[3] Annals of Cong., 9 Cong. 2 sess. p. 238.
[4] There were at least twelve distinct propositions as to the disposal of the Africans imported:—
1. That they be forfeited and sold by the United States at auction (Early's bill, reported Dec. 15: Annals of Cong., 9 Cong. 2 sess. pp. 167–8).
2. That they be forfeited and left to the disposal of the States (proposed by Bidwell and Early: Ibid., pp. 181, 221, 477. This was the final settlement.)
3. That they be forfeited and sold, and that the proceeds go to charities, education, or internal improvements (Early, Holland, and Masters: Ibid., p. 273).
4. That they be forfeited and indentured for life (Alston and Bidwell: Ibid., pp. 170–1).
5. That they be forfeited and indentured for 7, 8, or 10 years (Pitkin: Ibid., p. 186).
6. That they be forfeited and given into the custody of the President, and by him indentured in free States for a term of years (bill reported from the Senate Jan. 28: House Journal (repr. 1826), 9 Cong. 2 sess. V. 575; Annals of Cong., 9 Cong. 2 sess. p. 477. Cf. also Ibid., p. 272).
7. That the Secretary of the Treasury dispose of them, at his discretion, in service (Quincy: Ibid., p. 183).
8. That those imported into slave States be returned to Africa or bound out in free States (Sloan: Ibid., p. 254).