more believe, amounts, on an average, to fomething the London: pounds weight, valued in than 405,000 Sterling. matket at IO or II,000 pouads A Ii --- Page 270 --- HISTORY OF THE GINGER. Indies Ginger was conveyed from the Eaft to the by one Francilco de Weft back as the year 1547.itwas Mendozas and as far from thence to the amount of exported to, OldSpain is of two forts, the black and 22,053 cwt. Ginger is procured by the white; the former latter by infolation, prefervation in boiling water, the luable. and is "Both fpecies of the contiderably.more article Vawith no more attention to are procured in Great Britain, that is, cultivation than potatoes ing, unlefs where merely planting and digin which cafc they are intended for -der and they are dug while its, fibres fweetmeats, - full of.juice. The are tenpurted into Britain from her average quantity imIO,0CC bags of one cwt. own iflands is fated at don at the rate of 40S. the cach, which fells at Loncwt. ARNOTTO, "This indigenous plant tis called, It rifes to the height of feven. by Bolanets, Bixa. produces long hairy or eight feet, and thole ofi a chefnit. In pods, fomewhat refembling found, which have thefe pods the feeds are femble red lcad mixed an unpleafant fmell, and redeed, it was ufed with oil in appearance. Indecorating by the native Indians as their bodies, at the time paint in Were' firft difcovered. The thefe iflands method of extracting called, It rifes to the height of feven. by Bolanets, Bixa. produces long hairy or eight feet, and thole ofi a chefnit. In pods, fomewhat refembling found, which have thefe pods the feeds are femble red lcad mixed an unpleafant fmell, and redeed, it was ufed with oil in appearance. Indecorating by the native Indians as their bodies, at the time paint in Were' firft difcovered. The thefe iflands method of extracting --- Page 271 --- WEST INDIES. the feeds till fully extricated, the pulp is by boiling The water is then and then taking them away. dried in fhallow veffels. drawn off, and the fediment in the compolition of" it is ufed are Thus prepared, wonderful effeéts Spanifh drugs, and many qualities: The Dutch afcribed to its medicinal their butter by infuling it, heighten the colour of in Imaller quantities even and it is faid to be ufed is, however, upon the in Englith dairies. Arnotto in demand, and of no little wholé, a commodity cotmercial confequence. great ALOES. of this commodity is The moft valuable fpecies fpecies khown Socotra, but the only that called It is propagated colonies is the Hepatic. 'in to our of fuckers, and will thrive by. the plantation foils where lefs hardy vegethole dry and barren When the plant is tables would. fpeedily perith. cleanfed and put pulled by the root, it is carefully boiled in large calwhich are into nets or bafkets, renewed till the liquor grows drons, and always of boiling is repeated ftrong and black. The procefs of the confiftency in another veffel till it becomes into gourds, and after which it is poured ofhoney; ; and fent to market. then dried PIMENTO: OR ALL-SPICE. production grows fpontancoully, This. elegant Ii 1j --- Page 272 --- HISTORY OF THE but in more abundance fea, forming extenlive, in hilly fituations near the fragrance. Itis groves of the moft, delicious mocks every purely the child of, nature, pimento walk attempt to improve its and is procured by no qualities. A appropriating a piece of woodland otherlabour than bourhood. of a plantation in the neighcountry where the feattered already exilting, or in'a native ftate, the woods-of trees are found in-a trees are fuffered to remain which being fallen, the become rotten and perifh. on the ground till they months after the firft In the courfe of twelve feafon, pimento trees will be abundance of all parts ôf the land., found growing vigoroufly young in There is Hot in the tiful produ@tion than vegetable world a mnore is fmooth and a young pinjento. The beaufeet glofiy, free from tronk: high; its leavesare ofa bark, and 15 or 20 ofa bay tree, and form deep green, like thofe white exuberant a beautiful odoriferous flowers, The leaves contral.to its for with the fruit. As are equally fale, the berries are to its preparation the admiflion of ripened always Gathered green, for bly diminifh the value fruit would confidera. are gathered of the by the commodity, Tliey and expofed to the fon hand, fpread on a terrace, dith -brown; and when tillthey become of ared. fingle tree has been dry are fent to market. dried known to yield good fpice, or 150 lbs. of the one cwt. of crops are only raw fruits but as commodity is not contingent, the value of the tioslluning as others, fo that many ifh the value fruit would confidera. are gathered of the by the commodity, Tliey and expofed to the fon hand, fpread on a terrace, dith -brown; and when tillthey become of ared. fingle tree has been dry are fent to market. dried known to yield good fpice, or 150 lbs. of the one cwt. of crops are only raw fruits but as commodity is not contingent, the value of the tioslluning as others, fo that many --- Page 273 --- WEST INDIES. are now exchanged for fuplantations of pitmento one of onrcolonies 1 which gar. Jamaica is the only exported about - produecs it, and there are eieh:T anniilly It 1sfold in com60c0 baigs of 112 pourd the duty attached to it mon years at 1od. per.ib. ont a0 A 13 being 3d: 01 Sheth mgnas slo - biade sslatl onlin Du --- Page 274 --- --- Page 275 --- BOOK VI. GOYERNMENT AND COMMERCE: CHAPTER I. or Chief GoColonial ERattihmens-Of the Captain.Geneal, Refleftions on the vernor; ; his Powers and Pixileges-Some for this High Ofice-Lisutenan General Choice of Perfons and Prelident-Of the Council; General, Lietteant-Govemor oftheir Claim to a Share in thcir Office and Fumdions-Onigin Propriety, and Legality confithe Legilature-Io Necellity, in the Conftitution of this Body prodered-Some Corretion pofed. of the Britith Weft InTHE internal confitution refpeéts, to the conftitudies conforms, in almoftall of power which, in tion of England., The balance of the divides the legiflature the mother country, branches, is imitated by mother country into three orders confift of a gothefe colonies, whofe different refembles the King's; a vernor, whole prerogative and a body of reprefentacouncil or upper houfe; fimilar to the Britifh tives chofen by the people, fairly and equally Houfe of Commons, but more eleéted by their conftituents. moftall of power which, in tion of England., The balance of the divides the legiflature the mother country, branches, is imitated by mother country into three orders confift of a gothefe colonies, whofe different refembles the King's; a vernor, whole prerogative and a body of reprefentacouncil or upper houfe; fimilar to the Britifh tives chofen by the people, fairly and equally Houfe of Commons, but more eleéted by their conftituents. --- Page 276 --- HISTORY OF THE GOVERNOR! EVERY chief as commander governor in the in chief of the Welt-india Ilands, tion, has forces in his jurifdicfaff; and, theappointment in a civil of all oflicers not upon the fedes the judges of the capacity, nominates and fuper. law, the cuftodes ofthe different courts. of common peace, and others employed parithes, the juftices ofthe The-advice of this in fimilar cannot be looked council, which heis bound departments. to aik, upon the exertion of upon as any confiderable check the continual refource this of prerogative; for he has irivolous pretences, and expelling all oppofers, on with more complying filling their places inhanter fembly, which is fummoned, members. In the general af. andeadjourned at his diffolved, prorogued, voice ; and in this alfo. pleafure, his he has a negative advice. He has the council offer him their perfons of his own power of appointing pro tempore have not been filled choofing, to occupy. fnch as er offach fucceffors up by: the King; and the places home continues till the powarrive to fuperfede them. one chofen at traordinary nature, the In cafes of an exknown to fuperiede, for a governor has even been lucrative time, officers of high and other appointtneuts, who, had been powers, and of nominated by zill the King's pleafutre filling their places by others, King ofBritain, he fhould be known. Like the, ofevery defcription, pardons the condemned unlefs thofe culprit guilty of murder --- Page 277 --- WEST INDTES. and even in thefe cafes he can reand high treafon; and his Majefty's fpite, till word be fent to Britain, injunaions fent back. in the Welt Indies exIn general, every governot of the Lord High Chanercifes the extenfive powets keeper of the great cellor of Great Britain ; being As the high court ofchancery. feal, and prelidingin all church benefices, gives ordinary, he, appoints to and is fole judge of the conlicenfes for marriages, law. He prefides in the fiftorial and ecclefiaftical determines upon all appeals of court of. error, and before this court the kind liable to be brought law. As vice-admiral from other courts of common the right of jetfen flotoft the Weft Indies, he has commifion to privateers, fam, 8c. and grants of the court ofvice-admiralty. through the medium to obferve, isinThis court, it may not be improper. with that ofethe vefted with a power concurrent aét of relaWhen an parlinment court of records. revenues of the Britith coloting to the trade and the judge of this court nies in America is infringed, decides, from the great injury of the colonifts) of a ju- (to without the intervention his own authority, to his office by a gift of the tys and is nominated Crown, of feveral employments, the Befides the profits falary attachof every colony has a libcral in order that governor ed to his oflice of goveroment; view but, to court the fahe may have no temptation in. the affembly, he is not vour of the leading men of unlefs it be fixed rilowed to accept of any falary, Kk injury of the colonifts) of a ju- (to without the intervention his own authority, to his office by a gift of the tys and is nominated Crown, of feveral employments, the Befides the profits falary attachof every colony has a libcral in order that governor ed to his oflice of goveroment; view but, to court the fahe may have no temptation in. the affembly, he is not vour of the leading men of unlefs it be fixed rilowed to accept of any falary, Kk --- Page 278 --- HISTORY OF THE (im fuch a manner as fpace of one year after cannot be recalled) within the Indies. his, arrival in the Weft Comfidering the fallibility of diftance of the governgr's buman nature, ithe the mother country, feat ofjuntliction from prerogative, it is and, abave ail, bis not extenfive times be intoxicated by wonderful the that lie fhould at That fuch extenfive iufluence. of his power, than the power of the authority, more unlimited even be conferred without King, of Britain, fhould inot to every one; ; but it isa much caution, muf beevident in the nomination of this truth, to be regretted, that is not invariably important oflice, and that, from paid to the merit of the attention the influence of individual; finguifhed for no other party fpirit, men dinorance, are qualities than vice and ofa fent.out to recruit, by the iggovernment, the emolumients ed by their former fortunes which have been ruinFrom perfons fo deftitute profligate diflipation at home. what evils of charaéler and fing the may not be expedted ? ability, poflefs governor fent out by the Indeed, fuppoa found Britifh miniftry to mind, underdanding and an he is to unlefsacqusinted with the laws of uncorrupted govern, he muft be thofe whom confiftencies; ; and the betrayed into many incommit, prove fertile fources improper adtions they thus flanding as of future flance of precedents of injuftice. damage, by this was A glaring inwas a Britifh colony, afforded, wbile North. Amierica northern provinces, who by a governor of one of the ordered a criminal to be mind, underdanding and an he is to unlefsacqusinted with the laws of uncorrupted govern, he muft be thofe whom confiftencies; ; and the betrayed into many incommit, prove fertile fources improper adtions they thus flanding as of future flance of precedents of injuftice. damage, by this was A glaring inwas a Britifh colony, afforded, wbile North. Amierica northern provinces, who by a governor of one of the ordered a criminal to be --- Page 279 --- WEST INDIES: the time ordained by his fenhung fome days before Stokes, who relates tence. C Hc méant well (fays military man, conceithe anccdote), but being a to reprievé after ved that, as he poffelfed the power execute alfo when hé fentenice, he had power to was' actually hanged pleafed." And the- 'ériminal fentence etijoined, as the fome days fooner than bis could his excellency be governor ordered. Nor act, he was cominitting perfuaded that, by' this véry thé fame auAnother military govérhor, from the felony. fufpended a gentleman thor' r'informs us, had married his daughter withcoimcil, becaufe he thefe fpécimens of unwarout his confent. Befides many inftances 'of mifrantable ftretches of power, Aill more glaring ini conduét could be produeisd; baneful in their effects to their enormity, and more faults; is no but the tafk ofnumbering the public; and.hall be therefore declined. way pleafant, impropriery in the nomination The moft flagrant is the felcétion of fuch of a Weft Indian governor, from their paft fituations men as cannot'be expeded, with the laws oftheir counin life, to be seruainted of law iS réquifite in a try: That fome knowledge thé nature of his office; governor, is evident from ofall the moft unlikely to yet the military profettion, with that feience, furhifh inen minutcly aequiinted whence the Welt Indies is"the general fouice from It would be improper, with rulers: whofe are (upplied that fome governors, however, not to ftate, them from befituation in the world miccluded their have filled governments ing actite lawyers, Kkij- quifite in a try: That fome knowledge thé nature of his office; governor, is evident from ofall the moft unlikely to yet the military profettion, with that feience, furhifh inen minutcly aequiinted whence the Welt Indies is"the general fouice from It would be improper, with rulers: whofe are (upplied that fome governors, however, not to ftate, them from befituation in the world miccluded their have filled governments ing actite lawyers, Kkij- --- Page 280 --- HISTORY OF, THZ I with honour. For Sir Bafi], Keith, and inflance, Sir William Thomas Trelawner, wére, men of Earl of were jufly uprightnef, as wellas Efingham, of revered by the Deople, judgment, and Jamaica, in particular, The gratitude mory ofthe laft named was, do ftrong to the memagnificent mopument governor, to, be that they, voted a and evinced their veneration ereéted to his name ; words with. which it was infcribed. jof his.merit, by the ftances of this nature But. partial indermlimproppiety of cannot apologize for the gecolonies,, men equally feleding for governors to the grity,and the knowledge deftitute of worth, of intes a requilite for their Ration.) HRUTENANTGENIRAL LEUTENANTI GOVERNOR, AND PRESIDENT WHEN a government a comprehends feveral Jicutenantsgeneral IS illands, next in fucceflion, who ufually is appointed to be the governor of one of the iflands commonly lieutenantdiction of the captain-general. included in the jurif during the abfence of the Each of thele illands, by a chiefgoreror, is managed prefident Jlesenat-gorergor, of the or more frequently by the council; the appointment being, in fact, a Jeaemnanatgpreners year, A finecure of 1200l, afion, is feldom leutenant-goveror, of dormant commif. mander in chiefis appointed in Jamaica while the comL prefent; for, when figns, or S obtains leave of that officer reabfence, a lieutenant- --- Page 281 --- WEST INDIES. from home, who enjoys the governor is difpatched the office. About the year full powerl and profits of then Earl of "when the Marquis of Lanfdown, of 1767, fecretary of fate, fome gentlemen Shelburne, was the minifter to have al deputyJamaica: foliented on the idland. governor, who fhould be ftationary of the office, Slelburne,to obviate the expence Lord of the governor tlie comtook away from the profits Fort Charles; and barmand ofal fortification, called that he fhould religa gained with Loid Trelawney, The refult ofthis WillamDalling. Eort-ChatlestoSic LordGeorge fipulation was, Adererumlbventaule the miniftry, Germaine, Lord sheibusnercfucestirisa obroool. per annum as no defpicable the regarding choofe tos continue the falary,of jedly did not Charles, as a fund for fupporting command of Fort affigned it over to one of his the deputy-governor. refides at home, and enjoys the dependents, who while the fort is commanded by profits of the office, his deputy's deputy. THE COUNCIL. members of this board, who are appointed THE and inferted in the governorsintiruc by the King, full either to ten" tions, amount, in their complement, the ifland. to the fize-of or twelve, in proportion below feven, the When their number is reduced new memcommanider in chiefis enjoined to fupply Thefe members to that. amount, but to no greater. precedency bers,by courtely ftyled Honourable,ake, profits of the office, his deputy's deputy. THE COUNCIL. members of this board, who are appointed THE and inferted in the governorsintiruc by the King, full either to ten" tions, amount, in their complement, the ifland. to the fize-of or twelve, in proportion below feven, the When their number is reduced new memcommanider in chiefis enjoined to fupply Thefe members to that. amount, but to no greater. precedency bers,by courtely ftyled Honourable,ake, --- Page 282 --- HISTORY OF THE next the governor, and the eldeft when he is abfent or dead, fupplies his place refpedt to the They fand in the fame governor as the privy Majefly; but I conceive that council to his tradiétion to their hecan act even in conjuftices in opinion. They are every commillion of nominated with the governor as the peace, and fit and appeal from the judges in the courts of error dependent of the court of records. Laftly, Inbranchi of the governor, they form an upper parliament, ordering legifature, claiming the privilege of and keeping up all the attendancey offices entering prote(is, tith Houfe of Parliament. and infignia ofa Brigillators and privy council This double oflice ofle. Governor Lyttleton may feem inconfiftent. ftinction may be fays, "The. admitting fuch a di. ligation of the oath fuppofed toi free them from all obcaufe their they take as duty to the counfellors: befeem to oblige them people, as legillators, nions very frequently to may repugnant to a fupport opition is unjuft; for the governor's." oath But this objec. certainly does not bind them they take as counfellors, according to the direétion to act indifcriminately, of the counfellors, as legillators, their governor. As ing, to ferve the true duty is equally bind. Territorial interefts of the people. qualification is not quifite to the admittance of inditpenfably rebers of the allembly. counfellors as of memafraid, too frequently Perfons' are therefore, Iam real concern in the admitted, who can have little who are welfare of the community, and confequently more obfequious to the mea- counfellors, as legillators, their governor. As ing, to ferve the true duty is equally bind. Territorial interefts of the people. qualification is not quifite to the admittance of inditpenfably rebers of the allembly. counfellors as of memafraid, too frequently Perfons' are therefore, Iam real concern in the admitted, who can have little who are welfare of the community, and confequently more obfequious to the mea- --- Page 283 --- : WEST INDIES: than to.the dictates of public fures of the govemnon happens, that even thele utilityd: But it frequently interefts of the country, unconne@ed withthe men, overawed by the influcnce of the governor are lefs who have property in the iflands. than the members oft this board;and the power In fact, theri inftability in the hands of. the governor, of fufpenfion lodged and until that makes it at all times dependent; have more to fear evil be remedied, the people than the gofrom its coinpliance to the governor, the Itis 4 from its attachment to people. vernor decided opinion of many intelligent given as the board of council lave adtually no pcople, that this that their real and approright tolfit as legillators, affeffors to the governor, priate office is to fit, as to the and that they are warranted by no pretenfion In fupport of branch of power they now poffefs. in the firft place; it has been urged, this affertion, bears no fimilitude to the that a colonial council ought not peers of Great Britain, and confequently ofthe Weft their place in the government to fupply enjoyed by the Englifh Indies. The privileges facred and independent ; and. Houfe of Lords are add to their number, he though the fovercign can lawful exertion of his cçannot diminith it by. any WeftIndies, as has power; but the councils ofthe as well as mentioned before, can be changed been will of the viceroy, and prorogued by the, arbitrary with privileges by no méans are therefore endowed Lords. It has been farther comparablet to theBritill of the Crown does urged, that cven the prerogative and independent ; and. Houfe of Lords are add to their number, he though the fovercign can lawful exertion of his cçannot diminith it by. any WeftIndies, as has power; but the councils ofthe as well as mentioned before, can be changed been will of the viceroy, and prorogued by the, arbitrary with privileges by no méans are therefore endowed Lords. It has been farther comparablet to theBritill of the Crown does urged, that cven the prerogative --- Page 284 --- HISTORY OF THE not warrant men upon rimpolngtheauttontge the colonifts. The offuch a body of ofithis aflertion, has the King, fay the abettors the proceedings of the other right ofputting a veto upon ture; but being, at the fame branches of the legillaof his oflice, not a time, from the nature cannot juftly affume feparate the legillator bimfelf he can he impofe an character of fuch, far lefs dominions which it authority upon any part,of his all the parts of the requires the united affent of To thofe who conftitution to make facred. objec to their ments of this nature, it authority from argufeveral may be replied, that oecafions, it fhould be fcund if, On iRence of fuch a power fhould that the exquifite to the welfare of the be indilpenfably rethey are appointed, it is not community where to fuppofe that theird abfolutcly neceffary legal; for the origin has been view of public conftitutionally faperfede law. But in advantage ought to branch of Weft Indian afferting the utility of this to imply that it was government, I do not mean fould be a feparate originally intended that there between the body of this kind, intermediate feems to have affembly been and the governor. Its origin in the Weft founded in the want.of Indies, and the nobility fome legillative neceflity of baving the houfe, not intermediate gorernor and the affembly, between affembly and the Crown, but between the the influence of the In order to corroborate mitted into this King, the governor was adflruded to tranfmit, convention, and was farther infrom time to time, the names --- Page 285 --- WEST INDIES. inhabitants as might ap-. of fuch of the principal vacancies in the pear beft. qualified to fupply itis very rare that any couacil ; and accordingly has not been previoully perfon is appointed who reçommended by the governor. in Barbadoes is'a ftill fubfiling The government object ofinflituting fufficient proof that the original laws; for there, in enadting the council was this; form but one conflituent the governot and council fitting and deliberating branch in the conftitution, all the royal gotogether. In fact, throughout this practice was vernments in the Weft Indies, till the followed; nor was it difcontinued originally odious to the affemgovernor's averfion to become induced him to debly by pafling unpopular bills, and to allow the cline attending in the council, be . difagrecable laws to performed taik of enadting alone. The council themby the board of council to defuppofe, were not unwilling felves, we may the Crown found it conduciveliberate feparately; did the of ; nor reprefentatives to its own purpofes mode of deliberating, not rethe pcople refift this If they garding it in the light of an innovation. their power to fuch, they had it in had thought ; but it does not appear proteft againit the change of the council to colony oppofed the right that any the concurrence of the gonegative bills without which they exercife of vernor. By the famc right the opinion of the bills, independent of rejeding entitled to amend pargovernor, they are evidently but thofe for raifing moticular claufes in all bills L1 garding it in the light of an innovation. their power to fuch, they had it in had thought ; but it does not appear proteft againit the change of the council to colony oppofed the right that any the concurrence of the gonegative bills without which they exercife of vernor. By the famc right the opinion of the bills, independent of rejeding entitled to amend pargovernor, they are evidently but thofe for raifing moticular claufes in all bills L1 --- Page 286 --- HISTORY OF THE ney; becaufe, if the houfe of their amendments, reprefentatives dillike an indired they can effect their purpofe in firft (tage. manner, The by rejeding the bill after its extend thus far and authority of the council feems to thority, exercifed no farther, That fuch an aufreely and ing afide at prefent all independently (layence poffeffed by the objedtions againft the influof effential governor over the council), is advantage to the evident, if we refleét conflitution, feems cord which muft otherwife upon the difagrecable dif. interefts of the take place were not the people and the an intermediate body. Crown balanced by its illegal origin, it fcems Whatever may be faid of to claim the prefeription, and to be at fanction of a legally confituted prefent in the eye of law per to remark, before body. It may not be improthe feparation ofthe concluding this apology for adually been benefited council, that the colonies have in the much wifhed byi it, fince it confirms them immediately for privilege of having theirlaws to do fo while fandioned by the governor, who, unable was conjoined with the board of obliged to tranfmit them to Britain council, tédious confirmation of their to wait the jelly. authority by his MaWhat has been faid, does not diftant manner, in plead, in the moft which the defènce of that undue influence ratigns of governor this actually enjoys over the delibemands very ferious body. The remedy of this evil debecaufe the rights of confideration, the and the more fo, council are fo unfteadily --- Page 287 --- WEST INDIES.I have been degraded fixed, thatin fome inftancesthey unqueftionably to beyond the dignity they ought affimed fuch powers claim, and in others they have with the liberty of the inconfiftent as are utterly are the fitteft body for.effectpeople: The affembly feem competent to bring ing this change, and they of their ftrength. It it about by a proper exertion the one hand, that the right Thould be their objeet, on in the governor, be atleaft of fufpenfion, now vefted in order to give energy and confiderably abridged, never to to the council; an advantage lupon independence its members can be fufpendedi be enjoyed while On the other hand, the moft frivolous pretences. reevén in communicatingthie of caution is requifite To make them incapable ftoration of vigour. expedient, if we may removal would be a dangerous authority which fomé judge from the unwarantable have arrogated to themcolonies in the Weft Indies dependence of even in fpite of the general times felves, At different councils upon the governors. have arbihave fined of their own authority, and have even they imprifoned for contempt, bills at their tratily of originating money the claimed a right bills paffed by board, amending money A own the public revenue. affembly, and appropriating arbitrary meafures fhonld council difpofed to fuch corroborated by the inftead of being be refifted, the increafe of fuch illegitimate To permit and typeople. would be to found an impregnable power, fyftem ofa ariftocracy. rannical Llij for contempt, bills at their tratily of originating money the claimed a right bills paffed by board, amending money A own the public revenue. affembly, and appropriating arbitrary meafures fhonld council difpofed to fuch corroborated by the inftead of being be refifted, the increafe of fuch illegitimate To permit and typeople. would be to found an impregnable power, fyftem ofa ariftocracy. rannical Llij --- Page 288 --- HISTORY OF THE CHAPTER II, Houfe of cflablihing Afeably-Pumngatie in the Colonies denied to be in the Crowri of Great Britain-Mol of the Conftitutions Britih lefs free than that of by Emigrants from the Mother Weft Indian Ilands fettled and Charters are only Country-Royal badoes and fome other Confirmations of Ancient Prechamations -Their Local Inands originally made Counties Rights-Bar their Jurifdiaion Legiflatures how conftituted, and the Palatine dence pointed out-Tleir Extent of on, the Crown of Great Allegiance to, and tional Extent of Parliamentary Britain, how fecured-Contitu. DepenInfluence over them. Tne object of this diflertation femblies, is to difplay the on the colonial afconfirmed to her principles on which Britain right of fubjects in the Weft Indies the remains enacting their own laws; to be explained by what after which, it giance and means the allecured to the mother fubordination of thele colonics are federgone difcuffion from country, The fubjedt has unaccount no novelty can be many writers, and on that and perfpicuous is at expe@ted; but to be plain the rights of which prefent entirely our. wifh, and no metphyfical we treat happily depend It has been arguments. upon tain had a juft lately title afferted, that the Crown of cils with to inveft the Weft Indian Brilegillative coun. is founded in juftice, authority, becaufe the meafure public intereft; but it is and is of great utility to the. from this maxim, that not, however, to be deduced fame right, is warranted the Crown of Britain, by the to impofe upon her colonies . wifh, and no metphyfical we treat happily depend It has been arguments. upon tain had a juft lately title afferted, that the Crown of cils with to inveft the Weft Indian Brilegillative coun. is founded in juftice, authority, becaufe the meafure public intereft; but it is and is of great utility to the. from this maxim, that not, however, to be deduced fame right, is warranted the Crown of Britain, by the to impofe upon her colonies --- Page 289 --- WEST INDIES. may think proper, or that any form that his Majefty as does not, conduce fuch a form is to be eftablifhed inhabitants. It is to. the freedom of the colonial be the principal piltrue, though juflice and utility yet even were the lars of the liberty of the colonies, the charters, procladiétates of propriety fet afide, coloand grants, have given to the_Britifh to mations, and confitutional right nifts in America a legal But, indeed, it is ceding the privileges of Britons. for one moment, that by far too much to fuppofe, in exiftence were there no charters and proclamations that their rights, the rights of Weft Indians, to ratify therefore to be called in queas Britifhi fubjeéls, are certainly does grant to ftion. The law of England dominions the full all the provinces of the Britifh whetherthefe proof the mother country, privileges obtained by conqueft, or colonized by vinces were Ofthe Britifh poffeflions in emigrants from home. obtained by force, and others America, fome were deftitute ofinhabitantss occupicd upon being found the original natives but even the injultice of forcing a right to Eufrom their poflellions does not impart invaders, after ropeans of fubjugating thefe unjuft in the profits, the mother çountry has participated invafion. Toufe the words as well as the guilt of the that if Engli(h of Mr. Long, 46 Shallit be affirmed, poffefs themor Englifh adventurers forces conquer, and thereby extend the emfelves of diftant lands, and opulence of England, pire, and add to the trade and planting tuch terthe Englifhmen fo poffeffing of the great farvices zitory ought, in confideration after ropeans of fubjugating thefe unjuft in the profits, the mother çountry has participated invafion. Toufe the words as well as the guilt of the that if Engli(h of Mr. Long, 46 Shallit be affirmed, poffefs themor Englifh adventurers forces conquer, and thereby extend the emfelves of diftant lands, and opulence of England, pire, and add to the trade and planting tuch terthe Englifhmen fo poffeffing of the great farvices zitory ought, in confideration --- Page 290 --- HISTORY OF THE thereby effeéted to the than aliens, to forfeit all nation, to be treated worfe jeôts, and to be left to the the rights of Englith fabarbitrary form of mercy of an abfolute and In addition to Mr. government.." ment, may be quoted Long's the flatement of the arguright of" a opinion of Locke on the conqueror over the conqueror gets no power conquered, 4 The conquef, (fays Mr. over thofe who Locke), by his They that fought on his fide are conquered with him. freemen as before. And muft at leaft be as much moft upon terms, and on condition commonly they ferve leader, and enjoy a to ferve with their part of the fpoil and vantages that attend the other adleaft have a part of the fubdued conquering fword; or at upon them. And the country beftowed hope, to be flaves by conquering people are not, I rels only to fhow that conqueft, and wear their lauleader's triumph. We they are facrifices to their Englith are told by fome that the queft, and monarchy is founded on the Norman that our princes have conabfolute dominion; which, ifit thereby a title to ftory appears were true (as by hiotherwife), and that right to make war on this ifland, William had a conqueft could reach yet his dominion by and Britons that no farther than to the Saxons try. The Normans were then inhabitants of this counto that came with him and conquer, and all defcended from helped men, and no fubjeds by them, are freedominion it will," conquef, let that give what The opinion of Locke has been quoted at full --- Page 291 --- WEST INDIES. an unanfwerable argulength, becaufe it furnifhes all the right to - ment againft thofe who, founding upon the bafis of freedom which individuals, enjoy out of their confidethrow forms and conftitutions, which we owe to our fellowration all the duties from motives to their happinefs men, in contributing From attending to this remark, of natural juftice. evident, that the royal proit will therefore appear iffued from Britith princes clainations and charters Weft Indies were not meant to their fubjeds in the was now given them, that their liberty to declare commence, but to acknowand fhould henceforth had formerly exifted and ledge that their liberties The return requifhould ftill remain undifturbed. of thefe them in the poffefion alred for proteding nature and not by man, was rights, beftowed by Of thefe rights, one legiance to lawful authority. this, that thelaws by which of the moft material was be enacted with their fhould they were governed the framers of the law fhould own confent, and that thofe who were governed by be equally bound with and the Weft India Iflands it., Thus, in America aflemblies, whofe members, wereeftablithed colonial and living in thefe coundelegated by the people, allied to the interefts of tries, were too intimately them with all their power. the ftate not to fupport fight a reafonable énough It might appear at firft that they fhould be goallowance to the colonies, in this refpect, that verned by their own laws only, to the Britifh they fhould delegate reprefentatives reprefented. In fact,. and thus be fairly parliament, lemblies, whofe members, wereeftablithed colonial and living in thefe coundelegated by the people, allied to the interefts of tries, were too intimately them with all their power. the ftate not to fupport fight a reafonable énough It might appear at firft that they fhould be goallowance to the colonies, in this refpect, that verned by their own laws only, to the Britifh they fhould delegate reprefentatives reprefented. In fact,. and thus be fairly parliament, --- Page 292 --- HISTORY OF THE Barbadoes and the Charaibean fome provinces of North Hlands, as well as modelled at one period into America, this were aéually tion. But the form of reprefentafo far from the abfurdity mother of attempting to rule flates delegation, was foon difcovered, country upon the fyfem of colonial aflemblies confirmed and the propriety of colonifts have, by experience. The prefentation of therefore, fome an indubitable right to refound that to reprefent kind; and fince it has been Britain is impoflible, the them by delegates fent to blies incontrovertibly propriety of colonial affemThe follows. lates in aflembly, its thus conftituted by juftice, aflimi. formation, and the tion, to the parliament of extent of its jurifdic. frages being taken, the Great Britain. The fuf. by royal authority. eledted niember is fummoned are addreffed by his The affembly when convened Majefly's proceed to hear grievances, and reprefentative, and which are liable to their corredt thofe abufes for contempts, impofe difeuffion, They commit along with the taxes and laws, and excrting governor the tion, on fome occafions higheft acts of legillato execution, even before confign the victims of law received *, the royal affent has been * The following convey to the reader, procdedings who gives of the legiflature of Jamaica will note, a diftant idea of the himfelf the trouble of pcrufing this blijes: power claimed by the colonial aflem3 pts, impofe difeuffion, They commit along with the taxes and laws, and excrting governor the tion, on fome occafions higheft acts of legillato execution, even before confign the victims of law received *, the royal affent has been * The following convey to the reader, procdedings who gives of the legiflature of Jamaica will note, a diftant idea of the himfelf the trouble of pcrufing this blijes: power claimed by the colonial aflem3 --- Page 293 --- WEST INDIES. the deliberative The only reftriction laid upon is, that, in of the affemblies of the colonies, powers Efquire, his ROGER HOPE ELLETSOx, < To his Honour Governor and Commander in Chief Majefty's Lieutenant Illand of Jamaica, &cc. &c. in and over this his Majefty's Honour, 3 46 May it pleafe Four and loyal fubjeôts, the affembly moft dutiful to e We, his Majety's convinced of your Honour's readinefs of Jamaica, thoroughly as much as in you lies, every griehear, and inclination to redrefs, fubjeets, beg leave to that may affeét any of his Majefty's it being vance which calls aloud for immediate relief, reprefent toyou one and alarming nature, and having alin itfelf of the moft dangerous and diftractions in this unhappy ready given birth to fuch confufions before been known in it. country, as have not atany time fettled this Britifh colony, were EnSir, who 66 Our anceftors, with them a right to the laws of England fetglifhmen, and brought did not, nor could forfeit by as their inheritance, which they. was firit eftablifted among tling here. Ever fince civil government of King Charles the foon after the Reftoration of a9, which was very in this colony a confitution and form Second, we have enjoyed that of our mother country as it. as nearly refembling lives, ourliberties, and our goverament pollible to make it; our have ever been deterwas perhaps fecured to us by the fame laws, and fuch monies propertics, by fimilar jurifdiations, mined and adjudged for the fupport of his Majely's as have been neceffary ever been raifed upon government here, have, as in Eagland, given by their reprefenthe pcople, with their own confent, where life, liberty, and tatives in affembly; our courts of jufticc, the fame laws, and ftand in are adjudged, are governed by as the courts property of fubordination to one another, our houfe of the fame degrees itand for, do in England; and which they refpeltively the whole body of our people, docs, affembly, as reprefenting rank in the fyitem of our conftitution, as hold the fame here, ever did, does in that of our mother country; the Houfe of Conimons M m tatives in affembly; our courts of jufticc, the fame laws, and ftand in are adjudged, are governed by as the courts property of fubordination to one another, our houfe of the fame degrees itand for, do in England; and which they refpeltively the whole body of our people, docs, affembly, as reprefenting rank in the fyitem of our conftitution, as hold the fame here, ever did, does in that of our mother country; the Houfe of Conimons M m --- Page 294 --- HISTORY OF THE theirtrade.lawst theyn of the mother country ; and it is Vontenemmecmetvease expeéted, in return, as in England, our of our community; reprefentatives in affembly are the inquire into the they have the. power, and it is their grand inqueft and the corruptions of office, duty to ill-adminiftration of theabufes of this body has. juitice, and forsthat goverment, herc, as in our mother purpofe it is that riority over all the courts of country, ever enjoyed a condué ; and all judges, juitice, and a power of fupebeen magiftrates, and cxamining their amenable to the ailembly, and their public oficers, have ever fpection; and here, as in conduét liable to its infrequent exertions of fuch England, we owe it to the the people, that a power in the wholefome and can have we are at this day a reprefentative body of no fecurity or free people : without it we and the abufes which defencengsiat the corruption of fration. may happen in every judges, department of 66 It is admini. againit a moft fagrant, attack and violation, which mmprovoked, and made Mr. unprecedented upon this indubitable Lyttleton, our late to your Honour for right of the pcople, that we chancellor, 66 In redrefe. now refort December 1764, Pierce men who had been committed Cooke and Lachlan M-Niel, twa lege, and were in by the affembly for breach of houfe, by virtue of cufody of Edward Bolt, the privithe Ipeaker's mellenger ofthe pawerand jurifdiction of the warrant, did, in contempt of the Mr. Lyttclton, as chancellor, houfe, applyin the firft inflance flatute of the for writs of habeas to turn ofthe thirty-firl of Charlcs the corpus upon the for faid writs, he did, in a court Sccond, and upon the rethat purpofe, relcafe of chancery which he € That it did not the Erifoners, and declare as called appear to him, from the follows: liament, or of any act of the words ofany act of parifland, or ofhis Majefty's commiflion governor, council, and affembly of this as governor of this ifland, orinfirubienstohis the or by any other mcans Excelleney commitment of the' faid Pierce whatfoever, that faid Edward Bolt is legal; and his Cooke into the cuftody of the Excellency the chancellor Was oners, and declare as called appear to him, from the follows: liament, or of any act of the words ofany act of parifland, or ofhis Majefty's commiflion governor, council, and affembly of this as governor of this ifland, orinfirubienstohis the or by any other mcans Excelleney commitment of the' faid Pierce whatfoever, that faid Edward Bolt is legal; and his Cooke into the cuftody of the Excellency the chancellor Was --- Page 295 --- a4 NPMM WEST INDIES. in of Britain will not interpofe that the legillature in order that thefe affairs belonging to the colonies, and it is hereby pleafed to order, adjudge, and decree, faid Pierce Cooke be, - therefore and decreed, That the from the ordered, adjudged, releafed and difcharged deby the authority of this court, and did alfo make the fame cuftody of the faid Edward Bolt; Lachlan M'Neily. which orders claration and order as to the faid-J call decrees, and of his, he did moft irregularly of the court of chanand declarations among the records order them to be enrolled cery. of the ableft lawyers in England, from theopinions declara6 It isevident of that fatute, from the opinionsand the courts in ever fince the palling determinations of all tions of judges, the uniform declarations: sand praclice of the Houfe and the conftant nor could be, intended to. England, that.the faid ftatute was not, and that the of Commons, by either houfe of parliament, extend to commitmentsl judge of its own privileges Houfe of Commons is théonly proper of Mr. Lyttelton's tends, This determination the people, and commitments. degrade the mpnedanatiterofs therefore, manifellyto from that rank and authority in the fyitem of our conftitution, country, and if fuffered which is held by the like bodyi in our) mother of that fyftem, by giving would fubvert the fundamentals the of the to remain, power to controul procedings the court of chaneerya reducing them to a Rarsre without that affembly, and byr wouldleare the people dependence upon governors, which nothing but a afrecandine proteions againft arbitrary power, affembly can give them. meaneft quarter feffion apto dependent court of juftice, from the for con- < Evéry has a.power of committing it, it the two houfes of parliament, no aét of parliament to confer and netempt, and this power requires inftitution of every court of jufice, being incident to the it would be impofible to fapport any ceffary for its'exiftence, for of authority withoutit. here ftanding in the fame degrees < The courts" Fof jullice do in England, to one another as they relpedively fubordination M m ij ice, from the for con- < Evéry has a.power of committing it, it the two houfes of parliament, no aét of parliament to confer and netempt, and this power requires inftitution of every court of jufice, being incident to the it would be impofible to fapport any ceffary for its'exiftence, for of authority withoutit. here ftanding in the fame degrees < The courts" Fof jullice do in England, to one another as they relpedively fubordination M m ij --- Page 296 --- HISTORY OF THE may not be diftraded tures fo remote in by fubjedtion to' two legillafituation. commitments by the inferior and determined bythe fuperior may be, and frequently are, examined Houfe of Commons cannot courts; and as commitments the inferior be, nor ever were, by the in courts, fo this difcharged by any of our country extraordinary act ofMr. his time been without a precedent, fuch a thing having Lyttelton ftands <6 The attempted. never before power of commitment their's bythe common law, by the Houfe of Commons is. they are the only as well as their privileges, of which. by the law and competentjodges ufage af for theyjudgeo of thefe matters. law. parliament, which is part of the 66 As all the inferior common powers withthofet courts. here enjoy and exercile and: they fland for in the fame juft that the England, it is furely reafonable reprefentatives of the people fameauthority, and conîtituted for the here, called by the the fame powers with thofe O: fameends, fhould alfo < We beg leave Great Britain. enjoy thet to reprefent further to of this thirty-firlt claufe of an act of the governor, your Honour, that by ifland, entitled, c. An act for council, and affembly jelty, his heirs, and fucceffors, for granting a revenue to his Maof this ifland, and for the fupport of the thereof, which has reeeived reviving and perpetuating the ads government and <That all fuch laws the royal approbation, it lays time and ftatutes of is declared, - efteemed; introduced, ufed, England as have been at any this illand; fhall and are hereby accepted or received as laws in this his Majefly's ifand declaredtol be and continue laws of of Jameica, asa appearsi by ofJamaica their for ever; # and that the affemblics aflimilate their proccedings to thofe minutes, of confidering it their duty to conftantly govemned the Houfe of Commons, have exercile of their jurifdiction, themfelves in cafes of commitment, and in the which being undoubtedly by the law and ufage of benefit thereof part of the law of parliament, was confirmed to them England, the ufe and. beyond a. poflibility of doubt.. by, virtue of the abore act for ever; # and that the affemblics aflimilate their proccedings to thofe minutes, of confidering it their duty to conftantly govemned the Houfe of Commons, have exercile of their jurifdiction, themfelves in cafes of commitment, and in the which being undoubtedly by the law and ufage of benefit thereof part of the law of parliament, was confirmed to them England, the ufe and. beyond a. poflibility of doubt.. by, virtue of the abore act --- Page 297 --- WEST INDIES. which I have affertNotwitbiftanding all therights authority, to the independent of all other ed belong, fo tptally umprecemeafure of Mr. Lyttleton, c6 This arbitrary fo repugnant to reafon, to juftice, dented either in England or here, of our rights, liberties, and and law, and fo evidently fubverfive doubt not, be confidered by your will therefore, we it marks that gentleman's: sadpropertics, Honour as it deferves to be; and as fo, we truf, that the dewith the moft odious colours, miniftration ftruétion of it will difinguin and adorn your's. juftice and love of lifull confidence of your Honour's of <6 Itisi in the name and behaif of ourfelves, and ill berty, that we this day,in laybefore your Honour the all the good people in this. colony, aforefaid determination,. and beconfequenccs and injuflice of the the difturbance and apfeech you, as the only means of quieting minds of his Majetty's moft loyal prehenfions they haveraifedinthe orders that the fame be vacated, and and faithful fubjects, to give from the records of the court of the enrolment thereof cancelled may remain of fo wicked in fuch a way, that no traces chancery, and dangerous a precedent." from the houfe of affembly having The preceding application to the council for their been fubmitted by the lictterasegovehor follows: advice, the board addrelfed him as Honour, < May it pleafe your fubjects, the couneil moft dutiful and loyal < Wc, his Majetty's Honour's meffage, laying before of Jamaica, have, agreeably to your alfembly to your Honour, taken into us.the addrefs of the houfeof thereof: we have alfo our ferious confideration the fubjed-matter now in the office ofthe examined and confidered the proceedings the determination ofhis Exregifter of the eourt of chancery, and the releafe of Picrce Cooke cellencythe late chancellor, touching of the affembly. Al and Lachlan MNicl, from a commitment opinion of the late chancellor's though wehave the moft favourable that no chancellor or judge intention in that decilion, yet finding us.the addrefs of the houfeof thereof: we have alfo our ferious confideration the fubjed-matter now in the office ofthe examined and confidered the proceedings the determination ofhis Exregifter of the eourt of chancery, and the releafe of Picrce Cooke cellencythe late chancellor, touching of the affembly. Al and Lachlan MNicl, from a commitment opinion of the late chancellor's though wehave the moft favourable that no chancellor or judge intention in that decilion, yet finding --- Page 298 --- HISTORY OF THE inbabitants of the colonies, and fmbordination yet ftill their are perfedtly fecured allegiarice to Britain, in this ifland, ever before took nation upon a warrant upon himfelf to make or commitment of either any determigillature, it is with concern we branch of the lethe late chancellor in fo: obferve, that fuch of the faid Picree Cooke new, in_fo delicate a cafe, by proceeding of the houfe and Lachlan M-Niel from the difchanging el Itis alfo ofalfembly, was unprecedented and commitment Majelly's with forrow of heart we have feen irregular. colony, ever fince that and felt this his varicty of diftrefles, flowing chiefly determination, from labouring under a Majelly's fubjeêts, that the the apprehienfions of his in the court of chancery, cilablifhing a precedent of this nature and judges ofinferior might lay a foundation for chancellors to courtsto interfere in, and determinc on the privileges of the to take upon them ifland. legillative bodies of thio 66 Permit us therefore to recommend only expedient which we conceive it to your Honour, as the minds of the people, to unite the will bc effeétnal to quiet the and to reftore pcaceand feveral branches of the be pleafed to caufe the faid tranquillity, to this country, that legillature, you will cellor, whereby the faid Pierce determination made by the late chandifcharged from their Cooke and Lachlan M-Niel were commitment, on, to be brought before andall their proceedings thereand affembly, that you, and in the prefence of the faid you will be pleafed to caufe council court of chancery to enter a vacatur the regifter of the or othcrwife reverfe it in the moft on the faid determination, may not be madc ufe of as a effectual manner, fo that the fame On recciving this precedent in future," addrefa, the council, and having commanded the linuteantgoveror came into attendance of the theconneil.chamber, was pleafed to make the affembly in following fpeech : Gentlemen of the Council, Mr. ci the Affembly, Speaker, and Gentlemen of : In confequence of the addreffes I have reccived from cach of on the faid determination, may not be madc ufe of as a effectual manner, fo that the fame On recciving this precedent in future," addrefa, the council, and having commanded the linuteantgoveror came into attendance of the theconneil.chamber, was pleafed to make the affembly in following fpeech : Gentlemen of the Council, Mr. ci the Affembly, Speaker, and Gentlemen of : In confequence of the addreffes I have reccived from cach of --- Page 299 --- WEST INDIES. which the Crown poffef by the extenfive influence of the them. Thus, as to the fupremacy fes over the King various other prerogatives, the Crown, among the nomination of to himfelf not only preferves here, and as thc determination upon your bodies, I now mect you of the court of chaneery; appears record in the office of the regilter whereby the minds of' have been irregular and umprecedented, diftreffes and to have been greatly difquieted, and many o much at the people this and having nothing evils have arifen to country; and dignity of the Crown; and heart, as the fupporting the honour of the pcople, Ihave, agreepromoting the pcace and happinefs chancellor, fuch order therein, that ably to your requefts, taken, as recordthereof, are vacated, the faid proceedings, and the cntry upon and purpofes whatfocver; and annulled, and made void, to all intents I have ordered the regifter to - for your further fatisfaction hercin, with the faid procedings, forthwith in the couneil-chamber and that he attend in which the fame are entered; and the book of records branches of the legifature of this do, in prefence of the three of the faid feveral proceedifland, enter a vacatur in the margent in the faid book of records, and ings, and the entries of the Tame crofs lines over the faid proceedthat he do in your prefence in draw the ufual form and manner. ingsand the entries thereof, united recommendation, : This meafure, adopted upon your every! happy confequence, fail of producing fo cannot; I am perfuaded, that harmony and unanimity by reftoring and firmly eftabliting neceffary to his Majetty's fercamneftly wifhed for, and fo effentially and the welfare of this community." being called in, vice, of the court of chancery attending, The regifter reçords, and read the feveral proccedings and having produced the he did then, by the command, and in the faid addrefs mentioned, and in the prefence of the council in the prefence of his Honour, the margin of the faid feveral proand affembly, enter a vacatur in the faid proccedings and the cecdings, and draw crofs lines over relating thereto. thercof; and cancelled the feveral papers gntrics , of the court of chancery attending, The regifter reçords, and read the feveral proccedings and having produced the he did then, by the command, and in the faid addrefs mentioned, and in the prefence of the council in the prefence of his Honour, the margin of the faid feveral proand affembly, enter a vacatur in the faid proccedings and the cecdings, and draw crofs lines over relating thereto. thercof; and cancelled the feveral papers gntrics --- Page 300 --- HISTORY OF THE feveral governors, the members moft ofthe public oflicers of ofthe council, and poffeffes the right of all deferiptions bur he after it has putting his veto to a law, even received the fanétion of tive, the governor of the his reprefentapropofed. Noris the colony where the law is the executive, than the regal influence lefs felt over colonies. e The legillative power within the governor is ufually oflice; but an appeal lies to his chancellor by his decree that he makes. The Majefty from every for allowing fuch reafon alligned in law a check, the appeals is this, that, without fuch infenfibly practice of law in the colonies deviate from thofe of the might to the diminution ofher mother country, fuperiority. fole Again, the King, as head, of the prerogative of making empire, has the leagues and alliances with peace and war, treaties, colonies are bound to ftand foreign Aates, and the pendent to all upon fuch tranfactions, confequences dewhich his Majefly poffefles of although the power of augmenting their quartering the troops, againft the will ofthe number, and retaining them a grain of allowance. affemblies, muft be taken with The power of making vefted in the King of peace and war, which is the England, is amply checked interpofition of by juft, that a power of parliament; fimilar and it is therefore joyed by the legiflative controul fhould be enhas been, indeed, ufed bodies in the colonies. It inutility of checks of as an argument againft the can Dever be legally every kind, that military force employed to unjuft purpofes, --- Page 301 --- : WEST INDIES. Theindiferto violate the rights of the fubjedt. attaches to however, which always putable power, force, is a fuflicient anfwer the poffellion of military is it a perfect fecurity to to fuch reafoning Nor Indians to fee their rights the liberties of the Weft fellow fubjedts at home 5 will be protedted by their fhould be upheld by his the liberty of evéry ône on the fympathy not be dependent own protedtion, there is nothing more evident, ofanother. although of Britain is in the utmoft than that the freedom of the colonies are violated danger, when the rights it has been elegantly faid, and overthrown : or, as Britain thall be devoted, ihe 6 When the liberties of the coldnefs of death, like c will feel fubjection, from her extremities." t creeping upon her the Lords ofthe CommitFrom reports made by of the flave trade, it tee of Council on the fubject from Britain to appears that the value oftheexports (and fince thât the Weft Indies, in the year 1787 amounted certainly. yhave not diminifhed), time they, iod. the whole of which, except to./638-go3le 13S. of Britifh goods and maabout 200,o0ol. confifted eftimate we muit likewife add nufastures. To this from Treland, of provilions the coft of manufactuires, and Madeira, thefe being and wines from the Azores and conveyed to the purchafed with Britith capitals, Briti(h ports. The lumWelt lotlecircaitoalyin Britifh veffels, ber and fith of A merica, traniportedin be included in the ftatement, ought to of the exports from Ircland The official accounts 1792, make the avefor the years 1790, 3794,aud N n this from Treland, of provilions the coft of manufactuires, and Madeira, thefe being and wines from the Azores and conveyed to the purchafed with Britith capitals, Briti(h ports. The lumWelt lotlecircaitoalyin Britifh veffels, ber and fith of A merica, traniportedin be included in the ftatement, ought to of the exports from Ircland The official accounts 1792, make the avefor the years 1790, 3794,aud N n --- Page 302 --- HISTORY OF THE rage value ofthefe years ling. We may bring the amount to 277,2181. Stera fating ith thus: whole into one point by Exports from Great Britain 1 tr dired, -, L. from Ircland, . 1638703 13 IO 277218- o O Add. 20per cent. for freight, L. 1915921 13 IO &c. &c. 383184 6 2." L. Exports to 1 Africa for the purchale of groes, nefrom Madeira and the Azores, United States of America, Britilh America, 720C00 Total, L-3817867 The imports from the Weft Indies tain, will appear from the into Great Brifollowing Table: --- Page 303 --- WEST INDIES: 3 O E N n --- Page 304 --- HISTORY OF THE No account has hitherto been imports from thefe iflands given of the direét for the year 1788. into Ireland and America, tor Upon the authority General, I therefore give the ofthe Infpec. To Ireland, following: American States, L, 127585 4 5 Britifh American Colonies, 106460 8 O Foreign Weft Indies, 100506 17 IO Africa, 18245 12 6 868 15 O Total, L. 443666 17 9 Weft Confidered as a Britifh capital, the value Indies has been efimated of the cil at feventy millions of by the Privy Counmode of pounds, by the computation: : following 450,000 negroes, at 5o1. per head, Lands, buildings, utenfils,and L. 22500000 O. Q crop. on the ground, Value of houfes in towns, 45000000 O trading veffels, and crews, 25000000 O O Total, L. We 70000000 O O cannot conclude upon this flating, briefy,the fubject, without fugar colonies diredly fhipping and feamen to which the In 1787, it give employment. Britain and appears that there cleared, from Great Ireland, to the Weft Indies, 689 * vef. Inclnding 14 from Honduras, . Q crop. on the ground, Value of houfes in towns, 45000000 O trading veffels, and crews, 25000000 O O Total, L. We 70000000 O O cannot conclude upon this flating, briefy,the fubject, without fugar colonies diredly fhipping and feamen to which the In 1787, it give employment. Britain and appears that there cleared, from Great Ireland, to the Weft Indies, 689 * vef. Inclnding 14 from Honduras, --- Page 305 --- WEST INDIES. tons,) and navigated in all 148,176 is Hels, containing which, as before mentioned, by 13,000 feamen ; commercial tonnage of England equal to the whole value of thefe feamen is 'cera century ago. The ofthe Newfoundland failors,, tainly fupérior to that the winterin the of whom fo many remain during added to the naval force, country, and cannot be upon a fudden emergency. --- Page 306 --- HISTORY OF THE CHAPTER III. Trade between the Britilh Weft Indics and vious to the War-American North America, preAdvantages of the Tradc to Great Sapplies-Ships and Scamenvérnment at the Reftoration of Brtai-Meafure of Goin confequence of Scarcity, Pracc-Detrudion ofNegroet Ara America had got her fandioned by the peace of Verfailles, independence fairly liament, by a moft urprecedented the new par. gave up to his Majefty the fole mode of condua, important queftion which decifion of that very confideration; was at that time under namely, Whether granted to the States of. America liberty Thould be and provilions into the Weft to import lumber of council was therefore Indies? A committee all probability influenced feledted, who, though in fered themfelves by the beft motives, fuf. to be led afide of felf-interefted by the men, the fuggettions the new republic. determined enemics of Thefe advifers, blind to the didtates of wilhed for nothing fo humanity, rica ; and, ardently as the ruin of Ame. though to forbid the States and the Weft Indies theintercourfe between panied with moft dreadful was evidently accomyet, in order that no fcheme calamity to the latter, to wound the rifing might be left untried advifed the committee commonwealth, they ftrongly favourable to debar an to our recent enemies. intercourfe fo The Weft Indians, fcarce recovered from the ca- the didtates of wilhed for nothing fo humanity, rica ; and, ardently as the ruin of Ame. though to forbid the States and the Weft Indies theintercourfe between panied with moft dreadful was evidently accomyet, in order that no fcheme calamity to the latter, to wound the rifing might be left untried advifed the committee commonwealth, they ftrongly favourable to debar an to our recent enemies. intercourfe fo The Weft Indians, fcarce recovered from the ca- --- Page 307 --- WEST INDIES. by the paft war, and fill more dilamities infliéted ofthofe stremendosshumicuner ftreffed by the effects to excite the attenofs78oand 1781, attempted the tion of their fellow fubjects, by reprefenting appealed to the hardfhips of their fituation. They with America, if knowledge ofall men acquainted were fill fubjedt to thofe remaining States which adequate to the taik of Britain were in any way and provifions: They fupplying them with lumber had never been able to ftated, that Nova Scotia with the neceflary grain, fupply her own inhabitants be expeaed to' be a and could not confequently that all the lumber it had market for them, and to what deferved the did not amount ever éxported The Mfland of St John (they nameof Fmerchandife. ftill more barren ; and, although reprefented) was afford fupplies of wheat, Canada might occalionally in 1780, 3781,and that 1779, yetit was proved, wheat in Canada had been: fo 1782, the fcarcity of had been forbidden by great, that all exportation foreigners were fupplylaw; and, evenat that time, attending this proing her market. The bardfhips than by giving hibition cannot be better underitood, of the committee an extadfrom the reprefentation the of thofe of Jamaica, on fubject deof the aflembly which they felt in a principal lofles of negroes gree from this caufe. the commnittee) point out 6 We Ahall now (fay this mortality of our caufes to which the principal It is but too well known flaves is jufly chargeable. 1780, 1781, that in the feveralyears to the houfe, --- Page 308 --- - 1 HISTORY OF THE 1784, 1785. and 1786, it pleafed to wifit this ifland with Divine Providence fpread defolation repeated hurticanes, which but the parifhes throughout which moft parts oftheilland; than the reft, were thofe fuffered of more remarkably ver, St. James, Trelawny, Weltmoreland, Hano. mas in the Eaft. By thefe Portland, and St. Thothe plantain walks which deftrucive vifitations, of fupport to the furnifh the chief article and the intenfe droughts negroes, were generally rooted up, thofe different fpecies which followed, deitroyed ofground hurricanes had not reached. provifions wbich the and 178r happening The florms of 1780 foreign fupplies, during the time of war, no prize- veffels, could except be a trifling afliftance from famine enfued in the obtained leeward on any terms, and a which deftroyed many thoufand parts of the ifland, ftorm of the 30th of July negroes. Afterthe vernor, by the advice ofhis 1784, the lieutenant-goclamation, dated the 7th of council, publifhed a profree importation of Auguft, permitting the provifions and bottoms, for four months from that lumberin foreign was much too fhort a time to pe.iod. ling afliftance from famine enfued in the obtained leeward on any terms, and a which deftroyed many thoufand parts of the ifland, ftorm of the 30th of July negroes. Afterthe vernor, by the advice ofhis 1784, the lieutenant-goclamation, dated the 7th of council, publifhed a profree importation of Auguft, permitting the provifions and bottoms, for four months from that lumberin foreign was much too fhort a time to pe.iod. As this and obtain all the give fuflicient notice, fmall quantities fuppliès that were neceffary, the which offlour, rice, and other were imported in provifions, mation, foon rofe to fo exorbitant conlequence of the procla-. duce the affembly, on the a price as to ining, to prefent an addrefs 9th of November followvernor, requefting him to to the lieutenant. golatter end:of March prolong the term until the 1785; obferving, that it waa --- Page 309 --- ir MR WEST INDIES ofthe counfor the natural ptodsthionis be impofitble as to wholefome try to come to fuch maturity The term of fourmonths food, before that time. this addrels was prefented, expired when therenot being declined to comply the Heutenantegovensor following, the with ; but on the If of December of the term that a prolongation that, houfe seprefented, necellary.: They oblerve was then ablolutcly with which his Honour of the reluctance which perfuaded to deviate from regulations would be brought obferve, itwould give them he felt hinfelfitoundto. him on the fame occafion much concern to addrefs convinced that it was fecond time, were they not to fuch a extreme necellity as juftify in a cafe of fuch the lieutenant-govemor a deviation. Accordingly, council, directed, that by the advice ofhis Majetty's fhould be extended to the the time formerly limited enfuing (1785) : but, at 37f of Jantiary then next the houfe, thar he was the fame time, he informed longer from the regunot at liberty to deviate eftablifhed any in Great-Britain. lations which had been 1785. therefore, the 4 From the 31t of January the finfferings of the poor ports continued fhut, and for fome montbs afnegroes.n confequence thereof, Providentially the feafons terwards, were extreme: about May, and confidèrbecame more favourable ground provifions were able quantities of cor-and when the fourth in the month of Auguft, gathered and the hasenrenematate ofany ftorm happened, ngainft the exportation diately Thut the ports French and Spanifh ifands, to the of our provilions Oo --- Page 310 --- HISTORY OF THE which were fuppofed to have ourlelyes; but not thinking fuffered more than permit the importation of himfelf at liberty to. veflels, the productions of provifions in American haufled, and the ufual the country were foon ex-. wholefome diet, attendants of fcanty and unwere agrin droplies and epidemic fummer dreadfully prevalent in the dyfenteries, 0f1786.and fpring and oft the negroes in all proved fatal to great numbers 46 On.the 20th of parts of the country, the fifth dreadful Odoberin that year, happened theleeward hurricane, which again laid wafté declinc parifhes, and completed to enlargeon the thergedy. ufled, and the ufual the country were foon ex-. wholefome diet, attendants of fcanty and unwere agrin droplies and epidemic fummer dreadfully prevalent in the dyfenteries, 0f1786.and fpring and oft the negroes in all proved fatal to great numbers 46 On.the 20th of parts of the country, the fifth dreadful Odoberin that year, happened theleeward hurricane, which again laid wafté declinc parifhes, and completed to enlargeon the thergedy. We cd,lef we may conlequences which followendeavoured appear to but to compute, with exaggerates having, as the fubjeét will as much accuracy whofe defiruction' adnait, the number of'our may be fairly flaves, repeated calamities, and the attributed to thefe ocintenliding foreign unfortunite meafure compared the fupplics, and for this purpofe laft feven years imports with and returns of negroes for the we hefitate thofe of feven years not, after preceding, tious caufes,to fix the every allowance for adventi. This number whole lofs at fifteen we firmly believe to thoufand : famine, or of difeafes contraded have perifhed of wholefome diet, betwcen the by fcanty and unthe beginning ofi78g." latter end of 1780,and But it was found, of the Britifh upon a fair trial, that the idea ftores was abfurd provinces and fupplying America with Lawrence chimerical. The Gulph of months in continued; as ufual, blocked St. the year by the ice, and up for feven Nova Scotia was --- Page 311 --- WEST INDIES. fertile. It-was therefore found 4ill far from being the importation of abfolutely necellary to permit the latter place from the lumber and provifionsinto of this permifion United States. The confequences there were felt; for, in the year 1790, avere fpeedily Nova Scotia from the United actually fhipped to ftaves and heading, States, no lels than 540,000 Aingles, and 16,000 9a4080.fer ofboards, of 285.000 bread and meal, and 80,000 hoops, 40,c00 barrels prooftbat Canada bufhels of grain; an irrefragable beyond her of eitherlumber Or grain had no forplus What were the exports from own confumption. Scotia, Aince thewar, I regrét beCanada and Nova the committce of council ing unable to afcertain, as flent on that head. for the flave trade are totally the Britifh fugar The exports for the year 1787.firom American poftefions, iflands to all our remaining confifted of 9891cwt. of including Newfoundland, of rum, 81 cwt. of cacao, fugar, 874:580 gallons gallons of melafles, 20olb. 4cwt. of ginger, 26,380 coffee, of cottonof pimento, 573ewt. of fuch 1750lbs as.fruit, &c. of wool, and fome imall articles, of the whole, according Little account. The value was 160,5061. 175.* London; to the current pricesin to which it gare emIod. Sterling. The (hipping, feamen. To the - ployment, was navigated byl 1397 the fameyeaf,19.02 United States were exported, of mum124 r-balf cwt. of fugar, 1.620,205.sallons of 4200 gallons of cwt. of cacao, 339 cwt. ginger, esaecaranin melaties,64solb. bides, and 737 barrels offraits of cotton-wool, 20K O oij to which it gare emIod. Sterling. The (hipping, feamen. To the - ployment, was navigated byl 1397 the fameyeaf,19.02 United States were exported, of mum124 r-balf cwt. of fugar, 1.620,205.sallons of 4200 gallons of cwt. of cacao, 339 cwt. ginger, esaecaranin melaties,64solb. bides, and 737 barrels offraits of cotton-wool, 20K O oij --- Page 312 --- MISTORY, OF THE the value of which, in Sterling the current prices of money, according to That this London, is 196.4601. 8s. abatement of the unjuft upon the commerce between reftictions laid fervice in for them, has been of which relieving a while thofe the iflands have been calamities with true, but the cure is not fometinies vifited, is partial fully performed by fuch courfe attennation.of with the evil. While the interAmerica is thus limited, and everyone of the iflands continues while jeét to hurricanes, and occalionally fubdroughts, tvhich many of them tolfucceffive leave the wretched deftroy the fruits ofthe earth, and the provifions which labourer to depend folely upon deplorable miferies may be imported, the moft yet expedted. Should may at fome future period be the fame vifitations again,"as the planters have happen to employ, and thofe of no veffels of their own tance to their ports, how America are denied admitamong them able to are even the moft opulent repetition ofthis avert from their labourers the off fuch numbers memorable famine, which in Jamaica ? fwept From thele cur to the minds confiderations, of all it fhould ceitainly OCdemn the planter for acts fuch as are difpofed to conthat, to contemplate, with ofinhumanity to his flaves, and cruel fyftem of indifterence, this unjuft dreadful calamities policy, is to fanction the more than the moft ever fuffer to be impofed fevere mafter will iniquitous fyftem upon his flave. To this Africans have many thoufands of the already been facrificed; unhappy probability, many thoufands and, in all more will yet. perith. uch as are difpofed to conthat, to contemplate, with ofinhumanity to his flaves, and cruel fyftem of indifterence, this unjuft dreadful calamities policy, is to fanction the more than the moft ever fuffer to be impofed fevere mafter will iniquitous fyftem upon his flave. To this Africans have many thoufands of the already been facrificed; unhappy probability, many thoufands and, in all more will yet. perith. --- Page 313 --- r WEST INDIES: CHAPTER IV. arifing to Britain from her Weft Objeéions againt the Adrantages Whéther the Duties on Weft InIndian Colonies confidere- fall on the Confumer, and inl what a dian Commoditiés imported Bounties, explanation of the Terms," CafesDrssbacko and Property traced and admetbeeede-Oruke on the and their Origin'and itsNature and Onign-Rodintéion Monopoly Compaët, Benefits thence refulting to Dritin-Advantage Public, Colonits, and tothe Planter, the Revenue, and the which would accrue Inhabitants Ofithe Weft Indies to refine from permitting the of eftablithing their raw Sugar for Britifh Clanfimptione-iPvdves Weft Indies under the Proteâtion of Sugar Plantations in the which might be ofGovernment Seniand-Remashancs fered againft this and other Neafturce-Cpidluto. reconcile the nation to thefe impiudent IN order to was feparated from m afures by wilichsAmerica time confidered as an the Britifh, it was for a long the value cof object of difcuffion to fleffen excellent eftiration. It wasin the colonies in the public maxim; too evi- . particulir heldout as ar political by adhethat Bntain, dent to fuffer contratidton, her Weft India ring to the fyftem of fupporting of certain and inpollefions, incurred a number return for which fhe evitable difidvantages, in To the utility of reaped no folid recompenfel are the three objecthe Weft Indies, the following the view. By tions which are held out to public place, That it is ftated, in the firf the thefe objedtors levied on the products of the duties which are into Great Britain, Britifh Weft Indies imported bythe propriétor though paid in the firit inftance fupporting of certain and inpollefions, incurred a number return for which fhe evitable difidvantages, in To the utility of reaped no folid recompenfel are the three objecthe Weft Indies, the following the view. By tions which are held out to public place, That it is ftated, in the firf the thefe objedtors levied on the products of the duties which are into Great Britain, Britifh Weft Indies imported bythe propriétor though paid in the firit inftance --- Page 314 --- HISTORY OF THE' "or importer, on bim alone. ultimately It is fall on the confumer, and That the Practice of afferted, in the Jecond place, re-exports, is dangerous allowing drawbacksion their true interefts of commerce. and deftruétive to the nopoly of fupply vefted in Tirdls, That the mounjuft and the planters, is I thall oppreflive. : partial, confider theferfeveral in which I have placed pofitionsin theorder them isi them. The and neceflary to thé invelligationor with a few general completion of the work, clude: obfervations, we fhall conThe planters have there is not an axiom affirmed, in and they repeat, that* putably eflablifhed, than that mathemnatics more indif modities at market the value ofall comor fearcity, in depends eutirely on their fumption. proportion to their plenty If the demand or conto the demand, the quantity at market be nôt feller equal ways does,fix his own price undoubtedly can, and al. the contrary, the on his goods; but if,on. abundant beyond quantity expofed for fale is up, the what, there are fupervaineof the purchnfers to take. all that the vender commodity will fall in mand, can do to (iapport it. Ipite cf therefore, be great, and Ifthe defeiler will not only reimburfe rhequantity fmall, the charges and duties, but will bimfelf for his original a contiderable return of alfo be enabled to he is as profit. Reverfe the cafe, reap coniderably a lofer. He and ability to feed the depends upon bis no.more than market, or to. make the adequate to the demand. fupply Thus, ini ender commodity will fall in mand, can do to (iapport it. Ipite cf therefore, be great, and Ifthe defeiler will not only reimburfe rhequantity fmall, the charges and duties, but will bimfelf for his original a contiderable return of alfo be enabled to he is as profit. Reverfe the cafe, reap coniderably a lofer. He and ability to feed the depends upon bis no.more than market, or to. make the adequate to the demand. fupply Thus, ini --- Page 315 --- WEST INDIES. articles of ufe, fuch as leather, foap, the common and fpirits, the price may be - candles, malt, beer, when a" tax is impoled, faid to fall on confumers fed in the above menthe market being always if the vender of thefe tioned proportion; , becaufe, overtocked, he will articles thould find the market of living. The betake himfelf to another method of the impofition of fame remark, as to the effect and imsnufadurotof taxes,. applies to the growth commerce we have no thole nations over whofe regulates his imports by controul. The merchant to vend, and ceales which he is likely muft the quantity his profit. But it where he milles ofthe to import that the fituation be taken into confideration, is precifely oppofite to Britith Weft India merchant he can refort to this; for (with a few exceptions) mother country. The market except to the no folely regulated by the quantity price is therefore and the confumer is not at which is brought to'fale, have been impofed on the what duties all coneerned has coft the. vender; comtmodity, or what rexpencesic to be fold to the of the quantity the proportion all the fource of dearth or cheapuefs. confumer is the merchant make the By what means, then, difference can of duties, ince he confumer pay for the of price but what arifès can inftiture no difference of the article he fells s? from the fearcity or plenty. be altered by the practices The prices may indeed neither the planter abroad, nor of fpeculation ; but for'what they are not the fador'nt home; is culpable concerned with. --- Page 316 --- HISTORY OF THE But even admitting that the. pay the duty; or that the vender confumer were to occafions in his power to raife had it on more fired; ; yet it muft be the price as he deduéts of the Wef Indies remembered, that as the prothan of necefity, are rather articles numbers of ofloxiry their confumption, when people will abandon the Mufcavedo fugar, faugality-equitesit in When captures in the laft war, rofe confequence of many the diminution ofits to an enormous price, the kingdom, was in confamption, a much in many parts of The inflance of greater proportion. indigo has to evince thereffect of already been given hould rather fay dutiés in diminithing, I Britifh colonies. abolifhing, its cultivation in the at one period the The growth of cacao, which was export,has been prideof Jamaica, and' now checked hergreateft recovery; and't though the beyond the power of difcovers what has been inftance of coflee plainly reduction of éxifting gained by the prudent effedts of duties, it duties, yet in caleulating the fhould be ginger, which fucceeded remembered that commodity of Jamaica, cacao in being the ftaple its predeceffor, and met with the fame fate as almoft its cultivation is now entircly into difufe. From what gone faid, it follows, that in nine has been duty falls upon the cafes out of ten the and that in that tenth planter, not the confumer; brought in for his cafe, where the confumer is fhare, the tax is juft; for every ginger, which fucceeded remembered that commodity of Jamaica, cacao in being the ftaple its predeceffor, and met with the fame fate as almoft its cultivation is now entircly into difufe. From what gone faid, it follows, that in nine has been duty falls upon the cafes out of ten the and that in that tenth planter, not the confumer; brought in for his cafe, where the confumer is fhare, the tax is juft; for every --- Page 317 --- WEST INDIES. taxation in diredt proportion of ene fhould fupport hisability to pay. place, to the confideraWe comc, in the fecond and bounties. tion of drawbacks in - the language of the 9 The term draseback, to the tax repaid upon cuftemhoufe, is applied and the word bounty, of raw fugar; the exportation of what ris refined and exported to the exportation The word drawback fufficiently in loaf unbroken. for the original duty paid at exprefles its meaning; without. diimportation is refunded at exportation; 15 thiladdition. This is at prefent minution or weight. As to the bounty,the. lings ther hundred To encourage the. rer cafe was once, different, gave an trade in Great Britain, government in fining the export of refined fugar jactual premium.on and the cole Hoaves in addition to the drawback, amounting tolcdive fums fo refundedand paid, weight, obrained the hundred gether to 20 thillings This repayment of duties the name of bounty. asa mâtter of favour confidered bas been unjallly but a few arguments to the colonift or importer; fhow that it is founded upon a will be fufficient to cannot be deprived confeientious right, of whichhe made the bafis of a free longias equal juftice is .aS goverament: cither comes volunof merchandife he An importer to feek the beft market for tarily into our . ports is to do fo, thatthe, his goods, or elfe he compelled having the, frft offer nation may be benefited by P P --- Page 318 --- HISTORY or THE ofthe purchafes to be made. In the has no right to complain of former cafe, he lels can he reafonably dilappointment, much fhould he withdraw expec a drawback of duties queftion. But his goods from the market where in cafe is totally changed': compulfion is employed, the not only bring his The fugar planter muft he muft fugar to a Britifh market, but fides tranfport itin a. Britifh forced to pay certain bottom, and is bemitted to fell. It is. not until duties before he is pertion is fupplied that the home foreign market; the fiugar can be confump- fent to and if the cargo fhould a any accident, the owner lofes perifh by duty. How then can it be both capital and mother country to reftore a hardfhip for the freight, of which the the duty paid upon a which the enjoyed the firft offer, and of chance ofadvantage? confequently received the greateft will not bear this The foreign market, indeed, quired, it is an extortion additional duty; and if it be refor its plea, as fugar is' which has not of life. Hitherto not a neceffary but a neceflity we have only luxury but thefe obfervations fpoken of raw fugar, apply fugar; for what is called equally to refined a modification of the bounty, is little more than lowed beyond the drawback, the money althan adequate to the original lofs duty "being no more commodity. of weight in the raw By the neareft calculation * the apparent lois to Forthist the reader is referred to the original work has not of life. Hitherto not a neceffary but a neceflity we have only luxury but thefe obfervations fpoken of raw fugar, apply fugar; for what is called equally to refined a modification of the bounty, is little more than lowed beyond the drawback, the money althan adequate to the original lofs duty "being no more commodity. of weight in the raw By the neareft calculation * the apparent lois to Forthist the reader is referred to the original work --- Page 319 --- WEST INDIES. is but one fhilling the hundred to the revenue but as every hogihead of weight, and no more; after the duty in weight fugar lofes confiderably and as, by the preand before it is worked, for is paid, it, there is duty paid fent regulations refpeding contains, it is a moderate more fugar tban the cafk that every hogfcalculation upon all fugars to fay, cwt. the import head lofes 76lb. which, at 155. per planter, and the duty, is a lois of 7S. Gd.ro,the The average like clear gain to the exchequer. is about 160,000 hoglannual import of raw fugar fuppofing every ounce heads of raciwtipett. Now, and receive 15S. per cwt. of this to be exported, the difference of weight of drawback; yet, from wafte, government occafioned by unavoidable duties between 5o,ooal. would have reçeived in than it refunds in and 6o,cool. per annum more the fame commodity.,. drawbacks and bountics on the third in the next place, to anfwer We come, monopoly, objedtion, viz. commercial to which for the reftrictions à As a compenfation fubmit, they have been entitled the colonifts muft of accels to the Britifh to this exclufive privilege This arrangemarket for the fale of their produce. Monopoly. The ment has been called the Double their fhare price at which the colonifts purcbafe, They are proof the advantage is the following: many from foreigners hibited from purchafing of herfelf, articles which Britzin does not fupply rate ; could fell at a cheaper and which foreigners benefited by a double freightage. fo that Britain is Pp ij , they have been entitled the colonifts muft of accels to the Britifh to this exclufive privilege This arrangemarket for the fale of their produce. Monopoly. The ment has been called the Double their fhare price at which the colonifts purcbafe, They are proof the advantage is the following: many from foreigners hibited from purchafing of herfelf, articles which Britzin does not fupply rate ; could fell at a cheaper and which foreigners benefited by a double freightage. fo that Britain is Pp ij --- Page 320 --- HISTORY OF THE The articles which more reafonable foreigners could afford at a ftrictly have the rate, are very nuimerousgty yet fo that on one ever navigation laws been adhered to, the lives of15 memorable and dreadful occafion, s.coomiferable to the fyftem, as has been negroes were facrificed fame ptinciple, Great before related. On the Weft Indian Britain does not to avail himfelf of permit the and fecurity of neutral the cheapnefs that her naval bottoms in the time of war, the more formidable, power and fhipping may continue inferior in Great as this hardfhip preffuire to that is,itis diéts the colonift from reftriction which inter. ftate of manufacture, refining, beyond the firft iflands, and binds him the ftaple produce of his modity inits rav W fiate. This to bring home every comenormous duties. To iseffedted by means of author of the Wealth prohibit a great body, fays the of Nations, they can of every part from making all oftheirown employing their ftock and produce, or from way that they their induftry in the judge moft felves, is a manifeft advantageous to themrights ofmankind. violation of the moft facred Indian muft But to this violation the Weft fubmit, as the price for tages he may reap from the double what advan. the benefit ofbeing confidered menopoly, and From this interdidtion as a Britifh fubjedt. turing of articlés of impofed upon the manufac. own foil, no Weft Indian growth in their contrary, Great advantage arifes in the main; on the gainer if full Britain would be a confiderable liberty. was to refine the fugar which permitted to the planter he raifes. To illuftrate as the price for tages he may reap from the double what advan. the benefit ofbeing confidered menopoly, and From this interdidtion as a Britifh fubjedt. turing of articlés of impofed upon the manufac. own foil, no Weft Indian growth in their contrary, Great advantage arifes in the main; on the gainer if full Britain would be a confiderable liberty. was to refine the fugar which permitted to the planter he raifes. To illuftrate --- Page 321 --- WEST INDTES. it need only manner as poflible, this in as briefa of raw fugar, OC-. that the drainage be mentioned, homeward, has been valued, cafioned by its paflage and the average of four years, at 560,ocol. be atan by the revenuel may eafily lofs thus fuftained place, there is a pofitive calculated. In ther next of Il. 55. 4d. value of lois, arthe-belt caleulation, of Mufcavedo fugar melafles on every hogthead exclufive of the lofs in fhipped to Gréat Britain, ftated. Laying afide the the raw material beforc occurto every one, confideration of freight, it muft would accrue, to that great and decifive advantage of his own fugar, from the refining his the planter thât his capital and from the cireumflance to his hands. He not ftock are already provided but alfo the buildonly poffeffes the raw material, but fmall of all kinds, requiting ings and apparatus the mamufaéture. additional expence to complete that the lofs fuftained by There is no doubt but leffer of from the exportation the government, would be made up byadditional Mufcavedo fugar, a ftate of fefinement: but levies upon thearticlein would not be. diminifhed; in this cafc, the revenuer would be perfedlly fufthe profits of the planter her fugar and Britain would purchafe ficient, itatpreient. cheaper than the can.obtain in fpite of all that the But it is fingular, that upon the recipublic has: feen and ucknowledged place between the procality of benefits that takes has been proved on, colonies and Britain ; thoughit unanfiwerable. feveral occafions, and, by ai thoufand upon thearticlein would not be. diminifhed; in this cafc, the revenuer would be perfedlly fufthe profits of the planter her fugar and Britain would purchafe ficient, itatpreient. cheaper than the can.obtain in fpite of all that the But it is fingular, that upon the recipublic has: feen and ucknowledged place between the procality of benefits that takes has been proved on, colonies and Britain ; thoughit unanfiwerable. feveral occafions, and, by ai thoufand --- Page 322 --- HISTORY OF THE aigunients, that the Weft Indics, ini monopoly which binds the retirn for the courage and proteét her mother country to enpenfation of benefits not commerce, yields a comccives; yet of late the inferior to what the reviolently attraéted to public attention has been conferring benefits a projeét which, without muft cruclly and upon the Britifh themfelves, thefe iflands. This undefervedly procure the ruin of upon the diftant propofal is to cultivate plains of the Eaft fugar procure our fugar from colonies Indies, and to article worth confideration who purchafe no rather feemed from home ; who have difpofed to ruin than manufactures; and lafily, whofe augment our their commerce leis diftance muft make Weft. Befides, it is profitable than that to the from not propofed to be a monopbly to free change ference of monopoly from trade, but only a tranf. In fine, Were an the Weft to the Eaft. ted; freely and uncourly Welt Indian permitfters upon the explicitly, to expoflulate with mini20 years paft, he treatment of the colonies for thefe unpleafant indeed might difplay a flatement of to hear, but fadts, controvert or elude. Such extremely difficult to any deviation from a perfon might, without tail not unlike thel truth, prefent them with a de46 It is well known following, ings of thofe colonies (he might fay) that the fuffernion of France which fell under the domis conclufion of the were very great ; and that, at the vived the vexations war, fuch of the planters as furof the enemy, and were not ac- indeed might difplay a flatement of to hear, but fadts, controvert or elude. Such extremely difficult to any deviation from a perfon might, without tail not unlike thel truth, prefent them with a de46 It is well known following, ings of thofe colonies (he might fay) that the fuffernion of France which fell under the domis conclufion of the were very great ; and that, at the vived the vexations war, fuch of the planters as furof the enemy, and were not ac- --- Page 323 --- WEST INDIES. in their fortunes, as a great many tually bankrupts nearly apwere reduced to embarraflinents name, were, torit. For the honour ofthe Britifh ifland proaching thatno ooner was an it ought to be recorded, than the from under the Britifh protedion, taken inhabitants was treated, to all intents property ofits of natural-bom eneand purpofes, as the property cruifed upon them, and mies. Your veflels of war wherever they were to be made prize of our effects, afforded no protedion found. Even neutral flags until the higheft authoagainft your depredations ; fuch conduct to be rities in the law.had pronounced to facilitate the interfered, illegal, and parliament of Grenada, which, having 1 paflage of the produds were Aill expofed to capfurrendered at difcretion, vifitathat moftawful ture. Even the hurricane, ufually arrefts the venwhich tion of Providence, fofter affections, difgeance of men, and by exciting loft its ufual effedt pofes them to aéts of fraternity, for the necelfaries of of procuring a paffagere the eveur ftorm had fpared, your life;'and thofe whom rapacity would have ftarved. with it the dominion of 66 The war ceafed, and excepted, which France over all the iflands (Tobago but our miferies was ceded to her in perpetuity): of 1782, which gave for the treaty Atill furvived; to North America, only peace cand independence the colonics ; as they transferred hoftilities to fugar time to the prefent, to have never ceafed, from that of one kind or another. be haraffed with vexations which they were annoyed, The firft meafure by --- Page 324 --- HISTORY OF THE arofe in the policy of the ftate. It cellary to diflolve their was thought nes nent. The connedtion with the conti. maica, being coinfequence of which was, that deprived ofits produce Jafions, by a feries of temnpefts and Ofnegro provi. fons, loft 15,000 of her flaves unfavourable fea. you talk of by famine. And yet virtue! humanity, as if it were a Dolins 1 national 4, What fince has been the Britain towards us, may be learnt difpofition of Great converfation at thisiday; from from the popular bodies affociated for the the conduatofilange and ultimately of abolition of the flave trade, ments projedted, and flavery itfelf; from the eftablifhAfrica, with views in exeeution, on.the coaft of refts; from the numbers declaredly shoftile to our inteand calumnious of inflammatory paragraphs pamphlets that daily prefs, to prejudice the Weft Indian iffue from the public opinion; from the planters in the ofaddreffes, indefatigable circulation Weft Indian exhorting the people to the difufelof fals with fugan; and laftly, from various refpect to the reduétion of the propocommodity. In fo many price of the nifeft itfelf, as to give juf fhapes does this fpirit mafomething like a décided grounds to conclude, that the totaliruin of the purpofe sis entertained for vexations we have hitherto fugar colonies, and that the preliminaries to the fyftem which experienced, are only mated by the grand meafure is to be confumour monopoly in of railing of rivals to 6 It hasbeen your eftablithments in the eaft. imputed, as a reproach to the fu- nifeft itfelf, as to give juf fhapes does this fpirit mafomething like a décided grounds to conclude, that the totaliruin of the purpofe sis entertained for vexations we have hitherto fugar colonies, and that the preliminaries to the fyftem which experienced, are only mated by the grand meafure is to be confumour monopoly in of railing of rivals to 6 It hasbeen your eftablithments in the eaft. imputed, as a reproach to the fu- --- Page 325 --- WEST INDIES. and that they Sar colonies, that they are expenfivé, were the Weft Indian éngage you in war. Never butwhenever the two colonies the caufe ofwar; are engaged in any nations of France and England caufe it. may arife, thither quarrel, from whatever their differences. They are they repair to decide they are the vietims, but made the theatre of war; The inhabitants of, never the origin ofthe conteft. iflands live in an - habitual the French and Englifh and would with for eterintercourle of good offices, reafon for it, for what are nal peace; and they have they to gain by-war? wé reflect upon the various 66 When, therefore, to prejudice the means which have been employed ourfelves totally atia we find Welt Indian planters, it is that could excite fo what lols to conjecture us ; as thère exifts none of much acrimony againtt provoke the envy of meri thofe caufes which ufually The Weft Indians and exafperate their malignity. fewiexceptions) ei (with very are not remarkable opulence, or .an oftentatious ther for their gigantic rapidly from poofit. They do not emerge notice: ditplay into confpicuous verty and infignitficance, fortunes of ditinguithed Such of them as poffels of Jamaica are happy magnitude, as fome gentlemen creation ofa day. Their enough to do; are not the earlieft records of the names are to be found din the coeval with the illand; and their adventures were of courfe their firt eftablitment ofithe colonypand find them, are the fruits properties, fuch as we now Many there 2< of the toil cf fuccellive generations. Q4 verty and infignitficance, fortunes of ditinguithed Such of them as poffels of Jamaica are happy magnitude, as fome gentlemen creation ofa day. Their enough to do; are not the earlieft records of the names are to be found din the coeval with the illand; and their adventures were of courfe their firt eftablitment ofithe colonypand find them, are the fruits properties, fuch as we now Many there 2< of the toil cf fuccellive generations. Q4 --- Page 326 --- HISTORY OF THE to live, that enable etrtemerene with.conomye in, this themgreat mafare men of oppreffed country : but the by debt to unremitting fortunes, configned with a hope, drudgery in the colonies, happier days,o whichsetemally and-a mocks their graip, of ments: Such arer releafe from their feen, that, if the times-v which we have embarrafs fuflered to lately have given effec toit continue, might pollibly them Otit of thein diftrefes. theinexettions, and have lifted, But it feems that verty.is-.confidered as: the pory Well Indian planter. legitimate heritage of eveand firuggle They may' encounter lolsy profit of contingcncies withadverfityg but never areuthey to: pairithe difafters of adverfe that may enable them to re-! are peculiarly fubjedted fortune, to which they: 6 Ifithe minifter by their polition. u le 124 dian means the ruin of the colonies, he may elfech-it by Weft In-f tenfive culivation of the peomoting the ex-" dies, with a view.to the fiugaricane in the Eaft In-. European markets and we fupply ofi any part of the pofe to power, for we, cannot have only equity to op-. murs would be repel injury, Murpotent; butit unavailing, would and lour refentments ims) to fuffer ourfelves be a bafe defertion ofi to be intereft, tary farrender of right. intimidated into a volungainf any innovation, and We proteft, therefore, 'adouble monopoly: There adhere to the fyftem of there is no fecurity we are at anchor; and if afilictions of any where againft the formsand the injuftice of Providence, fo neither is there men; ; but we fhall at leaft have againft the --- Page 327 --- WEST INDIES. the reproaches of our' confolation of not fulfering accufers in our polteown bofoms, or of leaving 1 a woni Aule yak rity 1 like the foregoing, it is difiTo a remonftrance: anfwer could be given. If cult to conceiye what the with OF intention of governhowever; it isi not national faith with the colonies, mentito violate the that head may be eafily re: their apprehenfion on' fatisfaction being moveda In thisimportant bufinels, to dictatélan angiven to the reft, if candour were much too although much muft be admitted, mo: fwer, faid. It might be urged, That to the might be colonies are indebted for their ther country the If, during the fabirth, origin, and governmetitie in the difmembertal conteft which terminated fuffered their fhare of cament of the empire, they that all the iflands; lamity, it muft be remembered fuffered the horrors Tobago alone excepted, which reftored tol the-blef of dapture, were, at the peace, They poffings of Britifh liberty and protedtion. in theirinofa free people; fels evergyehardesitic are" taxed by their own" re ternal concerns, they have not the image only, but the prefentatives, and conftitution. fpirit and fubitance of an Englifh Qqij empire, they that all the iflands; lamity, it muft be remembered fuffered the horrors Tobago alone excepted, which reftored tol the-blef of dapture, were, at the peace, They poffings of Britifh liberty and protedtion. in theirinofa free people; fels evergyehardesitic are" taxed by their own" re ternal concerns, they have not the image only, but the prefentatives, and conftitution. fpirit and fubitance of an Englifh Qqij --- Page 328 --- --- Page 329 --- APPENDIX --- Page 330 --- --- Page 331 --- APPENDIX appendix, the reader may formFxox the following which the law notion of the protection a tolerable flaves in the Weft Indies. In the maintains over the lateft act of work from which this is abridged, has been aflembly of jamaica upon the fubject, the but in what follows thère is merely given in full; claufes of the ac. a fcledtion of all the material JANAICA, 0: entitled 6 An act I AN ACT to repeal an act, claufes of aêts refeveral adts and to repeal and for the better order and fpeding flaves, of flaves, and for other purgoverament the feveral aêts poles; : and alfo to repeal repealed by and claufes of aêts, which were confothe act entitled as aforefaid ; and for and bringing into one act, the fe-, lidating, to flaves, and for giving veral laws relating and fecurity; for them further protedion, flaves charged altering the mode of trial of offences; and for other purwith capital pofes. that all the WHEREAS it is for the public good, of flaves, the order and government laws refpeding --- Page 332 --- APPENDIX, fhould be confolidated and order to prevent confufion, brought into one law, in more effedually be executed and that juftice may whereas" it is found refpedting flaves; and giving further necellary, for the purpofe of trial of flaves fecurity to flaves, that the mode of be altered charged with capital ; and whereas, in offences fhould ceflry that all the herein orderthiereto, it is neand claufes of flaws, fhould after mentioned laws, &c. &cc. We, be repealed; viz. 8c. fubjedts, the your Majefly's duriful and loyal of Jamaica, aflembly of this your do moft Majefty's ifland that it may be humbly beféech your the enacted, Be it therefore Majefty enacted, by of the HieanesantOmensre faid ifland, and iti cris Council, and Affembly dained by the authority of the hereby enacted and orafter the paffing of this 2€t fame, That from and herein before mentioned all and every the faid and every laws, and claufes part thereof, be and fand oflaws, pealed, and made void, to all annulled, rewhatfbever; any thing in the intenrs'and purpofes of laws, or in any other faid laws, and claufes trary, in any wife law contained to the conAnd whereas notswithuftanding. the good orderand nothing can contribute more to humanity of their government of flaves than the fupplying them with owners, in providing for, and fions, and good and wholelome proper and provifuch other fuficient clothing, and for them, things as may be proper and all during their neceflary For wlich end and being in a ftate of flavery: : purpofe, Be it further enaéted es trary, in any wife law contained to the conAnd whereas notswithuftanding. the good orderand nothing can contribute more to humanity of their government of flaves than the fupplying them with owners, in providing for, and fions, and good and wholelome proper and provifuch other fuficient clothing, and for them, things as may be proper and all during their neceflary For wlich end and being in a ftate of flavery: : purpofe, Be it further enaéted --- Page 333 --- APPENDIX. ) That from and after the by alenathoatrafesia mafter, owner, or poffeffor, - paling of thisac, every pens, or other or] plantations, of any plantation fhall allot and appoint a fufficient lands whatfoever, flave he fhall have in quantity of land for every fuch plantation Or poffellion upon, or belonging lands, to, as and for the plantations, pens, or other, flave, and allow fuch proper ground of every fuch the fame, in order to ilave fufficient time to work with fufficient pro: provide him, her; or themfelves, and alfo, vifions for his, her, or their maintenanceh of plantations, all fuch mafters, owners, or poffeffors plantaother lands, fhall plant mponefach pens, Or other lands, in ground provilions, at tions, pens, or for every ten negroes * that leaft one acre of land fuch plantation, pen, or he Thall be poffe.ffed of on the negroc grounds other lands, over and above fhall be kept up in a plan: aforefaid; which lands of 5ol. ter-like condition, under the penaity of flaves to And, for the better encouragement owners or poffeffors, do their duty to their mafters, aforefaid, further enacted by the authority Be it owner, Or poffeffor of flaves, That every mafter, provide and give to each fhall, once in every year, of proper and fufficient flave they Ahall be poffefled the and be of by juftices clothing, to approved where fuch mafter, owner, or veftry of the pari.h acre of was allotted to every * In the former act an but provifions it was found an exorbitant four negrocs, exclufive as above, and the altcration was made as it now and unncceffary that allowance, the law might be enforced. fands exprefsly R I every year, of proper and fufficient flave they Ahall be poffefled the and be of by juftices clothing, to approved where fuch mafter, owner, or veftry of the pari.h acre of was allotted to every * In the former act an but provifions it was found an exorbitant four negrocs, exclufive as above, and the altcration was made as it now and unncceffary that allowance, the law might be enforced. fands exprefsly R I --- Page 334 --- APPENDIX. poffeffor of fuch flave refides, under the 5cl. penalty of And be.it furtherenaéted by the authority faid, That every mafter, owner, aforefeffor of flaves, his or heroverfeer proprietor, or pofat their giving in an account or chief manager, ftock to of their flaves and thejuftices and veftry, on the 28th of December in every year, fhiall, under the day of 50l. for every neglect, alfo penalty account of the quantity give in, on oath, an oflanding over and above the negro-grouds, ground-provifions, tation, pen, or other fettlement, upon fuch planlands proper for the cultivation where there are and where there of fuch provifions; are not lands proper for fuch pofes,then an account, on oath, of the purmade on fuch provifion plantation, pen, or other or means adopted for the maintenance of fettlement, the thereon; and Thall alfo, at the fame flaves der the like penalty, time, and unofthe give in an account, on oath, nature and quantity of the clothing ferved to each flave on fuch actually other fettlement, for the plantation, pen, or and approbation of the juftices veftry as aforefaid ; and thall, fame time likewife, at the declare, on oath, that he hath the negro-grounds (where fych infpected ted) of fuch plantation, grounds are allotpen, or fettlement, according to the directions of this adl. And, in order to prevent any perfon from mutilating or difmembering" any flave or flaves, Be it further enacted by the authority aforefaid, That if any mafter, miftrefsy owner, poffeffor, or other per- try as aforefaid ; and thall, fame time likewife, at the declare, on oath, that he hath the negro-grounds (where fych infpected ted) of fuch plantation, grounds are allotpen, or fettlement, according to the directions of this adl. And, in order to prevent any perfon from mutilating or difmembering" any flave or flaves, Be it further enacted by the authority aforefaid, That if any mafter, miftrefsy owner, poffeffor, or other per- --- Page 335 --- CONR APPENDIX. Thall, at his, her, or their own will Ton whatfoever, his, her, or their diredion, or and pleafure, Or by fufferance, priwith his, her, orithein knowledge, any flave mutilate or difmember vity, or confent, fhall be liable to be inor flaves, he, fhe, or they court of judiéted for each offence in the fupreme ofthis ifland; dicature, orin any of the aflize courts by fine, not convidion, fhall be punithed and, upon, not exceeding rool. and imprifonment exceeding for each and everyiflave fo mutilated 12 months, fuch punifhment is declared or alifimemberedsand that could or to be without prejudice to anyadlion law, for recovery of might be brought at common of the fame : And, in damages for or on account fuch flave atrocious cafes, where the ownerof very conviéted of fuch offènce, the.court, or flaves thall be Thall havebeen tried'and before whom fuchoffender cafe they Ohall convi@ted, are hercby empowered,ins proteétion of fuch for the future think it neceflary, him, her, or them free flave or flaves, to declare of fervitude,t to all from all manner and difcharged whatfoever: And, in all fuch intents and purpofes empowered and authocafes, the court are hereby neceflary, to order rized, ifto them it (hall appear 1ool. to be paid to the and direêt the faid fine of to which the faid juftices-and veftry of the parifh belonged, to theufe of the faid'parifh; flaveor flaves in confideration thereof, the faid juftices and veftry, faid flave or flaves fo made paying to fuch of the for his, her, or. free the fum of iol. per annum during life; and in their maintenance and fupport Rr ij appear 1ool. to be paid to the and direêt the faid fine of to which the faid juftices-and veftry of the parifh belonged, to theufe of the faid'parifh; flaveor flaves in confideration thereof, the faid juftices and veftry, faid flave or flaves fo made paying to fuch of the for his, her, or. free the fum of iol. per annum during life; and in their maintenance and fupport Rr ij --- Page 336 --- APPENDIX, cafe any flave or flaves fhall fuffer fcribed mutilations; fuch flave any before-de. or or flaves, on his, faid theirapelication to any juflice of the her, juftice of the peace thall be, and peace, the reéted, required, is hereby ditain conviétion vaud'empowvered, of the on view, and cer. flaves to the neareit fact, to fend fuch flave or Aball be workhoufe where fuch offence there fafely committed, and fuch flave or flaves thall be kept, and carefully pence of fuch parih, until attended at the exbe a legal fuch time as there meeting of the juftices and may parifh; ; which juftices and veftry of fuch created Tand veftry fo met, are hereby fuch flave appointed a council of or flaves: : And-the faid protection of veftry, fo met, are hereby juflices and to make furtherand full diredted and empowered the commitment of the inquiry, upon view, into flaves; and, if to them mutilation it of fuch flave or faid juftices and Thall appear proper, the veftry are hereby required to profecute to effect fuch empowered and the expence of which owner or owners; the parifh where fuch profecution fhall be paid by And in cafe the offence fhall be committed: flaves fhall owner or owners of fuch flave or charges of fuch appear capable of paying the cofts and faid juftices and before-mentioned profecution, the veftry are hereby commence fuit or fuits againft fuch empowered to of fuch flave or flaves, and owner or owners charges out of purfe, by them laid recover all cofts and ed in fuch fuit Or fuits: And out and expendvifor of the workhioufe the keeper or fuper. where fuch mutilated flave all owner or owners of fuch flave or charges of fuch appear capable of paying the cofts and faid juftices and before-mentioned profecution, the veftry are hereby commence fuit or fuits againft fuch empowered to of fuch flave or flaves, and owner or owners charges out of purfe, by them laid recover all cofts and ed in fuch fuit Or fuits: And out and expendvifor of the workhioufe the keeper or fuper. where fuch mutilated flave --- Page 337 --- APPENDIX. Thall have been firft committed, is hereby or flaves due notice of the firft direéted and required, upon veftry of the parifh meeting of the juflices and fuch the offence was committed, to produce diwhere for the infpedtion and mutilated flave or flaves, and veftry, under the peredion of fuch juftices in not producing nalty of 2ol. for every negledt, fuch flave or flaves. before fuch juflices and veftry aforeAnd be it further enaéted by the authority te hereafter fhall wantonly, faid, That if any pérfon kill, or caufe to be willinglys or blody-mindedly flave, fuch perfon fol ofkilled, any negro or other be adjudged guilty of fending Thall; on conviétion, and thall-fuffer without benefit of clergy, Provided felony, for the faid offence: death accordingly conviction fhall not extend to the always, that fuch the forfeiture of lands or corrupting the blood, or law, cuftom, or tenements, goods or chattels; any wife notwithufage to the contrary thereofin any ftanding. further enaéted by the authority aforeAnd be it after the pafling of this ad, faid, That from and that Thall wantonly or cruelly any perfon or perfons bruife, wound, or fhall impriwhip, maltreat, beat without fufficient fupfon Or keep in confinement, Thall be fubjed to be inport, any flave or flaves, court of judicadiéted for the fame in the fupreme of affize, or courts ture, or in either of the courts and, upon being of quarter feflions in this ifland; ihe, or they, ihall - thereof legally conviéted, he, or by fine or imprifonment, fuffer fuch punifhment, , or fhall impriwhip, maltreat, beat without fufficient fupfon Or keep in confinement, Thall be fubjed to be inport, any flave or flaves, court of judicadiéted for the fame in the fupreme of affize, or courts ture, or in either of the courts and, upon being of quarter feflions in this ifland; ihe, or they, ihall - thereof legally conviéted, he, or by fine or imprifonment, fuffer fuch punifhment, --- Page 338 --- APPENDIX. both, as the judges or juflices'of firch courts think proper to inflics any law, Thall to the contrary in cuftom, or ufage any wife fuch notwithflandings And punifhment is hereby. declared to be without prejudice to any action at common law that or might be brought for the could for and on account of the recovery of damages fame, in cafe or 1laves fhall not be the fuch flave And be it property of the offender. faid, That furtherenaéted by the authority aforefor the future, all flaves in this ifland Thall beallowed the ufual number of were allowed at. the ufual feafons holidays that Eaiter, and Whitfuntide: of Chriftmas, fuch refpective Provided, That at every lowed feafon, no two holidays thall be alto follow or fucceed the other, immediately one after allowed except at Chriftmas, when they fhall be Chriftmas-day, and alfo the day immediately fucceeding; any law, cuftom, contrary notwithflandings orufage, to the And if any owner, guardian, or actorney, ofa any mafter, fettlement, or the ovérfeer of fuch plantation Or fettlement, fhall plantation or prefume, at the feafons to allow any holidays to any flave aforefaid, fuch belonging to any plantation or fettlement, otherthan as by this adl to be given, diredted thall forfeit the fun of every perfon fo offending 51. And be it further enaéted by faid, That every field-flave the.authority aforefettlenient on fuch plantation or Thall, on work days, be allowed, according to cuftom, half an hour for. breakfaft; and hours for dinner; and that no flavesifhall two be com- forefaid, fuch belonging to any plantation or fettlement, otherthan as by this adl to be given, diredted thall forfeit the fun of every perfon fo offending 51. And be it further enaéted by faid, That every field-flave the.authority aforefettlenient on fuch plantation or Thall, on work days, be allowed, according to cuftom, half an hour for. breakfaft; and hours for dinner; and that no flavesifhall two be com- --- Page 339 --- APPENDIX: manner of ficld-work upon the planpelled to any hour of five in the morning, or. tation before the except during the after the hour'of feven at night, of 501. to be recotime of crop, under the penalty other having the overfeer, or perfon vered againft the care of fuch flaves. enacted by the authority afore-. a And be it further of December in every faid, That on the 28th day or within year (the time of giving in as aforefaid), of after, the owner, overfeer, Or manager 30 days or fettlement, Thall give in, every plantation," pen, of all the births and deaths of on oath, an account pen, or fettlement, the flaves of fuch plantation, the of 501. year, under penalty for the preceding from the owner of fuch plantation, to be recovered peti, or other fettlement. and fuffering negro And whereas the permitting mares, mules, or and other flaves to keep horfes, and great mifchiefs geldings, is attended with mahy therefore, to reto the ifland in general; In order, enaéted by the aumedy-the fame, Be it further and after the pafling thority aforefaid, That from attorney, of this act, the mafter, owner, proprietor, other adminiftrator, or perfon, guardian, executor, plantation or penin this ifland, in poffellion of every or pen any horfe, having on any fuch plantation of the reputed property mare, mule, or gelding, the fame to be fuch, any Mlave or flaves, knowing be taken up, and hall produce thall caufe them to in the parifh where them at the moft pablic place and veftry taken up, at fuch time as the juftices a other adminiftrator, or perfon, guardian, executor, plantation or penin this ifland, in poffellion of every or pen any horfe, having on any fuch plantation of the reputed property mare, mule, or gelding, the fame to be fuch, any Mlave or flaves, knowing be taken up, and hall produce thall caufe them to in the parifh where them at the moft pablic place and veftry taken up, at fuch time as the juftices a --- Page 340 --- a APPENDIX. fhall, by advertifement in the appoint for that purpofe,and public newipapers mules, and that fuch horfes, mares, difpofed geldings, be then and there of at public fold and owner, proprietor, outcry 5 and if any mafter, attorney, guardian, adminiftrator, or other executor, glect or refufe fo perfon as aforefaid, fhall nethall, for every doing, each and every of them feit the fum of negleét or, refufal, refpedtively formanner 301. to be recovered in a before any two juftices of the fummary parifh or precinét where fuch peace for the happen, by the oath of neglect or refufal Thall nefs or witneffes; one or more credible witwhich ufe of the perfon penalty thall be to. the informing. And.b be it further enacted aforefaid, That from and by the authority act, no mafter, after the pafling of this dian, executor, owner, proprietor, attorney, guaradminitrator, or other poffefion of any. plaintation, perfon, in fhall knowingly pen, or fettlement, to permit or fuffer any flave keep on fuch plantation, or flaves horfe, mare, pen, or fettlemment, doing, mule, or gelding; and, in cafe of any fhall, for every offence, forfeit fo 301. to be recovered in the fum of And be it furtherenaéted manner aforefaid. faid, That in all cafes by the authorityafore. death is inflicted, the where the punifhment of in a public part of the execution Thall be performed nity; and care Thall be parifh and with due-folemputy-marthal, that the taken by the gaoler or decation at the time of his criminal is free from intoxi. trial, and from thence to of any fhall, for every offence, forfeit fo 301. to be recovered in the fum of And be it furtherenaéted manner aforefaid. faid, That in all cafes by the authorityafore. death is inflicted, the where the punifhment of in a public part of the execution Thall be performed nity; and care Thall be parifh and with due-folemputy-marthal, that the taken by the gaoler or decation at the time of his criminal is free from intoxi. trial, and from thence to --- Page 341 --- C APFENDIS. under the penalty and at the time of his exccution, execution Thall be and the mode of fuch and the of 51. the neck, and no other; fuch hanging by difpoled of in body fhall be afterwards direct: And provided . manner as the court fhall flaves fhall be capitally e alfo, that where feveral one only Thall fuffer convicted for the fame offence, except in cafes of murder or rebellion: crimes and death, whereas there are many inferior And committed by flaves, which ought mifdemeanours manner, by order of to be punifhed in a fummary therefore enacted by the the magiftrates; Be is from and after the pafauthority aforefaid, That, be lawful for any of this adt, it fhall and may in fing the to hear and determine, two juitices of peace all fuch crimes and mifdemeaa fummaty manner, notice to the owner or pronours, giving fuflicient flaves, or his or her attorney prietor of fuch flave or having the care of fuch or attorneys, Or the perfon and place of trial, and flave or flaves, of the time to be infiéted direét fuch punifhmént Thall to orderand in their judgment, onithem as fuch juîlices, laihes or fix months think fit, not exceeding 50 the expences of which hard labour; and confinementto exceed IOS. to the conftable,, trial thall not owner, Or employer of Oall be paid by the mafter, in cafe fuch mafter, owner, fuch flave Or flaves; and flaves fhall refufe or of fuch flave Or be or employer it fhall and may negled, to pay fuch expences, either of them, to lawful for the faid juflices, under or his or their hand iffue his or tbeir warrant, S S --- Page 342 --- APPENDIX, and feal, directed to any fame on the goods and confable, for levying the owner, or chattels of fuch mafter, employer, and to feil the fame outcry, for the purpofe of at public together with the charges paying fuch expences, and executing fuch attending the granting chattels, warrant and fale of goods and Teturning the if owner. overplus, any, to the And be it further enacted faid, That it fhall not be by theauthority aforethe peace, lawful for any of fitting on the trial of jufice or otherwife, to fentence any flave or flaves, mutilated or maimed or order any flave to be for any offence whatfoever, gether with the charges paying fuch expences, and executing fuch attending the granting chattels, warrant and fale of goods and Teturning the if owner. overplus, any, to the And be it further enacted faid, That it fhall not be by theauthority aforethe peace, lawful for any of fitting on the trial of jufice or otherwife, to fentence any flave or flaves, mutilated or maimed or order any flave to be for any offence whatfoever, --- Page 343 --- A SHORT HISTORY OFTHB COLONY IN ST. DOMINGO: FRENCH CHAPTER I. ofSt. Domingo previous to the Year 1789: Political State like all other Weft India fettlements; Tais colony, different orders of people. was inhabited by three the firft diftinétion, the The pure whites conftitute of colour formed the free blacks and the people icale ftood the unemancifecond, and loweft in the colour, known by The people 6 of pated negroes. Meléc, or Gens de Couleur, were the name of Sang of black and white parents: illegitimate defcendants to the complexion of A.ccording as they approached cafts and appearance were negroes or whites, their known in common lanvarious ; but they were all From the unfre- - guage by the name of Mulatto. their numbers quency of marriage in St. Domingo, of the whites ; the became almoft equal to thofe the former at eftimated at 30,000, latter being 24,000. 1789 the goverament of St. Previous to the year officer called the by an Domingo was adminiftered General, both nominated Intendant, and a Governor Ssij, negroes or whites, their known in common lanvarious ; but they were all From the unfre- - guage by the name of Mulatto. their numbers quency of marriage in St. Domingo, of the whites ; the became almoft equal to thofe the former at eftimated at 30,000, latter being 24,000. 1789 the goverament of St. Previous to the year officer called the by an Domingo was adminiftered General, both nominated Intendant, and a Governor Ssij, --- Page 344 --- HISTORY OF by the Crown, and invefted years. Their with authority for three others united. powers were in fome cafes In the lattér inftances diftina, in miniftration was arbitrary, their joint adextending to every poflible unlimited, and minute, police. The laws were queftion in finance and vacancies in' councils enacted at their and command, up by their choice, and the countsofjutice were filled buted by their bounty. crown lands were diftripeople lay in the contention The fole fecurity ofthe tween the fharers of this that happily arofe beeven in thefe diputes the exorbitant power; but ponderated. His fupreme goverorsauthonity preval and military force command over the nawithont a caufe, and ; his power of of imprifoning his own approbation allowing no arreft but with juftice his ; made the adminiftrators of The office of flaves, and his will fuperior to the law. the intendant, was fill more though lefs abfolute, The man who dangerous to the virtue ofi its had the controul poffeffor. all duties and taxes, and who and infpection of ply thefe treafures as bis choice was permitted to apbeen bleffed with direéted, muft have ruption. The taxes uncommon and integrity to avoid corduties, of which we wereimpofed by a felf-eleated fpeak, the two fupreme officers affembly, compofed of commandants of juft now mentioned, fome councils, and, in militia, and prefidents of.p provincial the Colonial mockery of the people, was called Afembly. The colony was divided into three Northern, Weftern, and provinces, the Southern. There lay an --- Page 345 --- ST. DOMINGO. 325: fentences of the inferior courts diappeal from the thefe divifions at the fuperior ftributed through and Port au Prince. Thefe courts of Cape François and his deputies, compoled of the governor were lieutenants, twelve counfelthe intendant; King's : The lieutenants were milors, and four afefeurs. with the civil power, litary oflicers, unconnected of the governor. and wholly under the authority The The counfellors were little more independent. in this when adling as governor Prince de Rohan, their feats ofjuftice, and put colony, feized them on were conveythem on board a fhip in irons : They immured in the ed to Paris, and for a long time trial. Baftile, without the benefit of a influence over of fuch undue The confequence be well conceived: Corthe minifters ofjuflice may notorious in their deruption and iniquity were, to the king, and cifions. An appeal lay, however, fair. the decifion was generally more into fifty-two parifhes, The colony was divided more companies of & each of which furni@hed one Or colour, ,to ferve in the whitcs, blacks, and people of of the King's troops militia. The eftablifhment was from 2C00 to 3000 men. muft have depended for A colony thus governed the difpofition of the its happinefs principally upon Happily the progrefs governor who wasi impofed. them from ofimprovement had fo far emancipated and ancient prejudices, that all refpectability birth their allowed to centre in high happinefs were not fruits of commerce and inand connections. The cs, blacks, and people of of the King's troops militia. The eftablifhment was from 2C00 to 3000 men. muft have depended for A colony thus governed the difpofition of the its happinefs principally upon Happily the progrefs governor who wasi impofed. them from ofimprovement had fo far emancipated and ancient prejudices, that all refpectability birth their allowed to centre in high happinefs were not fruits of commerce and inand connections. The --- Page 346 --- 326 * HISTORY OF duftry had fo far blefled the plebeian community, that they enjoyed their part ofthe being defpifed for the want oftitles. wealth without umph But the trifar: ofjuftice over prejudice, extended only thus Whatevér apology may be offered for the valent cuftom of undervaluing prefole circumftances of their individuals from the be denied, that the colour, the fact cannot people of colour in this were fubjedted to the moft flagrant colony contempt *, The negro that injuftice and mafter, whofe intereft was enflaved had a from was pledged to defend him injury ; but the mulattoes, confidered oft the public, were as flaves injured and infulted, hope of redrefs. When they had without age of manhood, they were completed the years in the army and compelled to ferve three : when their military fervice expired, they had to work the greater part of the year ina dreadful ftate of flavery the ways. That every fpark of upon highmight be quenched in their generous ambition minds, and fibility of emerging from their debafement every pof. from their fituation, they excluded hold any oflice of public were not permitted to debarred from capacity, and were befides life that conferred following any profeflion in private ral éducation, refpedtability, or required a libeThe mulatto was prohibited by law * Mr. Edwards, in this place, endeavours count for, in. other words, to palliate, this philofophically to acmankind to defpife the colour of the individual, prevalent propenfity of his merits. without regard to --- Page 347 --- ST. DOMINGO. a lawyer, a phyfician, a from becoming a prieft, fchoolmafter. The fmallfurgeon, an apothecary, orl tainted the whole chaeft affinity to African blood ; and of conraéter of the individual with contempt would deign to fequence no white man of character of colour, himfelf in marriage with a woman conneêt of the law impiouily The pradtice or a negrels. prejudice. The mulatto gave fanétion to popular condemned to have his who only ftruck a white was the white man, for a fimiright hand cut off; whilft fine: with an infignificant lar offence, was punithed ofthe law was in fome meaIt is true this feverity manners of the people, who fure modified by the to adhere rigoroufly to would have been unwilling Another cireumitance in fuch unmercifal edicts. their, ability to hold favour of the mulattoes was which means the more property to any amount, by the venal admiopulent had the power of bribing the fame time this niftrators of juflice, though at abate that infolence - fuperiority of wealth did not all times difpofed which the meaner whites were at to fhow them. who conftituted the third The enflaved negroes, amounted in the year 1789 to clafs of inhabitants, as the reign of Lewis XIV. 480,o00. As early had been paffed in their favour, a code of legifature to its author. intended, and honourable humanely fear is the foundation of a government, But wherc where flavery exifts it muft necefas in all countries of coercion, and not of right, farily be, the doétrine cannotlong be main: or authority is to be enforced, ftituted the third The enflaved negroes, amounted in the year 1789 to clafs of inhabitants, as the reign of Lewis XIV. 480,o00. As early had been paffed in their favour, a code of legifature to its author. intended, and honourable humanely fear is the foundation of a government, But wherc where flavery exifts it muft necefas in all countries of coercion, and not of right, farily be, the doétrine cannotlong be main: or authority is to be enforced, --- Page 348 --- HISTORY OF tained. The ufage of the Britain bas been already negroes in the colonies of lony their ufage was almoft deferibed; and in this codifference is to be obferved exadly fimilar. Ifany French and Englith flaves, it between the ufage of they receive more animal is, that in the latter, are more comfortably food ; in the former, they the fituation of all ranks. clothed. Upon the whole, was lefs miferable than ofpeople in St. Domingo to refult from a might have been expected feen it. In fpite government of fo depraved as we have rity were vifible ; their political evils, figns of profpemarkets plentiful; their towns were opulent; their their cultivation on the commerce increafe. extenfive, and ftate ofthe French colony in St. Such was the In this eventful year the Domingo in 1788. had been brought from principles of liberty, which to pervade alfo her colonies. America to France, began arrangements, and a fevere The necellity of new rate and multiplied abufes, amendment ofinvete. the effects of this vigorous became apparent. From evils, many important leflons effort, the reformation of fhall therefore'imnake are to be learned: We ing pages. them the fubject ofthe follow. --- Page 349 --- sT. DOMINGO. CHAPTER II. to the Meeting of the Firit GeneFrom the Revolution of 1789, Aflembly. ral Colonial memorable period (December 1738), Ar the ever of France were convened, when the.States General of St. Domingo was the governor of the French part fecretly to a man who was fuppoied M. Duchilleau, But the influence favour the popular pretenlions. to retain from this fupshichhehad been permitted from his hands as the fpivanifled pofitionugnaduaily bolderand more decilive.I: aitofinnovation' became to fupprels thereiore in vain that he attempted of was revolutionifts, who, in fpite the mectings of.the and fent home to France his proclamations eleéted for each province), as eighteen reprefentatives (fix: By the time of St. Domingo. the new confituents States General had declared of their arrival, the but tiough themfelves the a National Affembly; that auguft friendly to the fyftem of reptrefentation, members maintained that eighteen body ftrenuoully for St. Domingo to fend, was too great a number allowed to fit. and fix were only fhare in the legillation, the Though admitted to a this time far from being Welt India colonies were at enthufiaftic in their in France. The nation, could popular refpedting the rights of mankin., who fentiments upon a body of men not look with plenfure but refuled it to freedom to themfelves, challenged Tt , members maintained that eighteen body ftrenuoully for St. Domingo to fend, was too great a number allowed to fit. and fix were only fhare in the legillation, the Though admitted to a this time far from being Welt India colonies were at enthufiaftic in their in France. The nation, could popular refpedting the rights of mankin., who fentiments upon a body of men not look with plenfure but refuled it to freedom to themfelves, challenged Tt --- Page 350 --- HISTORY OF others. The popular indignation was made every'day by the fpeeches of that ftronger ation of Amis des Noirs* powerful aflociof the French ; and the extravagancies fo planters refident in France to augment the general deteftation. ferved alof the Amis des Noirs The fociety London allociation, was an imitation of a who had aflumed the name; but not for exactly the fame fame fociety of Englifhmen had purpofes. The the treatment of flaves, endeavoured to mollify to interdidt the by perfuading government ipeak ofavowed their Africanstrade. The fociety we well as the trade, and deteftation of flavery itfelf, as condemned thofe liberty who dared to declare abettors of of men. At the fame time, themfelves poffeffors kept up'an intimate the Amis des Noirs toes from St. conneétion with thofe mulatDomingo who were France, endeavoured to convince educating in to be emancipated from them of theirright the miferies under they laboured, and warmly which fity of the nation in' their appealed to the generobehalf. The every Frenchman was interefted heart of and the indignation in.their hardfhips, againft the white a ferious afpect. planters bore This animofity againit the poffeffors of flaves had probably fome fhare in the minds of the itfelf, when they paffed their celebrated affembly in which they maintained that all declaration, and continue equal and free in mankind are born their rights. Hi- * The friends of the blacks. ity of the nation in' their appealed to the generobehalf. The every Frenchman was interefted heart of and the indignation in.their hardfhips, againft the white a ferious afpect. planters bore This animofity againit the poffeffors of flaves had probably fome fhare in the minds of the itfelf, when they paffed their celebrated affembly in which they maintained that all declaration, and continue equal and free in mankind are born their rights. Hi- * The friends of the blacks. --- Page 351 --- ST. DOMINGO. inhabitants of St. Domingo had retherto the white and indeed the French garded the Amis de Noirs, favourable eye; for nation at-large, with no very freedom, felt that the fentiments of unqualified threatthey avowed in the mother country, which were to their authority over their flaves. ened deftruction their dilike to the Amis This declaration perfedted it as a dangerous and de Noirs; for they regarded levelled at their power over unpardonahle blow, The French, before the negroes and mulattoes. the inftitution of colonial this period, had decreed had been effeéted in a aflemblies; ; but the orders of St. Domingo manner, and the colonifts dilatory their command. Large affemblies did not wait for in the provinces, and parohad been conftituted held for the better communicachial mcctings were. The provincial affemblies, tion oftheir fentiments. decreed their intention of among other refolutions, and declared their purpofe being-better reprefented, full affembly of colonial reof holding a legal and of expediency, if orders prefentatives, as a meafure withi thrce months. to that purpofe did not arrive in St. Domingo, inIn the mean time, the mulattoes informed of the fentiftruéted in their rights, and called aloud for ofthe French in their behalf, But ments became excellively turbulent. emancipation.aud for they could not act they ivere foon overpowered, affemblies, itis but juftice in concert. The provincial and were did not feem averfe to thoderation, to fay, treatment of prifoners than might lefs fevere in their But the rage oft the populace have been expeted. Tti --- Page 352 --- HISTORY OF was brutal and unreftrained againft the themfelves, but more elpecially thofe mulattoes had the difinterefted whites who their friends. generofity to avow themfelves 1 A magiftrate at Petit Goave Ferrand de Beaudierre) had refolved (Monf. ing himfelf in marriage with upon connect. but, a woman of colour; apprehenfive of being blamed for the he attacked the eflablithed meafure, trymen againft the prejudices of his counmemorial in their people of colour, and drew up a behalf, in which to claim the full benefit of the they were made of rights. He was arrefted for national declaration foned by the parochial fedition, and impri-. took him by force from committee; bis but the mob fpite of the municipality, confinement, and, in death. barbaroufly put him to Early in the month of January mandate for 1790, the royal The convoking an aflembly was received. time and place of its other circumflances meeting, as well as fome relative to its conditution, ing thought inconfiftent with the welfare belony, they were treated with of the COaccommodated contempt, and matters to the wifhes * of the Word was fpeedily conveyed inhabitants. try. of the to the mother coundifpolitions of St. and mercantile towns, alarmed by Domingo; the ened their thedanger that threatcommerce, implored the government for conciliatory meafures. The aflembly took the terinto folemn confideration, matrity, it was decreed and, by a great majobeen to intermeddle that their intention never had with the internal affairs of the empt, and matters to the wifhes * of the Word was fpeedily conveyed inhabitants. try. of the to the mother coundifpolitions of St. and mercantile towns, alarmed by Domingo; the ened their thedanger that threatcommerce, implored the government for conciliatory meafures. The aflembly took the terinto folemn confideration, matrity, it was decreed and, by a great majobeen to intermeddle that their intention never had with the internal affairs of the --- Page 353 --- ST. DOMINGO. of their internal lecolony: : that the management and that the aftheir own ; giflature was entirely to make no innovation, fembly pledged themfelves commerce, in in the fyltemof direâly or indiredly, concerned. C Howwhich the colonies were already have been to this declaration might difcontent ever grateful it occafioned the whites of St. Domingo, of the philanthropic on the part and remonftrances . They regarded it as an unfriends of the blacks. traffic, and a warrantable fanétion of the African were that the planters of St. Domingo The inconfeflion people. not colonifts, but an independent however, to have tention of the affembly feems, moft reafonable and it is certainly been patriotic; body of legiflators that this refpectable the to fuppofe of the colony, and not had the prefervation in view when they pafied: continuation of-flavery, of Ameriea decree. With the example the above hardly to be conceived that before their eyes, it was would have contiof St. Domingo the inhabitants -had the animofinued long the colonifts of France, alive by a de-. been kept ty which once prevailed How farthe provincial cree ofan oppolite nature. be in were difpofed to independent in repeefentatives will be feen from what palled their" proeedings, their final diffolution. Of all their meetings till chapter. thefe we Thall treat in the fubfequent --- Page 354 --- HISTORY OF CHAPTER III. Proceedings of the General Colonial Affembly, till its folution, and the Embarkation of its Members for final Dif. Francc, Ov the 16th of April 1790, the General ofSt. Domingo met at the town'of St. Aflembly confifted of-213 members. The Marc, and blies, however, Atill continued provincial aflemto exercife their functions, or appointed committees during their.intermiflion. The amelioration of the the relief ofthe people of colour from flave-laws, and fevereft fome of their hardthips, were prudently made the firft fubjects of their deliberation." The grofs abufes that prevailed in the redtification of ture, and could no longer be endured courts ofjudica-. to this bufinefs, the ; in fucceflion plan of a new colonial ment kept them in employment till the governMay. At this period the 28th of Monf. Peynier, a man of ftrong governor-general was a ariftocratical cipies, and from whom the whole tribe of civil prir- officers, whofe views had been blafted by the late lution, derived fecret revoThofe officers alfo who encouragement held and fupport. and had been accuftomed military commiflions, to fhare in the fyftem of tyranny, joined the hidden affuciation, and tated the ruin of the new conftitution. medicontinued at the head of this infamous Peynier he was difplaced by the fuperior coalition till lier Mauduit, colonel of abilities of Chevathe regiment of Port au views had been blafted by the late lution, derived fecret revoThofe officers alfo who encouragement held and fupport. and had been accuftomed military commiflions, to fhare in the fyftem of tyranny, joined the hidden affuciation, and tated the ruin of the new conftitution. medicontinued at the head of this infamous Peynier he was difplaced by the fuperior coalition till lier Mauduit, colonel of abilities of Chevathe regiment of Port au --- Page 355 --- ST. DOMINGO. He had come Frince, who arrived at' St. Domingo. leave ofthe of Italy, and at Turin had taken by way to whofe fortune he was attached. Count d'Artois, evinces that he was a villain of His firft proceeding kind. He declared himfelf the moft accomplified of the mulattoes, till his the patron and proteétor them over to his fide. unfafpected hypocrify gained once With their afliftancc, he propofed to cftablifh and thus - D môre the ancient fyltem of injuftice ; claffes of fucceeded in dividing two unfortunately views, if cemented by good underftandmen, whofe effected their mutual happinefs, and ing, might have Had the planters been averted many calamities. of their énemies fteady to each other, the projects but the provint might perhaps have been blafted ; and thus aflemblies difputed with each other, cial common enemy, the gave an opportanity to their hoftilities with more efexccutive power, to declare the of The oftentible motive on part governfect. their attack upon the reprefenment for beginning celebrated tatives of thé ifland, was the following the 28th decree, which the Affembly had made on deThe preamble to the decree of May 1790. the laws inherent in clares the right of confirming incapable of being the affembly, and confequently fubjoined are the ten foldelegated. The articles lowing:- authority, in every thing which I. Tus legiflative of the colony (rerelates to the internal concerns ofits repregime intericur), is vefted in the affembly tatives of thé ifland, was the following the 28th decree, which the Affembly had made on deThe preamble to the decree of May 1790. the laws inherent in clares the right of confirming incapable of being the affembly, and confequently fubjoined are the ten foldelegated. The articles lowing:- authority, in every thing which I. Tus legiflative of the colony (rerelates to the internal concerns ofits repregime intericur), is vefted in the affembly --- Page 356 --- HISTORY Or fentatives, which fhall be càlled tbe ofile French Part of St. General Afembly 66 2. No act of the Domningo. lates to the internal legiflative body, in what reconfidcred concerns ofthe as a law defnitice, colony, fhall be the reprefentatives of the unlefs it be made by mingo, freely and legally French part of St. Dothe King. chofen, and confirmed by 66 3. In cafes oft urgent cree of the general neceffity, a legillative deinternal concerns of affembly, in what relates to the the as a law colony, fhall be confidered Thall be notified provifional. In all fuch cafes, the decree who, within forthwith to the ten; days after fuch Sovernor-general, caufe it to be publifhed and notification, fhall the general aflembly his enforced, or tranfmit to 66 4. The neceflity obfervations thereon. cution offuch ofthe cafe on which the exebe a feparate provifional decree is to depend, fhall. mative queflion, and be carried in the by a majority of two-thirds alliraflembly; the names and of the general down. (Prifes par numbers being taken 46 5. Ifthe 'appel nominal.) governor-general thall fend down obfervations on any fuch his entered in the journals decree, the fame Thall be fhall then ofthe general allembly, who the obfervations proceed to revife the decrce, and confider The votes for thereon, in three feveral fittings. fhall be given confirming in the or annulling the decree, of the words 22s or No, and a minute proceedings Thall be figned by the prefent, in which fhall be members enumerated the votes On overnor-general thall fend down obfervations on any fuch his entered in the journals decree, the fame Thall be fhall then ofthe general allembly, who the obfervations proceed to revife the decrce, and confider The votes for thereon, in three feveral fittings. fhall be given confirming in the or annulling the decree, of the words 22s or No, and a minute proceedings Thall be figned by the prefent, in which fhall be members enumerated the votes On --- Page 357 --- ST. DOMINGO. - and if there appears a each fide of the queftion; the decree, it of two-thirds for confirming inajority enforced by the governorThall be immediately general. to be founded on the 6 6. As every law ought be bound by it, the confent of thofe who are to Thall be allowed to French part. of St. Domingo commercial arrangepropofe regulations concerning mutual connedtion (rap-. ments, and the fyftem of communt). and ports commerciaux, et autres rapports affembly fhall make the decrees which the national in tbe colony, uiin all fuch cafes, mball nob be enforced tbereto. Jball bave confented til the general alfembly necellity, the importa4 7- In cafes of prefling of the inhabitants tion of articles for the fupport breach in the fyftem fhall not be confidered as any between St. Domingo and of commercial regulations the decrees to be madé in Frances provided. that affembly, fhall be fubmitfuch cafes by the general under ted. to the revifion of the govemor-genenal. as are prethe fame conditions and modifications fcribed in Articles 3- and 5- legillative act of the 66 8. Provided alfo, that every provifionally, in caies of general affembly, cxecuted forthwith for urgent necellity, hall be tranfinitted Alhall refufe his fanétion. And if.the King be futhe royal fuch aét, its execution fhall confent to any Ohall be legally fpended, as foon as the Kingsretufal notified to the gerieral aflembly. Ahall be chofen every affembly 4 9. A new general of the members who have two years, and none U 1 , in caies of general affembly, cxecuted forthwith for urgent necellity, hall be tranfinitted Alhall refufe his fanétion. And if.the King be futhe royal fuch aét, its execution fhall confent to any Ohall be legally fpended, as foon as the Kingsretufal notified to the gerieral aflembly. Ahall be chofen every affembly 4 9. A new general of the members who have two years, and none U 1 --- Page 358 --- 338NHISTORY OF ferved in theformer aflembly, thall in' new one. becligible the 46. 10. The general affembly decree that the ding articles, as forming_part of the confitution. precethe French colony in St. of diately tranfmitted Domingo, Thali be immeto France, for the the- national affembly, and the acceptance of likewife be King. They Thall ftricts of the tranfinitted to all the parifhes and dicolony, and benotified to the governorgeneral.t Among men, even of oppolitefentiments this cree excited diflatisfadion. It defiflent with the was held as, inconvery exiflenceof colonial fubordination, that the King's delegate fhould be from negativing the acts of affembly. In debarted tion of this inconfiftency, and the Atill extenuainnovation of conftituting more daring all acts of the national themfelves the judges of of external affembly of France, in càles regulation, it can.only be faid, that the circumfiances were new, and the legiflators rienced. That they had it in view to throw inexpe- offt the authority f the mother country, is not to. be believed; but the report was fpread, and the colony was fold to the credited, that millions of livres had been Englifh, and that forty St. taken by the affembly of Domingo as a bribe, The weftern called their delegates, while thofe of parifhes rerenounced their obediençe Cape François and to, the whole aflembly, petitioned the governor to ftrip them of their authority. Peynier was pleafed at the dilgrace of --- Page 359 --- ST. DOMINGO. parties were averfe to comthe septerentaticatisan occurred to make jomifement, and a circumftance the breach irreparable. of. the line, lay in the harThe Leopard, a thip and the commander being bour of Port au Prince, a fumptuous enterattached to the governor, of gave the place: The feamen, tainment to his partizans mutinied, and déclataking offence at this meafure, of the affembly ; and red themfelves in the intereft them a vote of thanks. the affembly, in return, made at this tinie feized a Some partizans of the affembly Two days afterthe powder magazine 2t Leogane: returned to the crewof the vote of thanks had been declared them adherents to Leopard, the governor and called on all officers, country, the traitorsofthe them' to punifhment. civil and military, to bring to arreft the His firlt direct attack was an 'attempt affembly, which perfons of the weftern provincial attachment to the gehad been foizealous in underitood their that a committee neral affembly. He at midnight at Port au of theni held confaltations headed the enterprife, and Prince. Monf. Manduit reforted to the place. fcledting IOO of his foldiers, national guards, The houfe was defended by which 400 the particulats are enfued, of and a kirmifh but Manduit returned withnot perfedtly known; accomplilhing his purpofe. ofthis out affembly, on receiving notice The general called upon the people to afattack, immediately Armed femble, and defend their reprefentativés. both fides ofthe took the field on troops accordingly Uuij orted to the place. fcledting IOO of his foldiers, national guards, The houfe was defended by which 400 the particulats are enfued, of and a kirmifh but Manduit returned withnot perfedtly known; accomplilhing his purpofe. ofthis out affembly, on receiving notice The general called upon the people to afattack, immediately Armed femble, and defend their reprefentativés. both fides ofthe took the field on troops accordingly Uuij --- Page 360 --- HISTORY OF difpute, and bloodfhed feemed now a fudden refolution of the inevitable ; but affembly averted the impending war., They refolved in a body to the mother country, and juftify, in repair to Kingand nationalaffemibly,t perfon, to the numbers were reduced, theirpaft condud. Their by ficknefs and I0O, and of thefe 85 embarked defertion, to pard, amidf the on board the Leowho confidered applaufes of péople of all parties, Of the their condué as . noble and heroic. 85 who embarked, we mentioning that ought not to omit 64 were fathers of families. conduét ofthis body of The in fome infances, legiflators was undoubtedly, fretched beyond their rogative ; but néceffity is a ftrong legal pregreat degree. juftifies their boldeft plea, and in a the governor and Manduit had ferious meafires. That reftoring ancient defpotifm, intentions of afterwards cannot be doubted. It appeared that, diftrufting the French foldiers, they had written to Cuba for fidiaries. But we muft deviate from this Spanifh fubmoment, to commiferate the fate detail for a fortunate charaéters, ofbrave, but un- --- Page 361 --- ST. DOMINGO. CHAPTER IV. Defeat ofOge, a Free Man of Colour. Rebellion and of colour had been colledtTakee hundred people. the forces of the aflembly; ed by Manduit to oppole fenfible of their error, debut they foon became their difinifion. Indeed, manded and procured of the. colonial afduring the whole continuance much more peaccable than fembly, they remained but thofe who were recould have been expeated; fomewhat more violent fident in France entertained their brethren in St. fentiments and wifhes than enthufiaimn in the Among thofe whofe was Domingo. the people from oppreffion des caufe of delivering connedtion with the-Amis cherifhed by their was James Oge, Noirs, one ofthe moft difinguithed of age. His mother man under thirty years and. a young in St. Domingo, pofleffed a coffee plantation ini fome degree of affluence: him in Paris had fupported e of the Amis des Noirs he Under the patronage doétrines of equality and the been initiated in the learned to eftimate the abrights of man, and had of that prejudice furdity and monftrous injuftice a man's merit by which (faid Gregoire), eftimating at an immenfe dithe colout of his ikin, has placed children of the fame paftance from each other the the voice.of nature, which ftifles rent: ; a prejudice of fraternity afunder." Aniand breaks the. bands conceived the plan of mated by their advice, Oge étrines of equality and the been initiated in the learned to eftimate the abrights of man, and had of that prejudice furdity and monftrous injuftice a man's merit by which (faid Gregoire), eftimating at an immenfe dithe colout of his ikin, has placed children of the fame paftance from each other the the voice.of nature, which ftifles rent: ; a prejudice of fraternity afunder." Aniand breaks the. bands conceived the plan of mated by their advice, Oge --- Page 362 --- HISTORY OF heading his people and procuring redrefs of wrongs. their In order to evade the notice of fociety refolved to procure arms and government, the America. 'Oge accordingly ammunition in England, with embarked for New money and letters of credit, 1790; but with all the fecrecy that was July his plan was known'at Paris, and his intended, to St. Domingo long before he portrait fent out ed in Oétober, and got the arrived. Hc landarms he had brought conveyed to the place appointed by his. brother. weeks after' his arrival, he Six claring his intention publithed a manifefto, deoftaking up arms, ifthe leges of whites were not granted to all priviout diftinction. During this perfons withther had been interval, he and his brobuly in calling upon the people lour to join their flandard; ; but the mulattoes of'counwilling to hazard an open revolt, and feemed came to bis affiftance. He only 200 Grande Rivierc, and pitched his camp at appointed his brother and one Chavane his lieutenants. Chavane was fierce and intrepid, but by no means fo generous in his fitions as Oge, who, with all his enthufialm, difpomild and humane. He friétly cautioned his fol- was lowers againft the fhedding ofinnocent itisito be regretted, that the fente of their blood; but too keenly affected the minds of his followers injuries permit moderation in their proceedings. to death the whites wherever They put to they met and a ftill more unjuftifiable mode of them; by conduct, took vengeance upon thofe of their own calour who refufed --- Page 363 --- DOMINCO. 343ST. The townfmen of St. Franto join their Aandard. regulars and militia to çois immediately difpatched Their numbers being fupefupprefs the revolters. them, and took many pririor, they overpowered his brothet, with his affuciate, foners ; but Oge and in Cuba. The. took refuge among the Spaniards effort of the mulattoes, whites, exaiperated at this whole race, and a vowed rengeance upon the be at hand. The petit maflacre was thought to keen in their fentiments. blancs in particular were mulattoes feeing danger of retaliation 5 fo that. the arms in felf-defence; impending on all fides, flew to Their largeft and fortified camps in many places. of Verette. Thither fotce was aliembled at the town convened to refift them. a numerous" body of whites and by his means M. Manduit was their commander; ofa battle. The par; took placeintlead a confultation interview are not perfedly known; ticulars of the Manduit traiteroufly perfunded but it is afferted that for a while, till a better opthe mulattoes to retire fhould.occur; portunity of effedling their vengeance and that a counter that the King was their friend ; ofthe revolution would raife them to the privileges effectwhites. At Aux Cayes alfo, Monf. Manduit leader; but ed a truce with Rigaud, the calm mulatto of peace would the latter declared that the not be permanient. his goveroment to Monf. Monf. Peynier réfigned whofe firft meaBlanchellaude in November 1790, demand of Oge fure was to make a peremptory fugitise fo that the unhappy from the Spaniards;. delivered up and brought and his companions were revolution would raife them to the privileges effectwhites. At Aux Cayes alfo, Monf. Manduit leader; but ed a truce with Rigaud, the calm mulatto of peace would the latter declared that the not be permanient. his goveroment to Monf. Monf. Peynier réfigned whofe firft meaBlanchellaude in November 1790, demand of Oge fure was to make a peremptory fugitise fo that the unhappy from the Spaniards;. delivered up and brought and his companions were --- Page 364 --- MISTORY "OF to a trial. Twenty of his followers ed to be but were condemna referved hanged; a more dreadful fate was for himfelf and Chavane. He ced to be. broken alive, and left was fentenwheel. Such was his to perifh on the was punifhment; and his crime afferting the rights of his died as became the people! Chavane the martyr of fuch a caufe; amid extremity ofhis torture, he uttered not a Oge, pofleffed of more groan. fenfibility, was by the horror of his fentence, and overpowered life with prayed for his many tears.: He was even fo far ed as to forget all his former weakenfered to difclofe fome fecrets magnanimity, and ofIt ifl his life was cannot be at all afcertained whether fpared. made confeflions of or not he by fome that he any importance; but itis faid fully difclofed the moft ferious jects of infurredion, and named the proframers of thefe places where the plans were in the praclice ofconvening. The conduét of the court before whom this feflion WRS fuppofed to have been conthe made, in hurrying unhappy Oge to immediate execution, and well known their attachment to the ancient defpotic fyftem, leaves room to fufpect that thefe were fuppreffed, out of refentment to the confellions whites the colonial affembly intereft. Certain of the royalifts and it is, that the republicans were equally hoftile to planters of this defcription ; and unlefs we pofe the confeflions of Oge not to have been fuped in truth, the conduét of the foundariftocratic nors who fuppreffed his declarations, is to be govered as a plan of Machiavelian regardcondemned. policy much to be --- Page 365 --- ST. DONINGO: CHAPTER V: of Colonel Maudait-Derce of Procedings in Franec--Death of the r5th May 1791-Its Confe- Nethe National Affembly and Enormitics of the quencesin St. Doningom-Rebolios between the Men of grocs in the Northern Proviserm-Tauee by, the Colour and Inhabitants of Port au Piince-Frodamation National Affembly of the 2oth of September. récorded the embarkation of the W. E havéalteady for France, and affembly of St: Domingo that decifive patriotic which impelled them to the motives they were reccived with marks refolution. At Brett fuccefs that feemed to prognolticate of approbation whether from the infidious to their defign; but in their own ifland, who pradices ofthe ariftocrats and fecretly detefted their fyfem of reprefentation, the boldnels of undermined their character, or from illegal by the natheir late conduet being deemed received by the repretional affembly, they were with marked fymptoms of fentatives of tire French imTheir-refolutions were pronounced averfion. arrefled, and orders .proper, they were perfonally to be collected. The given for a new aflembly to augment the miKing's order was alfo requefted, in St. Domingo. Alitary and naval force already the dilgrace of the friends ofthe royal party, mong members was a matter of much exultathe colonial - the iflanders were in general difpleafed. tion, but moft particularly levelled at Their indignation was regiment of Port au Prince, Mauduit, colonel ofthe Xx arrefled, and orders .proper, they were perfonally to be collected. The given for a new aflembly to augment the miKing's order was alfo requefted, in St. Domingo. Alitary and naval force already the dilgrace of the friends ofthe royal party, mong members was a matter of much exultathe colonial - the iflanders were in general difpleafed. tion, but moft particularly levelled at Their indignation was regiment of Port au Prince, Mauduit, colonel ofthe Xx --- Page 366 --- HISTORY OF: whom they their regarded as the infidious conflituents. The calumniator of cipled man had hitherto regiment of this. unprinfrom the bribes which been his firm adherents; them ; whilf the national he had diftributed among giments from France, beld guards, and the other rerefitfed to do duty. in them in abhorrence, and themfelves fo their company. Finding and averfion ofall uncomfortable, under the around contempt fider their them, they began to conand their commander as the caufe of their gratitude for his difgrace, by this reflection. It paft-favours was cooled Mauduit, atthe head of was formerly related, that an attack upon the ICO srenadiers, had made the St. Domingo rendezvous of a committee of hehad carried off reprefentatives. a ftand On this occafion the national of colours belonging toerazed from their troops, and the offence was not yet the ftorm, offered memories. Mauduit, to appeafe and, in prefence of publicly to reftore the a vaft trophy, figned the colours : at the multitude, actually reup, one of his own regiment moment he gave them fhould afk pardon on his called aloud, that be pafs, He bared his bofom knees for fuch a trefand it was pierced with on hearing the demand, his own grenadiers. No a hundred wounds, all from pedted from the better reward could be foldiers perfidy of bribed exadded adherents. His graced humanity cruelty to their balenefs, and difhis dead body. by the infults they practifed on In' the mean time, the friends of the mulattoes in them fhould afk pardon on his called aloud, that be pafs, He bared his bofom knees for fuch a trefand it was pierced with on hearing the demand, his own grenadiers. No a hundred wounds, all from pedted from the better reward could be foldiers perfidy of bribed exadded adherents. His graced humanity cruelty to their balenefs, and difhis dead body. by the infults they practifed on In' the mean time, the friends of the mulattoes in --- Page 367 --- DOMINGO. ST: of colour refident in the Europe, and the people in the caufe of mother country, were more eager mulattoes in St. Doemaneipation, than even the of colour was fo The intereft of the pcople that mingo. fupported in the national affembly, number of ftrongly ordaining, among a they pailed a decrees perfon of the age of 25 other articles, that every property, or having years and upwards, polfelling and paid taxes, refided two years in the colony, the formation of the fhould be permittéd to vote in of colour knew notin colonial affembly. The people thisdecrees forthey tounderitand the what acceptation former occafion, exercifed had never, on 1 any occalions of this kind; and yet, right of voting on excluded by name, the decree as they were not them." In France feemed virtually to comprehend Wilt-Abbé the queltion for which he was Ratrieselobstee Gregoire, with all that eloquence caufe of the milattoes fupported the aditinguithed, was roufed into indignation the public mind theatrical reprefentations the colonifts, by fhown.to the unforgainit they had The ofthe late barbarity caufe-at laft prevailed. tunate Ogé. Their were not only mulattoes born of free parents their reprefentaptonouneed worthy of choofing to feats in the cobut alfo eligible themfelves ofithis decifive tives, The confsquence lonial affemblies. feen. firft decreé will be immediately the news ofit was June 1791, ; but Onthegathof at Cape François received in St. Domingo, deferibe the, idignation no words can adequately Xxj 3. prevailed. tunate Ogé. Their were not only mulattoes born of free parents their reprefentaptonouneed worthy of choofing to feats in the cobut alfo eligible themfelves ofithis decifive tives, The confsquence lonial affemblies. feen. firft decreé will be immediately the news ofit was June 1791, ; but Onthegathof at Cape François received in St. Domingo, deferibe the, idignation no words can adequately Xxj 3. --- Page 368 --- HISTORY OFT) which filled the minds of all They refolved to parties in the fifcate the French rejeét the civic oath, and to itland, was even property in the harbour * conpropofed in the It pull down the national provincial affembly, to fandard in their ftead. colours, and hoift the Britifh confirained to be a filent The governor-general was ties, having no profpeét of /pedlator.of thefe enormithority, The eledion of a ever recovering his aunext public event of genemiatilembly was the Cape François, and hopes importaices They met at meafures might eficé a were entertained Ithat their. the mulattoes had bub ot emalseeirente their danger, and perceived too evident ptofeription were too fymptoms that fecmed to july.alarmed by the nue any longer inaclive. threaten them. to conti. bodies, and waited They colleded in armed bat sith.ansious meafures the colonial expedation to fee thein favour. affembly. would adopt in. At this period an event; forme dilurbances, moredreadful than all the the prefent occafion tookplace. too for Thebhebasthosphe important to be paffed recovcring thein freedom procceded to the affertion over, They all the fanguinary of that freedom, aecordingly but with terizcs the debafed Ipirit of revenge which charac. moft ardent adtions of a flave, and advocate for liberty. which the deplore * mult condemnand * An embargo # The account adually of this took place. rebellion, as detailed by Mr. Edwardi, --- Page 369 --- ST. DOMINGO. of the 23d of Auguft 1791, ther On the morning alarmed by a report of the town of the Cape was having revolteda in the adjacent parilhes the niegrocs confufed, but at day-break The firft tidingawere efcaped the matarrival of thofe who had narrowly The rebellion facre toe well confirmed the tidings. nine miles from had broke out in the parith ofAcul, been butchered withthe city, where the whites had from outdilinations and memhemdhempecedds and ravifhing murdering the men, parifh to pari(h, who fell into their hands: the unfortunate women for the fhort time the fword was exchanged Ina blazed in every diredtion. torch, and the cane-field and the command of The citizens now flew to arms, the whilft troops was given to governor, the national children were put aboard the thips. the women and During this period the in the harbour for fafety. the mulattoes in lower clafsof whites, regarding caufe ofthe rebel Cape François, as the immédiate but the afmarked them out for deftruction; lion, took them under their proteéion. fembly generoully kindnefs, the mulattoes offered In gratitude for fuch the rebels, and their to march as militiamen againft the affembly had fpent a After offer was accepted: amidft the glare of the furnight in deliberation, militia and troops of the line rounding fires; the of the rebels; and repulfed, werc fent to meet a body are not here given fo fully $ is long and minute. The particulavs but becaufe they arc too horrid. not from a wifh to conceal them, for rclation. kindnefs, the mulattoes offered In gratitude for fuch the rebels, and their to march as militiamen againft the affembly had fpent a After offer was accepted: amidft the glare of the furnight in deliberation, militia and troops of the line rounding fires; the of the rebels; and repulfed, werc fent to meet a body are not here given fo fully $ is long and minute. The particulavs but becaufe they arc too horrid. not from a wifh to conceal them, for rclation. --- Page 370 --- HISTORY OF e them; but the numbers of in a confiderable the infurgents increafing propriety of acting proportion, the governor fàw the folely onr the entrances to the town were defenfives The lery were flationed therefore fortified, artil. which interfedts on the heighte, and at. the the main river faded on all fides but road; the town was pallithe harbour next the fea, and the flhips in the fame fecured, againft the laft time the whites in the extremity. At tions formed into furrounding plantacamps; and pofls; but at two different maintained a chain of Powered, and killed in places they were over. In the great numbers * ipace of two months it was computed that * Amidft the difgraceful ifcenes from the unditinguihing which at this time took place, one ftriking example of fidelity, barbarity of the negroes, there was Monfieur and Madame which deferves to be related. Baillon, their wereapprifed of therevol daughter and himfelf in the by one of their own flaves, fon-in-law, who wood, after. which confpiracy, hc He conduéted. them to an was he vifited them went and joined ther revolters. adjacent by ftealth with Several times to make their way to a river which provifions, and at laft direéted them them they would find a canoe led to Port Margot, fçribed. They followed on a part of the river which affuring rapidity of the his diredtions, but wereoverturned heideto the mountains. fream, and, after a narrow efcape, retreated by the reéted them to The good negro again found again a broader part of the them out, di: another boat. They went, and, river, where they would find up for lofb-when their milling the boat, gave themfelves duéting them by flow marches guardian in angel again appears, and conthe river, took them to the wharf the night, along the banks of them they were at Port Margot; ; when, went to join the entirely out of danger, he took his laft telling rebels, lcave, and retreated by the reéted them to The good negro again found again a broader part of the them out, di: another boat. They went, and, river, where they would find up for lofb-when their milling the boat, gave themfelves duéting them by flow marches guardian in angel again appears, and conthe river, took them to the wharf the night, along the banks of them they were at Port Margot; ; when, went to join the entirely out of danger, he took his laft telling rebels, lcave, and --- Page 371 --- 35% ST. DOMINGO. perifhed; ; of the intpwards of 2000 white perfons died by famine and furgents, not leis than 10,000 the executioner, hundreds by the hand.of the fword, to relate, upon the wiheel,a and many, dreadful be by any enormode of revenge not to. juflified men (fays Mr Edmity. 46 Two ofthefe unbappy under the windowi of wards) fuffered in thismanner and in his prefence) at Cape the author's lodgings, the 28th of September 1791. François, on Thurlday piecesof timber placed They were broken on two expired on receiving the crofswife. One of them each of his legs and third ftroke on his ftomach, in two places; ; the having been firit broken arms blows he bore without a groan. Theother breakfirft three When the sexecutioner.afier hada harderfate. thei inftrument to give, ing his legs and arms, lifted up and which (by ftroke on the breaft, le the finifhing out of pain) is called coup. putting the criminal of cannithe mob, with the ferocioufnels him de grace, arretez (ftop)' ! and compelled bals, called out In that condition, the .to leave his work unfinifhed. his broken limbs doubled up miferable wretch, with which was placed horizons. was put on a cart-wheel, being driven into the tally one end of the axle-tree fenfible, but uttered not" earth: He feemed perfealy minutes, fome Englifr At the end of forty a groan. of the tragedy, (rang-, feamen, who were fpedtators led him in mercy." the infurgents were princiIn the weftern divifion in rarms to the péople of colour, who appeared They' pally in the parich of Mirebalais. number of2000, --- Page 372 --- HISTORY OF proceeded even to Port au Prince ; but this period a reconciliation happily aé the good oflices of a Monfieur was brought about by procured a concordat, de Jumecourt, who tants of Port or truce, Detween the inhabiau Prince and the the terms were, that hoftilities mmolatoes; ofwhich decree of the 15th be fhould ceafe, and the Cape François adopted. The affembly of the people of paffed many refolutions in favour of intereft; colour, and teltified-a zeal for their which kindnefs, if.fhown at one would have prevented period, but the many a dreadful cure was now adminiftered tranfaction, too late. Port or truce, Detween the inhabiau Prince and the the terms were, that hoftilities mmolatoes; ofwhich decree of the 15th be fhould ceafe, and the Cape François adopted. The affembly of the people of paffed many refolutions in favour of intereft; colour, and teltified-a zeal for their which kindnefs, if.fhown at one would have prevented period, but the many a dreadful cure was now adminiftered tranfaction, too late. --- Page 373 --- ST. DOMINCO. CHAPTER VI. ) Warrenewedas Repeal ofthe Decree of the tsth Firc-Cructia of May-Chl on each Side Port au Prince defroyed by from Fnte-Apeiainen and Arrival of the Commillioners Commilionery Appointment of GolProcecdings of the New revolted Negroes called haud-Hotitics on both Sides-The and Conflain-Mallacre of the Inhabitants of Cape François, gration ofthe Town. the news of Asour the beginning of September, of the rgth of given to the decrée COthe reception and the lois of the May, were received at Paris, : By this time appreliended. lony was univerlally whofe opinions upon colomoft of thofe members as fagacious, nial matters had before been regarded (ftrange to treated with difrefpedt. At length of were of September 1791, a. repeal tell)! on the 24th actually made. To fuch the celebrated decree was be driven, that abfurdity muft every government at the dito rule the actions' of a colony attempts ftarice of 3000 miles: ftill fufpiciPrevious to this time, the mulattoes, which had been recognized, ous, left their rights had procured a fefhould not be actually obtained, agreement of cond inftrument, and a fupplementary authentic informathe 20th of Odtober ; but when of the national aflention of this fecond enaétment of reconciliation peall profpect bly was received, could not conrifhed for ever ; for the mulattoes They as guilty of the tranfaction. ceive the planters Yy --- Page 374 --- HISTORY OF accordingly flew to arms, and being in joined by the negroes, terrible many places place. In the diftric of Cul de engagements took were left dead on the field. Sac, 2000 blacks rious, and The whites were viétogetting the mulattoesinto their fatiated their revenge with the moft poffellion, elties. The fpecimens of unheard-ofcru. each fide of this unnatural enormity committed on for defeription ; but it is difpute, are too hideous whites fet the but juftice-to fay, that the that the example. It was fondly horror of thefe mutual expeded be afluaged by the arrival of the enormities would miflioners from. France, who three civil comlanded in St. juft at the clofe of the Domingo however, their fuccefs did year 1791. Unhappily, peétation. not verify the public exRoome, Mirbeck, and St. ofthe commiflioners. Leger, were the names The two laft were men very refpedtable charaéters. of no ed himfclf without Roome alone conduct. fed abilities offence, but none ofthem for the arduous tafk. poffef. civil war. After a fhort ftay'at ofextinguifing a vifited the other parts of the Cape François, they their authority dwindle colony ; but finding France the following away, they returned to fpring. In the mean time, the Amis de Noirs in ther country had once more the mowhich the revocation ofthe gained that afcendency I5th May 1791 evinced celebrated decrée ofthe firft fignal evidence them to have loft. The of the change that had place in the minds of the taken legiflature, was the famous ing a vifited the other parts of the Cape François, they their authority dwindle colony ; but finding France the following away, they returned to fpring. In the mean time, the Amis de Noirs in ther country had once more the mowhich the revocation ofthe gained that afcendency I5th May 1791 evinced celebrated decrée ofthe firft fignal evidence them to have loft. The of the change that had place in the minds of the taken legiflature, was the famous --- Page 375 --- ST. DOMINGO: which it,js necelladecree of the 4th of April 1792, to underfland thes the reader thould have at large, commif-f ry that arofe in confequence. New effedts Polverel, and Ailhaud) fioners (Mellirs., Santhonax, this decree, 6000 cho-i were now appointed to fulfil were embarked fen men from the national guards (Monf. Deffor St. Domingo, and a new governor in chief. The pardes) nominated as commander to France on their former governor was fent home that the infirft arrival*. It was ftrongly fufpeêted an unwas to procure tention of the commiflioners blacks in the ifland; qualified freedom for all the that their fole but they declared, by a folemn oath, of the mulattoes, purpofe was to eflablifh the rights The firft decreed by the law of the Isth of May. a. as the whites was therefore to convoke petition of but inftead of their wifhed-for colonial allembly; fubltithe commiflioners houfe of reprefentatives, Intermediare, tuted what was called Une Commilfion whom fix had been of 12 perfons, of by nominating and the other fix were mulattoes. the laft aflembly, extended to the raifing of Their legillative authority but the commifcontributions upon the inhabitants, it to fioners referved the power of appropriating that the themfelves. The new governor, finding complained, commiffioners ufurped 'all authority, affairs. His that he was but a, cypher in public his perwas anfwered by an arreft upon complaint fent home ftate prifoner,to France. fon, and he was * He was afterwards guillotined. Yy ft aflembly, extended to the raifing of Their legillative authority but the commifcontributions upon the inhabitants, it to fioners referved the power of appropriating that the themfelves. The new governor, finding complained, commiffioners ufurped 'all authority, affairs. His that he was but a, cypher in public his perwas anfwered by an arreft upon complaint fent home ftate prifoner,to France. fon, and he was * He was afterwards guillotined. Yy --- Page 376 --- HISTORY OF A The tyranny of the commiffioners did they overawed the members of not ftop here, Iaterniediaire, by the commiflion" arrefting four of their lafily difagreeing number, and : haud from their among themfelves, expelled Ail declared berween triumvirate. War was by this time the mother country and and prudence compelled the Britain, to take fome care of the govemment of France injured colony, which trampled under the avaricious controul of lay and Polverel, and Galbaud, a man of fair Santhonax was ordered to fill the place of character, the ifland in a ftate of defence governor, and to put vafion. On the Ioth of againt external inmiflioners had June 1793, the three comtheir firft interview with the vernor. The former afked him if he bad new gothe executive council ofhis acquainted Indian being a pofleffor of Weft property ? a queftion which utterly dif concerted him ; for he never moment, that this recolledted, till that him from the circumftance, by Jaw, excluded place he affeéted to hold. Skirmifhes foonafter took place, with various fuccels, the affociates of Galbaud and thofe of the between fioners. In one.of thefe, Polverel's commif prifoner. When fon was made propofals were made to bim for exchanging the young man with the brother of Gal. baud, who was made, on the other hand, bythe commiflioners troops, he fternly prifoner his fon knew his duty, and replied, That the caufe of the republic, was prepared to die in But the moft dreadful enormity that St. witnefled, remains to be mentioned. Dominga On the ap- --- Page 377 --- tys à ST. DOMINGO. 357; with a body of hist adherents, proach of Galbaud, the aid of the commifioners offered to purchafe freedom in the by the offer of a. pardon, of the rebel negroes, of the capital. Two future, and the plunder bafe terms;- but a third (afa rebel chiefs refufed the the thips), with 3000 reter Galbaud had fled to and began an inthe town, volted negroes,entened The miferble inhabitants dhiferiminate mailacre, their retreat was flopped by fled to the fhores, but and for two days the flaughter a party of mulattoes, town was balf confumed by was inceliant. The beautiful. The flames, a capital once fourilingand the deftrucion of their commifioners, terrified at the line, hauds, fled for proteétion to.a flip.of while own publifhed amanifelo, which, and from thence erinced a confciouineis of it tried to extenuatc, sheinguilt, was flopped by fled to the fhores, but and for two days the flaughter a party of mulattoes, town was balf confumed by was inceliant. The beautiful. The flames, a capital once fourilingand the deftrucion of their commifioners, terrified at the line, hauds, fled for proteétion to.a flip.of while own publifhed amanifelo, which, and from thence erinced a confciouineis of it tried to extenuatc, sheinguilt, --- Page 378 --- HISTORY OF CHAPTER VII. Situation, Extent, and General Defeription of St. Original of the French Domingoand Colun-befcription of its Produce Population-Shijyring and Exports, Sr.DONnco lies about 3500 miles from the End of England, the eaflern Land's latitude 180 20, and in point being in north from Greenwich. longitude 680 40" weft The breadth of the about 140 miles at its utmoft latitude, ifland is from eaft to weft 390: The foil is and its length general rich. Indeed, fuch diverfified, but in was its tion, that until the late Rourifhing fituacivil war, it might be juftly unditinguithing çalled ravages of the new hemifphere. the paradife of The beautiful favannahs in the interior of the country were depopulated by the mercilels niards, and their habitations converted SpaBut the crimes of thefc into a defert. men were by that affociation of daring amply punifhed Buccaneer's. This adventurers called the arofe from affociation, it is well a body of French and Englifh known, whom the cruelty of the Spaniards planters, Chriftopher's. In drove from St. open boats they had the fmall and unoccupied ifland of efcaped to a few miles of the northen Tortuga, within and coaft of St. were here joined by a number of Dutch Domingo, gees, who fled hither from Santa Cruz refuDerfecution of the Spaniards. before the The three tribes of arofe from affociation, it is well a body of French and Englifh known, whom the cruelty of the Spaniards planters, Chriftopher's. In drove from St. open boats they had the fmall and unoccupied ifland of efcaped to a few miles of the northen Tortuga, within and coaft of St. were here joined by a number of Dutch Domingo, gees, who fled hither from Santa Cruz refuDerfecution of the Spaniards. before the The three tribes of --- Page 379 --- : ST. DOMINGO. continued to live here in tranquillity, ufing as fufferers deferted plains of St. Domingo the large and but referving Tortuga as their hunting grounds; harmlefs as their lives weré, their home. Simple and notice of the Spanifh gothey did not efcape the other pretext than their vernment; for, upon no which the Spaniards claimliving upon a hemifphere they were aflfailed with 3 ed exclufively to themfelves, Thus driven to all the vengeance of perfecution. hoftilities with all their efdefpair, they retaliated inured to hardfhip by their forts ; and as they were acts of valour, which, conmanner of life, performed never were nor have fince fidering all circumftances, of thele adventurers, From a party its been equalled. of St. Domingo firft received the French colony of this coloname. Ofthe the till they igelieimgmnsesa from their firft footing in ifland, of France, a ny, reccived within the protedtion the hiftory were account may be had in very fatisfactory Pere Charlevoix. of the ifland by French in St. Domingo are The poffeffions ofthe the Northern, the divided into three provinces, The moft remarkable Weftern, and the Southern. are Cape François, and of their towns and harbours former contained between Cape St. Nicholas. The houfes of ftone, a church, a eight and nine hundred barrack, an arfenal, and prifon, a playhoufe, a fuperb the eaft of it lies a plain'of a good hofpital. To 12 in breadth, once cultiva50 milesin length, and of which yieldfor fugar, the plantations ted folely --- Page 380 --- MISTORY OF ed greater, returns than any other fame extent in the habitable ground of thé. The town of St. Nicholas globe, houfes, moftly built of American confifts of about 250 ly known; for the wood. It is chief. and is fafety and extent of its juftly, called the key to the Windward harbour, fage, DJ Paf. Port au Prince (except in time of fidered as the capital of the war) was conlies the noble and colony. To the eaft ofit extending from beautiful plain, the Cul de Sac, in breadth, 30 to 40 miles in length, by 9 watered containing an hundred and and valuable fifty well The plantations. population, in 1790, appears to have 30,831 whites of both fexes, exclufive been troops and fea-faring of European people. The number gro flaves amounted at that of nedefcriptions: period to 480,000 ofall The number of the free people of colour accurately afcertained; ; but the was not ed them at 24,000. general opinion fixThe quantity of land in a flate of throughout all the cultivation acres of Englith parifhes, was equal to 229.480 meafure, of which about were fituâted in the mountains. two thirds In the beginning of 1790, the colony contained 431 plantations of clayed fugar 362. of mufcovado, Total 793 plantations offugar, Carriedoven,7ps people of colour accurately afcertained; ; but the was not ed them at 24,000. general opinion fixThe quantity of land in a flate of throughout all the cultivation acres of Englith parifhes, was equal to 229.480 meafure, of which about were fituâted in the mountains. two thirds In the beginning of 1790, the colony contained 431 plantations of clayed fugar 362. of mufcovado, Total 793 plantations offugar, Carriedoven,7ps --- Page 381 --- ST. DOMINCO. Brought forward, 793 fugarplantations. 3,117 of coffec, 789 of cotton, 3,160 of indigo, 54 of cacao, or chocolate, chiefly. 623 imaller fettlements, and for raifing grain, yams, other vegetable food. eftablifhments, all kinds Making 8,530 throughout the colony. there were freighted 470 fhips, In the year 1787 and navigated by 11,220 containing 112,253'tons, is an accurate: account from feamen. The following of the general exports on the intendant's réports ofthrec yeats: Livres. an average lbs. 58,642.214 41,049:549 Clayed fugar lbs. 86,549.029 1 3401993E Mufcorado lbs. 71,003:187 - 71,603.187 Coffee lbs. 0.698.858 - - 12,397-716 Cotton Hhds. 951,607 1 8,5041463 Indigo - Hhds. 23,061 - 2,767:320 Molafles An inferior fort Hhds. à 2,600 - 312,000 ofrum, called taffia No. 6.500 - 52,000 Raw hides No. 7.900 - I18,500 Tanned ditto The total valuc at the ports of thipping, was 171.544.666 in livres of St. Domingo, of Great Sterling money being equal to 4765.1291. Z Z B ritain, --- Page 382 --- HISTORY OF CHAPTER VIII. Overtures to the Britifh French Chanimeipe-Surender Govemment-Siscery abolifhed by the St. Nicholas-Defcat at of Jcremie and the Mole at -Sicknefs and dreadful Mortality TiBao-Capture of Port au Prince the Mulattoes at St. Marc-Sccond among the Troops--Revolt of laut Efcape of the Garrifon. Attack of Tiburon-GalAre the maflacre at Cape François, numbers of ' the honour of that and,to Roteisi But fome time country, were holpitably received. previous to this period, individuals, a higher flation of life had in in the heat of their reforted to Britain, and, had fuftained, indignation at the injuries they called upon the Britilh to take the ifland into their government treaties were at firlt difregarded, poffeflion. Thefe enbroke out between the butwhen the war taken into ferious two nations, the plan was confideration. The tepublican commiflionérs had from France fix thoufand chofen brought out force, wasadded the troops. To this and free greatelt part of the mulattoes negroes, compofing in all a' of about 25,000 men. Butias their force 'delperate band diminifhed by being neccflarily was greatly provinces, the commiflioners, fcattered over the their in order to party, declared all flavery atian firengthen dition of the blacks end, on copNumbers reforting to their ftandard, joined them in confequence of this decla- force, wasadded the troops. To this and free greatelt part of the mulattoes negroes, compofing in all a' of about 25,000 men. Butias their force 'delperate band diminifhed by being neccflarily was greatly provinces, the commiflioners, fcattered over the their in order to party, declared all flavery atian firengthen dition of the blacks end, on copNumbers reforting to their ftandard, joined them in confequence of this decla- --- Page 383 --- ST. DOMINGO. remained with their relpedtive intion; but many retreated to the mounmaflers, and about IO,CCO ftate. There tains, where they keptin a neutral of thofe nehowever, about 40,c00 fill remained, revolted, who were inured groes who had formerly and the fworn foes of to murder and devaftation, both invadersand inhabitants. was the man to whom the General Williamfon entrufted the diftribution and Britifh governmient invafion. Infpired management of this important of fupport confidence in the pronifes with a fatal he feems to have mifealeulatéd which he received; fuch a bufinefs; for the whole the force neceflary for fubdue an extent of'country armament deftined Britain to itfelf, was' the 13th regiequal to that of ofthe 49th, and laldeinent of foot; feven companies saltiogathertosbout tachment ofartillery, amounting rank and file fit for duty. Whitelocké of September, Colonel On the gth divifion, and. took poffellion of failed with the firft Shortly, with confent of the inhabitants: declaJeremie, ofthe Mole of St. Nicholas after, the garrifon and pofféfion was to furrender, red an inclination the harbour and fort; but the accordingly taken of Britifhi arms did not equal future progtefs of the thefe furrenders. An excited by the expedtations which términated in dififter attack upon Tiburon, was but a prelude on : our fide, and, difaypointment that enfued. The inceflant to the mortifications overpowered and debilirains and feverity ofduty the horrors of the yellow tated the foldiers, while 7. zij to furrender, red an inclination the harbour and fort; but the accordingly taken of Britifhi arms did not equal future progtefs of the thefe furrenders. An excited by the expedtations which términated in dififter attack upon Tiburon, was but a prelude on : our fide, and, difaypointment that enfued. The inceflant to the mortifications overpowered and debilirains and feverity ofduty the horrors of the yellow tated the foldiers, while 7. zij --- Page 384 --- 364. HISTORY OF fever confummated their mifery. A fmall ment from Britain, for a moment, reinforce. danger, and a fecond affault alleviated their pofed. By the fingular upon Tiburon was proand his refolute gallantry of Major Spencer, ftorm. followers, the place was carried by Surprifing to relate, only three diers were killed, and feven Englith folpoft of fuch importance. wounded, in forcing a the town of Port The next attempt was on of the French Faix.whereLavaux the commander troops, was offered a bribeif he would betray his truft. But the brave. veteran this odious propofal, by anfwered bat the Britilh challenging to fingle comcommander, who had fo fulted him. Colonel Whitelocke, grolsly induéted this abortive who had connext objedt, which attempt, fucceeded better in his was the reduction of Le the vicinity of Leogane. His orders Aeul, in the fort were gallantly and for aflaulting troops; but a number of rapidly executed by his wounded and killed in the valuable oflicers were feat from fuperior numbers engagement. A deat a place called pard, ufteen miles from St. Nicholas, Bomfrom the newly obtained fort of and a fally though fuccefsful in repelling Tibuion, which, fected with much the enemy, was eftune of blood; ferved to check the forour army, - On the 1gth of May 1794,a fecond of airee Britifh regiments arrived in reinforcement fo that new hopes arofe, and St. Domingo; ditated. Port au Prince new attacks were meobjest of our was all along the grand Fort Bizotton army; but it was neceflary to reduce before the capital could poflibly fall. uccefsful in repelling Tibuion, which, fected with much the enemy, was eftune of blood; ferved to check the forour army, - On the 1gth of May 1794,a fecond of airee Britifh regiments arrived in reinforcement fo that new hopes arofe, and St. Domingo; ditated. Port au Prince new attacks were meobjest of our was all along the grand Fort Bizotton army; but it was neceflary to reduce before the capital could poflibly fall. --- Page 385 --- ST. DOMINGO. were therefore ordered to Two line of battle thips the fortrels; and in the play upon the feal front c'of hundred colonial evening 300 Britith and 530 it by affault. On troops were fet afhore to carry ftorm of thunder and their march upwards, a terrible with rain, which, lightning came on, accompanied Capthe found oftheirapproach, agit' overpowéred regiment took advantage tain Daniel of the 41it and advanced with of the favourable opportunity, who, rufhing with fixed his men, 60 in number, breach in the wall, adually bayonets through a nine times their number: carried a fort defended by was fubjected in Port au Prince, it is well known, the harbour of which confequence of this fuccefs, in at a moderate a fleet of mhipping, were captured Sterling. computation, worth 405,0061. fuccefs of the Britifh But even this temporary the fum of difafter which aris ferved to increafe doomed to endure. Port au our countrymen were a poft difficult to be Prince was, from its fituation, were necellary to retained, immenfe preparations and the labour of fecure it from being recaptured, and railing fortificathe foldiers, in digging trenches intolerable. Thefe mifertions, became of courfe and watching, worn out with working ftate able labourers, into the grave; or continuedinaf the either dropped permitted them to bear of illnels that hardly arrived from weight of their aims. New fupplies them had home'; but the frigate which conveyed numbers had been already a houfe of peltilence furvivors ; comipgl like been buried inthe deep, and the L - -N Ta L: railing fortificathe foldiers, in digging trenches intolerable. Thefe mifertions, became of courfe and watching, worn out with working ftate able labourers, into the grave; or continuedinaf the either dropped permitted them to bear of illnels that hardly arrived from weight of their aims. New fupplies them had home'; but the frigate which conveyed numbers had been already a houfe of peltilence furvivors ; comipgl like been buried inthe deep, and the L - -N Ta L: --- Page 386 --- HISTORY OF fkeletons from their hofpital, only ferved to the fcene of diftrefs. In the of perfect from the fpace two months capture of Port au Prince, 600 menand 40 officers perifhed from our little army, other enemy than ficknefs. by no GeneralHornbeck now fucceeded General whofe ill health had obliged him to Whyte, . T'he weaknefs of the Britifh return home: was at this period fo apparent as even to invite invafion:. commander of the republican Rigaud, a men afàulted Fort troops, with 2000 Bizotton; but was routed and repulfed with great flaughter; for diftrefs, it. would appear, in its fevereft fhape, had not yet been able to fubdue the fpirit of our unfortunate Though repuifed fo effedtually, countrymen: however, in this inftance, Rigaud meditated the attack ofTiburon. with aggravated ftrength. On the23d his naval force, confifting of a 1ofDecemberr794. 16 three fchoonérs of 1 gun brig, and 4 guns each, failed from Aux Cayes to the fiege of Tiburon,. with land troops confiftingofjoce men ofall colours and On Chriftmas day our garrifon of deferiptions. firft onfet, and for four 400 men met the days refifted the moft furious affaults of the befiegers ; but finding their numbers fo terribly diminifhed (for 300 had already the furvivors, headed by Lieutenant Bradford perifhed), of 23d regiment, fallied out on the the enemy, and, with unexampled bravery, fought their way for five and got fafe to Irois. A Lieutenant miles, on this occalion' (by fome Bafkerville was unlucky accident) unabletojoin his companions. Aware of the fate that --- Page 387 --- ST.I DOMINGO.. refolved to avoid a fhameful death awaited bim,and enemy, he put a period from the hand of a favage entered the fort. to his exiftence as Rigaud terminated the With this difaftrous occurrencé future events to decide year 1794. It remains for fhall be ultimately under whofe power this colony the records of its fixed ; but no one can perufe without lamenting protra@ted and bloody difputes deaths which it has witthe mournfuland untimely neffed. .I DOMINGO.. refolved to avoid a fhameful death awaited bim,and enemy, he put a period from the hand of a favage entered the fort. to his exiftence as Rigaud terminated the With this difaftrous occurrencé future events to decide year 1794. It remains for fhall be ultimately under whofe power this colony the records of its fixed ; but no one can perufe without lamenting protra@ted and bloody difputes deaths which it has witthe mournfuland untimely neffed. --- Page 388 --- HISTORY OF CHAPTER IX. Ancient State of the Spanifh Colony--The Town of St. DomingoEfablifhment of the and Charaéter of thc Pillaged by Drake in 1586-Numbers prefent Inhabitants. Tue Spanifh colony in Hifpaniola was therearlieft ever eftablifhed in the new world; but in lefs than a century, the difcovery of gold and filver in Mexico led the Spaniards. to abandon the exhaufted mines they had dug here, and nent for repair to the continew fupplies. Of the French fettlement we have already defcribed the origin, The Spanifh territories are, upon the whole, lefs fertile than the other parts of the ifland; in cular, the whole tract from Ifabella partiFrançois (Puerto de Plata to Old Cape alone excepted) is entirely a defert for 15 miles. Nor, after Bay of Samana, does a much better pafling the until profpect offer, coafting round the eaftern a vaft extent of level extremity, we reach the weft end of country called the Plains, at which, on the banks of the river Ozama, ftands the metropolis, which was founded by Columbus, 1498, and named St. Domingo, in honour of St. Dominic, for many years the capital of the new world. Oviedo, a Spanifh hiftorian, who refided in it 30 years after its firft eftablilhment, gives the following account of it, the. tranflation of which is ftill preferved. no --- Page 389 --- ST. DOMINGO. to fpeake fumthe Hiftorian) & But nowe (fays and chiefe place of the iflande, what of the principall Domenico : I faye, that as which is the citic of San there is no citieinSpaine, touchynge the buildyngs, whiche for fo-muche (no not Barfalonas fo muche feene) that is to bee preferted I have oftentymes For the houfes of San Dobefore this generallye. of ftone, as are they menico are for the mofte parte is muche better than of Barfalona, The.fituation reafon that the ftreates are that of Barfalona, by, and wichout comparyion much larger and playner, furth. For beinge bulydmore direéte and ftrayght commoditie of the ed nowein our tyme, belydethe the ftreates were, alfo diplace of the foundation, and meafure.;. werein it reéted with corde compafe that I have fene, It hath excelleth al the cities fyde there is no morethe fea fo nere, that of one the citie, thenthe waules, fpace betwen the fea and the fyde and at the hard by On the other parte, the ryver Ozama, whiche foote ofthe Houfes, paffeth wherein laden fhypes ryfe isa marvelous porte; and in manner under the very nere to the lande, of the citicis houfe wyndowes. In the myddell or haven alfo, is and cafiles the port the fortrefle to defraight or unlade fo fayre and commodious founde but in few placcs of thyppes, as the lyke is that are in this citie the worlde. The chymincis in number, and fuch are about fyxe hundreth beforer 3 ofthe which houfes as I have fpokenrofi that they maye well refum are fo fayre. and large or noble manne of ceave and lodge any lorde A 3. files the port the fortrefle to defraight or unlade fo fayre and commodious founde but in few placcs of thyppes, as the lyke is that are in this citie the worlde. The chymincis in number, and fuch are about fyxe hundreth beforer 3 ofthe which houfes as I have fpokenrofi that they maye well refum are fo fayre. and large or noble manne of ceave and lodge any lorde A 3. --- Page 390 --- UHISTORY OF Spayne, withihis trayne and ly that which Don Diego familie; and efpecial-. majeftie) hath in this Colon, viceroy under your no man'inSpayne citie, is fuche that I knowe that' hath.the ter, in goodneffe, lyke, by a quar. of the fame. G1 contyderynge allt the commoditiés Lykewyfe the fituation beinge above the fayde thereof as itone, and havynge porté, and altogyther of with as many faire and laige goodlya profpect of the lande and roomes, may be devyfed; feemeth fea as and pancelyke that unto me fo magnifical lodged - therein as in your d mageftic may bee as well builded houfes any fof the miofte exquilte drall chirche or'Spayne. There is alfo a cathebythop baylded oflate, where, as well the accordyng to his dygnitie, as alfo' the nones,are wel indued. This Caedofftone andlyme, and churche is wellbuyldThere are further-more Awosadesankcamsnppne three the names of Saynt Dominike, monafteries bearyng Saynt Mary of Mercedes; the Saynt Frances, and buylded, although not fo whiche are well Spayne. There is alfo a curiouflye as they of the ayde and fuccour of 'very good hofpitall for founded by Michaell pore people, whiche was majeftie. To conclude, Paffamtont, this threafurer to your creafeth in welth and citie' fro day to day inthe fayde admyrall and good order, as well for that chaunceloure and viceroy, with the lorde counfayle appoynted your majeftie, have theyr continuall there by as alio that the rycheft men of the abydnge here, hyther, for theyr mofte commodious ilande refort habitation and ftie. To conclude, Paffamtont, this threafurer to your creafeth in welth and citie' fro day to day inthe fayde admyrall and good order, as well for that chaunceloure and viceroy, with the lorde counfayle appoynted your majeftie, have theyr continuall there by as alio that the rycheft men of the abydnge here, hyther, for theyr mofte commodious ilande refort habitation and --- Page 391 --- ST. DOMINGO. merchaundies as are cyther brought trade of fuch from this iland, owt of Spayne, Or fent thyther thynges, that it which nowe fo abundeth in many as it were ferveth Spayne with many commodities, bencfites as itifyrft rewith ufury requityng fuch ceaved from thence." it was attacked by Drake, Sixty yennvalterwands thought himfelf it a month, who,, after pofleffing fire, Of this barbarous tranfjuftified to fet it on is preferved in Hakaction the following record the early part of-the luyt's Colledtion : 66 We fpent the in firethe hiftorian of voyage) mornings (fays but they, being built yéry ing the outmoft houfes; with high loftes, gave us no magniticently of ftone, And-albeit, for divers fmall travell to ruin them. ech morning. by daydayes together, we ordeined at nine of the clocke, breakeuntil the heat began did nought els but lathat two hundred mariners faid houfes, whilft the bour to fire and burn the ftood forth for their fouldicrs, in a like proportion, could not, in this time, guard 5 yet did we not, or third part of the towne; 5 confume fo much as one with firing, we were conand foin the end, wearied twenty thoufand du- - of five and tented to accept the peece, for the cats, of five Mhillings 2 and fixpence ranfome of the reft ofthe towne." information refpeétIt is difficultto obtain exacti of this once flourithing ing the prefent condition the decline, but npt, as city. It is certainly on in ruins. As little Raynal aflerts, abfolutely the ftate of agriculture fcems to be known about 3 A 2 conand foin the end, wearied twenty thoufand du- - of five and tented to accept the peece, for the cats, of five Mhillings 2 and fixpence ranfome of the reft ofthe towne." information refpeétIt is difficultto obtain exacti of this once flourithing ing the prefent condition the decline, but npt, as city. It is certainly on in ruins. As little Raynal aflerts, abfolutely the ftate of agriculture fcems to be known about 3 A 2 --- Page 392 --- HISTORY OF in thefe poffeflions, as about the of the Spanifh capital. prefent condition Their tobacco are undonbtedly exports offugar and the chief article of very: inconfiderables for hides of horned cattle. exportation appears to be the deed, that the It feems probable, inin this ifland, greater part ofthe Spanifh is once the paradife of a property now abandoned to the beafts of the happy people, vultures that hover round field, and the The accounts of their them. and unfaitisfadtory. population are alfo fcanty By the earlieft learn, that there were at one hiftorians we ans in Hifpaniola. Its period 14.000 Caftilivery produétive mines were at that time a property, nue of-more than yielding an annual revethefe were exhaufted, I6o,ccol. Sterling; but when penury, floth, and the colony dwindled into The depopulation. origin of the introduction traced in another offlaves has been have place ; but this does not feem to number augmented of their population. 1 In all inhabitants, flaves 1717, the only 18,410, and fince that and freemen, was have certainly time their numbers number' decreafed. Of pure whites the perhaps is 3000. The charaéter of thefe Spanifh may judge from their conduét colonifts, if we war,is not of the moft during the prefent behaviour to the French unexceptionable kind. Their the meanef national loyalifts was marked with they were animofity, and to the jealous and treacherous Englifh whole, there is reafon to friends, On the fuppofe, that a great part --- Page 393 --- C ST. DOMINGO. race; a motley of them are a bafe and degenerate Indian, and African anmixture from European, polifhed by intercourfe They are neither. but ceftry. byseullivation. with mankind, nor improved enfeebled by floth, and live in a gloomy languor, depreffed by poverty. whom the inOf thofe negroes in St. Domingo loofe from the fetters terpofition of France has let what will be the fuof flavery, it is difficult to fee witneffed the berieture fituation. I,fromhaving fhould difmifs the ferocifits of civilized life, they they may yet attain to an of favages, and the ous purfuits of truth eminent rank in the knowledge has fhown us, pradlice ofvirtue. But experience requifite to make men though other that emancipation, will not operate wichout dignified and good, nature. The Maroon means to fublimate human of St. Vinof Jamaica, anid the Charaibes but they are negroes the flaves of white men, and cent, are not midft of polithed fociety 5 ftill-favages in the it is, alas 1 to be,feared, that what thefe now are, will hereafter be. the negroes of St. Domingo F L N I S. though other that emancipation, will not operate wichout dignified and good, nature. The Maroon means to fublimate human of St. Vinof Jamaica, anid the Charaibes but they are negroes the flaves of white men, and cent, are not midft of polithed fociety 5 ftill-favages in the it is, alas 1 to be,feared, that what thefe now are, will hereafter be. the negroes of St. Domingo F L N I S. --- Page 394 --- Bo7-346 LIST OF BOOKS Pristedfar and Sold ly MUNDELL & and J. MuspEEL, SoN, Edinburgh, Collige, Glafgow. I. CORNELIT 1 plementis explevit, TACITI Notis, Opera,- recognovit, emendavit, illuftravit, Gabriel Brotier, Difentationibuse Tabulis fap2. Idem Liber, 4 tom. royal 4 tom. 4to, 51. IOS. boards, Geographicis In this edition are included 8vo, 3135, boards. the Paris 12mo edition, the Notes.a added by Brotier to merly publifhed with' the incorporated with thofe he had for30. more Horatii complete than either tri. the and Paris it is thus rendered -et.Notis Hlluftravit, Flacci Opera, cum Scholiis véteribus editions, Obfervationcs addidit Gulichen-Dostenus Jo. Matthias Varias Lectiones caligavit, nova, iperfit Jo. Carolus Zeunius, Prof. Gelnerus. Gr, Quibus et fuas ad- et priore emendatior, 4to, Litt, Viteberg: 4. Idem Liber, royal 11.4s. boards. Editio 5: Publii Viegili Maronis 8vo, 128. boards. Optimorum Bucolics, Georgica et bound. Exempiarium fidem recenfita, poft Aneis, ad 6. Idem Liber, 12mo, 35. 6d, 7. Grammnaticae pot Latinee 12mo, IS. 8d. bound. A. captum accommodats, Methodo Inititationes, facili, et,ad Paerorum 8.. 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Grammatical imtion; veral Moods and Tenfes, Exercifes; ànd of Or, the An Exemplifieation of the fe: beft Roman confifting chiefly of Moral principal Rules of Confirucback into Authors, and tranflated Sentences, into colleéted out ofrthe lumn, taken Latin, for the Latin Words Englih, to be rendered Aecilence,and the moft part from Ms.-Turner's being all in the oppofite CoRudiments, adapted to the Method of Mr. Exercifes to the 18mo, IS. bound, Ruddiman's Latin --- Page 395 --- --- Page 396 --- --- Page 397 --- AT D799 E2bh --- Page 398 ---