How long had you occasion to know that place?—From that time to 1834; from 1822 to 1834; I left the coast in December, 1834; I have had continual communication with it since.
During that time what was the trade carried on at the Gallinas?—The slave trade.
Was there any produce exported from the Gallinas at all?—Not a particle that ever came to my knowledge, or under my observation, or from the information I have received.
Was the country round the Gallinas a country producing that which was fit for export or usually exported?—Nothing but stones and trees, hardly what would subsist the people living there.
Did you know of the existence of slave establishments there?—As notoriously as that this Court is here.
You have seen them yourself?—Yes, certainly, and had reports from the officers I sent there.
Were you there more than once?—No.
Did you know any persons residing there? Did you know Pedro Blanco?—I knew him from reports; they kept out of my sight, they did not come near me.
Was it part of your duty to suppress the slave trade as much as possible?—That is the duty of every British officer.
It is necessary I should ask you whether it was part of your duty?—Certainly. I had no authority to seize slave ships though, but to give information to His Majesty’s squadron; and I believe I did that to some good amount.