In procuring Slaves on the Coast of Africa, many Children are stolen privately; Wars also are encouraged amongst the Negroes, but all is at a great Distance.
Many Groans arise from dying Men, which we hear not.
Many Cries are uttered by Widows and Fatherless Children, which reach not our Ears.
Many Cheeks are wet with Tears, and Faces sad with unutterable Grief, which we see not.
Cruel Tyranny is encouraged. The Hands of Robbers are strengthened, and Thousands reduced to the most abject Slavery, who never injured us.
Were we for the Term of one Year only to be an Eye-witness to what passeth in getting these Slaves:
Was the Blood which is there shed to be sprinkled on our Garments:
Were the poor Captives bound with Thongs, heavy laden with Elephants Teeth, to pass before our Eyes on their Way to the Sea:
Were their bitter Lamentations Day after Day to ring in our Ears, and their mournful Cries in the Night to hinder us from Sleeping:
Were we to hear the Sound of the Tumult when the Slaves on board the Ships attempt to kill the English, and behold the Issue of those bloody Conflicts: