“But I am told the planters never beat you.”
“Tell me then, Senhor, how was this deep wound caused?”
In support of this statement the whole group of slaves chimed in with exclamations and assertions that they were constantly flogged and beaten.
“Do you desire your freedom?”
“Senhor, why taunt us? Did you ever know an African who did not love his home and country?”
“Well, I think there are people in Europe who will endeavour to emancipate you.”
“Senhor, I fear when you get on yonder ocean, you will forget the poor slaves of Principe and San Thomé!”
This latter reply was uttered with so desponding a note that I ventured to make the slaves a promise, which British honour—no less than British responsibility—should see fulfilled.
“Listen, I am now going to Europe and shall soon meet the liberty-loving British people. I know how they detest slavery; I know how they will struggle for your liberty. Take this promise yourselves—and pass the word round the plantations to the other slaves—God helping us, we will set you free within two years.”