iEx HtbrtH SEYMOUR DURST When you leave, please leave this hook Because it has heen said " Sver'thing comes t' him who waits Except a loaned hook." OLD YORK LIBRARY - OLD YORK FOUNDATION Avery Architectural and Fine Arts Library Gift 01 Seymoi r B. Durst ()i d York Library THE SEVENTH ANNUAL REPORT AMERICAN SOCIETY Colou^fujj tfje iFru XizopU af Colour UNITED STATES. WITH AN APPENDIX. WASHINGTON : PRINTED BY DAVIS AND FORCE, (FRANKLIN'S HEAD.* PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE. OFFICERS. The Hon. Bushrod Washington, President. Vice-Presidents. Hon. William H. Crawford, of Georgia. Hon. Henry Clay, of Kentucky. Hon. William Philips, of Massachusetts. Hon. Henry Rutgers, of New- York. Hon. John E. Howard, of Maryland. Hon. John C. Herbert, of Maryland. Hon. Daniel Webster, of Boston. Isaac M'Kim, Esq. of Maryland. General R. G. Harper, of Maryland. General John Hartwell Cocke, of Virginia. General Charles F. Mercer, of Virginia. Robert Ralston, Esq. of Pennsylvania. Right Rev. Bishop White, of Pennsylvania. Jeremiah Day, D. D. of Yale College. General John Mason, of the District of Columbia. Samuel Bayard, Esq. of New-Jersey. William H. Fitzhugh, Esq. of Virginia. Managers, Francis S. Key, E8q« Rev. "William Hawley, Walter Jones, Esq. Jacob Hoffmann, Esq. Rev. Dr. James Laurie, William Thornton, Esq. Rev. Dr. S. B. Balch. Joseph Gales, jun. Esq. Rev. Obadiah B. Brown, Colonel Henry Ashton. Rev. Dr. W. H. Wilmer, Eliao B. Caldwell, Esq. Secretary. John Underwood, Esq. Recording Sec'y. RicnARD Smith, Esq. Treasurer. Ralph Randolph Guriey. Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2013 http://archive.org/details/seventhannualrepOOamer COLONIZATION SOCIETY. The American Colonization Society held its Annual Meeting at the Supreme Court Room, in the Capitol, on Friday evening, 20th February, 1824. [We are greatly obliged to Mr. A. J. Stansbury, Reporter of the House of Representatives, for the following account of the proceedings on this occasion.] After the Hon. Bushrod Washington had taken the Chair, the Report of the Board was read by Mr. Gurley. General Robert Goodloe Harper then rose and offered the following resolution, which was unanimously adopted : Resolved, That the thanks of the Society be presented to the Board of Managers, for their active and successful atten- tion to the affairs of the Society confided to their care, the prudence, steadiness, and diligence, displayed by them in all their operations, and their very able and satisfactory Report laid before this meeting. General Harper then rose and addressed the meeting to the following effect : Mr. President, I will now call the attention of the Society to a matter of some, though not, perhaps, of very great importance. It is to a proposition for giving a name to our African Colony. Names are, at all times, matters of convenience, and sometimes of advantage. Our Colony has at present no name. It is situ- ated, indeed, near a Cape called Montserado, and has hitherto taken its only designation from this circumstance ; but that is a name not appropriate to its object, a name that means no- thing. In reflecting on this circumstance, I have thought of & a name that is peculiar, short, and familiar, and that expresses the object and nature of the establishment — it is the term Liberia ; and denotes a settlement of persons made /ree/for our Colony may with truth be called the home and country offreedmen, in contradistinction to the slaves of whom they once formed a part. This name, if I mistake not, will be found easy and apt ; and it certainly has the merit of being very concise. General Harper then submitted the following resolution, which was unanimously adopted : Resolved, That the territory and settlement of the Society, near Cape Montserado, on the southwest coast of Africa, be, and hereby is, named LIBEPJA ; by which name it shall be called and known in all the acts and writings of the Society and its agents. General Harper again rose and said, I will now offer another resolution of a similar char- acter, but with a different object. It is not only to give a name to the principal town in our infant settlement, but at the same time to mark the gratitude of this Society to that venerable and distinguished individual, to whom it is more indebted than to any other single man. It is perfectly well- known, that but for the favourable use he has been pleased to make of the great powers confided to him, (a use as wise as it was liberal,) all our attempts and efforts must have been unavailing. No means that we possessed, or could have pro- cured, would have proved adequate without his aid. As an acknowledgment of gratitude for his high and useful services, I make the following motion : Resolved, That the town laid out and established at Liberia, shall, in like manner, be called and known by the name of MONROVIA, as an acknowledgment of the important bene- fits conferred on the settlement by the present illustrious chief magistrate of the United States. General Harper then rose and addressed the Society in an able and interesting speech ; of which the following very im- perfect outline has been preserved : I have now a proposition to submit of more important im- port, and, perhaps, of more doubtful character ; (I do not mean in my own opinion, for of its propriety I entertain n$ doubt ; but in the opinion of others. I hold it perfectly clear, from what has come to my know- ledge of the progress of this, and all similar establishments, that no means within the possession of this or of any other private association, are adequate to the attainment of those objects which such an association ought to hold in view. £j, . r What are these objects ? They are in the first place to aid ourselves, by relieving us from a species of population preg- nant with future danger and present inconvenience ; to ad- C % %J* vance the interests of the United States by removing a great public evil ; to promote the benefit of the individuals removed, as well as of those of the same race that yet remain ; and finally, to benefit Africa by spreading the blessings of know- ledge and freedom on a continent that now contains 150 mil- lions of people, plunged in all the degradation of idolatry, superstition, and ignorance. All these objects are embraced in the vast enterprise in which we have engaged. To attain these ends, to confer on the sons of Africa and on Africa her- self, blessings &o great so invaluable as these, requires means beyond the reach of any private individuals to command ; all we have yet done, all we can expect to do, is merely to pave the way, to point out the track ; and in accomplishing this, we have derived the most essential aid from the chief Executive Officer of the Union. These efforts of the Society have shown that it is practicable to transplant Africans from our shores to those of their native continent, and that when thus transferred, they are capable of enjoying freedom, civilization, and Christianity. A few hundreds, at the utmost, a thousand colonists, might be within the reach of our efforts ; by such an experiment we shall demonstrate this, and essentially be- nefit the individuals j but farther we cannot, by our own ex- ertions, hope to go. In the mean while, there exists among us a great social evil . a cancer on the body politic, that is gradually eating its way to the vitals of the state : — It is at work while we sleep and when we wake — and it will continue., if not speedily arrested. 3 to pervade and corrode, till at length it has destroyed, the entire mass of our social strength and happiness. It can't be touched by us ; it needs a far mightier hand. The removal of a few thousand individuals will, in an evil of such magnitude, produce but little effect— -it will not even material- ly benefitthis class of population themselves; for it consists of more than a million and a half of persons — and though 3 or 400,000 already free should be removed, the great political mischief among us would be but slightly affected. And though the benefits derived to Africa from such an increase of 'he Colony would not be unimportant, yet would they be small in comparison with those which the country may expect, from the complete eradication of this evil. How then is that more extensive operation which alone can complete the scope of our design to be ultimately, or ever, accomplished ? How is this vast mass of a vicious po- pulation to be safely withdrawn from among us, and with jus- tice to those more immediately interested in their present con- dition ? Their removal must have three qualifying circum- stances. First, it must be gradual, for if attempted suddenly, avoid would be occasioned by the precipitate subduction of so great an amount of effective labour, that would threaten the most serious inconvenience, if not great calamity. In the se- cond place, it must be done with their own consent ; for to think of doing it without, seems equally against reason, justice, and the dictates ©f religion. And in the third place, it must be done with the consent of those who have an interest in their labour — to no other idea would I ever yield my appro- bation or consent. Now, to accomplish the object we desire on the three conditions I have stated, most evidently requires national means. These means ought to be applied ; the object is national, in its character, and in its consequences. If a hostile army threatened to invade any portion of these United States, would it not afford a legitimate employment for the army and the fleet? Whether it were New-Orleans or Eastport that were threatened, would make no difference in the question— the object would still be national, and the na- 9 tional force would be called forth to meet it. I ask then whe- ther the existence itself, of one or more of the States, is not a national object ? And whether an evil threatening that existence is not a national evil ? I need not prove it — to those who reflect at all, it cannot but be self-evident. To the na- tional government then let us address ourselves. The object on which we address them is national in its magnitude, as well as in its consequences, both for good and evil — (chiefly for evil.) To have applied before, would have been premature — to such an application it might, and probably would have been repli- ed. — " Shew us that your objectfis feasible ; convince us that the thing can be done," and such an answer would, I think, have been a wise and solid one. But now it cannot be made. The thing not only can be done, but has been done. A colony is actually established, in a healthy situation ; peace has been secured ; the means of supply and of sustenance are provid- ed ; all is done that needs to be done to complete the experi- ment, and to prove the practicat»ility of the plan proposed. — Now we can go to the government with solid argument to support us, and appeal to their good sense as well as to their patriotism. Gen. Harped then submitted the following resolution : Resolved, That a respectful memorial be presented to Con- gress, on the part of this Society, bating the progress that has been made in establishing a colony of free people of colour at Liberia, on the south-west coast of Africa, the difficulties that have been surmounted in the progress of this establishment, its present situation, its prospects of ultimate success, and the benefits which it m;iy be expected to produce ; and praying for aid from the national government, in the further prosecu- tion of this great national undertaking. General Charles Fenton xMercer rose in reply. He had listened, he said, with great pleasure to the remarks of his eloquent friend ; and he did not now rise for the pur- pose of opposing the adoption of the resolution he had propo- sed to the Society, but only to remark on some of the intro- ductory observations by which he had supported it. At a former meeting of the Society in this city, a resolution had B JO been brought forward of a similar kind. I doubted, said Ge- neral M. its policy at that time, on a belief that our affaire uere not yet ripe for such a measure. At the first organiza- tion of the Society, its sanguine friends were agreed in the opinion, that its success must depend chiefly on public opinion. The advocates of the plan might be charged with enthusiasm, which, in matters either of religion or of liberty, is apt to make men ready to believe almost whatever they wished, and to anticipate success as if it were to be produced by mi- racles. To repel this idea ,it was agreed by all that the steps of the Society must be marked with the utmost caution and prudence ; that in its acts might be found the best and most convenient answer to such an objection. It is now but seven years since the enterprise has assumed a public form ; though it is as much as twenty years since in my parent state such a measure was first suggested. It was then discussed in secret council, and revolved only in the inmost meditations of a few distinguished men. Seven years ago the intelligence of the fact that such a plan was maturing, broke in upon my own mind, and brought with it the first ray of light upon a subject which it had been long and deeply, but almost hopelessly, pondering. After contemplating the evil tn every various point of view, the result was that it was irremediable. This plan brought to me the first gleam of hope. It was not without difficulty that the Virginia Legislature determined to make public those councils ; and since the promulgation of them the plan had had to encounter the most serious ditficulties in public opinion. Nor is this at ail surprising. The plan itself is imperfectly known or un- derstood ; in those parts of the Union remote from the slave holding states, we have few auxiliary societies, and the sub- ject is little discussed. And though our progress has been more rapid of late, even now the means we possess, when compared with the population on which an influence has been attempted, are small, and I apprehend that we overrate the amount of our moral influence in society, when we in- dulge the supposition that our system is at present ripe for 'he measure proposed. We shall still be met with the charge 11 of enthusiasm ; and the objection has already been expressed by a Senator of the United States, that our object is grasped by feeble hands, wholly inadequate to sustain or to wield it. The objection is valid, if we alone are to make the attempt, or if it is to be attempted at all without the strength of the whole republic. And the question now presented is, whether we have so far conciliated public opinion as to render it safe to make an appeal to the government ; ours is emphatically a government of public opinion. We shall have to encounter that reluctance which is always felt towards embarking in new and untried enterprises : our effort contemplates great objects ; it looks at the colonization of those who go from our own shores, and the civilization of the native Africans. Reason shrinks appalled at the magnitude of the undertaking, and it will be attributed rather to the ardent wishes of our hearts, than the cool determination of our understandings, un- less we mark our every movement with extreme caution. So far we have lost nothing, not even time ; for while the Colony has been gradually making progress, we have been occupied in exertions in our own country. If those exertion* had so.far succeeded as to bring the subject into discussion in every state of the Union, I should think we ought to apply to Congress with a hope of success ; but I fear that we shall meet with difficulties in that body from prejudice, from the power of habit, and from constitutional difficulties as to the power of appropriation. On these accounts I should iiave preferred delay, till the legislatures of the several states had strengthened our application by memorials on the subject. Still, however, we have obtained some. The Legislatures of Georgia, of Tennessee, of Maryland, and Virginia, have expressed sentiments favourable to our general object, and Ohio goes the full length of the resolution now on the table. But this is only a small portion of twenty four states. I am not disposed, however, to oppose the resolution, but I doubt its policy. I did hope the Managers would, ere this time, have ascer- tained the temper of the present Congress on this subject 12 If this has been done, and we have any reasonable hope of success, I should then think we had better present our memo- rial ; but I am unwilling that it should be presented and fail. I entirely concur with my friend in the encomium he has pronounced on our venerable Chief Magistrate for the firm and patriotic efforts by which he has advanced the design in which we are engaged. It is known to all the members of the Society, that $ 100,000 were appropriated three years since, and 30 or 40,000 have been since applied to an object affiliated to our design, and essentially, though collaterally, contributing to its advancement ; the sending out of Agents of the United States to the African coast, and the transportation of persons in the public ships. By these means we have ob- tained, in fact, all we could have expected to obtain, had Congress decided to aid our enterprise ; nor has this been done by any perversion of his powers. It has been done avowedly and in good faith. The Executive apprized Con- gress of his construction of the powers confided to him, and that body tacitly assented to the construction. And I am not sure that it will be good policy to ask Congress for aid in a direct form, when we aie already sure of receiving it from a collateral source. We may, in the mean while, expect to re- ceive aid from each of the State Legislatures, in relation to the black population within the bounds of such state. I only differ from my highly respectable friend in point of time. The policy is American throughout, for whatever re- lieves the south aids the north; the strength of the south would be more available in time of war ; and in peace, a free- man is always better than a slave. The north, whatever she may think, or however she may feel, has a deep interest in the emancipation and the colonization of the slave population of the southern states. I make these remarks in reply to the argument of selfishness, which is sometimes brought in bar of the claims of this society to northern patronage ; for we have been charged with wishing only to remove our free blacks, that we may the more effectually rivet the chains of the slave. But the class we first seek to remove, are neither freemen nor slaves ; but between both, and more miserable than either. 13 George Washington Park Custis, Esq. then rose, and said that he would do himself the honour of seconding the motion made by his honourable friend. Mr. Custis supported the adoption of the proposed measure of applying for aid to the General Government in a speech replete with impressive ima- ger) r , but of which our limits will admit us to present only a very summary view. He observed that the early history of every attempt at Colonization had been uniformly marked with disaster, as if it were the will of heaven that all great and novel enterprises should be attended with difficulty in their outset, to shew how those difficulties could sink before labour and virtue. The cau«e of this Society had virtue on its side ; the object it sought to achieve was an act of retributive justice. The race it sought to benefit had been torn by tho white man from their home and native land, and condemned without a provocation to toil and servitude ; and now we were endeavouring, by restoring to the land of their nativity to re- medy, so far as remained in our power, the evil of our forefa- thers. With such an object to plead for, he would go to the great council of the nation as the guardians of American liber- ty, the conservators of the public morals : and he would tell them " You are the last of Republics ; you boast that this is the seat of freedom, of justice, of honour, of high and magnani- mous feeling. The evil we would remedy is none of ours, it was done before we were born, and it is left for us to undo. — Lend us your aid to strike the fetters from the slave, and to spread the enjoyment of unfettered freedom over the whole of our favoured and happy land." Mr. Custis then made some remarks in reply to what had fallen from Gen. Mercer, respecting the prejudices which still existed in northern sections of the Union, in relation to the character and designs of the Society ; and contended that it was not possible that such a feeling could long continue. They have not forgotten that southern men were at their side when they braved the Canadian snows, and scaled the icy bulwarks of Quebec. Then we were only confederated states, now we are one nation, one family. He passed a warm enco- 14 mium upon the northern character, and felicitated the people of that part of the Union on their distinguished blessings and happy condition. But would they not dispense these bless- ings ? Did they not feel for the condition of the south, so op- posite in many respects to their own ? Could they forget the heights of Cambridge, where they saw the hunting-shirt of the south coining up to their aid, and heard the voice of their brethren hailing the spark of freedom that northern hands had kindled, and crying out — " Go on, we are coming to support you !" Mr. Custis anticipated with exaltation the results that would follow the success of the Society's efforts in removing this wretched population from the American soil, and restoring them to the land of their forefathers. When the bark that bore them approached the African shore, it would not be hailed with such shouts as welcomed Columbus when he bore to the people of the Western Archipelago the emblem of the cross — an emblem that appeared only to both nations in each others blood. W T e sent them the star spangled ban- ner, that constellation whose rising lighted the world to free- dom. When that banner shall float over their corn-clad hills and plains, waving in harvest, they will not think of Cortes or Pizarro — the name of America will be hailed with enthusi- asm by millions on that vast continent that are now unborn. He called the society to remember the first colonization of this country. A feeble little vessel bore the adventurous band, but virtue and religion led the way ; the genius of philo- sophy was perched upon the helm. Now we are become a great nation ; should we not pity others ? In his remarks upon the unhappy situation of the planters, Mr. C. said, that what he^poke, he spoke not from specula- tion ; he brought not the dreams of others, but his own experi- ence ; touching all those evils, he might with truth say — Quorum magna pars fuu He had lived to see, and painfully to feel, the errors of the system. His great hope lay in the magnanimity of those who were happily free from that system, and who, when they un- 15 derstood and became convinced of the feelings and desires ot the men of the south for its entire removal, and saw a plan for that removal that presented a feasible prospect of success, would not, could not, refuse their aid to carry it into effect. The nation possessed the power to effect it. The Republic was not now feeble and panting from the mighty effort of its newly accomplished emancipation ; it had had time to breathe, to recruit its strength, to be refreshed, and to prepare itself for new exertions in the cause of light and liberty, and human happine c s. On the subject of this enterprise, the nation has been as if in a deep sleep ; but when a lion slept, it was not the time to form conjectures on his power; would you see his strength, you must rouse him up from his lare. With respect, to the American Republic, she had only to awake, she had but to " Stretch her hand — She heav'd the gods the ocean of the land." What had she not already achieved ? If she could only be brought to think upon this subject, and once to turn her strength to its accomplishment, all difficulties would vanish before her way. The national genius, like the tube of Her- cchell, will discover satellites and suns that none believed had place within the starry sphere. Mr. Custis urged the Society to persevere in its attempt up- on the coast, undismayed by any discouragements. They may destroy our huts ; they may overwhelm us with numbers ; our bones may be scattered on the shore, but still we must perse- vere ; still let Columbia's flag be seen upon the coast, so long as we can hold but au inch of ground. Though we may be again and again cast down, still let us rise like Anteous from the ground, with strength renewed and invigorated by every re- pulse. He said he was a late convert to this cause ; but be had learned from the highest authority, that there was more joy over one that repented, than over ninety and nine persons who needed no repentance. He trusted the Society would continue its course under the same wise and able direction that had hitherto guided it. Light appeared in the horizon : 16 a triumph was before this Society such as the wisest man might envy, and the most virtuous man long to realize. They would triumph, not as conquerors, binding bleeding nations to their chariot wheels ; but as liberators, who came not to des- troy but to save. Their triumph would not be like that of I'ompey for three nations subdued ; whose train was filled with the groaning of captives in chains : their march would be surrounded by the songs of the grateful, the blessings of the free ; their triumph would be recorded in two hemispheres, and its lasting memorial would be written in heaven. Gen. Harper replied, although his very able friend was not absolutely in opposition, he had suggested strong objections, deserving serious consideration. If we are defeated again and again in our addresses to the Legislature, this should not damp our ardour, but give new courage for new attacks. It is not whether puplic opinion is ready for this measure, but are we ready ? If so, aid may be claimed in our behalf : let us go to the Legislature and appeal to their good sense, rouse their feelings, awaken their patriotism, soften their hearts., and enlighten their understandings. It is said there is no government for the colony, therefore thi? measure is premature. This is a reason with me for making the application. The Legislature of the United States only can form a Government ; I hope they will do it ; I think they ought to do it. They can create what now does not exist. Thus far, the Government has been only by consent and mu- tual understanding : a generous assumption of authority for be- neficial purposes. Numerous applications to Congress may be necessary. The sooner they begin to be made, the sooner will they be acted on. I do not wish to see in Africa a colonial government, permanently attached to the United States. I do not wish for colonies to be held for use and made subservient : but I wish to see the paternal arm of authority stretched out for the protection of this colony, until it shall be able to man- age its own affairs, legislative, judicial, and executive. This state of things cannot exist immediately. We hope it will soon. The authority now required is temporary to fit 17 the colony for perfect political independence. Such autho- rity may be exerted. How soon Congress may think proper to establish a government for the colony is unknown : the sooner it is done the better. But Congress, it is said, will object to measures which may incur expense. There is in this body, it is said, a dread of taxation, and aid will be refused on the ground of economy. These difficulties are inherentin the very nature of our object. They arise from the character of our government and people. They must be met at some time : the sooner we commence, the sooner shall we overcome them. If ©ur journey is long, we should set out the sooner. It is said we must seek aid from the states — granted. They are called upon by the most powerful motives to activity and energy in the cause. But has not the nation an interest in our object as well as the states ? Let us go to all the states ; but not exclude the national government. There is scope for all united. There is avast national object to be attained. I heartily concur in the opinion, that we should apply to the states. But by addressing Congress, we shall prepare the way for such application. We ought to explain our views and plan soon and fully ; so that they may be seen and under- stood by the nation. The sooner and the more fully this is done the better ; and in no way can it be so well done, as by an application to Congress, and the discussions to which it will give rise. Thus our light, instead of remaining hid un- der a bushel, will be placed on high, and seen by the nation. W. Jones, Esq. made some remarks concerning the difficulty of the subject under discussion, and proposed the following resolution, which was adopted. Resolved, That the resolution just offered be referred to a committee of five, who shall be instructed to inquire into the expediency of an immediate application to Congress, and the nature and extent of the aid to be asked for ; and, that the said committee report the result of its inquiries to an adjourned meeting of this Society, on Friday, 5th March next. The committee appointed under this resolution were — Gen. R. G. Harper, W. Jones, Esq. Wm. H. Fitzhugh, Esq. Gen. C. F. Mercer, Gen. John Mason. C On motion by Gr. W. P. Custis, Esq. Resolved, That thi* meeting consider the important services rendered to the Afri- can Colony when in circumstances of great distress, by Capt. Robert Traill Spence, and the officers and crew of the U. S. ship Cyane, services which were performed by them at the hazard of their lives, as entitling them to the gratitude and re- spect of all the friends of mankind. On motion of Gen. C. F. Mercer, Resolved, That this meeting recommend to their friends the formation, as soon as practicable, of an Auxiliary State Society, in the principal city of each state in the Union, and the establishment of Societies subordinate to these, in each county or town of the several states. On motion of Rev. Wm. Hawley, Resolved, That this So- ciety deeply lament the untimely death of Lieutenant Rich- ard Dashiell, Commandant of the United States' schooner Augusta, whose piety and zeal in behalf of religion, and of the interest and prosperity of this Society, entitle his memory to be cherished with the most affectionate regard, by all the friends of this institution. On motion of Rev. R. R. Gurley, Resolved, That this So- ciety is deeply sensible of its great obligations to Captain Laing, Captain M'Coy, Captain Woolrige, Lieutenant Roth- eray, and those other officers in the service of his Britannic Majesty, who, during the recent contest between the Ameri- can colony and the native tribes, contributed very important aid to our infant settlement. On motion of Rev. Luther Rice, Resolved, That this meet- ing are truly sensible of the great generosity and disinterest- edness of Mr. R. Seton, who, in a time of distress, offered his services to the colony, and that they deeply lament his death. On motion of Rev. R. R. Gurley, Resolved, That this meet- ing consider the conduct of Midshipman Gordon, and his brave companions, of his Britannic Majesty's schooner Driver, who, when the colony was in a condition of great peril, offered their services for its defence, most of whom sacrificed their lives for its benefit, as most magnanimous, and entitling their memory to a grateful, sacred, and perpetual regard. On motion of Gen. John Mason, Resolved, That the able ser- vices of Dr. Eli Ayres, the Agent of the Society in the African colony, have entitled him to the gratitude, confidence, and es- teem, of this meeting, and of all the friends of the objects it has in view. On motion, Resolved, That the Officers of the Society elect- ed at the last annual meeting, be continued for the ensuing year. Resolved, That the Society now adjourn, to meet again at the same place, on Friday, 5th March next, REPORT. With the warmest gratitude and invigorated hope, the Board record the events connected with their institution during the past year. Aware of the exposed and suffering condition of the colony, the Managers proceeded, immediately after the publication of their last Report, notwith- standing the unfavourable season, to select emigrants and obtain supplies for an expedition. Efforts had been previously, but unsuccessfully made, to accomplish this object, and the delay was occasioned by circumstances which the Board could not con- trol. Dr. Ayres, whose previous exertions as the government agent had been so important, consented to return ; sixty-one coloured persons were received as colonists, and the brig Oswego, Capt. Wightman, was chartered, to convey this reinforcement, with its stores, to Africa. At this crisis, most alarming intelligence was received from the Colony. In the hope of relieving themselves from strangers whose operations began to excite apprehension, and of pillaging their dwellings, all the tribes in the vicinity of the Cape had combined for the destruc- tion of the settlement, and, strengthened by numer- ous mercenary warriours from the interiour, had pro- ceeded to violent and repeated attacks. Though the whole military force of the Colony did not at 20 this time exceed thirty men, yet their favourable po- sition, superior arms and skill, and valorous spirit enabled them to repel, on the 8th of November, 800 of the natives, and on the 1st of December, according to the estimation of the Agent, nearly double this number, with a loss of only four killed and three wounded. The same letters which informed the Board of this unfortunate contest, announced the cessation of hostilities, in consequence of the consent of the na- tives, to refer all matters of difference to the Gov- ernor of Sierra Leone. Though the intelligent and manly resistence of the settlers contributed in no small degree to discourage the assailants, yet for the truce just mentioned, the Colony w T as principally indebted to the kind interference of several British ' naval officers, particularly to that of Capt. Laing, the celebrated African traveller, whose familiar ac- quaintance with the native character gave facility and advantage to his negotiations.* Though this information was received only a few days before the departure of the Oswego, and when the colonists were already assembled for embarka- tion, yet duty as well as policy demanded, that it should not be concealed; that those who were about to link all their temporal interests with the destinies of the establishment in Africa, should not be left ignorant of its condition and prospects. A full statement was therefore made to them of all the facts just related ; they were told that before them * Appendix, papers marked A. 21 were trials, perhaps death: that a Colony could sur- vive in Africa only through the efforts of energetic, patient, and fearless men ; that regrets would be too late when they were landed on a distant shore ; that they were now at full liberty to remain in this coun- try ; yet the Board record it with pleasure, as an honourable instance of resolution, that no change was expressed in the purpose of a single individual, The Oswego sailed from Baltimore on the 16th of April, and arrived at Cape Montserado on the 24th of May. The joy excited at the Colony by this event cannot be described. Unfortunately, the war, and subsequent attention to works of defence, had prevented any due preparation for the reception of emigrants, and though this circumstance, at any season, must have occasioned deep regret, at the commencement of the rains it was peculiarly dis- tressing. A fever soon commenced, and spread w it li great rapidity amongst the new colonists. This was not unexpected ; and considering the previous exertions of these people to unload the ship, theit wretched accommodations, their early deprivation of the personal attentions of Dr. Ay res, who was among the first seized by the disease ; the occur- rence of eight deaths, furnishes in the view of the Board, no reason for change in the opinion which they have entertained of the African climate. Let it be remembered, that this fever has been generally mild, and that it has appeared in no instance among those who have resided one year at the Colony. A tropical climate is always trying for a short season, 22 to foreign constitutions, and the air of Montserado is, the Board are well convinced, pregnant with no danger, which is not annually encountered by thou- sands, who emigrate to the West Indies, or to the low lands of our southern states. Nothing, surely, can be more unphilosophical, than to attribute an effect to one cause rather than to another, when various causes exist, any one of which may, with the same probability, have produc- ed it, or to consider an effect as resulting from one only of several existing causes, which is most fre- quently produced by their combined power. Every intelligent and candid man must perceive, that the mortality among the colonists in Africa, may be im- puted to other single causes with no less propriety than to the influence of climate, and that to consider the climate as alone efficient in the production of this mortality, would be, to leave unnoticed circum- stances, which all history will show, have in their simultaneous agency excited diseases destructive to human life. One half the emigrants who landed at Plymouth, in the winter of 1620, died before spring. Did this fact furnish ground for the con- clusion that the settlement of New-England was impracticable? The affirmative of this question might be consistently maintained by him, who, from the misfortunes which have impeded the progress of our Society, can deduce an argument to prove its design without wisdom, and its success impossible. And here, the Board cannot but advert to the mis- representations, which have, through the sedulity of 23 opposers, obtained an extensive circulation, and endeavour, by the exhibition of a few facts, to remove any false impressions which these fictitious reports may have left on the public mind. Since the origin of the Society, two hundred and twenty-five emigrants, exclusive of those now on their passage, in the ship Cyrus, have sailed to Africa under the patronage of the Board. The census received with the last letters from Dr. Ayres, states the number then at the Colo- ny, to be one hundred and forty. Let it not be supposed that this diminution of numbers has resulted from mortality alone. Previous to the purchase of Cape Montserado, several discontent- ed individuals abandoned the Colony and settled at Sierra Leone, others returned to this coun- try. Information of forty-six deaths only has ben) received by the Board. That more have occurred, the Board have no reason to believe. Twenty-two of these were among the passengers in the Eliza- beth, the first vessel sent by the Society to Africa, and occurred soon after her arrival, near the com- mencement of the rains, through the unhealthiness of the spot on which, for a season, they were com- pelled to reside, and various other causes, by w hich future emigrants can never be affected. Four others took place while the colonists were at Sierra Leone . two of them only were the result of fever. Twen- ty others have taken place at the Colony since its establishment at Cape Montserado early in the spring of 1822: of these, four were killed in thr 24 recent contest with the natives ; two were drowned, one died at the age of eighty through gradual de- cay, and one perished through his own rashness. Four others were children under four years of age. Now, the Board appeal to the candour of their countrymen, and ask, whether, when the difficulties and trials which must for a season, be inevitably experienced by every new settlement on a distant and barbarous shore, are duly considered, the facts just related, furnish reasons to conclude, that the establishment of a Colony in Alrica is impracticable? Mention has been already made of the friendly aid afforded to the Colony, when in circumstances of extreme peril, by the officers and crew of his Britannic Majesty's schooner, the Prince Regent. To secure a compliance on the part of the natives with the terms of the treaty concluded by Captain Laing, the commander of this vessel, Capt. M'Coy, permitted Midshipman Gordon and eleven sailors, belonging to the Driver, who nobly offered them- selves to the service, to remain at the Colony until affairs should be finally adjusted. The purposes of heaven are too dark and deep for the scrutiny of mortals ; they frustrate our best concerted measures, and frequently resign the noble-hearted to trials and death, on the very field of honourable and disinterested action. In the midst of his zealous efforts for the benefit of the Colony, Mr. Gordon was attacked by an inflamma- tory fever, which, on the 25th of December, termi- nated his life, and by the conclusion of the first week ui January, eight of his companions had shared the same fate. " At the time of Mr. Gordon's decease," says Air. Ashmun, " several vessels, two of which were armed cruizcrs, were lying at the Cape, and we were enabled on the following day, to pay our last r.r spects to his remains by interring them, shrouded in the British flag, with the honours of war. The procession was composed of guards, a band of mu- sicians, physician, clergyman, pall-bearers, carriers, and nearly every individual of the Colony who was able to walk to the grave. The whole was con- ducted with that decent solemnity, which bespoke the deep feeling of a large proportion of those who assisted on the occasion, for Mr. Gordon's amiable qualities could not fail to recommend him to all his acquaintance. The language of the Society's Agent, when communicating the intelli- gence of this melancholy event to Lieut. Rotheray, commander of his Britannic Majesty's brig Snapper, so pertinent, and accords so entirely with the feelings of the Board, that they beg leave here to introduce it. " To express the regret I feel, says this gentleman, that a measure so full of be»^vo- Icnce as the Leaving this little force with us should have so disasterous an issue, it is s^p t>r fl uous to at- tempt, a- 1 should but wrong my own feelings." " We have derived from the presence of these un- fortunate men a great benefit ; it assisted in a pow erfui manner to allay the warlike spirit of the n«i~ Vivcc; inspired a fresh spirit of resolution into our JO people, and relieved tlicm for nearly three weeks from a part of their almost insupportable burthens, t shall rest it, he continues, with the honour of my gov- ernment, to make such an acknowledgment of the favours rendered by the officers and other agents of yours employed "on this coast, as justice and a pro- pel* estimate of the beneficial influence of interna- tional favours, given and received, plainly dictate."* Several children who had been taken captive from the settlement during the war, were, on the return of peace, immediately restored. An advantageous trade was commenced with the tribes in the interiour, and before the arrival of the Oswego, the condition of the Colony was evidently improved. The Uni- ted States' sloop of war, Cyane, Capt. Spence, had been at the Colony in the month of April, and her officers and crew left there the monuments of then zealous and persevering exertions. It is impossible to estimate too highly the services of Capt. Spence and his generous companions. When informed of the sufferings of the Colony, they immediately re- paired to Sierra Leone, fitted for sea the schooner Augusta, belonging to the United States, and has- tening to the Colony, offered it most cheerfully, every aid \k their power. Though the cruize of the Cyane had beeiiol re ady protracted in an unhealthy climate, Capt. Spence resolved without hesitation * . to remain so long on the coast as should be necessary to complete a work of defence, and make suitable provision for the approaching rains. He furnished the Colony with supplies and ammunition, built a * Appendix, paper marked B. 27 nouse for the Agent, and erected a tower of strong mason work, which, though somewhat injured by the subsequent rains, will, it is believed, prove an entire defence against the barbarians. Having nearly accomplished his designs, this efficient officer was interrupted in his exertions by the sickness of his crew, increased, no doubt, by the burning sun of that climate, and he was compelled to leave the Colony on the loth of April. The benevolence and zeal of Capt. Spence on this occasion, are the more striking, from the circum- stance of his labouring under great debility from a fever contracted during a cruize of several months previous in the West Indies. Determined, however, to neglect nothing, which might contribute to the results expected by govern- ment from an agency on the African coast, Capt. Spence instructed Lieut. Dashiell to take command v£ the Augusta, with a crew of six white and six coloured men, and to cruize in the vicinity of the Colony, for the purpose of at once subserving its interests and aiding in the suppression of the slave trade. The Board deeply regret to say that Lieuten- ant Dashiell died at Sierra Leone, on the 22d yf June. This mournful event has deprived the navy of an able officer, and the church of a dis- tinguished christian. Midshipman R. R. M'Mullin succeeded him in the command of the Augusta, \ hich is still on the coast of Africa.* The duties of the agency being found very ardu- * Appeadbe, pnpcr r:nrked C. 23 rtus, Mr. Richard Scton, first clerk oi' the Cyane, highly recommended by Capt. Spencc, consented to remain for a season at the Colony, and assist in a work evidently too great for a single individual. His services, though valuable, were short ; a violent fever soon reduced him to extreme weakness, he lingered for some months and died in the Oswego on his return to the United States. If it is glorious to die for one's country, surely those who fall while aiding the cause of humanity, liberty, virtue, in a distant land, fall nobly, and deserve a grateful and lasting remembrance. Since the arrival of Dr. Ay res, the number of buildings at the Colony has been considerably in- creased ; certain irregular habits among the younger emigrants corrected ; and a system of government adopted, which promises to exert an efficient and most salutary influence. The division of the land in the vicinity of the settlement, among the several families, has before this, no doubt, been effected, as Dr. Ayres observes in his last communication, " I have fixed upon the 1st of November for the time when all rations will cease to be delivered except to invalids.'' Such a division must minister every encouragement to industry, the great promoter of virtue, peace, and universal prosperity.* The evidences of public favour which the Board have received during the year, have afforded the highest encouragement, and they can no longer doubt that a general knowledge of their plans will be succeeded by the common and vigorous efforts * Appendix, pipers A also D. 29 of the country to execute them, and that the de&ign of the Colonization Society, notwithstanding dfe opposition it has experienced, will yet heconsunnna ted by the combined energies of a nation, and ap- proved by the civilized world. A thousand power- ful minds scattered throughout the Union, ai^e at work for this institution; the objects which it is intended to promote are every where becoming subjects of thought and conversation, and the spirit of deep concern for its result is rapidly extending, securing to it the counsels of wisdom, the donations of wealth, and the prayers of religion. During the spring, the Society for Inquiry con ccrning Missions in the Theological Seminary at Andover, thought proper to make the Colonization Society a subject for investigation. A committee; appointed for the purpose prepared a report com- prising the principal facts in the history of our St, eiety, and presenting what was deemed a fair view of its claims to patronage. This report was written with great ability, and produced uncommon excite mcnt. When presented, there was a Unanimous and heartfelt expression of regard for the cause of the Colonization Society, and a resolution adopted to appeal to the public in its behalf. That this might be done w ith the greatest advantage, two gentlemen were requested to proceed to Washington and con- fer with the Members of the Board. They were accordingly present at a meeting in June, and the LJoard received from them much important intelli- gence, as well as several suggestions deserting very serious consideration. 3U During the deliberations at this time, the Board resolved to represent, without delay, in a publiek address, the necessity for an immediate augmen- tation of their funds ;* to appoint agents in different states to solicit contributions and form auxiliary so- cieties ; to issue a prospectus of a periodical work to be published under the direction of the Board avhenever the number of subscribers should be ade- quate to its support; and to leave neglected no pos- sible means of increasing the numbers and resources of the Colony before the return of the rainy season. The Rev. Chester Wright, of Montpelier, Vt. one of the earliest and most efficient friends to the So- ciety, kindly consented to accept a commission of agency for a few weeks in New-England, and though many obstacles were thrown in his way, his indefatigable exertions have greatly advanced the cause. Assisted by the Rev. Leonard Bacon, a young gentleman to whom the Board arc greatly indebted for an able review "' of their Reports, first published in the Christian Spectator, and since co- pied into various periodical works, the efforts of Air. Wright have excited an interest in the northern churches, which, the Board trust, will be perma- nent. The recent donation from the Vermont So- viet} 7 , proves that the Board may expect most im- portant assistance from New-England. In the state of New-York, the Rev. Loring D. Dewey has performed, with distinguished zeal and activity, for some months, the duties of agent, and by his unremitted endeavours, effected the estahfeh- * Appendix, paper? marked B. also appendix, E. 5i merit of several auxiliary societies. An association of this kind in New -York city, which has existed for several years, seems to have experienced a re- animating influence, and in their recent report the managers record with pleasure " their firm and unalterable conviction in favour of the great cause in which they are enlisted." They believe it to be a project not only practicable, but pregnant with the greatest blessings to humanity.* From the report of the Rev. Wm. M'Kenney, re- cently employed as agent for three months in Dela- ware and on the Eastern Shore of Maryland and V irginia, the Board conclude that the opinions and sentiments entertained by the most enlightened peo- ple in those places, are decidedly favourable to then object. Though compelled by severe illness to desist for some weeks from his exertions, Mr. M'Kennev has presented the plans of the Colonization Society to the consideration of many intelligent men, ap- pealed to the churches for aid, assisted in the for- mation of several auxiliary institutions, and thus rendered important services to the general cause. Mr. M'Kenney every where received the kindest attention, and was assured by the distinguished men that on their part nothing should be neglected which micht be calc ulated to cherish or extend the flam< which he had kindled, or by the adoption of rnea sures for general and systematic collections, m&istei aid to the great enterprise in which the Society i- cm gaged.* The recent formation of auxiliary societies in * Annendix, V. Appendix, G Richmond, Petersburg, and Portsmouth, Virginia: the eminent names enrolled among their members; the liberal donations already transmitted ; and the deep interest expressed in the operations of the parent Society, are circumstances recorded by the Board with peculiar pleasure, not only as import- ant immediate benefits, but as auspicious omens of far greater good. Three very respectable societies have also been organized in this District, and promise considerable nid to the parent institution. To whom, indeed, can the Board look for support, at times when un- expected, immediate, and energetic action is de- manded, and of course, when no assistance can be derived from distant friends, unless to those in their vicinity who have professed their regard for the Society ; who are almost necessarily acquainted with its difficulties, and can inspect all its opera- tions. And why may not similar auxiliary institutions" be formed in most of the counties and towns throughout the Union ? Two or three individuals, possessed of zeal, industry, and perseverance in any degree like that which the cause merits, would, it is believed, seldom make an attempt to concentrate opinion, and collect donations in their neighbour- hood in aid of the parent Society without success. At the session of the Synod of North-Carolina, held in Fayettcville in September last, it was re- solved "to recommend to each of its ministers to nike such measures as might be necessary during the ensuing year, for informing himself respecting the origin, progress, and present state of the Colo- nization Society, and respecting its transactions to the present date, and to take occasion to preach one discourse, at least, to his congregations, in dis- course of the year upon this important subject/' This resolution was received without a dissenting voice. Resolutions expressing the most cordial ap probation of the design of our Society, were, about this time, unanimously adopted by the synod of Philadelphia and Virginia. The General Com en tion of the Protestant Episcopal churches, the General Baptist Convention, and the General As sembly of the Presbyterian churches have, it is well known, given their sanction to the enter- prise of tiie Board. The Board cannot record these honourable and auspicious movements among the ministers of religion, without devout acknow lodgments to their great Benefactor, and an earnest, prayer for his future benediction. Nothing, surely, could afford the Board more sin cere gratification, than to be able in the prosecution of their design, to assist, m a manner and degree, however humble, the benevolent and magnanimous intentions of the national government towards such Africans as may be imported into the country in contravention to the laws, and the belief that they m;iy have contributed in any measure to the utility of the governmental agency on the African coast, is 3 powerful motive for future and undiminished excr tion. And here, the Board beg leave to introduce from tfie January mtrifter of the North American Review, from the pen of the Rev. Jared Sparks, arc entire account of certain captured Africans who have been recently transported to the Colony under the protection of the United States. Those who would see a concise history of the progress, and a lucid exposition of the views of the Colonization Society, will find the whole article worthy an at tentive perusal. " Some weeks ago," says the writer, " a vessel came into the harbour of Baltimore, w hich from vari- ous circumstances was thought to have negroes un- lawfully detained on board. So strong w as the ground of suspicion, that a few individuals took on them- selves the responsibility of searching the vessel, and they found concealed eleven negroes, who were for- eigners, incapable of speaking or understanding the English language. A prosecution was accordingly entered against the captain as being engaged in the slave-trade ; but as he affirmed, that the negroes were his own property lawfully acquired, and no proof to the contrary could be adduced, he was ac- quitted. The law demands that in all doubtful claims to the property of slaves, the labour of proof shall rest with the claimant, and as the captain in the present case could produce no such proof, the negroes were detained by the court, although he w as permitted to escape. Through the humanity of some of the active members of the Colonization Society,* these negroes were provided for by being distributed among several families in the neighbour- hood of Baltimore, to remain till they should loon, * Appendix I. No- 2. die language and be able to express their wishes in regard to their future destination. " Fortunately, about this time, a young African by the name of Wilkinson, a native of the Susoo coun- try on the Rio Pongas, arrived in Baltimore. Some years ago, a chief of the Susoo's entrusted two of his sons to the care of the captain of a French ves sel, trading in the Rio Pongas, who promised to take them to the West Indies, have them educated, and return them at the end of four years. When the stipulated time had gone by, and nothing was heard of the boys, Wilkinson was despatched to the West Indies to search them out ; he succeeded in rinding them, but had the mortification to learn that the treacherous captain had not been true to his word ; he had deserted the boys, and they were turned over to work with the slaves. Wilkinson re- covered them, however, without difficulty, sent them to their father, and came himself to Baltimore ro take passage home in the Colonization Packet, lie had already been several years in England, and spoke our language with fluency. Soon after his arrival he visited some of the recaptured Africans just mentioned, and discovered that they came from the region bordering on his own country, and spoke , a dialect which he well understood, although it was not bis native Susoo tongue. They were overjoyed at seeing a person with whom they could convert but were incredulous when he told them that the) were free, and might return home if they chosi They said he was deceiving them, that they knvw they were slaves, and sliould never again see then- native land, their relatives and friends ; so thorough- ly were they impressed with the melancholy convic- tion of being in slavery, that no protestations could make them believe in his entire sincerity. They exclaimed with raptures at the thought of freedom, and of going back to Africa, but would not hope that such a dream could ever bo realized. The situation of these persons was made known by the Colonization Society to the President of the United States, who said, that if proper certificates were given of their desire to return, the government would pay the expense of transportation. The navy i gent at Baltimore was ordered to have them ex- amined. They were brought together for that pur- pose, and as the examination could only be carried on through Wilkinson as interpreter, he gave his testimony under oath. We shall speak of this in- teresting examination nearly in the words of Mr. i 'oaie, secretary of the Baltimore auxiliary society, who was present and took an account of the pro- ceedings in writing. The general question was put to them severally, whether they wished to remain in this country as freemen, or be sent to Montserado, and thence if practicable to their homes ; Dowrey was the first who was called to answer. He was a < liief in his own country, of whom Wilkinson had some knowledge ; he replied, " I wish to go home, I wish to see my father, my wife, and children ; I have been at Montserado, I live but three day's walk froih that place." Barterou answered. "Let me 37 go home, I have a wife, I have two children, 1 tiy< a morning's walk from Dowrey." The next per son ealled was Mousah, the son of a highly respect* able chief, with whom Wilkinson was personally acquainted ; he had been living with Gen. Harper, and when asked if he was not disposed to remain mid be instructed, and go home hereafter and teach his countrymen, he replied : " General Harper is a good man, he will give me clothes and food, and be kind to me, but he cannot give me my wife and children." When the general question was put to Cubangerie, he replied ; " Why do you ask this question over and over ? I am so rejoiced at the thoughts of returning, that I want words to express myself. Do you not know that nothing is so dear as a man's home ?" Mazzey said, " my mother is living, my father is living, I have two sisters, I shall be grateful to those who send me to my family and 1 friends." The answer of Fanghah was, " I shall be joyful to go home, I have a lather, mother, wife, sister, and three children to meet me in my own country." Corree said that all he desired was to be landed in Africa, and he should soon find hiv way home. Banhah made nearly the same reply. " After these eight persons were examined, they ••xpressed great anxiety to be joined by two of their companions not present. These had been placed with a man, who, it seems, was not willing to part with them, and had reported that they Wished to remain. This proved a false pretence set up v\ ith 3 view to profit by the labour of the negroes : and whatever may be the power of the law iii such a case, it will be difficult to make it appear in the eye of justice, in any better light than the crime of being: encased in the slave-trade. A writ on a fic- titious suit was taken out against the negroes, and they were thus released from thraldom and brought to the place of examination. When they arrived, their companions sprang with extacies to meet them, embraced them again and again, caught them in their arms, raised them from the ground, and con- tinued for half an hour at intervals to embrace and shake them by the hand. Nothing could exceed their joy at being told that they were free, and would sail in a day or two for Africa. " These ten persons thus providentially rescued from perpetual slavery, and made happy in the anti- cipations of again beholding their native land, and of carrying gladness to many a weeping disconso- late heart, owed their deliverance chiefly to the Colonization Society. They have gone home to prove to their countrymen and friends, that white men are not all barbarians, traffickers in human flesh, and artificers of human misery ; but that the flame of benevolent feeling may sometimes kindle and burn even in the breasts of this portion of their race whom they had hitherto known only as catchers of their own species, and workers in crime. " We know not the spring of other men's joys, bur as for ourselves, call it weakness or enthusiasm, or what you will, we frankly confess, that the heart- felt delight of having been instrumental in restoring these men to freedom and happiness, would have been to us a double compensation for all the em- barrassments, rebuffs, and obstacles, numerous and severe as they have been, which the members of the. Society have thus far experienced. Had they brought ro pass from the beginning only this one deed, we would lift up our voice in praise of their noble achievement and say they had been blessed with a good reward. These rescued Africans, full of gra- titude to their deliverers, sailed with Wilkinson in the Fidelity, for Montserado, in October last ; Dr. Ay res had directions to send them home as soon as they arrived." The Board rejoice to say, that the slave-trade seems to have been less extensively carried on dur- ing the last year, and to express their belief, that few American citizens now share in the gains of this atrocious trahick. The earnestness and deci- sion evinced by the government of the United States in its efforts to abolish this cruel trade ; the opprobrium and punishment attached by Congress to a violation of its enactments on this subject ; par- ticularly, its recent determination to consider such violation piracy, and to neglect no reasonable means of detecting transgressors, have almost, if not en- tirely, restrained this traffick under the American Hag, and promise to exert a benign and powerful influence upon the laws of the whole civilized world. The encouragement given to the publication pro- posed In* ihe Board; is a.t present inefficient to justify its 'appearance, though from the communica- tions of their friends, the Managers are induced to hope, that they shall soon be enabled to commence it. The character of this work must depend in nd inconsiderable degree upon information derived from the Colony, and to render it worthy of general patronage, a regular and frequent correspondence with the Agent there, will be indispensable. Inter- course with the Colony has already been greatly facilitated by the establishment of a trading com- pany in Baltimore, and the Board are happy to state that the arrangements now making by govern- ment, to guard the African coast, by vessels to suc- ceed each other in cruizes of short duration, will probably afford the means of easy, frequent, and safe communication. A large number of the free people of colour have the last year sought the patronage of the Board, and the disposition to emigrate to Africa seems coexten- sive with a knowledge of the motives to induce such emigration. It were easy to excite enthusiasm on this subject, but the Board do not desire it. The means will never equal the demand for tra nsports- v rion. .... . " ~~ The resolution adopted by the Board in the .month of June, to increase, if possible, the strength of the Colony during the present season, has not been neglected. By incessant efTort such means have been obtained, as, though not equal to the ex- pense necessarily incurred, have induced the Board vo charter a vessel : and thev are happy to announce 41 i he departure of the ship Cyrus, on the tenth of last month, with more than one hundred emigrants. These people were all from Petersburg, Rich- mond, and the lower country of Virginia. Most of them were, it is believed, inferiour in intelligence, industry, and morality, to none of their class in the country. Among these is the Rev. Colston M. Waring, a respectable coloured preacher, who, after having visited the Colony, now returns with his wife and children, and a considerable number of his pious and affectionate flock. May the bene- diction of heaven attend them ; may the purity of their lives recommend Christianity to barbarians ; may religion console them amid all the discourage ments of their work. The Board state with pleasure that the cxpence of transportation to Africa is far less than has been supposed. One hundred emigrants have been taken out in the Cyrus, liberally supplied with provisions for twenty-six hundred dollars, making the cost of each individual twenty-six dollars. Even this sum will, the Board are convinced, suffer a very consi- derable reduction when the resources of the Colony shall be so augmented as to allow of the simultane- ous arrival of larger reinforcements. In conclusion, the Board venture to express the hope, that the time is not remote, w Ia n the hearts of all the people in this country shall be set as the heart of one man, to advance the cause of coloniza- tion ; when the state governments and even Con*- gress* shall bring its mighty power to the execution * Paper ft F 42 of a plan, which the Society most earnestly, but in weakness, endeavours to promote ; a plan, fraught with the richest benefits for a suffering and degraded people, most intimately, essentially connected, with the wealth, strength, and glory of our country. In our national constitution, young and vigorous as it is, there exists a disease, growing with our growth and strengthening with our strength, which, unless remedied, will ruin us, possibly by slow de- cay, probably by sudden violence. Loudly, then, J as by an Angel's voice, are we called upon to awake, and before age has fixed our habits, and the poison become mingled in the fount of life, make those exertions, which may secure perpetual strength, pur- chase immortal glory, and save us from terrors, dark- ening as we advance, which invest the future with clouds of mysterious and tremendous calamity. Whatever may be the fate of their cause, trusting in God, the Board will persevere ; for, in the pro- secution of an enterprise, promising such benevo- lent such splendid results, they seek no higher praise than that of having exhibited the spirit ascribed by the poet to the stern and unconquerable Roman, Cuncta terrarum sabacta Prceter atrocem animum Catonis. Since the above Report was penned, Dr. Ayres has arrived in this country. His statements are such as to afford the strongest encouragement to the friends of our Society;* indeed, the question whether * Paper J, 43 a Colony can be established in Africa, seems to be decided in the affirmative.* The emigrants were left in the enjoyment of good health, and had com- menced the cultivation of their grounds. Constant attention, until very recently, to works of defence, has prevented any very considerable improvements ; yet, as the Colony is now considered secure from the power of the Datives, we may expect its pros perity rapidly to advance. It must, however, for some time longer, depend in part for a subsistence upon the charities of this country. Vegetables and corn will probably soon be raised in abundance, but the articles of meat and clothing must for one or two years be received from the United States. Supplies for the Colony are at this time demanded. The Board of Managers appeal to their friends for aid. Those who have confided in the generosity of the Society, must not be abandoned. The several auxi- liary societies are most earnestly requested to trans- mit immediately such funds as they may possess, or as they may find it possible to obtain. May the liberality of the American people correspond to the greatness of the cause. Paper K. 4 9 44 DR. The American Colonization Society in Account with Richard Smith, Treasurer thereof. 1822. April 20, To cash paid J. Ashmun $100 00 May 18, Ditto J. Gideon, Jr 9 00 22, Ditto J. Ashmun's draft 200 00 Ditto do 45 00 25, Ditto do 100 00 June 11, Ditto R. R. Gurley 150 00 24, Ditto Davis and Force 32125 Oct. 25, Ditto H. Payson, & Co 117 50 1823. Jan. 15, Ditto R. R. Gurley 11 00 $ 1,053 55 Balance in hand 2,219 87 $3, 3-. '3 42 Supra CR. 1822. Mar. 22, By balance per account rendered.. 2,525 16 April 30, Mrs. Janet Lingau . ; 10 00 May 7, Auxiliary Society, Newburyport, per B. Bannister, Treasurer 6l 00 Nov. 4, Ditto Fred, county, Va. pr. O. Waite, Tr... 300 oO 13, Ditto Jackson county, Ga per W Pentecost, Treasurer 40 00 1823. Tan. 6, Ditto Norfolk, Va 100 00 John Chew for the following persons, viz. Miss Mercer 5 Ch. Austin 3 Joseph Waller.. 1 Hor. Buckuer 1 Jac. Stares 1 Edmund Taylor 5 16 00 Feb. 12, Auxiliary Society of Jefferson county, Va. per W. Brown, Treasurer 55 00 14, J of Alexandria 10 00 15, Auxiliary Society of Frederick county, Va. O. Waite, Treasurer 150 00 19, Mr. Withers 5 00 Mrs. J. Withers..... 5 00 Mrs. E. Withers 5 00 A Lady 1 50 The charity box of a young lady of the District 8 00 Ditto of another do. 10 3-ears old 6 76 Rev. Asa Meade, Brunswick, Maine 1st mar- riage fee 5 00 83,303 42 45 DR. The American Colonization Society in Account with Richard Smith, Treasurer. 1823. March 26, To R. R. Gurley's account to J. M'Fadon for freight of brig Oswego $1,000 10 Cash paid R. R. Gurley 20 00 31, Ditto do. do. • 55 00 April 14, Loss on North-Carolina notes 10 64 12, Cash paid R. R. Gurley 200 00 Ditto do. do 600 00 16, Ditto do. do 50 39 May 1, Ditto do. do. draft to Bradford & Cook 29 65 15, Ditto do. do. E. J. Coale 3' 00 31, Ditto do. do 20 00 June 11, Ditto do. I. King, jr. and T. Tyson.. 237 50 Ditto do. do do 212 83 August 5, Ditto do. J. Ashmun jr's draft 195 00 Ditto do. Divie Bethune, &Co 107 47 Sept. 6, Ditto do. M'Fadon and Harris 1,000 00 19, Ditto do. W. M'Kenney 75 00 20, Ditto do. King and Tyson 52 50 Ditto do. R. R. Gurley, salary 200 00 October 3, Ditto do. do 100 00 14, Ditto do. do „ 60 00 Ditto do. Kinchy for books 6 00 Nov. 14, Ditto do. J. Ashmun 50 00 Ditto do. Mrs. C. A. M'Kenney.... 12 00 Dec. 19, Ditto do. R. R. Gurley 60 00 3l, Ditto do. do 550 00 Ditto do. Davis and Force 234 87 1824. Jan. 5. Ditto do. R. R. Gurley 1,000 Oo 7, Ditto do. do 20 00 Ditto do. do 476 25 9, Ditto do. do 50 00 Ditto do. loss on Vermont notes 3 05 16, Ditto do. John Stettenius 21 07 Amount 6,739 22 Feb. 13, To balance on hand 28l 72 $7,020 94 N. B. Of the above balance, $29 are counterfeit notes. Supra CR. 1823. Feb. 28, By balance in hand per account rendered 2,249 8? March 10, Cash from P. E.Thomas, on account of the Rockingham Auxiliary Society 45 00 27, Ditto Mrs. Mary I. Thomas, of Va. per F. S. Key 20 00 Ditto Jon. Pinkney, Treasurer of the Aux- iliary Society of Annapolis 6 00 46 March 27, Cash from Gabriel Duvall, subscriber for 1821 and 1822 $10 00 28, Ditto W. B. Bannister, Treasurer Aux. Soc. Newburyport, pr. J. Nelson.. 50 00 31, Ditto R. Gurley for his collections in Philadelphia, viz. From R. Ralston <. 10 Mrs. Mary Carswell 5 Mrs. Mary A. Ely 5 Lemuel Lamb 5 Alexander Henry 10 Cash « 5 Bishop White 5 Ch. Chauncey. 5 J. J. Janeway..., 5 — — 55 00 • Ditto Robert Ralston balance of collections 122 10 Ditto A donation from ladies in Frederick county 10 00 Ditto From M'Dupree, Treasur. Aux. Soc. in Raleigh, N. C 130 00 April 4, Ditto R. R. Gurley, collections in Alexa.. 110 00 Ditto do. do. in Georgetown 35 00 Ditto do. do. from various sources 25 1* 14, Ditto John Gray of Fredericksburg 50 00 18, Ditto Auxiliary Society, Frederick county, Va per Rev. Mr. Meade 100 00 23, Ditto Mrs. E. Murdock of Fredericktown.. 30 00 28, Ditto Joseph Avery of Conway, Mass 10 00 May 30, Ditto Vermont Aux. Society, per C. Wright 100 00 July 16, Ditto Frederick county, Va. do. per Rev. Mr. Meade, proceeds 5 Hds. Tob. 185 08 28, Ditto Putnam, Geo. do. by W. Turner.... 50 00 August 7, Ditto H. Hill, from Rev. L. L. Barstow for collection in Keene, N. H. 4 July 16 25 8, Ditto Joseph Cowan, Staunton, Va 5 00 Ditto Rev. Alvan Hyde, collections in Lee, Mass. 4 July 6 00 Ditto Rev. N. Willis, collections in Park- Street Church, Boston, 4 July .. .. 80 00 August 11, Ditto From Massachusetts Society to aid in the suppression of the slave-trade 500 00 14, Ditto A lawyer at Orrill, N. Y. the balance of costs in a suit between 2 col. men 3 00 27, Ditto H. Malcom, Hudson, N. Y. collection on 4 July, without previous notice 5 00 Sept. 11, Ditto Piatt Stout, Cor. Sec. of Aux. Soc. Maysville, Ken 20 00 15, Ditto Chris. E. Gadsden, Charleston, S. C. 50 00 25, Ditto H. Doyle, Tr. Aux. Soc. Fred. co. Md. 200 00 Ditto Nath. Burwell, Va. per J. Von Rieser 2oO 00 Ditto Mary Peters, Newhaven, of which $7 70 were a donation of her pupils 15 00 Ditto F.Anderson, Hagerstown, from him- self and 2 friends of the Society... 10 00 Nov. 7, Ditto Mary Dean, of New-Hampshire 30 00 47 Nov. 7, Cash from N. Willis, of Boston, per D. C $2 00 10, Ditto E. Worrell, Tr. Aux. Soc. Wilm. Del. 50 00 1*5, Ditto Mrs. Sarah Charles, of Morris, N. J. 1 00 Ditto Sarah Canfield, of do 1 50 Ditto Robert Finley, of Baskinridge, do... 2 50 19, Ditto Donation from the Dedham, Mass. Female Society for educating Hea- then Youth 40 00 Ditto An advance by said Soc. for educating 2 col. youth at Cape Montserado 40 00 24, Ditto From Miss. Sarah Black, on account of the Fern. Aux. Soc. Wilm. Del. 20 00 26, Ditto J. M. Smith, Schenectady, N. York 6 00 Dec. 1, Ditto Neahani L. Washington, of Va. sub. 20 00 2, Ditto Mary L. Custis, of Georgetown....* 5 00 Ditto Bushrod Washirgton.. 100 00 Ditto L. D. Dennis, "President, N. York.... 100 00 6, Ditto J. Marshall, Tr. Aux. Soc. Richmond 450 00 S, Ditto Rev. Hor. Gilpin, Lannington, N. J. 3 00 ]7, Ditto Miss Eliz. Stewart, contents of a cha- rity box • 16 00 Ditto From a friend « 50 Ditto J. W. Ross collected from the Presb. Congregation. Chambersburg, Pa. 5 00 13, Ditto Jeduthain Loomis, Treas. Vermont Auxiliary Society 355 00 19, Ditto Miss A. Stewart 5 00 Ditto Rev. D. Asherman, Knoxville, Ten. 5 00 Ditto Rev. R. Post, of Washington, collect- ed at monthly concerts for prayer 14 00 Dec. 31, Ditto Gabriel P. Disoway, Tr. Aux. Soc. Petersburg, Va 550 00 1824. Jan. 7, Ditto B. New-York 5 00 Ditto Anson Brook, Treasurer Aux. Soc. Portsmouth, Va 62 00 13, Ditto Rev. Ch.H. Page of Charleston, Va. for col. by the Rev. Mr. Hawley.. 15 00 14, Ditto Obed. Waite, Tr. Aux. Soc. Fred- erick county, Va 275 00 29, Ditto Aux. Soc. Queen Ann co. Maryland, per William M'Kenney 100 00 Feb. 5, Ditto Hon. D. Garrison, amount collected in the Rev. George W. JauvierVs church, Salem, N. Jersey........ _ 5 06 Ditto E. B. Caldwell, amount collected in the church of Rev. Jos. Caldwell, Chapel! Hill, N. C 10 00 7, Ditto Rev. Ch. Hyde, of Doylestown, Pa. amount collected in his church.... 10 00 12, Ditto J. M'Phail, Tr. Aux. Soc. Norfolk.. 200 00 21, Ditto Rev. R. R. Gurley, for collections at the gen. meeting in the Capitol 16 00 7,020 94 ,o S 2 S.S.- o «4 O p, j* £. g w o >. 2- a — d) > — III r- a c 5 £S 'a o> i« B ii 3 a c P o = a is, m « '= 2 ** c *? C CJ Sic a o. 2 o c-5 M g O 3 "» ri to Q P P to 2 J= = o — S * 5 « rt 5 73 a «J O CO o 5 !2 * APPENDIX. PAPER A. Papers containing Correspondence of Captain Rober* T. Spence, Dr. Eli Jlyres y and J. Ashmun, relating to the Establishment at Cape Montserado. Vr. Ashmun, acting Agent at Cape Montserado, to the Secretary of the Navy. Cape Montserado, November 26th, 1822, (morning.) Sir : I had the honour of writing yon by the Shark, on the 9th ultimo, and, subsequently, by the "Strong," in a very weak and sickly condition. We are now engaged in a bloody and perilous war with all the native tribes around us. On the morning of the 11th, were attacked by eight hundred, who were repulsed, after doing us some injury, with the loss of nearly one hundred killed on the spot. Subsequently, we have been employed in a negotiation for peace, which I fear will fail. We expect another assault to be made on us in two or three days. The force is powerful in numbers, poorly armed, and cowardly. We hope, with God's help, to hold out till aid arrives from some quarter. Now, if a vessel of war lay in the road, all these hostile move- ments would probably have been prevented. The spirits and health of our little number are much better than could be expected. W r e have six guns mounted on our lines, which we have supported by a musket shot-proof bar- ricade. We have so constructed them as to include onty about two-thirds of the town, the families without retiring within. I am nearly reinstated in the enjoyment of health. We are obliged to increase our stock of provisions, ammunition, inc. by every vessel arriving in tfte road, provided she have them. I have this day drawn on Mr. Beattie for $272 10, and en- close you, sir, herewith, the bill of Captain Daily. W T e very much need an increase of our numbers ; men with no, or with small, families ; more- hard shot, provisions and clothing, stone and other masons a 50 Wc can now, with difficulty, muster thirty men lit for duty. These are obliged to stand upon their arms night and day ; but, with a sufficient supply of good provisions and clothing, the habit will eventually set easy, and occasion no waste of constitutional vigour. I shall endeavour to do my own duty, and make the people do theirs. Human weakness can reach no further. The two additional guns at Norfolk, twenty-five soldiers, and the for- tifications spoken of in the preceding letter, (which, from the abundance of stone on the very ground, can soon be erected) in my opinion, would secure to us a peace as lasting and uni- versal as could be desired ; white the people of the agency could pursue the work for which they came to Africa, and im- provements in husbandry and the arts rapidly extend their influence in this part of Africa. I have the honour, sir, to be, your most obedient servant, J. ASHMUN, Acting Agent for liberated Africans. November 26th, (Evening.) Sir : Our negotiation with our perfidious enemie-s seems to have entirely failed of its object. They are bent on our ruin. We can only resolve to stand, and wait assistances. The presence of one vessel of war would deter them forever from attacking the settlement. Ten additional labourers, with one or two well acquainted with stone-mason work, united with what assistance we could give them, would, in four weeks time, complete a tower, battery, and wall, which, I beg leave to repeat, would so entirely command the whole surrounding country, as to ensure here, as it has invariably done elsewhere, perpetual peace, or something very nearly resembling it. We have only had time to begin the labour ; and, while our people all lie on their arms nearly every night, never can finish it. Permit us, sir, in these circumstances, to hope for the aid asked, without being disappointed. To aggravate our other losses, we have had seven of our children carried captive ; the oldest about twelve. We hear from them daily ; they appear to be as well treated as savage tenderness knows how to express itself towards them Ac- cording to a custom of the Country, it may be confidently ex- pected the children will be restored, of course, on the settle- ment ot peace. Kespectfullv, your obedient servant, ^ J. A. Loss on the dmcrican side, in the engagement of the Wth. Killed, 1 man, 1 woman ; mortally injured, and since dead, 1 man ; desperately do. 1 woman and 1 man, by bursting his own musket ; badly do. 2 men ; slightly do. 1 woman ; car- ried captive, 7 children. Whole number of sufferers, 15. J. ASHMUN, Hon. Smith Thompson, Sec'ry JVavy of the United States, Extract of a letter from J. Ash/nun, Acting Agent of the United States for liberated Africans, to the Secretary of the Wavy, dated American Agency, Cape Montserado, December 7th, 1823. " In haste, I beg leave to inform you that, on Sunday morn- ing last, the 2d, we sustained, with the loss of 1 killed and 2 badly wounded, a second attack of the natives ; their numbers are rated at 1,500. The Africans sent here by the government of the United States are all still unhurt, with the exception of the one wounded by the bursting of his own piece. Our whole fighting force, including 10 of the African youth*, is now 25. We have lost, in killed and wounded, in the ac- tions of the 11th November, and 2d inst. 7 of our best men. We are at present reinforced by 13 men, marines, under the command of a Midshipman, belonging to his B. M. ship the Driver, provisioned for six weeks; and whose detention here, for that time, will cause no charge to the American govern- ment. A promising negotiation has been opened by Captain Laing, Bt. Lt. Infantry, passenger hi the schooner " Prince Regent," from whom we obtained our men, and a moderate audition to our ammunition. No bill of it has been present- ed. It consists of 2 bbls. (lOOlbs. each) Cannon Powder. 28 do. 6 lb. Shot. 1000 Musket Balls, and 1 keg of Musket Cartridges. But Captain Laing's exertions in negotiating a peace, and probably securing to us a truce, has laid the American gov- ernment and Society under the greatest obligations. They positively refused to treat, freely, with an American ; but promised, on penalty of the severest visitation, to abide by whatever terms the English, through Governor McCarthy shall prescribe. I had begun to treat with them often before but, invariably, they violated their promises, and, finally, as- sured us they would die in the struggle, or destroy us ; and fully convinced me that all overtures for peace were fruitless. 52 till they had suffered another repulse. This they have suf- fered, and, in this situation, Captain Laing found them. Be assured, sir, that British mediation shall extend, in this busi- ness, to no improper length, if I live, and have wisdom to judge correct!}' on the subject. The calling in of their aid I believe to have been absolutely necessary to our existence here 20 days longer, and the promptness with which it came, evinced it to be the dictate of friendship, and sensibility of feeling. I can, sir, affirm, with confidence, that at least 2000 slaves are annually shipped from the Bay made by the projection of Capes Mount and Montserado ; an armed vessel stationed there, and 24 soldiers ashore, would divert the traffic at least to some other part of the coast, and greatly reduce its ex- tent." Extract of a letter from J. Ashmun to Capt. Spence, dated Cape Montserado, March 31, 1823. Sir : Owing to the extraordinary reverses to which the establishment at this place, including an asylum for liberated captives, and a colony of free coloured people, from the Unit- ed States, has been subjected ; and the circumstance of no vessel arriving from America with supplies, during thrs trying period ; we are reduced to the necessity of applying to you for such relief and supplies as our more urgent wants require, and your situation may enable you to furnish. The absence of a small armed vessel from the roads of Montserado, certainly invited those aggressions of the native tribes, in consequence of which, all our improvements have been nearly suspended for several months, and the settlement surrounded with the horrours of a savage war. A slight insight into the policy of these tribes, will discover that they never will venture to assail an establishment on shore, which has the support of even the most inconsiderable naval force. Your foresight has produced for us this important means of security, by repairing, manning, and allotting to the protection of the establishment, the schooner Augusta ; her presence at Montserado will likewise have a most salutary influence in checking the sale and transportation of slaves in the neighbourhood of the Cape. These inhuman practices, 1 regret to state, are to the pre- sent hour continued here, without restraint or disguise. Per- mit me to suggest the propriety of an application to our gov- ernment to have this vessel commissioned, to employ her force against such American vessels as may visit that part of the 63 coast included between the Capes Mount and Montserado. This service she might, in my opinion, render the cause of humanity, without the least detriment to that to which she is specifically appointed. I have already had the honour to represent to our gov- ernment my views, in relation not only to the utility, but the absolute necessity of an efficient and well constructed work of defence, both for our security against the insults and aggres- sions of the natives, and to add respectability to the establish- ment, in the estimation of foreigners. Since those represen- tations were communicated, we have unhappily been able to add the corroborative testimony of experience to their truth and importance. The native tribes, lured on by the hopes of getting possession of our stores, and observing nothing for- midable in our means of defence, have attempted, by the ut- most exertion of their power, our extermination; and a ship of war was actually sent by the acting commander of a large naval force, employed on this coast, to erect a foreign flag in the midst of our settlement, and transfer the jurisdiction of the Cape and neighbouring coast, and the allegiance of our people, to his own government ! To such insults and injuries the establishment must always consider to be liable while destitute of the work in question. A just regard to the cha- racter of the nation imperiously demands, in my opinion, that the agency which it has seen fit to establish on this coast, foi the most benevolent of purposes, should enjoy such a protec- tion. 1 am happy, sir. to perceive that, on this subject, your views perfectly accord with my own ; and was prepared on your arrival to ask for a part of the aid, which, in anticipation of any request on my part, you, sir, so promptly offered from your ship, for the erection of a permanent and powerful fortifi- cation. The labour and expense which the entire comple- tion of this work will require, must necessarily be consider- able — but its utility will be still greater ; and I have that confidence in the wisdom and liberality of our government, that I would cheerfully share any pecuniary responsibility incurred in its erection, although without the authority of a specific or ler. Vitally connected with the welfare of the settlement, is the preservation of the lives, and, as far as possible, the health, of the agents of Government. Nothing will contribute more essentially this desirable end than a comfortable habitation , several valuable lives have been unquestionably sacrificed for want of this convenience, and, in alluding to this subject, the re- collection of an irreparable personal loss, powerfully intrudes itself upon my feelings. The accompanying circumstances were distressing : a female, of most delicate constitution, lying S4 under the influence of" a mortal fever, in the corner of a mist rable hut, (to ventilate which in a proper manner was im- possible,) on a couch literally dripping with water, which a roof of thatch was unable to exclude ; recovery under such circumstances was impossible : and the mortal struggle almost brought relief to the agonised feelings of surviving friendship. A due regard to the preservation of my own life, and that of my successors, determined me to erect a comfortable house for the residence of the agents ; but destitute both of suitable materi- als and of good mechanics, I could hardly have effected my pur- pose without the aid, in both these respects, which has been received from the Cyane. Against the important advantages of having a commodious house erected at this time in the set- tlement, no judicious person will weigh the expenses incurred by the purchase of lumber, and the subsistence and pay of the workmen. The house is nearly completed, in a most airy situation, and commands one of the finest prospects in Western Africa. The propriety of soliciting the aid of workmen from on board the ship under your command, will, I hope, Sir, be ob- vious, when 1 inform you, that, of o#r small company of la- bourers, consisting only of thirty individuals, seven of the ve- ry best were either killed, or entirely disabled, in our con- flicts with the natives, and that, the want of mechanical skill aside, the remainder are, to the present hour, obliged to mount guard every second night. Without help from the ship, we must either have left these works unattempted or unfinished, or have accomplished them in a most rude and unappropriate style. The other improvements, to which the industry of a number of your crew has been directed, are scarcely less important ; and altogether will afford us that security against external an- noyance, and those domestic accommodations, during a rainy season of several months continuance, which we could not otherwise have hoped to enjoy. To R. T. Spence, Esq. Commanding U. SIiip-Vy(rae, off Moniserado. Extract of a letter from Capt. R. T. Spence to J. Jlshmun. U. S. Ship Cyane, Western Africa, Montserado, 1st April, 1823. Sir: Your communication of the 3 1st ult. I have had the honour to receive. Arriving on the coast of Africa after a long cruise in the West Indies, with my crew enfeebled by the heat of that climate, my own health in a precarious state, and That of some of my officers equally, I should have felt it my du- ty to return, after a short tarry, immediately to the itniteo States, had it not been for circumstances the most unexpect- ed. Informed of your destitute situation, occasioned by the disasters of a war brought on by difficulties growing out of the nature of your settlement ; moved by a sympathy and com- miseration which suffering ought always to excite ; wholly regardless of all personal sacrifice, I assumed a responsibility the emergency doubtless will justify ; and, in anticipation of your requisition, provided such a supply of necessary subsis- tence as will enable you to go through the approaching rain? without fear of famine — thereby ensuring, I trust, your Jinal success. The officers and crew of the Cyane have been engaged, day and night, in repairing, and getting in readiness for the service for which she will hereafter be applied, the schooner Augusta, found at Sierra Leone, deserted, and nearly destroyed. 1 shall leave her ofi the coast when I go hence, in a condition not less good than when first launched, with exception of her copper, which, however, will be sufficient for several years to come ; she is placed in charge of a careful officer, well pro- vided, and suitably armed. I promise myself that much good will result from her continued presence, and trust that your oWn expectations will be fully realized, from her remaining ia the vicinity of the Cape. It gives me great pleasure to contribute to your personal comfort ; not so much to your comfort in accommodation, as to rescuing you fiom a hovel, which a continuance in would almost forbid a hope of yous recovery : and which, from the Surgeon's report, I am induced to believe would ensure your death during the ensuing rainy season. The tower I have commenced, I trust will prove to you a tower of strength ;" the impression it is calculated to make, the security it cannot fail to afford, will produce a two-fold operation ; and be of infinite importance in many respect*, all of which are too obvious to require exposition. Monrovia, June 18, IP.23. Sir : We arrived at Montserndo on the 21th May, after a passage of thirty- two days from Cape-Henry. 1 rind the Qo- Ionists have all been employed by Captain Spcnce, since hi- arrival here, on a fortification, which was not completed when I arrived. A few days after I arrived, about one-sixth part of wall tumbled to its base, and the rest has given way in every direction. I believe it will be less work to build anew one, than to repair the old. Previousto the attack of the native^, our people had got gardens enclosed, and vegetables flourish- 56 ing finely ; and, had it not been for this event, and they could have had a small part of their labour to bestow on their lots, they would have been amply prepared to have maintained them selves ; but, when the enemy came upon them, they were ob- liged to take up their garden fences to make a palisade of de- fence. Their gardens were all destroyed, and not so much as a hill of beans is growing in the colony. The rainy season has now fully commenced, and very little labour can be done until the next dry season, which will be in November. This will make it necessary to continue the labourers at the public expense longer than I had contemplated in my for mer report, as I had expected a much more favourable state of affairs here. One of the captured Africans was killed in the battle, and there is much jealousy of the natives against them, for fear of retaliation for their being sold. — I would therefore respect- fully recommend to Government, not to send out any more captured Africans, until the requisite buildings can be erected, and a regular establishment made for them. Should it please God to restore my health and preserve my life, this will be accomplished in the dry season, and a regular system of man- agement entered upon, when any number likely to be in the possession of Government could be managed. But. should I be called away by death, it would be highly dangerous, from the spirit which these have manifested, to multiply their num- ber, without more efficient government being held over them than has been. If it should please God to spare my life, I will endeavour to have the building erected early in the next season. A fatality has attended every proceeding on this afFair ; but, if 1 live, and am supported so I can stay here, I hope soon to alter matters, and set them on a better footing ; but, should any of the common casualties happen the trading company form- ed in Baltimore, that they should fail to comply with their contract, and I find myself neglected by both Government and Society, out of provisions, clothing, &c. I shall leave the place, and the cause, in despair. The U. S. schooner Augusta has undergone a partial re- pair, but so slightly that she was thought to be hardly seawor- thy ; But Mr. Dashiell, who was left in command of her, has ventured in her to Sierra Leone, to get some further repairs, to enable him to ride out the rains. He was in a very bad state of health. This system of repairing, out here, is very expensive, and is partially done, and poorly commanded and manned, as to be of no service to the colony. I beg leave to press, with the utmost urgency, as a security to the captured Africans, and the success of this cause, that Government keep here a vessel prudently commanded and well manned. 5? There is but one man who came out with me, but what is down with the fever. I was taken a week ago, and have not* been able to see them since ; but they are all doing well. We have five deaths, most of them from foolish obstinacy. I hope the worst is over with me. I have got so I can sit up a few minutes at a time, in which way this letter i^ written. I have the honour to be, your most obedient, E. AYRES. The Hon. Smith Thompson, Secretary Navy U. S. Extract of a letter from Captain Robert T. Spence to the Secre* tary of the Navy, dated United States 1 Ship Cyane, Quarantine Ground, New-York, June 27, 1823. " After an absence of twelve months from the United States, in the West Indies and on the coast of Africa, 1 have the ho- nour to announce my arrival at this anchorage ; last trom a cruise among the Windward Islands. Up to the 24th March, on which day my latest communica- tions were addressed to you from Sierra Leone, you have been made acquainted with my official proceedings. Under that date, I informed you of the precarious situation of the co- lony at Cape Montserado, and of my intention to take prompt and effectual steps for its rescue and preservation. The schooner Augusta having been speedily equipped and made ready for sea by the activity of my officers, and such supply of necessary articles as would relieve the immediate wants of the colonists taken on board, together with about forty Kroo men, (whose labour had been secured, free of any expeuse to the United States,) I proceeded without a moments delay to the settlement, examining with due care the intermediate coast. On my anchoring, after a short passage, at Cape Montseradoj I received from Mr. Ashmun, the resident agent, a letter (see p. 52,) which with other communications, hereto appended, disclose the indigent and distressed condition of the colony, and forcibly show that my arriv al was not only most oppor- tune, and my anticipation of their wants provident, but, in every respect, essential to their future safety and preserva- tion. The presence of the ship at this critical juncture, ap- peared indeed providential : for, without the succour it wag my good fortune to afford, every thing might have been ap- prehended. A renewal of war was in agitation among the * The word not is left out in the original, and inserted here, as it is ap- parent it should have been in the ori^inn' H 68 hostile princes j and, from all '.ve could leani, and observe, the conclusion was unavoidable, that the entire extermination ot the colonists must have been the consequence. The head men were in the highest degree exasperated, appearing in no manner inclined to be appeased ; declaring that they had ne- ver entertained a design of selling the Cape ; that they had been overreached ; that they never possessed a full under- standing of the agreement, (or " book,") and, finally, that they never had sold, and never would consent to give up, Cape Montserado, the abode of one of their ideal beings, of super- stitious veneration ! Having made such provision for the maintenance of the " agency," during the approaching inclement season of the " rains," (nearly at hand,) and by a friendly intercourse and other means mollified, as far as practicable, the excited temper of the neighbouring chiefs ; having afforded all the aid to the establishment, which, under other circumstances, might have been deemed sufficient ; my own health much im- paired, my purser's wholly gone, and that of my officers by no means vigorous ; having also placed a suitable ves- sel in the immediate vicinity of the colony, a cautionary measure, which should not be relinquished ; I should have felt justified, considering the sickly season was about to set in. (particularly as the stores and supplies of the ship, from ex- traordinary calls, had become inadequate for a full expendi- ture for any length of time,) in leaving the coast for the Uni- ted States : but, sir, I could not persuade myself to adopt this course, while much remained to be done for the security of a settlement, the object of which appears to be fraught with such benefits to our common country ; especially as your in- structions enjoined on me to do every thing for the agent and colonists which they might require ; and it being the object of an officer to acquire the Government's, rather tiian his own, approbation ; to which end, I- was ready to encounter any hardship, and to make any sacrifice. The cause alleged, on the part of the chiefs, for making war on the peaceable settlers at Montserado, is merged in the statement previously given: namely, their never having had any intention to sell the Cape, the spot consecrated to one of their deities, or beings of superstitious idolatry ; that collu- sion had been practised in the purchase ;• that it was not a fair and fully explained contract, as they were ignorant of the paper they had signed ; with others equally absurd and falla- cious, founded neither in reason or truth. Such, however, were the causes set forth by them, in the various interviews had with the officers of this ship, during our stay, for their in- excusable and unprovoked enmity. But other latent induce- 59 ments existed, far more operative, which doubtless formed the true, and only cause of hostilities, committed by them on an unoffending people. The most prominent of these may be discov ered in the embarrassments thrown in the way of the slave traffick, by a contiguous active check, restraining, by its presence, a trade they never can willingly forego ; as, also, in the hope they entertained of being able to obtain, with- out risk or loss, the spoil and plunder of a successful war : for they had been led to believe, by emissaries sent among them by slave factors, that there would be much booty of stores, goods, &c. In these alluring hopes and prospects, at all times cogent with beings of their propensities and uncivilized habits, may be seen the reading motives for attacking the establishment at Cape Montserado. Seeing these to have been their incitements ; apprehend- ing their present inaction was merely a truce for more vigo- rous preparation ; finding that the chieftains were far from being inclined to abandon either their claims, or intentions, but waited only for a season better suited to further both ; convinced, also, that the defenceless condition of the colony invited aggression ; I determined, in despite of the plausible objections my own mind furnished to a longer continuance on the coast, to exert myself, during the short period I was per- mitted to remain, with a view of placing the settlement in the best possible state of defence. This wish became strengthen- ed by information receive*! from Dr. Dix, (whose friendly and social interviews with the Princes, enabled him to obtain much useful matter,) that another attempt on the colony was positively meditated, when the season inimical to the health of its defenders should set in ; that they were sanguine in the hopes of then accomplishing their object, by the combined operation of war, sickness, and famine. My determination, on this point, received also additional strength, from a per- spective of the fatal consequences which would inevitably re- sult from renewed incursions on the part of these barbarians ; while the means of security were inadequate to inspire confi- dence on the side of the assailed, or apprehension on the part of the assailants, expulsion was certain. The entire exter- mination of a remnant of colonists, who, confiding in promises made them previously to embarking, had consented to leave the happiest country in the world, to sojourn in the land of their forefathers, was not only possible, but too probable ; added to which, the loss of a tooting, happily acquired, in a situation second to none on the whole line of coast, after leav- ing Sierra Leone, and the consequent extinction of all future prospect of ever being again able to effect an establishment at -i place *o eligible, on terms so advantageous to (he Societv 60 and creditable to those who negotiated the purchase. A Mai - tella Tower I conceived well suited to effect the object in view ; a fortress of this character was desirable on many ac- counts, nay, appeared indispensable, not only to the end of affording protection, and giving security in the hour of inva- sion, but as being also the best calculated to produce a change of policy on the part of the natives, and well suited to make such an impression, as would deter them from a renewal of aggression, and thereby prevent the calamitous consequences justly to be apprehended : at all events, the consequences of harassing and vexatious depredations. Again, I considered it expedient to make also a proper impression on the minds of foreigners, jealous of an establishment, whose continuance and prosperity threatens an annihilation of the Slave trade, in that particular section of country lying adjacent to the river Montserado : this, with me, was a consideration not without its influence. The foundation of the fortress being commenced, with the assistance of the Kroo-men, its progress was rapid ; alacrity gave animation and activity, and promised a speedy completion of a competent defence. In fifteen days, a circu- lar massive work of stone, measuring one hundred and twelve feet in circumference, eight feet in thickness, and ten feet in elevation, was seen to tower above the surrounding heights, commanding the site for the town, and a wide range of the cir- cumjacent country, capable of intercepting, by its position, any movement, made either within or without the bar of Mont- serado river. In my expectations I was not disappointed. During the time this work was progressing, I had frequent opportunities of discovering its effect, in neutralizing, in no small degree, the menacing designs of the natives. Every day brought me additional proof of a change in their intentions, wrought by an amicable and conciliatory conduct, conjoined with preparations for defence — formidable to any eye, but with them, to all appearance impracticable. I was happy in perceiving this revolution in their sentiments, this change in their designs : as a friendly understanding with the powerful chief* of the neighbouring villages, is the true policy to be ob- served on the part of the emigrants at Montserado. While this fortress was advancing, other operations, calculated in an emi- nent manner to improve the settlement, were also undertaken and carried through : indeed, nothing was left undone which I had the power to do ; conceiving that both the spirit and letter of your instructions required the performance of every thing which a limited means rendered practicable, tending in any way to ensure the success of an establishment instituted for colonizing the free men of colour of the United States, and for the reception of captured emancipated slaves : object-. 61 commanding the approbation of every humane heart, and the benedictions of thousands, who are to be benefitted by their accomplishment. While I witnessed with satisfaction these laudable undertakings drawing to a completion, I felt no small impatience to leave the coast before the commencement of the " rains" — frequent tornadoes, warning me of their ap- proach, leaving impressions on my mind by no means tending to reconcile me to a stay of many days. The health of my crew was, at this time, comparatively good, considering the length of time we had experienced the debilitating effect of tropical heat, and I felt no small anxiety to preserve them in this state, for the service they were yet to encounter in the West Indies — a hope fondly indulged, but in which I was cruelly disappointed. Our labours ivere nearly at a close, when my Surgeon was suddenly taken down, and on the sixth da_> was no more ! The sick list received several names in the course of a few days ; cases at first apparently slight, speedily assumed the symp- toms of the coast fever! The appearance of this disease de- termined me, especially as the castle was finished, to delay no time in removing from the coast. In pursuance of this resolution, the crew were forthwith embarked, and the ship immediately put to sea. This measure, carried into effect with promptitude, encouraged a hope that there would be an end to a malady understood to be peculiar to the African coast, generated by the miasma and poisonous exhalations from vegetable decomposition and a deleterious atmosphere, thrown from waters which, after the annual deluge has subsided, be- come stagnant and pestilential. Such was my expectations, from so salutary a change ; this expectation doubtless would have been realized, had the winds been sufficiently fresh and favourable to have enabled us to reach, in a short time, a higher latitude. It was not, however, our good fortune to be thus propitiated — but the reverse was our lot — fogs, calms, with an alternation of rains and intense suns, rendered our situation truly deplorable, and rapidly increased our sick list, so that, on the 25th of April, seven days after putting the ship to sea, the sick report con- tained the names of sixty of my officers and crew, and was for some time diminished only by death — not in fact diminish- ed, for death but made room for others, brought down with similar symptoms, and threatened with a similar fate. The extreme humidity of the atmosphere, and the confined state of the ship, in consequence of torrents of rain, had changed, in a great degree, the character of this distemper, giving it all the features of the typhus. The symptoms were not al- together exclusively those attendant on this fever ; they as 62 Sumed a Compound and multifarious appearance, not always equally violent, but in most cases equally fatal. In many in- stances, a general suffusion took place, the body exhibiting a deep yellow tinge, together with a highly discoloured tongue ; delirium, madness, instant prostration of strength, with con- vulsive contortions, carrying the victim off suddenly. In other cases, the symptoms were wholly different, vital decay producing a slow and destructive debility, resulting in extinc- tion of life." From Dr. Ayres to the Secretary of the JVavy. Monrovia, Africa, July 18, 1823. Sir : A few days after landing in Africa, all the new comers were taken ill ; there has but one escaped the sickness : we have lost eight of our number. The colonists who were out before, have been very healthy ; there has not been a case of fever among them since I have been out. We are now all on the mend, but attended with a great degree of de- bility. The captured Africans have been constantly employed in the defence of the colony, during the late war with the na- tives ; and, since that time, the urgency of the affairs of the colony have been such that they have been constantly em- ployed in preparing a defence for the place, which has de- prived them of the opportunity of acquiring that information of agriculture and the mechanical arts which would benefit them in acquiring a livelihood in civilized life, according to the humane intentions of the President, expressed in his mes- sage to Congress, and approved by them. Owing to this circumstance, I thought it my bounden duty to retain them a year longer, at the charge of the United States, to accomplish this purpose. I have placed them under the care of the Rev. Lot Carey, a coloured man. A part of each day they are to attend, and the remainder of their time to labour, under the immediate care of Mr. Carey, in clear- ing and cultivating the land, whereby they will acquire a knowledge that will benefit them through life. Their labour is always to be under my immediate direction. I have not been able to settle the accounts of Mr. Macauley yet. The Augusta left here, a few days after my arrival, for the North, and has not returned, and probably will not, until after the rains — so that I am without the possibility of commu- nication with Sierra Leone, and unable to accomplish it. The goods received in the Colony from the Trading Com- pany of Baltimore, will enable me to dispense with the neces- 63 sity of drawing bills on London for necessaries, but can draw directly on the government. I have the honour to be, your most obedient humble servant, E. AYRES, The Hon. Smith Thompson, Secretary U. S. Navy. Freetown, llth March, 182S. Sir : Understanding that you wish to be acquainted with what stores, and other necessaries, may be useful to the Ame- rican Colony on Cape Montserado, I beg leave to acquaint you with the following particulars. In December last, going down to Cape Coast in H. M. C. Schooner Prince Regent, I was informed by a Krou Canor, that the American settlers were in war with the natives, who had attacked them the night before and killed some men, I immediately hastened to the spot, though considerable beyond it, to render what as- sistance I could. On my arrival, I was informed by Mr. Ash- mun, the American Agent, that they had suffered severely from the ill treatment of the inhabitants at King Peter's town ; he was in constant fear of being attacked by two or three thousand men ; he was also in want of powder and ball. 1 supplied him with the articles he stood in need of, and the next day proceeded to King Peter's town, accompanied by Capt. Lang, of the Royal African Light Infantry, when we made the agreement with the King, not to molest the settlers any more, until we heard from Sir Charles McCarthy. Hav- ing so far arranged peace and quietness, I proceeded on my voyage, on my return to Sierra Leone, in the Intercourse packet in February last, (they had not been disturbed since 1 saw them last ;) I did not understand from the Agent what was actually wanted for the settlement, but I have every rea- son to believe, that the following stores would be useful, viz Gardners Tools, Pick Axes, Shovels, Powder, Shot, Mu.« kets, Musket Balls, Beef, Pork, Flour, Lumber, Joist, Plank. Shingles, Nails of all descriptions. The Colony was greatly improved, considering the few men residing there, and allowing for the difficulties they have laboured under ; they have cleared away a considerable quan- tity of land on the Cape, am! had built for their own detV*n< . a square consisting of the country wood, in the middle ot which there was a long eighteen pound cannon, mounted on a pivot. I would recommend, if such a thing could be procur- ed here, four or six fiejd pieces) as the most useful thing required on so young a Colony I remain, Sir, your most obedient servant, (Signed,) JNO. JAS. tfcCOY, To fnptnin S^Ente, United ^'rufr.s Ship Cyan? 61 Sierra Leone, March 12th, Sir: I left the American Colony of free Blacks, at Cape Montserado, about the 22d ultimo, at which time they were in distress for provisions, clothing, ammunition, &c. There are five of the Colonists prisoners to, or in the knowledge of, King Peter — I redeemed one child with presents, and the Snapper Gun Brig obtained the release of another by a pa- laver. The Colonists are unable to cultivate the land and defend themselves at the same time. In my opinion they stand in need of Beef, Pork, Flour, Lumber, Nails, Gunpowder, Balls. &c. and particularly lead for casting musket balls ; these I consider absolutely necessary for their preservation. Some medicines and stores are also wanted for the sick. They also want some good muskets, cutlasses, grape shot, ramrod and screws, for the 12 pounder, &c. I paid for the child spoken of before 20 bars of tobacco, 20 yards of cloth, and 2 gallons of rum, which appear to be the best articles by which to obtain any thing from the natives. 1 am, Sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, (Signed) WILLIAM HABANGER. To R. T. Spence, Esq. Commanding U, S. Ship Cyane. PAPERS B. Extract from Dr. Ay res' 1 communications soon after the return of the Oszvego. Monrovia, July 11th, 1823. Dear Sir : By the blessing of God, 1 am still in the land of probation, and my health so far improved, as to be able to give you a short account of what has happened since my writ- ing by the Oswego. The disease among us has totally differed in type and char- acter from what I have formerly seen in the dry season, and required a new treatment. My health was fortunately pre- served, until some of the first cases had run through their first stage, and I had pretty well discovered the character of the disease. At this critical juncture, there came along a British vessel which furnished us with five dozen of porter ; had it not been for this seasonable supply, many of us would now have been in our grave ■ — our shamefully scanty supplies affording us nothing suitable to prescribe for arresting the dte- ease in its first critical change. After I was taken down, ami could not visit the sick, I cannot in too high terms speak of the useful exertions of the Rev. Lot Carey. He three times a day visited the sick, brought me an account of their state, received my prescriptions, and attended to the administering of the medicine. To his great exertions we are all much in- debted. On landing, the new emigrants took lodgings wher- ever they could find room to stow in. When they all became sick, they were strewed over the floors with nothing under them but mats, and many of them drenched with rain every day. Under all these circumstances, we have been favoured by loosing but eight, five aduils and three children. Among the deaths I have to lament that of Isaiah Preston, a young man of great promise ; he has not left his equal in the Colony. Our first attention was turned towards getting houses over our heads. The rains have been so incessant, and other in- terruptions from sickness, &c. that this is not yet accomplish- ed. I hope we shall shortly have these houses finisbevl; when that is done I shall introduce an entire new mode of proce- dure ; their lots will be surveyed to them, and every one go to work for themselves. This, I hope, will produce a con- siderable alteration in the character of the colonists There will be a number of those who will have to remain a charge to the Society. There are two or three invalids, from wounds received in the war, that will never be able to work. It is my intention, when the lots are divided off to the peo- ple, to allow them half their time to labour on their lots, and be liable to be called the other half of their time to publick labour. 1 shall appoint three magistrates to serve for one year, whose duty it shall be to lake cognizance of all disorderly conduct in the Colony; to have a hearing, and take evidence in the case, but pass no sentence. The last Saturday of every month ' hold a court, when all the cases tried during the monthe the magistrates are reported, and the magistrates staj pri~ accusers in behalf of the Colony. The accused havi vilege of being tried by a jury if they wish it. t »ppropria- As soon as the houses are finished, and the } practice the ted to the individuals, it is my intention to gfthe plan of co- plan which has ever been nearest my hej guardian in the Ionizing, viz. all male minors who hav\f r i C a n8 ; they arc to Colony, to be classed with the capty 'f ne Kev. Lot Carey have a house built for the occa-' m ' f or trie present, has consented to take charge ^ in thc m orning, and attend They wdl be called up & buB i ne ™ at sunrise : work until pravers be ready to rep * J / 66 night, A. Mi breakfast at 9, repair to work until 11 o'clock j th' u attend school until half past 12; adjourn for recreation until half past two ; their labour always to be subject to my order. They will be employed principally in clearing and cultivating a plantation in the best order ; we stand much^in need of tools of many descriptions. I hope now in a short time to be able to give some more cheering accounts to the Society, of our proceedings in this quarter ; but it is yet in the bosom of futurity, and 1 know not what trials and ob- stacles it may please the Almighty to lay in our way. My health is daily gaining, I can now be up half the day. I have the honour to be, your most obedient humble ser- vant, E. AYRES. Rev. R. R. Gurley, Agent A. C. Society. A small mistake is to be found in a statement made by the Society's Agent, in a letter to a gentleman in Richmond, which has since appeared in some of the newspapers, and is cor- rected in this Report. We will take the liberty to recapitu- late concisely the facts concerning the mortality amongst the African colonists. The whole number sent out under the patronage of the oard, 225. Died at Campelar, of those who went out in le Elizabeth, 22. At Sierra Leone, 4 ; two of which by ever. At Liberia, 20 ; eleven only by fever. Total number of deaths, 16. The number at the Colony by the last census, 140; others have left the Colony; some settled at Sierra Leone, some returned to this country. We give, with pleasure, the following account of the sick- ness which occurred among the passengers in the Elizabeth, soon after her arrival in Africa in 1020, from the pen of one who was familiarly acquainted with all the circumstances of '^e case. raihe Elizabeth arrived at Sherbro a short time before the invitaimmenced. The Agents were induced to accept the friend oi°l Kizzell, who was then supposed to be a zealous at CampelaColony, and to ta ^e up their temporary residence small island lo tovvn belonging to Kizzell. Campelar is a mangrove trees ' n d marshy, and surrounded with mud and people to the full efil U(Jm S the fresh air, and exposing the tion, without fresh airf marsn mud an( * vegetable putrefac- wateratthis place was ver^ after a sea voyage. The only but which Kizzell at tirst m? nsive ' comin S from the marsh - spring, andhealthv, whilst he ^ ded them was a chal > beate secretly getting the water 67 lor himself from a spring on the continent, three miles distant The sickness soon commenced, and the mortality was so rapid, that the people were soon deprived of medical aid, of nursing, and of almost every accommodation. When the cause of thp sickness was discovered, and after the death of the white agents, the remainder were removed to another part of the island, under the care of their own people, Coker and Johnson ; and it is a most remarkable circumstance in favour of the general healthiness of the climate, that not one died, it is believed, after the removal ; although most of them were debilitated by the sickness at Campelar ; their accommodations were miserable exposed hovels in which they had to encounter the whole season of rains, which had just commenced, and their supplies of provisions and medi- cine limited and scanty, with but little order or discipline, and without any medical advice. The sick all soon recovered in their new situation, under all these disadvantages. Dis- posing, then, of the death of these twenty-two, as caused by the particular sources of disease from their situation and cir- cumstances, it leaves but thirteen deaths of the whole num- ber of emigrants from the fevers of the climate. When we reflect upon the various deprivations and expo- sure to which the people have been subjected, in removal from place to place, and the many difficulties attending the first settlement of a new country, it will be matter of surprise that so few have died. In comparison with the settlement of our own country, it augurs strongly in favour of the general healthiness of the climate for the descendants of Africans. Address of the Board of Managers published in August last AMERICAN COLONIZATION SOCIETY. The Board of Managers ofthe American Colonization Soci- ety, urged by the most powerful motives of religion and hu- manity, appeal to a generous public in behalf of their great design. Six years have elapsed since the institution of their Socie- ty ; and, though want of funds has prevented very vigorous and extensive exertions, though sad occurrences have ob- structed its operations, it has advanced ; gathered strength in its progress ; been instructed by misfortune; and, aided by Heaven, has demonstrated the practicalness of its plans, and confirmed the hope, early entertained, that its efforts, if well sustained, would be succeeded by splendid and sublime results. 68 Whether these efforts shall be thus sustained, it remains' 'with this enlightened community to decide. The territory purchased in Africa, appears to have been judiciously selected, and, it is believed, combines a greater number of advantages for a colonial establishment, than any other situation on the Coast. Elevated, and open to the sea, with a harbour to be easily rendered excellent ; fertile, and well watered ; intersected by the Montserado River, extend- ing several hundred miles into the interiour ; bordered by tribes, comparatively, mild in character ; it promises to the settlers every facility for the attainment of their objects. The number now at the Colon}', including the sixty who recently took passage in the brig Oswego, probably amounts to one hundred and ninety. The African tribes in that neigh- bourhood are neither ferocious nor brave ; and the recent content, in which their combined forces (amounting at one time to fifteen hundred) attempted to exterminate our Colony, nobly defended by its thirty men, proves any thing rather than difficulty of maintaining a stand against their power. It proves, indeed, that the natives of Africa, like most un- civilized men, are treacherous ; that, incited by the slave traders and the hope of plunder, they will not hesitate to murder the defenceless, and that a colony, if it survives at all, must live not by their favour, but by its own strength. It proves that our settlement, commenced at the expense of so much time, and money, and suffering, may perish — but only through neglect. And shall this Colony be abandoned ? The Board believe it impossible that their earliest friends, who have watched all the-movements of their Society with the deepest concern ; implored for it the favour of God ; rejoiced to sec it living, amidst misfortunes, and acquiring confidence in its march ; will refuse their aid at this crisis, when the question is, shall all past exertion be lost, through present inactivity, or shall an immediate and powerful effort render permanent the foundations of a work, which, completed, shall prove an honour to our country, an incalculable anvantage to Africa, a magnificent contribution to the light, freedom, and happiness of the world. That the resources and strength of the Colony should be immediately augmented, appears to the Board indispensable ; and most earnestly do they solicit their countrymen to furnish the means of performing it. The colonists, increased to dou- ble their present number, supplied with implements of hus- bandry, and (lor a few months) with the means of subsistence, will, it is believed, never afterwards require pecuniary aid; but, perfectly secure from hostile violence, may engage, with 69 a moral certainty of success, in the peaceful and profitable employments of life. The immediate object of the Board, then, is to give stability to their establishment in Africa, and it is in behalf of that establishment that they make their ap- peal. It is their determination, should the charities of the public equal their expectations, to send several vessels to the Afri- can coast in the ensuing fall, and to adopt and execute, with- out delay, such other measures as may contribute to the strength and prosperity of that Colony. What mind, susceptible of benevolent feeling, or even of common sympathy, can reflect, without pain, upon the dan- gers, privations, and warfare, endured for many months past by the little band at Cape Montserado ? Widely separated from the civilized world, surrounded by barbarous foes ; suf- fering the untried influence of a tropical climate ; destitute of the comforts, of the necessaries of life ; in the daily expectation of death ; no defence but their courage, no protection but God, they have stood with unkroken energy, and deserve for their conduct high commendation and a cherished regard. The Board have not heard, with insensibility, ot the trials of these men, nor wanted the disposition to relieve them. They have not possessed the means. But, though retarded in their efforts by the destitution of funds, they have recently rejoiced in the departure of the brig Oswego, well supplied with arms, ammunition, and provisions, and having on board a reinforcement of more than sixty colonists. The Board are happy to state, that, since the foregoing part of the Address was written, communications have been received from Africa, of a highly interesting and encouraging character. Health and harmony now prevail in the Colony ; hostilities with the natives have terminated. The chil- dren who were taken captive on the 11th of November, have been voluntarily restored, and the settlement is great- ly improved. The condition of the Colony, previous to the arrival of the Cyane upon the coast, though rendered more tolerable by the exertions of the Agent and people, as- sisted by an officer and several sailors from an English vessel, was, indeed, distressing ; and the noble services of Captain Spence and his generous crew, cannot be too highly appre- ciated. This officer, when informed of the sufferings ol the Colony, immediately repaired to Sierra Leone ; fitted for sea the schooner Augusta, belonging to the United States, and, to the great joy of the colonists, arrived at Montserado on the 27th of March, where he offered to the Colony every aid in his power. Capt. Spence, though the cruize of the Cyane 70 had been already protracted, in an unhealthy climate, resolv- ed, without hesitation, to remain so long on the coast as should be necessary to prepare the Colony for the approach- ing rains, and to strengthen it against any future attacks. He completed a suitable house for the Agent, and erected a tower of strong mason work, which, it is believed, will prove a safe defence against the barbarians. Having nearly accom- plished his design, the benevolent and efficient exertions of this officer were interrupted by the sickness of his crew, in- creased, no doubt, by their exertions under the burning sun of that climate ; and he was compelled to leave the Colony on the 21st of April. Several extracts from the letter of the Agent of the Society will be found in the Appendix. " It is too obvious," he remarks, in one of them, " to require repe- tition, that, what your Colony now wants, is a strong rein- forcement of orderly and efficient emigrants." Having exhausted their resources, the Board can look for the power of future exertion only to the liberality of a great, humane and Christian nation. They appeal to the several auxiliary institutions, and to all their friends, with confidence, for they have experienced, even in times of deep discourage- ment, their vigorous exertion. They appeal to their coun- trymen in general with high hopes, because the possibility of effecting their design is no longer problematical, while its be- nevolence and its greatness admit of no question. The ob- stacles deemed insurmountable have been overcome — the things thought impossible have been accomplished. Standing on an eminence which, it was said, they could not reach, the Board see before them an extensive prospect, fair as the morning spread upon the mountains — the iand of promise to degraded thousands — the rich inheritance which God has given to tribes who have drank deep of the waters of affliction, laboured and wept in a land of strangers. Shall they not maintain their station, or rather shall they not advance and possess the land ? In conclusion, may not the Board be permitted to ask — How shall this great nation, so favoured, free, and happy, which God has delivered by his own right arm and exalted as a light and example to the world, exhibit, in an equal manner the strength of its gratitude, the consistency of its principles, the purity of its justice, or the power of its benevolence, as by engaging at ouce, and with energy, in an enterprise which, while it relieves our country from an immense evil, shall ex- Tend the empire of liberty and truth, terminate the worst of 'rafficks, rescue from present and future ruin a miserable race, and confer upon them, their descendants, and upon the 71 unenlightened population of a mighty continent, knowledge, civilization, dignity, all the blessings and hopes of a Christian people ? ' . J. MASON, 1 W. JONES, | F. S. KEY, } Acting Committee. E. B. CALDWELL, TAMES LAURIE, J C. The exertions of midshipman R. R. McMullin, while upon the African coast were most meritorious. Though suffering severely by fever, and deprived of all the white men of his crew, he persevered in guarding the coast in the Augusta, un- til she became entirely unlit for sea. While the Captain, sail- ors, and Dr. A} res, were sick on their passage home in the Fidelity, though extremely weak himself, he took the com- mand, and by exposures which hazarded his life, and by great energy of conduct, secured, it is believed, the safety of the vessel and passengers. We are happy in paying this tribute to a gallant young Officer. PAPER D. Extracts from Mr. Ashmun's Letter, dated Monrovia, Mdy 15, 1823. Cape Montserado, May 15, 1023. Capt. Spence left the walls of the Tower raised above the foundation, (which consisted of heavy stone work,) about 11 feet ; and had prepared most of the timbers for the platform, or gun floor. Being much worn with cares, and fatigue, — and Mr. Seton offering to superintend this work — after organizing the labour- ing force of the colony, I went on board the " Augusta," on the 21st of April, and sailed for Seltra-Kroo : about 200 miles S. eastward, for the purpose of conveying to their own coun- try about 40 Kroo-inen, who, in consideration of their pas- sage had laboured for us three weeks. Owing to the illness of Lieut. Dashiell on board, to contrary winds, and accidents which befel the Schooner, we did not return till the loth of May ; — after an absence from the Cape, of 21 days. Among the Schooner's accidents were, the loss of her stream anchor- and kedge. through carelessness ; and 72 t lie carrying away of both her top-masts, which had injudici ously been retained from her old spars. • One century ago, a great part of this line of coast was po- fpulous, cleared of its trees, and under cultivation. It is now covered with a dense, and almost continuous forest. This is almost wholly a second growth — commonly distinguishable from the original, by the profusion of brambles and brush- wood which abounds amongst the larger trees, and renders the woods entirely impervious, even to the natives, until paths are opened by the Bill-hook. The native towns are numerous, but not large. The peo pie raise their own rice, cassada, and palm-oil ; and procure their guns, powder, cloths, tobacco, knives, cooking utensils, and luxuries, from French slave traders. We saw at least three vessels of this description. I observed, on this excursion, several situations, which, in point of local advantages were obviously preferable, as the geat of a colony, to Grand Bassa ; but none, which I did not judge far behind Montserado. I was surprised to find the place selected at Bassa for the site of the colonial town to be a low peninsula, having an impassable swamp stretching along its rear for several leagues, and terminating sea-ward, in a slug- gish creek ! — King Ben, in anticipation of the arrival of our people, had built here, a large house, which shows to a great distance in the offing. — With this King, I had repeated con- versations ; and frankly explained the true reason why the contract of Messrs. Andrus and Bacon was not confirmed b}- their fathers in America ; and told him that our nation, like England, could not, according to their laws, have any agency in carrying off the poor people of Africa. All this he seemed perfectly to comprehend ; and after a few moment's silent reflection, coincided that he could not blame the Americans for observing their laws, and refusing to settle at Bassa. He should not persist in requiring it. The conversation then reverted to the death of his son. I explaiued to him the cause and circumstances of his decease, as I had learnt them. That Messrs. A. and B. had treated him with paternal tenderness, till their arrival at Sierra Leone ; when they placed him under the care and instruction of one of the best of white men, to be instructed in whatever was most use- ful — that God visited him zvith a disorder which the most skill- ful men could not cure. He stated in reply, that he was satis- fied that " God killed his son ;" but that " Messrs. Andrus and Bacon, promised to take his son to America, instead of Sierra Leone.'''' Of that, I knew nothing ; and told him, that one of the men was dead, the other had left the country, — perhaps King Ben had misunderstood them; or they him. 73 " Well," ke rejoined, " White men don't come settle Bassa. No palaver for that. God kill my son. True: — but what you pay me for my son die in your hand ?" 1 told him, white men had no such custom; and could not understand paying for a dead. man. He soon observed, " That be true : white men can't sabby black man's fash. I say then, God kill my son. Ao palaver Jor that. But he die in your hand. That make my heart sorry. Now, what you give me to make my heart glad?" This was coming to the point. — I promised him a small pre- sent, provided he sent for it to Montserado. This he promised to do ; and repeatedly expressed his wish, that the most per- fect amity might forever subsist between his people and the Colony. Every tribe, indeed, visited on this trip, declared by its Prince, or head-men, its intention to preserve with us a good understanding, and to trade freely to the colony. The par- ticulars of our late war. especially the result of the two en- gagements, have been reported far and near, and given to the colony a character for strength and invincibility, which must, in different way«, contribute greatly to its advantage. During this trip, I collected 230 gallons ot palm-oil — an ar- ticle of the first necessity here; answering the double pur pose of lamp oil and suet. The means of lighting our houses in this latitude, where the sun is, 12 hours out of every 24, b; low the horizon the year round, are necessary, not as a matter of convenience only, but of necessity. Besides sup- plying their own wants with the valuable article just mention- ed, the people about Montserado prepare little or none for sale. Down the coast it is abundant and cheap. I likewise engaged 25 Kroo-men as labourers — perhaps, eventually as settlers near the colony. The wages allowed this company, are 3 bars, or about 5 pounds of leaf tobacco, per man, for the month. The customary wages are 4 bars. At the river Sesters is an English factory. Mere I pur- chased 1500 feet of boards, at a very high price. But the unfinished state of the Agent's house, and some other uses for which this article must be had, overruled the extreme reluc- tance with which I submitted to pay more for this little lot ol lumber, than it was worth to the seller. Returning to the colony on the 13th instant, I found Mr. Seton,the young gentleman from the Cyane, mentioned iu my last, very ill of the fever. But apparently convalescent. By "convalescent," when applied to cases of fever in this country, is by no means to be understood that the patient, if he be a white man, is in the way of a speedy recovery. The colonists working under the superintendence of one ot their number, have continued to raise the walls of the tower. K 74 The battery platform is laid, and the walls earned a few inch esaboveit.* Under the hands of the 25 additional labourer?, the work now proceeds more rapidly. The season for planting and sowing the seeds of such ve- getables and grains as produce only an annual crop, has now commenced, and will continue until the middle of June. — Most of the seeds on hand, having been in a damp store house for nearly a year, are, I fear, spoilt. Our people, I regret to say, have not commenced preparing their plantations ; nor, for obvious reasons, would it be proper to impede tin progress of our works of defence by withdrawing any ol the labourers, even for agricultural purposes. June oth< The English have established a regular packet communi- cation between Sierra Leone, and Cape Coast. The distance is little short of 1,000 miles. The " Intercourse" Schooner commonly makes a trip, including the return, in about 2 months, and has made Ylontserudo one of her touching places. May 31st. she arrived here from the lee ward, and proceeded on to Sierra Leone on the 2d instant, taking Irom Montsera^o about 20 Kroo labourers. It is customary for public and private vessels to accommodate gratuitously this class of peo- ple with passages to and from their native country, and the different European establishments on the coast, to which they resort for employment. They are regarded as a sort of com mon property. Every body employs them. To-day the\ will assist in getting a cargo of slaves on board a Spaniard, to-morruw, will aid an English cruizer to capture him ; and no umbrage is given or taken. They never deal in slave?, and by common consent, the obvious dictate of interest, are never enslaved by Europeans. Hence, they come aboard of any vessel with an air of fearless confidence, and every indi- cation of feeling themselves entirely at heme. With ordinary success in trade, on this coast, I can clear at least four times the sum which I shall ever ask or expect either.of the Government or Society. And the business would not, to say the least, be more arduous, than a faithful discharge of duty within the colon}'. But my wish is, so long as the Society shall require my services, to lend them to the cause, unless compelled to resort to some other employment. I feel unworthy of the vote of thanks passed by the Board for endeavouring to perform as well as I could, the arduous, and perilous duties connected with the defence of the colony. But, to know that any part of my conduct merits their appro- bation, is, I assure you, sir, among the most powerful mo tives, for endeavouring in future to deserve it. 75 The valuable present of clothing which I have received, has proved doubly so from the seasonableness of its arrival/ But I need not say that it derives in my estimation, a much higher value from the occasion of the donation, and the en- lightened source from which it proceeded. The grateful sentiment it has inspired, will long survive the period when the articles, themselves, shall have ceased to be of any value- June 20, 1823. I have only a few hours notice of the intention of Captain VYeightman, of the Oswego, to sail immediately and direct to the United States. Mr. Seton's return by this vessel, will supersede the ne- cessity of adding much. We have many cases of sickness amongst the newcomers, and some deaths ; which are, how- ever, to be attributed to other causes than the badness of the climate, the deaths of the two children excepted. 1 trust you will receive more favourable accounts by the .next conveyance. E. Review of the Report? of the American Colonization Socieii^ from the Christian Spectator. The Reports of the American Society for colonizing the free people of colour in the United States.— 1318, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23. To the government exercised over us while we continued in a state of colonial dependence, our country owes the great- est blot which stains her annals, and the greatest — almost the only curse, with which providence has seen tit to afflict her. The pittance of honour which England has acquired, or even the stupendous amount of glory which bhe claims, as a reward of her efforts against the slave trade, can never atone for the crime of introducing into her colonies without their consent, against their wishes, in defiance of their remonstrances, a po- pulation of slaves — a population which even if it were not literally enslaved, must forever remain in a state of degrada- tion no better than bondage — a population whose relative in- crease is, and always must be, a positive dimunition of nation- al strength and wealth, and on whose character, and prospects, the philanthropist must for ever look with commiseration, and the patriot with tearful forebodings. The bare mention of the institution whose reports are now before us, directs, with an impulse which we find it difficult to resist, towards a discussign of slavery as it exists, in thp 76 United States, taking the subject in all its extent, and with all its relations to the prosperity of our country. And this im- pulse receives additional force from the, perhaps our readers would say, self-complacent impression, that though our con- ceptions of the nature and extent of this evil, are no less vi- vid than those of the more ardent of our fellow citizens, they are in some respects more liberal, if not more rational, than the doctrines on this subject which are frequently expressed, with the strongest conviction of their orthodoxy, by many ©f the journals and other publications of New-England and the middle states. But for the present we are compelled to wave that discussion, except so far as it is necessarily connected with our immediate object ; and we do it in the hope that we shall be able ere long to present our readers with a review of that subject. Our present design is to examine at some length the histo- ry, the prospects, and the claims of the American Coloniza- tion Society. We offer no apology for this, because there is too much reason to believe that a great proportion of our rea- ders have never enjoyed a proper opportunity of examining these interesting reports for themselves, and those who have been more favoured in this respect, will certainly agree with us that every individual ought to know what an institution so gigantic in its designs has already accomplished, what it is now doing, and what it may reasonably hope to accomplish here- after. The American Colonization Society was organized at Wash- ington about the commencement of the year 1817. In the words of its constitution. " the object to which its attention is to be exclusively directed, is to promote and execute a plan for colonizing (with their consent) the free people of colour residing tn our country, in Africa, or such other place as Con- gress shall deem most expedient." Among the individuals most active in procuring its establishment, besides many of the present members of the Board of Managers, were the late * Rev. Dr. Finley, of New- Jersey, and SamuelJ. Mills. The former is indeed said to have been the original projector of the plan. At the period of its formation the society received the strongest expressions of approbation, and the warmest as- surances of good will from many very distinguished men of the southern states. This was highly important, as it had a strong tendency to gain the confidence of the southern people, without which all the operations of the society, must of course, be exceedingly embarrassed. But the approbation of great men. and the sanction of great names, will never go far to- wards the attainment of any benevolent object. It is one thing for a professed orator to make a speech in favour of an enter- 77 prise, and it is quite another thing for him to bring ail the re = sources of his knowledge and all the powers of his understand- ing, to bear upon the success of that enterprise, even though it should be at the expense of his popularity. And it is one thing for a man of wealth in a moment of generous excitement to place his name at the head of a subscription as the contribu- tor of thirty, or fifty, or a hundred dollars, and it is altogether a diiTerent thing for the same man to renew his donation from year to year, when the novelty of the affair has gone by, or when the cause is labouring under a temporary depression, or when some of his neighbours will laugh at his enthusiasm. For the success of any benevolent object, we would rather hav e the fav our of one pious female, than the favour ot five rich men, who are actuated by no stronger and steadier im- pulse than the generosity of their nature. And in this, or any similar undertaking, the co-operation of the humble, noiseless, unnoticed Samuel J. Mills, would be better than the co ope- ration of almost any distinguished man high in office. It ought not to be expected that the men who are occupied with the hustle and intrigues of political life, will (k-vote their time and attention to the minor business of doing good. They feel that it is enough for them to bid the philanthropist God-speed. It is enough for them to call the slave trade by all the hard names contained in the vocabulary of indignation or to lift their hands and their voices in favour of popular enactments fonN abolition And it is no more than justice to them, that the scanty pittance ofinfluence, which is perhaps all that their avocations will permit them to contribute, should be made to go as far as possible. Our benevolent institutions in New- England act on this principle ; and a society hardly seems to be organized unless it is able to prefix to its reports a bead- roll of Excellent and Honourable names. With this (act in view, we have been astonished to hear it objected to the colo- nization society, that they arc too anxious to secure the pa- tronage of great names. \Vithout attempting a formal v indica- tion ol' their policy in this respect, we will merely suggest t'»at there is an old proverb touching the inexpediency of that man's beginning to throw stones who lives in a glass house ; and we close this digression by observing that much good would be accomplished if all our Senators and members of Congress who are enrolled as Presidents and Vice-Presidents, and Directors of Benevolent Societies, would devote to the objects which they profess to patronise, half that attention and half that zeal, which as we do assuredly know, southern Se- nators and members of Congress, have devoted to the object now under consideration. The first important, measure of the Board was the sending 78 of amission of inquiry to Africa by the way of England. This was a measure of obvious necessity ;.for in what cher way could they obtain the information which was indispensable to the commencement of their enterprise ? The Society's agents, Messrs. Mills and Burgess, sailed from Philadelphia, Nov. 16, 1817, arrived at Sierra Leone in March following, and after about two months spent in a laborious and painful survey of the coast, re-embarked on their voyage for America. The memory of this voyage is consecrated in the hearts of chris- tians, by the fact that soon after they left Africa, Samuel John Mills, the man of God. whose name is so intimately associated with almost every great moral movement which has been made on our continent, finished the work which God had giity en him to do, and entered on his reward in heaven. The simple narrative of the missionaries which so beautifully de- scribes their travels, and labours in Africa, has been read by thousands, and ought to be read by all. It was published en- tire in the second annual Report, and the substance of it may be found likewise in the biography of Mills. By the exertions of some members of the Colonization So- ciety, it was soon discovered that the law of the United States for the abolition of the slave trade, enacted in 1C07, was ex- tremely defective in some of its provisions. By one section of this law, the power of disposing of any slaves who might afterwards be introduced into the United States was vested in tiie Legislatures of the several states or territories into which they might be imported. In conformity with this provision the Legislature of Georgia had enacted that all negroes un- lawfully introduced into that state, should be sold by the Executives/or the benefit of the state ; and under that law, sales to a considerable amount were actually made, and the pro- ceeds paid into the state treasury. The same act, however, recognised the existence and designs of the Colonization So- ciety, and provided, that if that Society would engage to re- ceive such persons of colour and transport them out of the country exclusively at their own expense, the slaves instead of being sold should be delivered into their hands. In conse- quence of the representations of the Board to Congress, the laws relative to the slave trade were revised, and it was de- termined to establish an agency on the coast of Africa for the reception of rescued slaves, and to send from time to time, a national ship to cruize along the coast so as to abolish the slave trade at its source. The particular point at which the proposed establishment should be erected, was left to the Executive ; and as it was evident that a co-operation between the government and the Colonization Society would equally promote the benevolent objects of both., the President deter- 79 tained to locate the agency at whatever place the Society should select for the site of their colony. Accordingly, the Elizabeth was chartered which carried out the agent of the Society, and the two agents of government, together with about eighty people of colour, who were to commence the settlement, and were to be employed for a time at the expense of government, in making the necessary preparations for the reception of such Africans as might be re-captured. Though the location of the colony had not been determined, it un- expected that the agent? would easily procure a favourable situation in the Bagroo country. They were compelled by n variety of unfortunate circumstances to land and make a tem- porary establishment on the low, unhealthy island of Sherbro. Here, while they were attempting in vain to negotiate for land with the treacherous natives, they were attacked by disease ; and the three agents, and twenty of the colonists were swept away. The superintendence of the whole establishment de- volved on Daniel Coker, one of the most intelligent and res- pectable of the settlers. Some of the colonists, who by the way seem not on that occasion to have been selected with much discretion, became disorderly ; and the colony came so near to ruin that in the spring of 18^1* when it was rein- forced by the arrival of Messrs. Andrus and Wiltherger the Society's agents, and Messrs. Winn and E. Bacon the United States agents, with 23 effective labourers, they were instruct- ed in consequence of the entire failure of the negociations for land, to seek the protection of the British Government at Sierra Leone. The colonists were accordingly removed to Pourah Bay in the vicinity of Freetown, Messrs. Andrus and Bacon went to the Bassa country, and attempted unsuccess- fully to purchase land for the colony. They had scarcely returned from this expedition when Mr. Bacon and his wit? were attacked with the sickness incident to the climate, and sailed for America. Mr. Andrus soon after died, (Aug. 27. arid in the succeeding month Mr. and Mrs. Winn, within a few- days of each other, followed him to the grave. In the begin- ning of December, Dr. Ayres, who had been sent out as the Society's agent, and Lieut. Stockton of the U. S. schooner Al- ligator, sailed to Cape Montserado, and after struggling with great difficulties which they overcame by means of their ac quaintance with the African character, succeeded inpurch;i« ing of King Peter, King George, King Zoda, King Long Pe- ter, King Governor, and King Jimmy, for the consideration of about 300 dollars, a tract of country large enough for all the present purposes of the colony, supplied with excellent springs of water, fruitful in its soil and healthy in its climate, on the banks o r a river as large a= the Connecticut. " an- 1 80 with one of the best harbours between Gibraltar and the Cape of Good Hope." The letter of Dr. Ayres, containing the history of this transaction, presents so vivid a picture ot the character and manners of the natives, that we must be indulged with the following extracts : " On the 11th of December, 1821, in the night, we came to anchor off St. Paul's ri^er. At daylight on the 12th, got under way and soon observed several canoes coming off to us. The moment we anchored, our boat was out, and Mr. Stock- ton and myself went on shore before any wrong impression could be made on the king. We landed on the beach, at the kind's Krootown, and told them we wanted to sne the king ; we had presents on board for him ; and showed them some rum and tobacco which we had taken on shore for him. " Three or four of the people who had gathered round us were dressed in large striped hoods, thrown over their shoul- ders, and had the appearance of being people of authority. "After waiting some time, they sent off an express foi king Peter. It had been represented to us unsafe to go on shore without being armed, and that we should certainly be murdered and robbed. But we determined to go unarmed, as an evidence that our aim was pacific. While sitting and waiting for the king under the shed of aK .ooman, the people kept collecting, most of them with knives hanging to theii sides. At length there came hve or six armed with muskets. I began to think theie might be some truth in the reports. We were now surrounded by lifty or sixty, armed in thh way, and we were without the means of defence, except a demijohn of whiskey and some tobacco. I narrowly watched their countenances, as well as that of Mr. Stockton. I saw he was no way concerned, and a little observation showed there was yet no hostility in their intentions. M Express after express was sent for the king. After a long time one of the most reputable looking men told us ' The king be fool — he no talk English — I his mouth, what I say, king say. —What you want V ' We told him we were desirous of getting a place in Africa to build a house, make farms, &c.' After explaining our views to this person, and discussing them some time, they sent another message to the king, and he then made his appearance. He was dressed in a cotton gar- ment of large blue and white stripes, thrown over his shoul- ders, and a person holding an umbrella over his head. He oune, shook hands with us, and took a seat. When his inter- preter related to him our object in visiting him, we did not fail to let him know the high estimation in which we held him for veracity and punctuality, and that this had induced us to prefer him to some other Ghiefg : and like most monarchs, 81 we found his ear always open to the sound of his own praise He said " he thanked us for the favour we had done him in coming to him first, and we might have land." We told him we wanted the Island at the mouth of the river, and the Cape, He objected to the Cape, and said " if any white man was to settle on it, then king Peter would die, they would bury him, and then his women would cry a plenty." We did not fail to place in the most favourable light ihe advantages which our trade would be to him ; but took good care, after our former experience, how we attempted to oppose their prejudices, or to offer to their consideration any views which they could not fully comprehend : we therefore said nothing of civilizing or christianizing them ; but left this, hoping our future example may recommend our principles to their adoption. After sit- ting some time in palaver, the king told us he would see his head men, and next morning he would meet us again on the beach, and make a book for the land. We gave them our rum and tobacco, and returned to our vessel. l< On the 13th we again went to meet his majesty. We found his head men but no king, yet we sent off an express for him. It was not till after some time, and several messages had pas- sed, that «re could get him to meet us. After sitting three hoars in palaver, the unfortunate subject of the slave trade vvas broached, and we again broke up the palaver. " Our prospect at this time was very dull ; we however de- • -i mined not to give up the subject lightly, and the next day went on shore a^ain where the King appointed to meet us. When we got there, we found neither King nor any of his head men. Our prospects now were truly discouraging. We, as we had done before, sent off an express for him. He sent word he would not come, nor let us have any land. It then became necessary either to go and seek the King in his Capital, or togive up the case as impracticable, as all persons had found it, ^vho bad attempted to negociate for this place before. To go to the town was to place ourselves entirely in the power of a nation who had always been represented to us so savage as to render it unsafe to land on their shore with- out being completely armed. However we were determined logo ; and were conducted by a Kroo-man, through dark dis- mal ways, at one time wading through the water, and at ano- ther wallowing through the mud ; passing through thick and dark swamps, in narrow paths for six or seven miles into the interior. If one of us staid behind, the Krooman would hal- loo to us to "come along — the devil will catch us." We at length arrived at his majesty's capital. We were shown into a palaver hall spread with mats, to wait the coming of the King. The head men ^came and shook hand* with us, L 82 mid informed us that he was dressing, and would see us in a short time. They looked ver) grave, and few of them look ed well pleased. After waiting about one hour, the King made his appearance. Instead of coming and shaking hands with us, he went and seated himself under another palaver hall. His prime minister then came and invited us to go to the King. He shook hands with us, but looked very angry. " The first word the king said to us was, 'what you want •that land for?' This question, so often asked and as often answered, had again to be explained to him. We now found that among the Kroomen who had been on board our vessel the day before, there was one who had been engaged with the father of the Bassa youth we had on board. This man told them we had taken away the king of Bassa's son and killed him, and when we got the land, we should cut their throats and bury them, another Krooman saw some of our colonists on board and knew them, this circumstance gave them to un- derstand we were the people who had been quarreling so much at Sherbro, and, as if these things could not throw diffi culties enough to try our diplomatic skill, one fellow presen- ted himself to Lieut. Stockton, and told him he was one of those whom the Lieutenant had captured on his last voyage, in the Daphne, and they had recaptured heron their passage home. These circumstances accounted for the change of conduct ra the King and people. Our cause now looked tru- ly deplorable. We were unarmed, in the midst of a nation so exasperated against us. But Lieut. Stockton's dexterity at mixing flattery with a little well timed threat, turned all to our own advantage. When they complained of his taking the French for trading with them in slaves, he told them his orders were not to meddle with the French or any other na- tion. That when he saw the French vessel, he sent his boat to see who she was ; that they fired at him, and when they fought him, then he whipped them and took their vessel : that he would not suffer any body to make a fool of him : and now king Peter wanted to make a fool of him: that he tell him, three days, he would let him have land, and drink up his rum, and take his tobacco, and now he say he shan't have any land: this was fooling him. I believe the old king was afraid of being served as the French vessel was, for he soon came to, and promised to call some more kings, and meet us on the shore next morning, and make a book which was to give us the land. " The island at the mouth of the river we have named Pre* serverance, < to perpetuate the long and tedious palaver we had in obtaining it.' A settlement was begun without delay at Cape Montsera 83 -do by the colonists who had been residing at Fourah Bay But in the mean time the African Sovereigns had repented of the bargain by which they had introduced into their vicinity a government favourable to the rights of man, and the pro- gress of human improvement ; and like their whiter and more civilized brethren of another quarter of the Eastern Conti- nent^they were alarmed and looked with jealousy on an in- novation which they with their little perspicacity could see — threatened in its progress to impose a new aspect on the face of the society, and to do away all the ancient and venerable abuses by which their wealth and power are sup- ported. Accordingly when Dr. Ayres arrived with the co- lonists, he was notitied by their majesties that the contract must be annulled, and that he could not be permitted to set- tle. He however ventured to land, so that while the colon- ists were building their houses he might negociate with the kings at his leisure. The same course of conduct which Lieut. Stockton had taught him to pursue on the former oc- casion, proved successful here. The kings were intimidated by his decision and by the zeal of the settlers, and the treaty was ratified. But in a few weeks the difficulties were re- newed . " A British prize slave vessel had solicited and obtained permission to take water from the Cape. This vessel part- ed her cable and was thrown on shore. The spirit of hostil- ity, excited by a dispute between the captain and one of the Kings added to the powerful motive presented by the pre sence of a French vessel waiting her compliment of slaves, induced the natives to attack her, with purposes of plunder. Several of our people engaged in her defence. In the con- test which ensued, and which they in vain endeavoured to prevent, two of the natives were killed : and on the succeed- ing day, a British soldier and one of our colonists. Through the criminal inadvertency of an English sailor, who discharg- ed a cannon in the immediate vicinity of the store house, this building took fire : and with it most of the clothing, provisions, and utensils of the colony were destroyed. — 6th Rep. — p. 10." All was now in confusion. The natives had received de- monstration of the bearing which the colony was to have on the slave trade. A grand palaver was assembled, consisting of seventeen kings, and thirty-four half kings. One or f#d of the most powerful of these were the decided friends of the colony, and had armed their subjects lor war, in case peace could not be procured. Dr. Ayres appeared before this con- gress, and gave them to understand that he had purchased the territory in question and paid for it, that therefore he intend- ed to retain it, and that if they thought they were able to ex 84 pel him they might make the attempt, ami he would show them what lighting was : — he would bring ships, and battel down all the towns of those who opposed him from Cape Mount to the Line. " While making this speech," sayshe, " I nar- rowly watched the countenances of Kings Brister and Boson. [King Boson is the most powerful friend of the colony.] .Brister showed evident signs of concern, but Boson shook his sides very heartily with laughter. By this I found I had touched the right chord, and did not spare invectives. The other kings appeared uneasy and suid one to another, Oh, look white man getting mad, white Vnan getting mad ! Boson* to second the impression I had made, sent one of his people round to circulate a report that there were four large ships a little way to the southward, making into the harbour.'' — " This threw all into confusion, and it was with difficulty we could keep the kings together until the business was settled. The difficulties having been adjusted, Dr. Ayres felt him- self under the necessity of returning to the United States, for the sake of obtaining supplies. He accordingly took passage for this country on the fourth of June, 1821. On the 8th of August the settlement was reinforced by the arrival of the brig Strong from Baltimore with Mr. and Mrs. Ashmun, and thir- ty-five colonists, besides fifteen recaptured Africans. Mr. Ashmun had received a commission from the Colonization Society to act in their name in case he should find no agent at the colony. He accordingly assumed the direction of the establishment, laid out the plan of a town, and began to erect such fortifications as might secure it against any attack from the natives. It was soon ascertained that the labour bestowed on these fortifications was not in vain. Many of the kings, as we have seen, were from the beginning exceedingly afraid that the in- fluence of the colony would be to break up all trade — by which they mean the slave trade — and it is reasonable to sup- pose that their feelings of suspicion and hostility would not be allayed by the friendly suggestions and admonitions of the traders. Accordingly Mr. Ashmun and his fellow labourers seem to have been continually disturbed by reports of the hostile designs of their neighbours, and to have built the walls ot their little town somewhat as Nehemiah and his country- men builded the walls of Jerusalem ; " every one with one of his hands wrought in the work, and with the other held a weap- on." On the morning of November 1 1th they were attacked by a body of 800 natives, who coming upon them by surprise, gained possession of the settlement, till after one or two dis- charges of the eighteen pounder, they betook themselves to flight. On the second of December they returned with a 85 Still greater force amounting to about 1500, and attacked si- multaneously in two opposite quarters, but after receiving a few shots from the territic ' ; great guns," they made a hasty, 'leparture. They miiiht perhaps h;«ve been entirely cut off] by these repeated assaults, had it not been for the interference/ of a British schooner which' providentially made its appear- ance in this season- of distress. A cessation of hostilities was effected by the mediation of Capt. Laing, the distinguished African traveller who was on board, and twenty mariners were landed to guaranty the observance of the truce till the difficul- ties should he finally adjusted. When it is remembered that in this contest the whole effective force of the colony was twenty-eight men and boys, and that the whole loss was only three killed and four wounded, we may regard the result a- proving at once the bravery of the settlers and the coward- ice of the natives. In the trepidation of the assault, doubtless neither Mr. Ashmun nor the colonists would be able to form a very cool and deliberate estimate of the number of assail- ants ; but after making every allowance for their seeing things double on such an occasion, it must be considered as proved, that one hundred well armed freemen, fighting for their liberty, and their children, and their homes, may de- fend the colony against all the hordes that can ever be mus- tered by the holy alliance of Africa. And here we cannot but remark that this affair illustrates very strikingly the dif- ference between the wild men of that continent, and the wild men of America. If that establishment had been attacked, by 800, ar500, or 200 Indians, — we should have known its fate only by conjecture. It was not to be expected that an arrangement like the one above mentioned would place the settlers immediately in a state of entire security and comfort. Accordingly, when the Cyane arrived on the coast, where she had been sent to execute the laws against the slave trade, she found them in a suffering condition. The noble and disinterested exertions of Captain Spence and his crew, in erecting a house for the agent, and a tower of strong mason work for the defence of the town, are gratefully acknowledged by the Managers in their address to the public inserted in the last number of the Spectator. This tower which is expected to bid defiance to the barbarians, has been called Stockton Castle. Africa will hereafter honour the men who are labouring for her deliver- \y ance. Her mountains and rivers, her provinces and cities. I while they testify her gratitude, will be the monuments of rf\ their benevolence. And though friends and the public may weep at the loss of those who perish beneath the stroke of the sun by day, or of the moon bv night, while labouring in TJ6 behalf of suffering humanity ; yet there is a consolation m the thought; that they have perished in a cause, for which they need not be ashamed to be martyrs. If we honour the memory of those who die on the bloody deck in extending the fame of American valour ; surely we ought to honour with a double reverence the memory of those who sacrifice their lives to extend the triumphs of American philanthrophy. It makes us feel proud of our country, to see the zeal, and efficiency, which have uniformly been displayed by the officers and sea- men of the national vessels that have been appointed from time to time to the African station. " Most of my associates," said lieutenant Stockton, " were ready (and I sincerely believe it) to sacrifice on the altar of humanity, convenience, comfort, interest and health." In April last, Dr. Ayres sailed from Baltimore in the brig Oswego with sixty new settlers, — if their voyage was favour- able they must have arrived there more than two months ago. A trading company has been formed in Baltimore, which if the plan succeeds will hereafter afford the means of a con- stant and regular communication with the colony. This com- pany consisting of a few respectable merchants was formed with the approbation of the Board, and will we trust have an important connection with the regeneration of Africa. Its design is, we believe, after having made a fair experiment to run two or more vessels as regular traders between Baltimore and Cape Montserado. These will of course afford the means of conveyance to such as are desirous of emigrating. The first vessel sailed at the beginning of June and carried a few passengers. The present condition of the the colony may be briefty described. It consists of 140* settlers under the direction of wo agents, ardently devoted to the cause, accustomed to their business, seasoned to the climate, and well acquainted with the African character. These men occupy a soil of whose productiveness it is difficult for an inhabitant of our climate to form any adequate conception. By the latest accounts the controversy with the natives seems to have terminated entire- ly to their satisfaction, so that the former intercourse with hem for the purposes of trade has been resumed, and the ■settlers can clear and cultivate their lands without danger. Such is the history of the American Colonization Society. Its design is general — the benefit of the whole African race. Its plan of operations specific, the establishment on the coast tf Africa of a colony of free people of colour from America. It is not a Missionary Society, nor a society for the suppres- sion of the slave trade, nor a society for the improvement of * At this time. March, 18?4. the number is about 240. 87 the blacks, nor a society for the abolition of slavery. It is simply a society for establishing a colony on the coast of Afri- ca, and so far as any of these other objects are attained by its efforts, they must be attained either as the means, or as the consequences of establishing that colony. But limited as are the operations of this institution, it appears to us to be the only institution which promises any thing great or effectual for the benefit of the black po0Ulation of our country. A single glance at the condition of these beings, and at the obstacles which lie in the way of their improvement, is enough to convince us of this. There is at present within the limits of the United States, a coloured population of one million, seven hundred and sixty-nine thousand. The character, and circumstances of *his class of the community fall, to some extent, under the personal observation of every man. Who is there, that does not know something of the condition of the blacks in the nor- thern and middle states ? They may be seen in our cr'~ and larger towns, wandering like foreigners and outcasts^in the land which gave them birth. They may be seen in our penitentiaries, and jails, and poor houses. They may be found inhabiting the abodes of poverty, and the haunts of vice. But if we look for them in the society of the honest and re- spectable — if we visit the schools in which it is our boast thai the meanest citizen can enjoy the benefits of instruction — wo, might also add, if we visit the sanctuaries wh-ich are open for all to worship, and to hear the word of God ; we shall not find them there. The Soodra is not farther separated from the Brahmin in regard to all his privileges, civil, intellectual and moral ; than the negro is from the white man by the prejudices which result from the difference made between them by the God of nature. A barrier more difficult to be surmounted than the institution of the Caste> cuts oil and while the present state of society continues must always cutoff, the negro from all that is valuable in citizenship. In his infancy, he finds himself, he knows not why, the scorn o< his playmates, from the first moment that their little finger- can he pointed at him in derision. In youth, he has no in centive to prepare for an active and honourable manhood. No visions of usefulness, or respectability, animate his pros- pects. In maturer years, he has little motive to industry, 01 to any honourable exertion. He is always degraded in the estimation of the community, and the deep sense of that de- gradation enters into his soul, and makes him degraded indeed. We know that there are individuals, who in spite of all these obstacles to moral and social improvement, have acquired a character of respectability, and piety. But instances like 88 these, occasioned by the peculiar circumstances or powers of the individuals, cannot be brought to disprove the general as sertion, which we make without the fear of contradiction, that the blacks are degraded, without any proper means of im- provement, or any sufficient incentive to exertion, that they present the strange anomaly of a large part of the nation that loves to call itself the freest, and happiest, and most enlightened nation on the globe, separated by ob^cles which they did not create, and which they cannot surmount, from all the in- stitutions and privileges to which the other portions of the community owe their superiority. But there is another still more important characteristic of the condition of our coloured population, in comparison with which ever}' other circumstance dwindles into insignificance ; and from which all that we have already said is only a single necessary consequence. We mean slavery. And on this subject we must express ourselves brietly, yet boldly. We have heard of slavery as it existed in the nations of antiquity, we have heard of slavery as it exists in Asia, and Africa, and Turkey; we have heard of the feudal slavery under which ■he peasantry of Europe have groaned from the days of Alaric, until now ; but excepting only the horrible system of the West India Islands, we have never heard of slavery in any country, ancient or modern, pagan, Mahommedan, or chris- tian, so terrible in its character ; so pernicious in its tendency; so remediless in its anticipated results, as the slavery which exists in these United States. We do not mean here to speak of slavery as a system of bonds and stripes and all kinds of bodily suffering. On this point, there is, we believe, a great degree of misapprehension among our fellow citizens of the North. Many of them are accustomed to associate with the name of slavery, all that is horrible in the details of the Afri- can trade, and all that is terrific in the cruelties of Jamaica and Porto Rico. But we rejoice in the belief that these con- ceptions are erroneous ; and that though there may be in- stances of unpunished, and sometimes perhaps almost unno- ticed barbarity, the condition of a slave in most parts of the United States is generally as much superior to that of a slave in the West Indies, as the condition of an American farmer is to that of an Irish peasant. Here we are ready to make what all will consider the most liberal concessions. We are ready even to grant, for our present purpose, that, so far as mere animal existence is concerned, the slaves have no reason to complain, and the friends of humanity have no reason to com- plain for them. And when we use the strong language which we feel ourselves compelled to use in relation to this subject, we do not mean to speak of animal suffering, but of an irn- 89 mense moral and political evil, — of slavery as it stands con- nected with the wealth and strength, and more especially with the character and happiness of our nation. We have no room to enlarge on the political aspect of this subject. We will only ask — where would be the enterprise and the wealth and the strength of New-England, if her green hills and pleasant vallies were cultivated no longer by her own independent and hardy yeomanry, but by the degraded serfs of a Polish aristocracy ? And what would not Virginia become, if she could exchange her four hundred and twenty- five thousand slaves for as many freemen, who, in blood and complexion, as well hs in immunities and enjoyments, should he one with (he proudest of her children ? But the mere politician c.mnot f;til, in estimating the mag- nitude of this evil, to look at its moral tendency. The great men of the south have looked at it in this aspect, and have expressed themselves accordingly. Judge Washington pro- nounces it to be " an inherent vice in the community." Mr. Jefferson uses language on this subject, too strong: for even a northern man to regard it as strictly true, 'n his Notes on Virgmia, he says—" The whole com"»«rce between master and slave, is a perpetual exercise <** the most boisterous pas- sions, the most unremitting despotism on the one part, and degrading submission on the other." " The parent storms, the child look* ^n, catches the lineaments of wrath, puts on the sam*> -drs in a smaller circle of slaves, gives a loose to his v.-^ist passions, and thus nursed, educated, and daily exer- cised in tyranny, cannot but be stamped with odious peculiari- ties." " I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just, and that his justice cannot sleep for ever." And speak- ing of the probability, that the blacks may assert their free- dom, lie adds, " the Almighty h; ; s no attribute which can take side with us in such a contest." It would be easy to collect the sentiments of many highly honoured individuals in the southern states who have expressed themselves as decidedly if not as strongly. But it is enough to say, in regard to the moral influence of the system on the blacks, that laws exist in nearly all the slave- holding states, prohibiting their instruc- tion, and even driving them from Sunday schools, because the public safety requires them to be kept in perfect ignorance ; and in regard to its influence on the white population, that the most lamentable proof of its deteriorating effects mav be found in the fact, that excepting the pious whose hearts are governed by the christian law of reciprocity between man and mari, and the wise whose minds have looked far into the rela- tions and tendencies of things, none can be found to lift their voices against a system so utterlv gepogriant to the feeling ot M 90 unsophisticated humanity — a system which permits all the atrocities of the domestic slave-trade — which, permits the fa- ther to sell his children, as he would his cattle — a system which consigns one half of the community to hopeless and utter degradation, and which threatens in its final catastrophe to bring down the same ruin on the master and the slave. There are two considerations in view, of which we ventur- ed to remark that the slavery which exists in our country is more ominous in its character and tendency than any similar system which has ever existed in other countries. The first is, that slavery contradicts the primary principles of our re- publican government. Slavery was not inconsistent with the principles of Grecian and Roman democracy. It is in perfect, harmony with the systems of government, which, excepting Great Britain and Switzerland, prevail in every province of the old world, from the Frozen Ocean to the Cape of Good Hope, and from the Bay of Biscay to the Pacific. But it stands in direct opposition to all the acknowledged and boasted maxims in which is laid the foundation of our political institu- tions. The other consideration to which we refer is, that which spreads terrouv over every aspect in which the subject can be viewed, and whl seems to tell us — tor all these evils there is no remedy. It is m e fact that the slaves, and those who have been slaves, and tho SQ whose fathers have been slaves, are all marked out and stigmatized with the brand which nature has stamped upon them. In Greece and Rome, as in almost every other nation, a slave might be mnde free, and then he was no longer a slave, but he was amalga- mated with the rest of the community, and the road of wealth or houour or office was open before him, and his interests were united with the interests of the republic. But here the thing is impossible : a slave cannot be really emancipated. You cannot raise him from the abyss of his degradation. You may call him free, ycu may enact a statute book of laws to make him free, but you cannot bleach him into the enjoyment of freedom. Now apply to this subject one very simple arithmetical calculation. In 1820 the slave population of the country was 1,500,000. Their annual increase is estimated at 35,000. Their number doubles in less than 20 years. Things remain- ing as they now are, in 1 840 we shall have 3,000,000 of slaves ; in 1860, 6,000,000; and in 1880, 12,000,000; a nation of slaves larger by 4,000,000 than the whole present white po- pulation of the United States. What a state of things will this be. Twelve millions of slaves. 1 A nation scattered and peeled,' ' a nation meted out and trodden down ;' — and God forbid that it should be written in the blood and echoed in the 91 groans of that generation — "a nation terrible from their be- ginning hitherto." But even in the short sixty years which must elapse before such a stale of things can take place, how much terrour and anxiety must be endured, how many plots must be detected, how many insurrections must be quelled. Plots! and insurrections! These are words of terrour; but their terribleness is no argument agninst the truth of what we say. If things go on as they are, words more terri- ble than these must be " familiar in our mouths." For, not- withstanding all that may be done to keep the slaves in igno- rance, the}' are learning, and will continue to learn, something of their own power, and something of the tenure by which they are held in bondage. They are surrounded by the me- morials of freedom. The air which they breathe is free ; and the soil on which they tread, and which they water with their tears, is a land of liberty. Slaves are never slow in learning that they are fettered, and that freedom is the birth right of humanity. Our slaves will not be always ignorant — and when that righteous Providence, which never wants in- struments to accomplish its designs, whether of mercy, or of vengeance, shall raise up a Touissaiut, or a Spartacus, or an African Tecumseh, his fellow slaves will flock around his standard, and we shall witness scenes which history describes, but from the thought of which the imagination revolts. Not that there is any reason to anticipate such an insurrection as will result in the emancipation of the slaves, and the estab- lishment of a black empire. A general insurrection in the southern states, might indeed destroy their cities, might deso- late their plantations, might turn their rivers to blood ; but to be finally successful, it must be delayed for more than two or three generations, — it must be delayed till the blacks have force enough to re-i^t successfully the energies of the whole American people ; for at any time within sixty or a hundred years, the beacon fires of insurrection would only rally the strength of the nation, and the ill-fated Africans, if not utterly exterminated, would be so nearly destroyed that they must submit to a bondage more hopeless than ever. Cannot the people of the United States be roused to an ef- fort for the partial, if not for the entire, removal of the evil? attendant on the circumstances of our black population ? We refer to all these evils ; though they cannot all be enumerated, for their name is legion. We refer to the condition of all the blacks whether bond or free. They are wretched, and their wretchedness ought to be alleviated. They are dangerous to the community, and this danger ought to be removed. Their wretchedness arises not only from their ^bondage, but from their political and moral degradation- The danger is 92 not so much that we have a million and a half of slaves, as that we have within our borders nearly two millions of men who are necessarily any thing rather than loyal citizens — nearly two millions of ignorant and miserable beings who are banded together by the very same circumstances, by which they are so widely separated in character and in interest from nil the citizens of our great republic. The question is, can- not the people of the United States be induced to do some- thing effectual for the removal of these evils ? Without doubt they can be roused to an effort ; for in a nation so far under (he influence of christian principle as ours, there is a spirit which will answer to the voice of benevolence when it pleads the cause of humanity. It did answer in England, when Wil- berforce and Clarkson lifted up their cry against the wrongs of Africa; and the consequence of their unwearied labours has been the formal abolition of the slave-trade by every christian power in both continents, and such a total revolution in public sentiment, that all who are not immediately interested in the nefarious traffick are ready to denounce it as the most high- handed outrage that ever was practised by fraud and power against simplicity and weakness. If the philanthropists of America will summon up their energies to a like effort — if they will never cease to warn their fellow-citizens of the ex- tent and nature of these evils — if they will properly set before the public the political and intellectual and moral degradation of the blacks, and the danger which results from this degra- dation ; — the same spirit which answered to the plea of Wil- berforce will answer them, and the effect of their labours will be seen in the sympathizing efforts of all the enlightened and benevolent. We doubt not that the public may be excited on this subject, and if excited they may put forth such an effort ns will alleviate the evils in question, and long delay, if not utterly prevent, their final catastrophe. The excitement re- quired is not a momentary, feverish, half delirious excite- ment, like that produced by the agitation of the Missouri question — it must be something more calm and permanent. It must not be a sudden torrent passing away w ith the cloud that gave it birth ; but a river whose broad, deep, peaceful streams are supplied by perennial fountains, and whose pure waters, like the waters of Jordan, shall wash away from our national character this foul and loathsome leprosy. But what shall be done ? This excitement must have a de- finite object, — what shall that object be ? what kind of effort is demanded ? We answer, first, any effectual effort for the benefit of the blacks must be such as will unite the patriotic and benevolent, in all parts of the country. There is per- haps no subject which excites so much of what is called sec- 93 :ional feeling, so much of jealousy at the south, so much oi O) Af.-A exultation at the north, and so much of indignant invective ^ 6± < **** \Tj , in all parts of the Union, as the subject before us, in any of jf^ • £ l , ikj^fL its relations. But this feeling at the north and at the south, is equally unreasonable, not to say equally criminal. The difference in regard to slavery and a negro population, be- tween New-England and Georgia, we owe not to ourselves, or to our fathers, but to the God who has placed our habita- tion where the climate forbade the introduction of Africans, and where the hard soil could be cultivated only by the hands of freemen. Had the rough hills, and the cold winds, and the long winters of New-England, been exchanged for the rich plains and the burning sun and the enervating breezes of Carolina, all the sacred principles of puritanism would not have prevented the introduction of slavery, at a time when hardly a man could be found in either hemisphere, to raise his voice against the enormity, and when England was deter- mined to infect all her colonies with the debilitating and deadly poison. What occasion then can we have to exult over our fellow-citizens ? It is as if the heir to an estate should exult in the poverty of his neighbour. It is as if the man in health should glory over his brother in sickness — And it is with indignation that we sometimes see the editors of political journals, in one part of the country, attempting to kindle and cherish such feelings ; — for every such attempt excites and increases, and in some measure excuses, that techy sensibility, in respect to this subject, which the people of the south are always too ready to manifest. But still we are happy to believe, that notwithstanding all the vapouring of newspaper declaimers, the great majority of the northern people regard the matter, at least in times of calm reflection, with far more enlarged, liberal, national feelings, than is com- monly imagined by their southern brethren. And we will even express our belief, that there is hardly any enterprise to which the militia of Vermont or Connecticut would march with more zeal, than to crush a servile rebellion, (if such an event should ever take place, with all its cruelties and hor- rors) in Virginia. The people of Maine belong to the same great community with the people of Georgia ; and hence they desire at once the right and the duty of interfering to alleviate, and if possible to remove, an evil which affects the prosperity and safety of the whole American empire. The people of the south should know this, and if they once see their fellow-citizens engaging calmly and kindly in real effort* for the alleviation of this evil, their prejudices will be done away, and they will acknowledge the unsensonableness of their jealousies. If the people of New-England will talk less 94 of the guilt of slavery, and more of the means of counter acting its political and moral tendencies ; or if, when they speak of its guilt, they would acknowledge that New-Eng- land is a partaker ; if they will remember that it was their ships and sailors that carried the Africans in chains across the ocean, and that there are now men among them who are liv- ing on " the price of blood," — men whose wealth was " earn- ed" by " sinews bought and sold !" — if they will speak of this subject with the modesty, and think of it with the shame, which such remembrances are calculated to inspire, they may soon find that there are principles and schemes of enterprise in which the benevolent of all the states can unite : — And would not a national effort, for the removal of this national evil, do away local prejudices, and bind together the different parts of the Union, with a closer bond of national teeling ? An effort for the benefit of the blacks, in which all parts of the country can unite, of course must not have the aboli- tion of slavery for its immediate object. Nor may it aim di- rectly at the instruction of the great body of the blacks. — In either case, the prejudices and terrors of the slave-holding States would be excited in a moment ; and with reason too, for it is a well-established point, that the public safety forbids either the emancipation or the general instruction of the slaves. It requires no great skill to see that the moment you raise this degraded community to an intellectual existence, their chains will burst asunder like the fetters of Sampson, and they will stand forth in the might and dignity of man- hood, and in all the terrors of a long injured people, thirst^ ing for vengeance. J3ut, notwithstanding these restrictions, occasioned by the necessity of the case, and the danger of exciting jealousy, the effort in question must be a great effort — great in its con- ception and great in its details. We mean that there must be a magnificence in its immediate object, and an attractiveness in every step of its progress, which will not let it be forgotten or overlooked among the numberless enterprises fc.f the age. There is a certain simple grandeur in the design of the Bible Society, which fills the whole mind of the b*eholder, and awakens the benevolent heart to ecstacy, as it contem- plates the mighty scheme in all its relations. It is this which has united, in the holy undertaking, christians of every name and of every country, and it is this which will always unite them, till the design of the Bible Society shall attain its per^ feet accomplishment. The Missionary Society, with perhaps less of that imposing simplicity, in its place seizes on the attention and affections of the public, by the charm which ja thrown over all its proceedings. Every new report of its 95 progress, every letter from a distant missionary, awakens in the supporters of the enterprise, a higher joy and a livelier interest. And it is this increasing brightness in the details of its progress, which will always make it fresh and beautiful to the benevolent eye, till ' the kingdoms of this world shall become the kingdoms of our Lord.' So any effort for the removal of the evils to which our attention has been directed, before it can become powerful and lasting, must have some- thing of the same character. There must be a similar gran- deur in its object to arrest the public attention ; and to keep up that attention, there must be the same interest thrown over the successive events of its history. Without the one. the great body of the people will not engage in the enter- prise ; without the other, they will not maintain it. We have asserted that the Colonization Society is the only- institution which promises any thing great or effectual for the relief of our black population. We have examined the condition of that population, and have pointed out the cha- racteristics of the effort which shall accomplish any thing for their improvement. To establish our assertion, it re- mains for us to show that the direct object of this Society is attainable ; and that the two characteristics above mentioned, belong to this scheme, and to this alone. What other scheme, then, for the improvement ot the blacks, is there before the public ? What other efforts are we exhorted to make ? What other projects do we hear of I There are a few Sunday schools established for their benefit in our large towns ; and in some of our cities, the Africans have churches of their own, and tolerably well qualified ministers of their own. And more, to educate young men oF colour for the work of the ministry among their brethren, there is, or there was, somewhere in the State of New- Jersey, an African seminary, with whose managers, funds, resources, students, instructers, and even local situation, the public at large have been, for three years past, about as well acquainted, as they are with the course of the Niger, or the police of Tombuctoo. But efforts of this kind, taken by themselves, hardly amount to any thing ; they do not in the least affect the essence of the evil ; and not only s-o, but by a great part of the slave holders they are considered dan- gerous, and therefore they can never become such as will unite the patriotic and benevolent in all parts of the country. The same remark will apply with at least equal force to the projects of ' the American Convention for promoting the Abolition of Slavery, and improving the condition of the African race," as set forth in an "Address to the People ol the United States," which now lio« before us, and which con 96 tains some calculations and suggestions that ought to be familiar to every mind. If then, there is any hope of extensive good for these two millions of beings, it must be found in the plans proposed by the American Colonization Society. But before proceeding to examine how far this plan possesses the characteristics necessary to success, it is important to notice the objection, sometimes urged, that the establishment of a colony in Africa is impossible. If a colony of free blacks cannot be established on the coast of Africa, it must be, either, 1st, because free blacks cannot be induced to go, which is false, for they have gone, and hundreds are waiting to go, — or, 2ndly, because when they arrive there, they cannot be defended from the natives, which is disproved by the late contest, — or, 3rdly, because the soil will not yield them support, which needs no answer to any man who will look into a book of travels, — or, 4thly, because they must be cut off by the insalubrity of the cli- mate, which is contradicted by the experience of the settlers, and by the testimony of travellers. It is contradicted by the experience of the settlers ; for since they have occupied their present station, they have been visited with no sweeping (pestilence, excepting only the recent mortality among those sent out in the Oswego ; the number of deaths among them lias been no greater than the average mortality of the same class of people in America. It is contradicted by the testi- mony of travellers. If we had room for extracts, they might easily be collected from a variety of authors. The opinion of Lieutenant Stockton must suffice : — ki We have had an interesting cruize on the coast, from the shoals of the Great River to Cape Palmas : It was during the most unhealthy season, and under circumstances not the most flattering. Being in a small vessel, we were often exposed to heavy rains, and occasionally encountered great fatigue. — Notwithstanding which, we have returned in good health, only regretting tltat our cruize was so short, and that we accom- plished so little of that which we promised ourselves. We had the fever on board, but in every instance it yielded to the skill of our surgeons." " Under all these circumstances, I am bound to believe, (my conclusions, however, are deduc- ed from impressions, rather than from unalterable opinions,) that the horror for that coast, the hue and cry about the Af- rican fever, and the noise about the tornadoes, are but little less than a fable, generated by policy ; listened to, because wonderful ; and propagated by the interested. As to the climate, it is true the air is warm, and I think a constant ex- posure to the sun, must be very debilitating. The thcrmo- 97 metrical observations of this vessel, do not show that the temperature of the air has ever been above eighty -five de- grees, measured by Fahrenheit's thermometer ; but as the country i9 seldom refreshed by a cool invigorating breeze, the heat is more uniform, and of longer duration, and from that cause, 1 think, arises its pestilence, and not from the imme- diate power of the sun.* The heat is not bej r ond bearing for a while, but from its constancy must overcome any human constitution that is unwarily exposed to it during any length of time, without relief. The fever 1 think may be more readily avoided, and if taken, is not so dangerous, and may be more easily destroyed, than that which injects many pla- ces in our own country. The tornadoes, as I saw and felt them, are inconsiderable and harmless, in comparison with squalls met with on parts of the American coast, at parti- cular seasons of the year. We may have been particularly iavoured, and it is possible that all the dangers which per- sons are led to apprehend, do ordinarily possess that country But 1 can assure you, the fever has not assumed a living ebape; the winds are not saturated with pestilence; even on the coast of Africa, oxygen forms a compouent part of the ajmospheric air, and to inhale it is not certain death. We, (for I think I am speaking the sentiments of my companions,) respired as freely, and enjoyed generally as good health, as any country could have supplied us with. After examination and reflection, I honestly believe that the climate presents all those obstacles which are the natural productions of a tropical soil, uncleared and uncultivated, but that they will yield to proper precautions ; and that nothing can prevent the consummation of your wishes, but limited means, bad counsels, or feeble efforts." It is not pretended that the climate of Africa is as healthy to a native of Connecticut, as the country in which he was born. We say it may be compared in this respect, with other tropical countries. Is Montserado more unhealthy than New-Orleans or Havana ? Yet these places have been co Ionized — and colonized with men, whose descendants it is proposed to carry back to the climate, to which, the constitu- , tion which they have inherited from their fathers, is adapted. Is it impossible to colonize Africa? And did the God of na- Hire design that that continent, with all the luxuriance of its I soil, and all the variety of its productions, should forever-' remain a wilderness ? The happy inhabitants of Sierra Leone / may give the answer. / * Cape Montserado, it will be remembered, is "steep and elevated towards the sea," whkh <( afford* it 'he advantage of the sea-breeze /" N 98 With these facts before cs then, we feel no hesitation ha saying thyt this enterprise is practicable ; and we say too that it possesses the two characteristics already describ- ed, as essential to any permanent and effectual effort in behalf of the blacks. It is an enterprise in which all parts of the country can unite. The grand objection to every other effort is, that it excites the jealousies and fears of the south. But here is an effort in which the southern people are the first to engage, and which numbers many of their most distinguished men are nmong its advocates and efficient supporters. But it pro- motes the interests of the south. True; and must not every plan of the kind, which promises to do any good, favour the interests of that part of the country where the evil to be remedied presses, with the most alarming weight ? And does not this plan promote the interests of the north too? Are there not thousands of blacks in New-England ? And do- they add any thing to the good order and happiness of socie- ty ? Or rather, are they not, and must they not continue to be, as a body, ignorant and vicious, adding more to the poor rates of the parishes in which they reside, than they do to the income of the government? And shall a cause, to which the good people of the south offer not only money, but in not a few instances, the freedom of their slaves, languish because the people of the north refuse to come forward with their good wishes, and their prayers, and their most liberal contri- butions. It will not. We dare to predict that the time is not far distant, when the north and the south shall unite in this work of charity, and when every new report of the prosperity of our colony, will awaken the same joy in every benevolent heart from Portland to Savannah. This leads us to remark on the second characteristic^ namely, that it is a great enterprise. There is a grandeur in the conception of it like the grandeur of the Bible Socie- ty ; and if properly supported, every step of its progress must be attended by the sympathies and prayers of all who feel or pray for the missionary. Said Samuel J. Mills to his compan- ion, " Can we engage in a nobler effort ? We go to make freemen of slaves. We go to lay the foundation of a free and independent empire on the coast of poor degraded Africa. It is confidently believed by many of our best and wisest men, that if the plan proposed succeeds, it will ultimately be the means of exterminating slavery in our country. It will even- tually redeem and emancipate a million and a half of wretched men. It will transfer to Africa the blessings of religion and civilization ; and Ethiopia will soon stretch out her hands unto God." Such is the object. To comprehend in any degree it? 99 * magnitude, we must look at it in its relation to the blacks of our own country, in its relation to the slave trade, and in its relation to the civilization of Africa. We might add the con- nexion it must have with American commerce, not only by affording a station at which our Indiamen might take in water and provision, in some important respects more conVenieutly than at the Cape Verde Islands ; but also by opening to our merchants, at no distant period, a lucrative trade in all the productions of the climate. But we can only take the rapid glance at this topic, which is presented in the following ex- tract from the third report. "Has not the single port of Sierra Leone exported, in one year, since the abolition of the slave trade by England, a greater value lhan all western Africa, a coast of several thou- sand miles, yielded, exclusive of its people, for a like period anterior to that event ? When this abominable traffick shall have been utterly exterminated ; when the African labourer can toil secure from the treachery of his neighbour, and the violence of the man-stealer ; that continent will freight, for legitimate trade, those ships which now carry thither chains, fetters, and scourges, to return home with the bones, the sinews, the blood, and the tears of her children. Her gold, her ivory, her beautiful dyes, her fragrant, and precious gums, her healing plants and drugs, the varied produce of her now forsaken fields and lonely forests, will be brought by a joyous and grateful people, to the nations who, once their plunderers and persecutors, will have at length become their protectors, friends, and allies. " Let us look more particularly at the Colonization Society, first, in relation to the blacks of our own country. Leaving slavery and its subjects for. the moment entirely out of view, there are in the United States 238,000 blacks denominated free, but whose freedom confers on them, we might say, no privilege but the privilege of being more vicious and misera- ble than slaves can be. Their condition we have attempted to describe, and the description may be repeated in two words, irremediable degradation. Now, is there not to the benevolent mind something noble in the thought of ameliorating the con- dition and elevating the character of these 238.000 ? The Colonization Society will do this. It will open for these men an asylum, whither they can flee from the scoffs and the scorn to which they are exposed. It will restore them to a real freedom in the land of their fathers. It will give them all the privileges of humanity in the land for which their Creator designed them. And should it be unable to confer on all, the benefits it proposes, still it would do not a little for '.heir improvement. By elevating the character of those too who were transported to Africa, il. would elevate in some decree the character of those who remained. It would Set before them the strongest motives to industry, and honesty, and the acquisition of an honourable refutation. And here would be room for the other branches of benevo- lent exertion ; — here would be opportunity for Sabbath schools and all the apparatus of religious instruction, And is this a work to be overlooked or despised ? But wc have a million and a hall' of slaves. The black cloud almost covers our southern hemisphere. It is spread in g — and extending — and every hour its darkness is increasing. Now to dissipate this cloud ; to let in light, the pure unmin- gled light of freedom, on our whole land — the prospect is too wide for our vision, the object too vast for our comprehension. Let us look then with a nearer view at a less magnificent ob- ject. There are men in the southern states, who long to do something effectual for the benefit of their slaves, and would gladlj emancipate them, did not prudence and compassion alike forbid such a measure, of which it is difficult to say whether it would injure most the comfort and happiness of the slaves, or the welfare of the community. i>ow to pro- vide a way for these meu to obey the promptings of humanity, while they at the same .time confer an equal blessing on the slaves and on the community — is not this a great design . ; And if, inspired by their example, auotherand another master should emancipate his slaves ; and if in this way the subject should come to be discussed with new views and feelings ; and if emancipation, no longer useless and dangerous, should be no longer unpopular ; and if the voice of public opinion at the south should thus, by degrees, declare itself louder and louder against the practice of slavery ; till at last the system should be utterly abolished; till not a slave" should " conta- minate" our soil ; till Africa, abused degraded Africa should stretch out her hands and pray for America ; — if this should be so, what a triumph would be achieved — what a glory would be shed on our country in the view of admiring nations. No wonder, then, that faith should be staggered, and benevolence overwhelmed at the prospect of a consummation so magniticent. But the supposition of entire success in this plan, though it cannot be looked at without scepticism, is not absurd. The Society have from the first anticipated the co-operation of the national and state governments. The states of Virginia, Ma- ryland, and Tennessee, have expressed their approbation of the design, and have requested the national government to engage in it. The first of these states, it is believed, stands ready, as soon as Congress shall begin the work, to lend the most efficient aid in colonizing her own coloured population. 101 Indeed we may say, that in all the northern part of that se< tioti of the country, the necessity of a grand and general effort | is beginning to be felt, certainly by all intelligent reflecting I men. If, then, the government of the United States should begin the work, and if the governments of the slave-holding states should, one after another, follow on, who shall set bounds to what might he accomplished. By the calculations in the second report, which are certainly moderate, it appears that 250,000 dollars would transport the annual increase of the free blacks : and 2,000,u00. or a capitation tax of less than : : twenty-five cents on all the citizens of the United States, I would transport the whole annual increase of bond and free ft " The amount of duties collected on foreign distilled spirits, 1 during each of the first six years of Mr. Jefferson's adminis- 1 tration, would defray the sum total of this expense, and fur 1 nish half a million of dollars annually, toextinguish the prin- JL cipal, the capital stock, of the heaviest calamity that oppresses/ this nation." " And were the same duties charged in the % United Slates, as in Great Britain, on the consumption of tbis^ I fatal poison of human happiness, their net poceeds would, / in less than a century, purcha-e ar.d colonize in Africa, every / person of colour within the United States.'* 2 Report, p. :J i. ' Thus these two evils — the greatest that our country has ever known — might be made to counteract and destroy each other. But, whether such expectations are chimerical or not, | there is an immense object to be gained by the efforts of the I Colonization Society in the entire suppression of the slave * trade. This horrible traffic, notwithstanding its abolition by every civilized nation in the world, except Portugal and Bra- zil, and notwithstanding the decided measures of the British and American governments, is still carried on to almost as great an extent as ever. Not less than G0,000 slaves, ac- cording to the most moderate computation, are carried from Africa annually This trade is carried on by Americans to the American states. The assertion has been uade in Con- gress by Mr. Mercer, of Virginia, that these horrible cargoes are smuggled into our southern states to a deplorable extent. Five years ago, Mr. Middleton, of South Carolina, declared it to be his belief " that 13,000 Africans were annually smug- gled into our southern states." Mr. Wright, of Virginia, es- timated the number at 15,000. And the cruelties of this trade which always surpassed the powers of the human mind to conceive, are greater now than they ever were before. We might, but we will not, refer to stories, recent stories, of which the very recital would be torment. The only way in which this trade can be speedily and effectually suppressed. 102 •s the establishment of colonial stations in Africa, which wili - guard and dry up the fountains of the evil. There is no slave trade in the vicinity of Sierra Leone. Soon there will be none in the vicinity of Montserado. And when colonic? shall be established at proper intervals along the coast, the slave- trade will exist only in the memory of indignant humanm And is not this an object tor benevolence to aim at ? But this is not_ all. The colony is to be a means of civiliz- ing and christianizing Africa. Hitherto the extension pf civilization, and, since Christianity was established in the Ro- man Empire, the extension of Christianity has been almost exclusively by colonies. Whence came the civilization of Greece? It was brought by colonies from Egypt. How wag italy civilized ? By colonies from Greece. How was En " rope civilized ? By the Roman military colonies. Whence came the civilization of America? And is not that universal spirit of improvement which is springing up in Hindoostan oc- casioned, more or less directly, by the British conquests there, which have poured in thousands of Englishmen, who are in effect colonizing India ? Two centuries hence the lit- tle band, who are now cultivating their fields and building their houses at Montserado, and spreading over the wilder- ness around them a strange aspect of life and beauty, may be remembered by the thousands of their descendants, with the same emotions with which the little band who landed at Ply- mouth two centuries ago, are now remembered by the thou- sands of New England. We do not fear to say, that to the friends of missions, the Colonization Society presents a loud and imperative claim. The advantage of the Moravian mis- sions and of the modern missionary establishments in savage countries, is that they are in substance, little colonies. If you could carry from this country to the Sarfdwich Islands, a thou- sand civilized and educated natives, would you not think you had done much for Owhyhee ? This is what can be done, and must be done, for Africa. And will there not be an interest in the progress of the work ? Will it not be delightful to watch the advances of the morning ; to see the light breaking in on one dark habitation of cruelty, and another ; to see the shadows of heathenism Seeing away, and the delusions which have so long terrified the ignorant pagans, vanishing ; to see one tribe after anoth- er coming to the light of Zion, and to the brightness of her rising ; to see Ethiopia waking, and rising from the dust, and iooking abroad on the day, and stretching out her hands to God, and the day light still spreading and kindling and bright- ening, till all the fifty millions of Africa are brought into the 'glorious light and liberty of the sons of God!" Is there 103 mOl enough in this to arrest the attention of the public, and to keep it fixed on this object with an untiring interest, till all shall be accomplished ? The Niger's sullen waves Have heard the tidings, — and the orient sun beholds them rolling on to meet his light In joyful beauty — Tombut's spiry towers Ate bright without the brightness of the day, And Iloussa wakening from his age-long trance Of woe, amid the desert, smiles to hear The last faint echo of the blissful sound. A few words more, and we have done. We had intended to notice one or two thing* in the management of this Soci- ety, which might be amended. One is, they have not kept up a constant communication with the public. The monthly reports of their treasury have not been published ; and we have known very little of their proceedings but from their annual reports. Another deficiency appears to be — perhaps we judge incor- rectly — a want of that energy and business-like regularity of operation which so characterize some of our northern benevo- lent institutions. Generally their colonists have arrived at the most unhealthy seasons of the year. We the more wil- lingly curtail our notice of these defects, because we think we can see an evident improvement. They have issued propo- sals for publishing a periodical work, which we hope will be well supported by the public. And they have resolved, and they have called on the public to assist in executing the resolution, that if possible they will send three vessels with emigrants to Liberia this fall. We do earnestly hope that this call will he answered, and that the Board will be en - abled to carry this design into execution, and by sending their settlers to Africa at the healthiest, instead of fhe most un- healthy seasons of the year, to ascertain whether the climate is actually so deadly as benevolent slave-traders and the ether enemies of the scheme are fond of representing. The late unfortunate intelligence from Montserado, discouraging as it may be to the timid and heartless, ought to invigorate the friends of Africa. It has proved, what every body knew be- fore, and what no man in his senses ever presumed to deny that the climate of that coast, like other tropical climates, is dangerous to foreigners arriving at a certain season of the year. It has proved too that, whatever may be thought of one of the agents of the colony, the other is a man of sense and integrity — 'a man of business, and one who knows how to command.' The public have expected from this plan, we will not say too great, but too immediate results. For ourselves we ex- pect to see repeated untoward events. — We do not antici- pate any thing magnificent for twenty or fifty years to come. But christian benevolenre is gifted to look into futurity. 104 * l iaally, it any thing is done, it ought to be done tjuiekly. — If there are christians among us who intend to favour this ob- ject, let them do it without delay. We would venture to sug- gest to ministers of all denominations the propriety of laying before their people, sometime in the course of this month, the claims of an object so important to our country and to the human race, and soliciting their contributions. Let it be known on earth, let it be known in heaven, that America is awake on this subject — that her sons of every nanrie and of every opinion are doing something for the emancipation and salvation of injured Africa. F. (Ixtractfrom the first Annual Report of the New-York Auxili- ary Colonization Society , 1823. It is unnecessary to dwell, in detail, upon the intermediate history of the Colom/i The annual Reports of the parent In- stitution contain the amplest information on this subject, and are tilled with a recital of the most important incidents in rela- tion to its origin and progress. To the lover ol bold adven- ture, as well as to the philanthropist and the Christian, we recommend the perusal of these interesting documents. It is sufficient for our present pupose to state, that, notwithstand- ing the dangers and the difficulties necessarily attending the planting of an infant settlement on a remote and barbarous shore, the colony still exists and flourishes. According to the latest accounts, the number of settlers is about two hundred, under the superintendence of two agents, of acknowledged character and abilities. The misunderstanding, which at first existed between them and the natives, has been satisfactorily adjusted, and every thing seems propitious to the growth and perpetuity of the establishment. Such is a brief sketch of what has been accomplished un- der the auspices of the parent Society. To aid in the ex- ecution of a plan, so magnificent in its design, and so benevo- lent in its object, this auxiliary was formed. It has already- existed for six years, and though less has been done by it than was either wished or expected by the friends of colonization, yet the Managers feel confident that its formation and con- tinued existence have not been without their use. Although it has thus far contributed but little to the pecuniary resources of the Society, the Managers flatter themselves that it may have been the means of keeping alive, in this section of our country, a sympathy for the general object, which, it is hoped, will ere long pervade every portion of the community. Not 105 withstanding the open hostility of some, the skepticism of others, and the cold indifference of a still greater number, the Managers are proud to record their firm and unalterable conviction in favour of the great cause in which they are en- listed. The)' believe it to be a project, not merely practica- ble, but pregnant with the greatest blessings to humanity. To this country it offers the only possible means of gradually ridding ourselves of a mighty evil, and of obliterating the fouiest stain upon our nation's honour. To those who emi- grate, it offers an asylum in the land of their fathers, where they may stand forth in the character of men, and enjoy the rights and privileges of freemen. To Africa, it offers the suppression of the slave trade, while it presents in bold per- spective the brightest prospects of future civilization and re- finement. If this unfortunate portion of our globe is ever to be regenerated in its intellectual and moral character, there is no question that it will have to be the result of efforts for- eign to itself. All history proves that no people were ever redeemed from ignorance and barbarism, except through the agency of a nation already civilized. If such be the fact, how immensely does the establishment of this Colony swell in interest, w hen viewed in its relations to Africa ! It is no extravagant supposition, that, if success attends the present enterprise, colonies will ere long be found established in abundance along the coast of Africa, and that through them, civilization, science, and Christianity, will pour their blessings over a suffering and degraded continent. It is impossible to believe, for one moment, that apian which pro- mises such splendid results will be. suffered to languish by the American public. The countenance and patronage already extended to the infant settlement by the government of the United States, shows that the object is arid ought to be a na-> tionalone. The Managers entertain the hope, that ere long this must become a general sentiment throughout our countr\', and that every heart must be awakened to the claims of this institution. The foil oiving calculations are from the New York Statesman. Emigrants usually consist of young people. Let the Soci- ety aid none but such, and equal numbers of males and females; females between the age of 18 and 28 years, males between 20 and 30 years. As the children of such parents would all be young, most of them under three years, and as when under that age their removal would cost but lit- tle with their parents, such children need not be estimated. Let the society aid G000 annually of this class, between 1& 106 and 30 years of age, and the population at the end of ten years will be, making all allowances, at least 100,000 less than it would have been, had none been removed. This will appear, if we consider how large a portion of the increase will spring from this class. Allowing for deaths, it would be a low estimate to say their numbers would double in the time.* But estimating their increase only at two-thirds their number, and it will amount to 100,000 in ten years. By the last cen- sus, the number of free people of colour was 233,398, and fhe increase from 1810, is a little less than 47,000. At the same rate of increase, the number in 1830, will be some less than 293,000, if none are removed. Call it 293,000, and suppose the 6000 a year to be removed, and deduct the num- ber with their estimated increase, estimated at 100,000, and it leaves 1 93,000. At the same rate of increase, and the same deduction the next ten years, the number will be 142,000 in 1840: 80,000 in 1850, being less than the number which would be removed the next ten years ; the removing 6000 a year amounting to the same as the removal of 100,000 once in ten years. All, therefore, but the aged, would be remov- ed in less than forty years. But the rate of increase of those who remain after the first ten years, considering the class that is removed, would be less by considerable the next ten ; so that although fouryears are nearly gone since the first cen- sus, if the work were commenced this year, they would all be removed within forty years. The expense, if it were all met by the society^ and they were removed to Africa, would not exceed $360,000 annually, and would probably be less. But as many might be removed to Hayti, as one-fifth would defray their own expense, the "expense would be greatly reduced. I have put the rate of expense the same as Paul Ouffee estimated it, who carried out the first colonists that left our country for Africa. Of 3e removed, and the rapidity with which, from various cau-es, it increases, the committee do not think it necessary to enlarge. It is well known to be far too great, to be sensibly affected by any re- sources which an association of individuals can command. To the nation, and to the nation alone, must we look for adequate means of accomplishing such a work. " This the committee regard as an undertaking strictly and essentially national, in which, consequently, the national re- sources ought to be employed The evil to be removed particularly affects, indeed, particular parts of the nation : but affects the rest by its necessary consequences, and is, therefore, a national evil. In the body politic, as in the na- tural body, a part cannot be diseased without endangering the whole, and a gangrene is not the less fatal, because it com- mences in the foot, or the hand. The governments, indeed, of those states which are most immediately affected by this evil, may justly be expected to do something ; but, as the evil is strictly national in its character, the general govern- ment ought to be looked to, in the first place, and mainly for the remedy. P / 114 « 1 hose reasons have led the committee to conclude, that application ought to be made to the national government. i * +y They are aware that doubts exist, in quarters entitled to the I '^t*-^ ' If highest respect, about the expediency of making this applica- ' V - f | tion at present. But, after a careful consideration of that • * vt ^ , .... jjW T\ ,y . point, they are of opinion, that an immediate application is advisable. The time has come, when, the way being found to be practicable, opened, and prepared, the national govern - ment may, with propriety, enter on this great career. It has also come, when almost all that can be effected by individual resources, has been effecttJ. " The committee would also remark, that, although it may be doubted whether, on a subject so vast in its consequences and connections, and so new, Congress will act immediately — Zr this does not, in their opinion, furnish any sufiicient reason "A for delaying the application. Time must be allowed for view- ing the subject in all its bearings, for reflecting on it mature- ly, and for public opinion to receive and communicate the proper impulse. Nothing, the committee apprehend, will tend so effectually to produce and to hasten these desirable results, as full discussions and explanations of the whole subject in Congress for which the present moment seems particularly favourable. They are, therefore, of opinion, that it is advisable to make the application during the present session, and at as early a period as practicable. H On the nature and extent of the aid for which it would | ■.. be proper to ask* more doubt may exist. But the committee „ are Q £ pi n ion-, after much reflection, that Congress ought to f. ^tA^ fjL4h*4 ^e re quested to take under its protection the colony already planted ; to make provision for its increase by suitable ap- propriations of money, and by authorizing the President to make further purchases of land from, the natives, as it may De wanted : to provide for its security, internal and external, ,\f (jAJf ^ ! , ucn regulations for its temporary government, as may be deemed advisable, and by authorizing the President to em- ploy a suitable naval force on the coast, as well for the more effectual suppression of the slave trade, as for the purpose of impressing the natives with respect for the- establishment ; and to make provision for the purchase, from time to time> of suitable territories, on the south-western coast of Africa, for the establishment of other similar colonies, as fast as they can be formed, with a due regard to the national resources, and to the public good. " It will, also, as your committee apprehend, be proper to pray for an incorporation of the Society, within this district, with proper powers'and privileges, as an efficient mean of promoting these important objects, and for a continuation of \\5 the appropriation for the restoration of recaptured African? to their own country, and their support nnd protection there. "All of which is respectfully submitted." It was, thereupon, resolved, that the snid report be ap- proved, adopted, and published, and that a memorial, accord- ingly, be prepared by the *ame committee, signed by the Pre- sident, and presented to Congress, on the "part of the So- ciety. R. R. GUKLEY, Secretary. J. Baltimore, February 18th, 1824. Gentlemen : I have the pleasure to inform you of my arrival at this place on the 10th inst. in the schooner Fidelity, in thirty-seven days from R-io Pongas, and fifty-nine days trom Montserado. I left the colony in a slate of prosperity — the lots were surveyed and allotted to the people in August, but the threat- ening aspect of the natives made it necessary to leave our agricultural pursuits, and attend to the defence of our colony, which occupied our time until November. I was much disappointed in the efforts produced by distri- buting the lots to each person. I had fondly looked forward to this era as a period which would put a stop to the dissentions and murmurs of the people, who have always been complain- ing that this had not been effected. Rut when this was done, they clearly demonstrated the principle yvhich h id really ac- tuated them from the first. Instead of accepting them, and going to work to improve them, the old settlers to a man, and some of the brig Strong's cargo, refused to accept the lots, and became very turbulent. For this course many reasons were assigned — some that the society had deceived them ; that they went out expecting to govern themselves, and had no idea of having white Agents, with various other reasons, which I reserve for a future communication. Those whom I took out last, with the exception of two, ac- cepted their lots, and shewed a disposition to be orderly and industrious. They were all recovering their health, and be- ginning to labour on their lots. The plantations were allotted to such as bad accepted their lots, and from the disposition manifested by them, I think they will soon be handsomely improved. 1 have thus accomplished the objects yvhich 1 had originally jn view yvhen I accepted the appointment as Agent of your society, which was to procure a situation for this unfortunate race of people on the Coast of Africa, and to see each one set- tled on lands of his own, where, by a course of honest industry. 116 he might procure a comfortable subsistence, and raise himself and posterity from that state of degradation in which he must ever be placed in this country, to a state of independence and happiness. This being accomplished, I beg leave to resign my appoint- ment as agent of yoursociety, and I do hereby resign the same. Indisposition since my arrival has been the cause of my not communicating to you more fully, and at an earlier date. I have the honour to be, y onr most obedient humble servant, E. AY RES. Messrs. the Committee of the Col. Soc'y. K. Dr. E. Ayres to the Abolition Society, Philadelphia. Washington, March llth, 1824. Sir : I received a letter from you dated March 3d, 1823, concerning a letter to King Shaker, of Gallenos, respecting a grandson of the King, now under the care of the Committee of the Abolition Society of Philadelphia. I took the first opportunity after my arrival in Africa fo send your communication to him ; much gratified to have it in my power to shew the Africans that theie were white men in the world, who were actuated by very different motives from those with whom they had been in the habit of dealing. They have been accustomed to look upon the character of a white man, as a combination of all that debases human na- ture. You may, therefore, judge of the feelings of an aged and fond grandfather, (for they have human feelings,) upon receiving intelligence of his long lost child. I accompanied your letter with an account of our settlement, and the object we had in view of returning the much injured Africans to the Jand of their forefathers. lie wrote me a very kind letter, (which I would have sent you, but it is mislaid) thanking me for the information, and requesting me to inform you of the great regard which he felt for the attention they had paid to his grandson. He begged me to assure the Abolition Society that he would re- munerate them for all expenses they had incurred on account of his child. He seemed much pleased at the location of our colon}', and wished to open a trade with us as soon as the rains should cease. There has another circumstance occurred, which, m con- junction with the above, may be said to have opened anew era to the view of the natives on this part of the Coast. The eleven Africans who were seized in Baltimore, and rescued from a piratical vessel, as you have doubtless heard 117 by the newspapers, were last November delivered to me in Africa, by the captain of the schooner Fidelity. It was ascer- tained that they had been taken in war near our settlement, and sold by King Shaker, of Gallenos, and by him sold to the captain of a Spanish vessel. This vessel was plundered by captain Chase, of Baltimore, and boldly brought into that port, trust- ing to his influence with certain persons of high standing, to elude the authority of our laws. But by the interference of E. Tyson, deceased, there was an investigation, and the slaves were detained until I arrived in thai city, and took charge of them as Agent of the Colonization Society. Their case could not be decided before I sailed for Africa, hut they were short- ly after set at liberty, and sent in the African packet to our colony, and delivered to my care. As they all preferred re- turning to their parents and families to remaining in our colo- ny, they were permitted to do so. When I went on board the vessel, though much emaciated and reduced almost to a skeleton, they immediately recog- nized me to be the person who had the year before rescued them from slavery. 1 had scarcely stepped my foot on d ck before they were all round me, expressing by words and ges- tures the most heartfelt satisfaction for the favours they had re ceived. When the vessel was gettir.gunder way, yieldingto early im- pressions, by which they had been taught to consider a white face and treachery as inseparable, they concluded they w°re betrayed, and were again to return to America, They sprang below to get their bags, and were about to plunge into the Ocean, and swim to the shore with their bundles. On being assured I was about to restore them to their native towns, some of which were nearly in sight, their confidence was re- stored, and they contentedly went to work. When arrived at Sugary, our crew being sickly, I sent on shore for Charles Gomez, a native, who had been educated in England, to come off with his boat, and take the captives onshore. He came, off, accompanied by several of the natives ; and here a most interesting interview took place between these long separated acquaintances. A circumstance attending this affair is tru^y characteristic of the African character. One of these captives had been taken by this Gomez two years before, in a war between him and the father of the captives, and afterwards sold to King Shaker. This captive was at first very shy of Gomez, and refused to go on shore with him, fearing the war was not yet over, and that he should be again sold to a slave vessel then Iving in sight ; but T assured him that he was in no dan- ger ; that I knew the war to be over ; that Gomez was a par- 118 licular friend of mine, and traded with me ; and, in the pre- sence of both assured them, that should Gomez attempt to do him injustice, 1 would not fail to ha-tise hi:ii. These as- surances entirely overcame his doubts, and when told that his father and the fathers of two others of them were then standing on the beach, not knowing that it was their sons, whom they had long supposed were doomed to perpetual slavery, were so shortly to be restored to then fond em races, they all stept into the boat, and in a few minutes astonished their de- lighted parents on the shore. I was much pleased to see that Gomez appeared truly to enter into the feelings of those poor creatures at this time, although he had been the cause of nil their sufferings ; but that was considered by them as the fortune of war, and created no hostile feelings of revenge. When taking my final leave of these poor fellows, they, point- ing to their bags, tilled with presents from Gen. Harper and Eli- jah Tyson, exclaimed, see there ! — them daddies in America good man. T-hese circumstances shew what entire confidence may be obtained over native Africans by good offices. I wish I could say it was possible to obtain the same degree of confi- dence over the coloured people of this country by any kind- ness whatever. Does not this show the proper field to operate upon in sup- pressingthe slave trade ? Send men among them capable of in- structing them— 4et them be qualified in head as well as in Jheart — not avaricious speculators, nor yet ignorant enthusi- asts ; but practical men, who can give the natives a living ex- ample of integrity of principle, and at the same time instiuct them in other modes of obtaining the necessaries of life. Let them be taught the benefit of employing their time in culti- vating the earth — shew them that the labour of a man for one year will produce more than they can sell him for— create a market for all they can supply, and give them in exchange such articles as they want, immediately their wars, which have been entered into merely to get slaves, the sale of which is the only method they know of to supply their wants, will cease. I think myself authorized in this assertion, having witnessed the effects produced by the very limited trade which 1 open- ed with them fdf a short time while in the colony, and view- ing the alacrity with which they entered into any new busi- ness which was proposed to them. I believe I am safe in saying there was more work performed within about 40 miles of the Coast in six weeks, at the close of the rains, with a view of trading with our colony when the rains should cease, than had ever been done in any four years before. If the first 119 impulse could produce this effect, what may be expected from a continuation of the. same cause. I have no troubt but that a uj expenses accruing to the Abolu tion Society on account of tins lad, now under theircare. will be faithfully discharged by King Shaker; and as it may be of im- mense importance to Africa hereafter, 1 hope the society will spare no pains to have him properly educated, and instructed in agriculture or the mechanical arts. Should he in future succeed to his grandfather's authority in the principal mart of the slave trade now on the Coast, this fortunate circum- stance may be the means of rescuing more unfortunate beings from the iron hand of slavery, than all the exertions of the society have done since its first establishment. That this maj be the happy issue of your humane endea- vours, is the ardent wish of your most obedient, E. AY RES. Message from the President of the United States, transmitting the information required by a resolution of the House of Re- presentatives, of 21th February last, in relation to the sup- pression of the Jifrican Slave-Trade. To the House of Representatives : I transmit, herewith, to the House of Representatives, a report irom the Secretary of State, with the papers therein referred to, in compliance with a resolution ot "that House, of 27th January last. JAMES MONROE. Washington, 19th March, 1824. Department of State, Washington, 18th March, 182-1. The Secretary of State, to whom has been referred a reso- lution of the House of Representatives, of the 27th of Janua- ry last, requesting the President to communicate to that House «uch part, as he may not deem inexpedient to divulge, of any correspondence, or negotiation, which he may have instituted with any foreign government, since the 28th of February, 1823, in compliance with a request contained in a resolution of the same House of that date, relative to the denunciation of the African slave-trade as piracy, has the honour to submit, to the President, copies of the correspondence requested. JOHN QU1NCY ADAMS. LIST OF PAPERS SENT. 1. Mr. Canning to Mr. Adams, . 29 January, 1S23, 2. Mr. Adams to Mr. Canning, . 31 March, do. 3. Mr. Canning to Mr. Adams % 8 April, do. 12J 4. Mr. Adams to Mr. Canning, . 24 June, 11323, 5. Mr. Adams to Mr. Nelson, (Extract) 28 April, do. '5. Same to Mr. Rodney, do. 17 May, do. 7. Same to Mr. Anderson, do. 27 May, do. 8. Same to Mr. Rush, with one en- closure ; Convention Slave Trade, (Extract) .... 24 June, do. 0. Same to Mr. Middleton, (Copy) 28 July, do. 10. Same to Mr. Everett, do. 8 August, do. 11. Same to Gen. Dearborn, (Extract) 14 do. do. 12. Mr. Rush to Mr. Adams, (Extracts) 9 October, do. 13. Mr. Sheldon to same, do. 16 do. do. 14. Same to same, with two enclo- sures ; correspondence with Vis- count Chateaubriand, (Extracts) 8 Novr. do. 15. Mr. Everett to Mr. Adams, with two enclosures ; correspondence with Baron Nagell, (Extracts) 20 Novr. do. Mr. Canning to Mr. Adams, Washington, January 29, 1023, Sia : To the complete abolition of the African slave trade . Great Britain, as you are well aware, has long devoted her anxious and unremitting exertions ; she availed herself, dur- ing the war, of her belligerant rights, and extended dominioa in the colonies, to put down the inhuman traffick ; in peace, she has spared no labour, and shrunk from no sacrifice, to supply, by a general co-operation of the maritime powers, whatever has been withdrawn from her peculiar controul by the cessation of Hostilities, and the colonial arrangements consequent on that event. It is matter of deep regret, to his majesty's government, that the result of their exertions is far from corresponding either to the cause which demands, or to the zeal which sustains them. The pest, which they have pledged themselves to destroy, if it be in human power to destroy it, not only survives, to the disgrace and affliction of the age, but seems to acquire a fresh^c apacity for existence with every endeavour for its destruction. To whatever fatality it may be owing, that, while the obli- gation of adopting and enforcing measures for the extermina- tion of the slave trade, is solemnly acknowledged by the civilized world, this great object seems rather lo elude the grasp than to approach its consummation. Great Britain per- ceives, in the postponement of her hopes, however mortify- ing for the moment, no rea-on either to relax from her efforts, or to abandon the expectation of finul success. Impelled, b? 123 the noblest motives, to persevere in the cause of abolition, and mindful by what slow laborious steps the present point has been attained, she looks forward, through surrounding obstacles, to that triumphant accomplishment of her purpose, the benefit and glory of which will only be rendered more signal by the difficulties attendant on its progress. In calling on Europe and America to join with them in the discharge of this sacred duty, his majesty and his ministers have appealed, sir, with the more confidence, to your gov- ernment, as the United States have long proclaimed their decided hostility to the slave trade, and are surpassed by no country in the vigour of their legislative enactments for its repression. The identity of principle, existing on this sub- ject, between the two governments, is distinctly recorded in the treaty of peace ; and, in answer to every proposal which has since, by his majesty's command, been addressed to your cabinet, for redeeming that pledge, by a broad and effectual application of the principle, afresh assurance has been given of the unceasing interest with which the United States con- tinue to promote the cause of abolition. When, to this accord, in principle and sentiment, is added the conviction, avowed by both parties, that, in spite of laws and treaties, the accursed traffick still thrives, under the eyes of an indignant world, it would seem impossible that the two powers should be long prevented from concerting a joint system of measures against the common object of their abhorrence and just proscription. Whatever circumstances, views, or impressions, may have hitherto defeated this expectation, his majesty's ministers are gtill unwilling to despair of finding the United States at length prepared either to close with the system of concert already offered to their acceptance, or to suggest a plan of equal effi- ciency in its place. The alternative embraces a duty, for the performance of which both countries are responsible before God and man. A deep sense of this duty, and a reliance, by no mean9 re linquished, on the general disposition of the United States, have prompted theseveral communications on this question, which have been addressed to you at successive periods, either through me or by means of the American Envoy in London. You will readily call to mind, sir, that, in the course of last summer, 1 apprised you of the intention of his majesty's min- isters to press for an early re-consideration of the subject, submitting whether it might not prove agreeable to the Ame- rican cabinet to anticipate that intended recurrence to it on the part of Great Britain, by some efficient proposal, origin- ating with itself. I took occasion, in repeated conversations \22 to urge anew those Various arguments which support and jus tify the opinion of his majesty's government ; and 1 a\ao placed in your hands the official papers, then recently printed by order of Parliament, in further evidence of the extent to which the traflick in human beings was still carried on from Africa, under circumstances of aggravated cruelty. In de- claring, as on former occasions, the readiness of his majesty's ministers to examine, with respect and candour, whatever scheme of concert, if any, the American cabinet might think proper to bring forward, as a substitute for theirs, you wilt remember how strongly I expressed my belief that the only effectual measure devised, or likely to be devised, was a mu- tual concession of the right of search. In the exercise of that right, under such guards, and with such limitations, as may serve to tramquilize the most apprehensive and scrupu- lous minds, it is still conceived that the best and only cure for this intolerable mishief ie to be found. You assured me, at a subsequent conference, that my representations had been duly submitted to the President. I wish it were in my power to add, that the cause, which I pleaded, had prevailed. From the printed documents which I had the honour of communicating to you, it appears that the French flag is more particularly employed to cover the illicit trade on the coast of Africa. It would, perhaps, be unfair to conclude, that French property and French subjects are concerned to the full proportion in which the colours of that nation are used ; but it is manifest, that both are engaged in this commerce of blood, to an extent which reflects discredit, if not on the mo- tives of the French administration, at least on the efficiency of its measures ; and makes it imperative on those govern- ments which are pledged to each other for the suppression of the slave trade, to declare their reprobation of what is at best a culpable remissness, and to omit nothing that may rouse the French cabinet to a more active exercise of its authority. It was a part of my instructions to bring this point undei your immediate consideration, and to intimate that the remon- strances of his majesty's ambassador at Paris, might be at- tended with more effect, if the American envoy at that court w ere directed to concur with his excellency in a joint repre- sentation on the subject. It would be idle at present to repeat the arguments adduced in executing this instruction. The answer which you returned in the name of the President, was unfavourable to the step I had suggested ; and such was the result which it became my duty to announce to his majesty's Secretary of State. But no doubt was started with respect to the grounds on which my application rested ; and, of those 123 notorious facts, to which I referred, as calling for a joint and impressive appeal to the good faith and good feelings of the French government, you seemed to be equally convinced with myself. The reasons, indeed, which you allege for declining at thai time to comply with a proposal, no less simple in its nature than useful in its object, 1 understood to be rather of a tem- porary character ; and under this impression, I cannot but hope, that the period is now arrived when they will no longer be found to stand in opposition to the great considerations involved in this question. In repeating, therefore, the invitation winch I have already had the honour to convey to you on the part of his majesty's government, it only remains lor me to request an early com- munication of the intentions at present entertained on this hfcad by the government of the United States. I beg, sir. that you will accept the assurance of mv distin- guished consideration. STRATFORD CANNING. To the Hon. John Quincy Adams, Secretary of State, A resolution of the House of Representatives, at the late session of Congress, requests the President of the United States to enter upon, and prosecute, from time to time, such negotiations, with the several maritime powers of Europe, and America, as he may deem expedient for the effectual abolition of the African slave trade, and its ultimate denun- ciation, as piracy under the law of nations, by the consent of the civilized world. " In pursuance of the object, proposed by this resolution, you will communicate to the government of Buenos Ayres, copies of the several acts of Congress for the suppression of' the slave trade, of the 20th of April, 1818 ; (U. S. Laws, vol. 6, page 325 ;) 3d March, 1819, (page 435 ;) and of 15th May, 1820, (page 529 ;) pointing their attention, particularly, to the fourth and fifth sections of the last, which subject to the penalties of piracy every citizen of the United States, guilty of active participation in the African slave trade. The adoption of this principle, in the legislative code of all the maritime nations, would, of itself, probably, suffice for the suppression of the trade. P>ut, as it would yet not authorize the armed vessels of any one nation to capture those of ano- ther, engaged in the trade, a stipulation to that effect might be agreed to, by treaty, conditioned that the captor shall de- liver over the captured party to the tribunals of his own country for trial ; to which should be added, some guard of responsibility upon the capturing officer, to prevent the abu- sive exercise of his power." 137 Extract from the General Instructions to Richard C. Anderson., appointed Minister Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Colom - bia, dated Department of State, Washington, May 27, 1823. " A resolution of the House cf Representatives, at the late session of Congress, requests the President of the United States to enter upon, and to prosecute, from time to time, such negotiations with the several maritime powers of Europe and America as he may deem expedient for the effectual abolition of the African slave trade, and its ultimate denunciation as piracy, under the law of nations, by the consent of the civil- ized world. " In pursuance of this object, you will communicate to the Colombian government copies of the several acts of our Con- gress for the suppression of the slave trade, of the 20th of April, 1818, (U.S. Laws, vol. vi. p. 325,) of 3d March, 1819, (p. 435,) and of 15th May, 1820, (p. 529,) pointing their at- tention particularly to the 4th and 5th sections of the last, which subject to the penalties of piracy, every citizen of the United States guilty of active participation in the African slave trade. The adoption of this principle in the legislative code of all the maritime nations, would, of itself, probably, suffice for the suppression of the trade ; but, as it would yet not authorize the armed vessels of any one nation to capture those of another, engaged in the trade, a stipulation to that effect may be agreed to by the treaty, conditioned that the captor shall deliver over the captured party to the tribunals of his own country for trial ; to which should be added some guard of responsibility upon the capturing officer, to pre- vent the abusive exercise of his powers," Extract of a letter from Air. Adams to Mr. Rush, dated Department of State, Washington, June 24, 1S23. " A resolution of the House of Representatives, almost unanimously adopted at the close of the last session of Con- gress, requested "the President of the United States to en- ter upon and to prosecute, from time to time, such negotiations with the several maritime powers of Europe and America, as he may deem expedient, for the effectual abolition of the Af- rican slave trade, and its ultimate denunciation as piracy, un- der the law of nations, by the consent of the civilized world. " At the two preceding sessions of Congress, committees of the House had proposed a resolution, expressed in more gen- eral terms, that 1 the President of the United States be re- quested to enter into such arrangements as he may deem suit- S 138 able and proper, with one or more of Hie maritime powers of Europe, for the effectual abolition of the African slave trade ;' and this resolution had, in each case, been the con- clusion of a report, recommending that the United States should accede to the proposal of a mutual and qualified con- « cession of the right of search. The sentiments of the committee were, in this respect, different from those which had been expressed by the Executive Department of the Govern- ment, in its previous correspondence with that of Great Bri- tain. No decision, by the House of Representatives, was made upon these resolutions, proposed at the preceding ses- sion ; but, upon the adoption of that which did pass, at the last session, it was well ascertained that the sentiments of the House, in regard to the right of search, coincided with those of the Executive : for they explicitly rejected an amendment which was moved to the resolution, and which would have expressed an opinion of the House favourable to the mutual concession of that right.* " You have been fully informed of the correspondence be- tween the governments of the United States and of Great Britain, concerning the suppression of the slave trade, here- tofore ; and have been, from time to time, effectually instru- mental to it yourself. You are aware of the grounds upon which the proposals, on the part of Great Britain, that the United States should accede to the stipulations similar to those which she had succeeded in obtaining from Spain, Por- tugal, and the Netherlands, were on our part declined. " The subject was resumed by the British minister resi- ding here, Mr. S. Canning, a short time before the decease of the Marquis of Londonderry. It was suggested, that. * The House of Representatives did not on the occasion referred to by die Secretary of State, reject any proposition to exchange this right of search. The resolution adopted by the House, as the Secretary demonstrates, involved the right of capture, and consequently the right to search the pirate. While the resolution was under consideration, and after its mover, Mr. Mercer, had delivered an argument in support of it, which distinctly traced the consequences of its adoption, and the evils it was designed to cure, among which was distinctly enumerated the absence of the right of mutual search, and the defects of the mixed com- mission courts of Great Britain, Governor Wright offered a clause which was deemed by the mover of the resolution, and the House, unne- cessary, because the principle it contained was involved, as the Secre- tary himself admits, in the resolution itself. To obviate farther debate, at so late a stage of the session of Con- gress, upon a subject which seemed to require none, the House almost unanimously sustained the previous question, and the resolution was. then, as unanimously adopted. 139 since the total disappearance of the British and American $ags, as well as of those of the nations which had consented to put the execution of their lows against the trade under the superintendence of British naval officers, it continued to flourish under that of France ; that her laws, though in word and appearance equally severe in proscribing the traffic, were so remiss in the essential point of execution, that their effect was rather to encourage, than to suppress it ; and the Ame- rican Government was urged to join in friendly representa- tions to that of France, by instructing the minister of the United States at Paris, to concur in those which the British ambassador at that court had been charged with making, to ensure a more vigilant fulfilment of the prohibitory laws. This invitation, at that time given only in oral conference, was also declined, from an impression that such a concurrence might give umbrage to the French government, and tend rath- er to irritation, than to the accomplishment of the object for which it was desired. Mr. Gallatin was, nevertheless, in- structed separately to bring the subject to the notice of the French government ; and did so, by a note communicating to them copies of the recent laws of the United States for the suppression of the trade, and particularly of that by which it has subjected every citizen of the United States, who, alter the passage of the law, should be polluted with it, to the pe- nalties of piracy. " On the 29th of January last, Mr. Canning, in a letter to this Department, repeated the invitation of a joint and con- current remonstrance, to be made by the British ambassador, and our minister in France ; and at the same time called, with great earnestness, upon the government of the United States, either to accede to the principle of the mutual and qualified right of search, emphatically pronounced, in his belief, to be the only effectual measure devised, or likely to be devised, 1 for the accomplishment of the end, or to bring forward some other scheme of concert,' which it again declared the readiness of his Majesty's minister to examine with respect and can- dour, as a substitute for that of the British cabinet. However discouraging this call for an alternative might be, thus coupled as it was with so decisive a declaration of belief that no effectual alternative had been, or was likely to be, devised, an opportunity was offered, in pursuauce of the resolution of the House of Representatives, adopted at the cfbse of the late Session of Congress, for proposing a substi- tute, in our belief more effectual than the right of search could be, for the total and final suppression of this nefarious trade and less liable either to objections of principle, or to abuses ot practice. 140 £t This proposition was accordingly made, in my letter to Mr- Canning of 31st of March last, to which his letter of the 8th of April was the answer. In this answer Mr. Canning barely notices our proposition, to express an opinion that his Government will see in it nothing but an acknowledgment of the necessity of further and more effectual measures, and then proceeds with an elaborate review of all the objections which, in the previous correspondence between the two go- vernments, had been taken on our part to the British con- nected proposal of a mutual right of search, and a trial by mix- ed commissions. Our objection had been of two kinds ; first, to the mixed commissions, as inconsistent with our Constitu- tion, and secondly, to the right of search, as a dangerous pre- cedent, liable to abuse, and odious to the feelings and recol- lections of our country. " In this letter of Mr. Canning, the proposal of trial by mixed commissions is formally withdrawn, and an alternative presented as practicable, one side of which only, and that the inadmissible side, is distinctly offered, namely, of triiil by the Courts of the captor The other side of the alternative would, indeed, remove our constitutional objection, and with it might furnish the means of removing the principal inherent objec- tion to the concession of the right of search, that by which the searching officer is under no responsible control for that act. " But, in our previous correspondence, our strong repug- nance to the right of search had been adverted to merely as matter of fact, without tracing it to its source, or referring to its causes. The object of this forbearance had been to avoid all unnecessary collision with feelings and opinions which were not the same on the part of Great Britain, and upon ours. They had been willingly left undiscussed. This letter of Mr. Canning, however, professedly reviewing all the previous correspondence, for the removal or avoidance of our objec- tions, and contesting the analogy between the right of search, as it had been found obnoxious to us, and as now proposed for our adoption by formal compact, I have been under the absolute necessity of pointing out the analogies really exist- ing between them, and of shewing that, as right of search, independent of the right of capture, and irresponsible or res- ponsible only to the tribunals of the captor, it is, as proposed, essentially, liable to the same objections as it had been, when exercised as a bell ige rant right. Its encroaching charactef, founded in its nature as an irresponsible exercise of force, and exemplified in its extension from search for contraband of war, to search for enemies' property, and thence to search for men of the searcher's own nation, was thus necessarily 141 , brought into view, and connected the exhibition of the evils inherent in the practice, with that of the abuses which have been found inseparable from it. We have declared the slave trade, so far as it may be pur- sued by citizens of the United States, piracy ; and, as such, made it punishable with death. The resolution of the House of Representatives recommends negotiation, to obtain the con- sent of the civilized world to recognize it as piracy, under the law of nations. One of the properties of that description of piracies is, that those who are guilty of it may betaken upon the high seas, and tried by the courts of every nation. But by the prevailing customary law, they are tried only by the tribunals of the nation to which the vessel belongs in which the piracy was committed. The crime itself has been, how- ever, in modern times, of so rare occurrence, that there is no uniformity in the laws of the European nations with re- gard to this point, of which we have had remarkable and de- cisive proof within these five years, in the case of piracy and murder, committed onboard the schooner Plattsburg, a mer- chant vessel of the United States. Nearly the whole of her crew were implicated in the crime, which was committed on the high seas. They carried the vessel into Christiansand, N orway, there abandoned her, and dispersed ; three of them were taken up in Denmark, one in Sweden, one at Dantzig in Prussia, and one in France. Those taken up in Denmaik and in Sweden were delivered up to officers of the United States, brought to this country, tried, convicted, and execut- ed. The man taken at Dantzig, was, by consent of the Prussian Government, sent to Elsineur, and there confronted with those taken in Denmark. The evidence against him on the examination was decisive ; but, as he persisted in the refusal to confess his guilt, the Prussian Government, bound by an established maxim of their municipal law, declined either to deliver him up, or to try him themselves, but sent him back to Dantzig, there to remain imprisoned for life. The French Government, upon advisement of the highest ju- dicial authority of the kingdom, declined, also, either to try the man taken up there, or to deliver him up, unless upon proof of his guilt being produced against him, at the place where he was confined ; with which condition, it not having been in our power to comply, the man remained there, also in prison, presumably for life. From these incidents it is ap- parent that there is no uniformity in the modes of trial, to which piracy, by the law of nations, is subjected in different European countries ; but that the trial itself is considered as the right and the duty only of the nation to w hich the vessel belongs, on board of which the piracy was committed. This was, however, a piracy committed on board of a vessel by its own crew. External piracies, or piracies committed by, and from one vessel against another, may be tried by the courts of any country, but are more usually tried by those of the country, whose vessels have been the sufferers of the piracy, as many of the Cuba pirates have been tried in the British West India Islands, and some of them in our courts. This principle we should wish to introduce into the system, by which the slave trade should be recognized as piracy un- der the law of nations ; namely, that, although seizable by the officers and authorities of every nation, they should be tria- ble only by the tribunals of the country of the slave trading vessel. This provision is indispensable to guard the innocent navigator against vexatious detentions, and all the evils of ar- bitrary search. In committing to foreign officers the power, even in a case of conventional piracy, of arresting, confining, and delivering over for trial, a citizen of the United States, we feel the necessity of guarding his rights from all abuses, and from the application of any laws of a country other than his own. The draft of a Convention is herewith enclosed, which, if the British Government should agree to treat upon this sub- ject on the basis of a Legislative prohibition of the slave trade by both parties, under the penalties of piracy, you are autho- rized to propose and to conclude. These articles, however, are not offered, to the exclusion of others which may be proposed on the part of the British Government, nor is any one of them, excepting the first, to be insisted on as indispen- sable, if others equally adapted to answer their purposes should be proposed. It is only from the consideration of the crime in the character of piracy, that we can admit the visita- tion of our merchant vessels by foreign officers for any pur- pose whatever, and in that case only under the most effective responsibility of the officer for the act of visitation itself, and for every thing done under it. If the sentiments of the British Government should be averse to the principle of declaring the trade itself, by a Le- gislative act, piratical, you will not propose, or communi- cate to them, the enclosed project of convention. Its objects, you will distinctly understand, are two-fold : to carry into ef- fect the resolution of the House of Representatives ; and to meet, explicitly and fully, the call so earnestly urged by the British Government, that, in declining the proposals pressed by them upon us, of conceding a mutual and qualified right of search, we should offer a substitute, for their consideration. The substitute, by declaring the crime piracy, carries with it the right of search for the pirates, existing in the very nature 143 of the crime. But, to the concession of the right of search, distinct from the denomination of the crime, our objections remain in all their original force. It has been intimated by Mr. S. Canning, that the sugges- tion itself, to the British Government, of the propriety of their passing a Legislative act, might excite in them some re- pugnancy to it. We should regret the excitement of this feeling, which the very nature of the negotiation seems to foreclose. Besides the legislative enactments which have virtually been pressed upon us, by all the invitatious to con- cede the right of search, and to subject our citizens to trial for violations of our own laws, by foreign tribunals, Great Britain, in almost all her slave trade treaties, has required, and obtained, express stipulations, for the enactment of prohi- bitory laws, by France, Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands. It was not expected that she would receive with reluctance, herself, a mere invitation to that which she had freely and expressly required from others. Still, if the sentiment should exist, we would forbear pressing it to the point of irritation, by importunity. You will, in the first instance, simply state, that, if the British Government is prepared to proclaim the slave trade piracy, by statute, you are authorized to propose, and to conclude, a Convention, by which the mutual co-ope- ration of the naval force of Great Britain and of the United States may be secured, for carrying into effect the law, which on that contingency, will be common to both. Should the obstacle to the preliminary prove insuperable, you will refer the objections, on the part of the British cabinet, to this Go- vernment, for consideration. By the loose information hitherto communicated in the pub- lic journals, it would seem that the proposition for recogniz- ing the slave trade as piracy, by the Law of Nations, was dis- cussed at the Congress of Verona. We are expecting the communication of the papers relating to this subject, promis- ed by Lord Liverpool to be laid before Parliament. Hereto- fore, although the United States have been much solicited and urged to concur in the measures of Great Britain and her allies, for the suppression of the trade, they have been al- ways communicated to us as purposes consummated, to which the accession of the United States was desired. From the general policy of avoiding to intermeddle in European affairs, we have acquiesced in this course of proceeding ; but, to carry fully into effect the late resolution of the House of Re- presentatives, and to pursue the discussions, hereafter, with Great Britain herself, whether upon her proposals or upon ours, it is obviously proper, that communication should be made to us of the progre c s of European negotiation, for ac - 144 complishing the common purpose, while it is in deliberation If we are to co operate in the result, it is just that we should be consulted, at least, with regard to the means which we are invited to adopt." SUPPRESSION OF THE SLAVE TRADE. A Convention for the suppression of Piracy, committed by the African Slave Trade. Article 1. The two high contracting powers, having each separately, by its own laws, subjected their subjects and citi- zens, who may be convicted of carrying on the illicit traffick in slaves on the coast of Africa, to the penalties of piracy, do hereby agree to use their influence, respectively, with the other maritime and civilized nations of the world, to the end that the said African slave trade may be recognized, and de- clared to be, piracy, under the law of nations. Article 2. It is agreed by the two high contracting parties, that the commanders and commissioned officers of either na- tion, duly authorized under the regulations and instructions of their respective governments, to cruize on the coasts of Africa of America, or of the West Indies, for the suppres- sion of the slave trade, shall be authorized, under the condi- tions, limitations, and restrictions, hereinafter mentioned, to capture, aud deliver over to the duly authorized and commis- sioned officers of the other, any ship or vessel carrying on such illicit tra ffick in slaves, tinder the flag of the said other nation, or for the account of their subjects' or citizens, to he sent in for trial and adjudication by the tribunals of tjte country to which such slave ship or vessel shall belong. And the said commanders and commissioned officers shall be further authorized to car- ry, or send in, any such slave trading ship, so by them cap- tured, into the ports of the country to which such slave trad- ing ship shall belong, for trial by the tribunals, and conformably to the laws, of the said country. But the slave ship, so captured, shall not be sent into the ports, or tried by the tribunals of the captor. Article 3. If any naval commander, or commissioned officer of the United States of America, shall, on the high seas or any where without the territorial jurisdiction of the said Slates, board, or cause to be boarded, any merchant vessel of Great Britain, and visit the same as a slave trader, or on suspicion of her being engaged in carrying on the illicit traf- fick in slaves, in every case, whether the said visited vessel shall be captured and delivered over, or sent into the ports of her own country for trial and adjudication, or not, the boarding officer shall deliver to the master or commander of 145 the visited vessel a certificate in writing, signed by the said boarding officer with his name, and the addition of his rank in the service of the United States, and the name of the public vessel of the United States, and of her commander, by whose order the said visit shall have been ordered ; and the said certificate shall declare, that the only object of the said visit is to ascertain whether the said British merchant vessel is engaged in the slave trade, or not ; and if found to be so en* gaged, to take, and deliver her over to the officers, or the tribunals of her own nation, for trial and adjudication. And the commander of the said public vessel of the United States shall, when he delivers her over to the officers or tribunals of Great Britain, deliver all the papers found on board of the captured vessel, indicating her national character, and the objects of her voyage, and with them a like certificate of vi- sitation, in writing, signed by his name, with the addition of his rank in the navy of the United States, and the name of the public vessel commanded by him, together with the name aud rank of the boarding officer, by whom the said visit was made. This certificate shall, also, specify all the papers re- ceived from the master of the vessel detained, or visited, or found on board the vessel, and shall contain an authentic de- claration, exhibiting the state in which he found the vessel detained, and the changes, if any, which have taken place in it, and the number of slaves, if any, found on board at the moment of detention. And the same duties herein described shall devolve upon every commander, or commissioned offi- cer, of the Royal Navy of Great Britain, by whom, or by whose order, any merchant vessel of the United States, or navigating under their flag, shall be visited for the said pur- poses, and upon the boarding officer by whom the visit shall be effected, on the high seas, or any where without the ter- ritorial jurisdiction of Great Britain. Article 4. No merchant vessel of either ol the contract- ing parties, under the convoy of a public vessel of her own nation, shall, under any circumstances whatever, be captured, or visited by, or from, any public vessel of the other nation, as being engaged, or on suspicion of being engaged, in the slave trade. Article 5. No search shall be made by, or under the orders of, the commander or boarding officer of any public vessel of either parly visiting any merchant vessel of the other, as being engaged, or under suspicion of being engaged, in the slave trade, excepting such as may be necessary to ascertain if there be slaves on board for the purposes of the said traffic, or other proof that the said vessel is so engaged. No person shall be taken out of the said visited or captured merchant vessel of either nation, by the commanding oflicef of the visiting vessel, or under his order. Nor shall any part of the cargo of the said visited vessel be removed out of her, until delivered over to the officers, or tribunals, of her own nation. »■ "li ivW?* Article 6. When a merchant vessel of either nation shall be captured, as being engaged in the slave trade, by any commander, or commissioned officer, of the Navy of the other , nation, it shall be the duty of the commander of any public ship of the Navy of the nation to which the captured vessel shall belong, upon the. offer thereof being made to him by the commander of the capturing vessel, to receive into his cus- tody the vessel so captured, and to carry, or send, the same into the ports of his own country, for trial and adjudication. And at the time of the delivery of the said vessel, an authen- tic declaration shall be drawn up, in triplicates, signed by both the commanders of the delivering and of the receiving ves- sels, one copy of which shall be kept by each of them, stating the circumstances of the delivery ; the condition of the ves- sel captured, at the time of the delivery; the number of slaves, if any, on board of her ; a list of all the papers received, or found on board of her at the time of capture, and delivered over with her, and the names of the master, or commander, of the captured vessel, and of every person on board of her, oth r than the slaves, at the said time of delivery ; and the third copy of the said declaration shall be transmitted with the said captured vessel, and the papers found on board of her, to one of the ports of the country to which the said cap- tured vessel shall belong, to be produced before the tribunal appointed, or authorized, to decide upon the said capture ; and the commander of the said capturing vessel shall be au- thorized to send the boarding officer, and one or two of his crew, with the said captured vessel, to appear as witnesses of the facts in relation to her capture and detention, before the said tribunal. The reasonable expenses of which wit- nesses, in proceeding to the place of trial, during their neces- sary detention there, and for their return to their own coun- try, or to rejoin their station in its service, shall be allowed by the tribunal of trial ; and in case of the condemnation of the captured vessel, be defrayed from the proceeds of the Sale thereof, and in case of the acquittal of the said vessel, they shall be paid by the government of the capturing officer. Article 7. The commander or commissioned officer, of the Navy of either of the contracting parties, having captured a merchant vessel of the other as being engaged in the slave trade, if there be no public vessel of the nation to which the said captured ressel belongs, cruizing upon the same station. 147 io the commander of whom the said captured vessel may be delivered over as stipulated in the preceding article, shall carry or send the said captured vessel to some convenient port of her own country, there to be delivered up to the com- petent tribunal, for trial and adjudication. And the said cap- tured vessel shall there be libelled, in the name and behalf of the captors ; and in case of the condemnation of the said ves- sel, the proceeds of the sale thereof and of her cargo, if also condemned, shall be paid to the commander of the said cap- turing vessel, for the benefit of the captors ; to be distributed according to the established rules of the service of the nation to which such capturing vessel shall belong, for the distribu- tion of prize money. Article 8. T.'ie captain, or commander and crew, of the said vessel so captured and sent in for trial and adjudication, shall oe proceeded against conformably to the laws of the country, whereinto they shall be so brought upon the charge of piracy, by being" engaged in the, African slave trade ; and the cap- tain, or commander, the boarding officer, and other persons belonging to the capturing vessel, shall be competent wit- nesses to the facts relating to the said charge and to the cap- ture of the said vessel, to which they shall be personally knowing : But every such witness, upon the criminal trial for piracy, shall be liable to be challenged by the person accused, and set aside as incompetent, unless he shall release and re- nounce all his individual claim to any part of the prize money, upon the condemnation of the vessel and cargo. Articled. It is agreed between the high contracting par- ties, that the right of visiting, capturing, and delivering over lor trial, the vessels engaged in the African slave trade, and assuming their respective flags, is mutually conceded to the officers of their respective Navies, on the consideration that they have, by their respective laws, declared their citizens and subjects, actively participating in the said traffic, guilty of the crime of piracy. That no part of this Convention shall be so construed as to authorize the detention, search, or visitation, of the mer- chant vessels of either nation, by the public officers of the Navy of the other, except vessels engaged in the African slave trade, or for any other purpose whatever than that of seising and delivering up the persons and vessels concerned in that traffic, for trial and adjudication, by the tribunals and laws of their own country. Article 10. It is further agreed, that this right of visiting, detaining, and delivering over for trial, vessels engaged in the shve trade, shall be exercised only by the commissioned of- ficers of the Navy of the parties, respectively, furnished with 148 instructions from their respective governments, for the exe- cution of their respective laws for the suppression oi the slave trade. That the boarding officer, and the captain, or commander, of the vessel exercising these rights, or either of them, shall be personally responsible in damages and costs to the master and owners of every merchant vessel so by them delivered over, detained, or visited, for every vexatious or abusive exercise of the right. In the case of every vessel delivered over, as herein stipulated, for trial, the tribunal shall be competent to receive the complaint of the master, owner, or owners, or of any person on board of such captur- ed vessel, or interested in the property of her cargo at the time of her detention, and on suitable proof of such vexatious or abusive detention or visitation, to award reasonable dama- ges and costs to the sufferers, to be paid by the said command^ ing or boarding officer, or either of them, so charged with vexatious or abusive detention, or visit. And the high con- tracting parties agree, that their respective governments, shall, in every such case, cause payment to be made of all such damages and costs so awarded, to the persons so entitled to receive them, within twelve months from the date of such award. And if any case of such vexatious or abusive deten- tion, or visit, should occur, in which the vessel detained or visited shall not be delivered over for trial and adjudication, as herein provided, the commander and boarding officer by whom such vexatious and abusive detention, or visit, shall have been made, shall, also, be responsible in costs and dam- ages to the sufferers, upon complaint before the competent Admiralty Court of the country of the said commander and boarding officer. And the respective governments shall, in like manner, cause payment to be made of any damages and costs awarded by said court, within twelve months from the date of the award. Article 11. A copy of this Convention, and of the laws of the two countries actually in force, for the prohibition and suppression of the African slave trade, shall be furnished to every commander of the public vessels, instructed to carry into effect such prohibition. And in case any such command- ing officer of the Navy of the United States, or of Great Bri- tain, shall deviate in any respect from the dispositions of this treaty, and from the instructions of his government, conform- able to ft, the government which shall conceive itself to be wronged by such conduct, shall be entitled to demand repara- tion ; and in such case the government of the nation, to the service of which he may belong, binds itself to cause inquiry to be made into the subject of the complaint, and to inflict up- on hW|, if he be found to have deserved it, a punishment 149 proportioned to the transgression which may have been conv Bitted. Article 12. The present treaty, consisting of ar- ticles, shall be ratified, and the ratifications exchanged within one year from this date, or sooner, if possible. In witness whereof, the respective Plenipotentiaries have signed the same, and thereunto affixed their seals. Done at — , the day of , in the year of our Lord, Mr. Adams to Mr. Middleton. — No. 17. Department of Slate, Washington, 28th July, 1823. Sir : At the close of the last Session of Congress, a reso- lution was adopted by the House of Representatives, almost unanimously, requesting " the President of the United States to enter upon, and to prosecute, from time to time, such nego- tiations with the several maritime powers of Europe and America, as he may deem expedient, for the effectual aboli- tion of the African slave trade, and its ultimate denunciation as piracy, under the law of nations, by the consent of the civi- lized world." In pursuance of this resolution, instructions for carrying it into effect have been given to the Ministers of the United States, destined to the Republics of Colombia and of Buenos Ayres, and to the Minister who has recently departed for Spain. But, as a negotiation for co-operation to effect the suppression of the African slave trade, had already been com- menced with Great Britain, a special instruction upon the subject was forwarded to Mr. Rush, together with a full pow - er, and a draft ofa Convention to be proposed, in substance, to that government, and which he has been authorized to conclude. A copy of that instruction and draft are herewith enclosed;; the general terms of which you will communicate, at such time, and in such manner, to the Imperial Russian Govern ment, as you shall think proper. You will, also, communicate to them the purport of the re- solution of the House of Representatives, above cited, and copies of the laws of the United States prohibiting the slave trade. You will particularly invite their attention to the two sections of the Act of the loth May, 1820, by which this of- fence, when committed by citizens of the United States, is subjected to the penalties of piracy. .The proposal that this principle should be recognized by the general consent of civilized nations, recommended by the resolution of the House of Representatives, appears to be 150 substantially the same with that made by Great Britain at the Congress of Verona. It was not acceded to by any one of the other powers there assembled, and the conferences on this subject terminated thereby a mere renewal of the joint de- claration against the traffic, of the Congress at Vienna. So long as the trade shall not be recognized as piracy by the law of nations, we cannot, according to our Constitution, subject our citizens to trial for being engaged in it, by any tribunal other than those of the United States. The admission of the crime as piracy by the law of nations, would seem necessarily to subject the perpetrators of it to capture, by the aimed force of every nation. And this might endanger the lawful commerce of the maritime nations, by subjecting them to the abuses of vexatious searches, without some special provision to guard against them. This is the object of the stipulations proposed in the draft herewith transmitted ; requiring that all vessels of one na- tion which may be captured, as slave traders, by the cruizers of another, should be delivered over for trial, to the tribunals of their own country. You will see that Mr. Rush is instructed to correspond with you upon this subject. If the draft of the articles enclosed should lead to the conclusion of a Convention between the United States and Great Britain, a communication of it to the Russian Government will be made as soon as possible, and we shall propose that his Imperial Majesty's accession to it, if agreeable to him, shall be invited. In the mean time you will informally suggest to his minis- try, that it will be the desire of the Government of the United States to proceed in this matter, in perfect good understand- ing and harmony with them : and you will farther intimate that, as this has now become a general concern of the whole civilized world, and as Great Britain is negotiating, jointly and severally, with each and every of her allies in Europe, apart, and again with them all together, while she is also separately treating with us, we wish it to be considered whether it would not be expedient on all sides, that communication should be made to us of all the jointly concerted measures while they are mere proposals ; and not that the knowledge of them should be withheld from us, until they are matured into posi- tive treaties. I am, with great respect, Sir, your very humble and obe- dient servant, JOHN qUINCY ADAMS. Henry Middleton, Envoy Extraordinary , and Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States, at St. Petersburg. 151 Mr, Adams to Mr. Everett. — No. 10. Department of State, Washington, August 8th, 1823. .mr : At the close of the last Session of Congress, a reso- lution was adopted, almost unanimously, by the House of Re- presentatives, " That the President of the United States be requested to enter upon, nnd to prosecute, from time to time such negotiations, with the several maritime powers of Eu- rope and America, as he may deem expedient, for the effec- tual abolition of the African Slave Trade, and its ultimate denunciation as piracy, under the law of nations, by the con- sent of the civilized world." In pursuance of-this resolution, instructions for carrying it into effect have been given to the ministers of the United States, destined to the Republics of Colombia and of Buenos Ayres, and to the several ministers of the United States in Europe. As a negotiation for co-operation, to effect the suppression of the African slave trade, had already been commenced with Great Britain, a special instruction upon the subject has been forwarded to Mr. Rush, together with a full power, and a draft of a Convention to be proposed, in substance, to the Bri- tish government, and which he is authorized to conclude. A necessary preliminary to the conclusion of this proposed Convention, should it meet the assent of the British govern- ment, will be the enactment of a statute declaring the crime of African slave trading, piracy by the British law. In that event, it is proposed, by proper co-oppration, that the influ- ence of the two powers should be (ike r ted, to obtain the con- sent of other nations to the general outlawry of this traffick, as piracy. In the mean time to give, at once, effect to the concert of both nations, it is proposed that the armed vessels of both, duly authorized and instructed, shall have power to capture the slave trading vessels which may assume the flag of either, and, if not of their own nation, to deliver over the captured slav e trader to the officers, or tribunals of his own country, for trial aqd adjudication. This principle is essential, as connected with that of con- stituting the traffick piracy, by the law of nations. So long as the offence was considered as of inferior magnitude, the Constitution of the United States forbade the submission of it, when charged upon their citizens to any foreign tribunal : and when the crime and the punishment are aggravated, to involve the life of the accused, it affords but a more impera- tive inducement for securing to him the benefit of a trial b\ his countrymen and his peers. It appears that, at the conferences of Verona, the propo«i 152 iion was made by the British government, that the slave trade should be recognised and proclaimed as piracy by the law of na- tions. We have, therefore, reason to hope, that the proposal now made to them, on the part of the United States, will be favourably considered by them. In that case, further com- munications on the subject, with other governments, will ensue. In the mean time, to fulfil the intentions of the House of Representatives, in relation to the Netherlands, you will communicate to their government a copy of the resolution, together with copies of the laws of the United States, prohi- biting the slave trade, with particular notice of the two sec- tions of the act of 15th May, 1820, by which the crime of being concerned in the African slave trade, when committed by citizens of the United Stales, is declared to be, and is made punishable as for piracy. And you will announce the readi- ness of the American government, should it suit the views of His Majesty, the King of the Netherlands, to enter upon a negotiation, for the purpose of carrying into effect the object of the resolution of the House of Representatives ; namely, the denunciation of the African slave trade as piracy, by the law of nations. I am, with great respect, sir, your very humble and obedi- ent servant, JOHN QUINCY ADAMS. Alexander H. Everett, Esq. Charge d'affaires U. S. to the Netherlands Extracts of a letter, JS'o. 6, from Mr. Adams to General Dear- horn , Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States, at Lisbon, dated Department of State, Washington, August 14, 1323. At the close of the last session of Congress, a resolution was adopted, almost unanimously, by the House of Represen- tatives — " * That the President of the United States be requested to enter upon, and to prosecute, from time to time, such ne- gotiations with the several maritime powers of Europe and America, as he may deem expedient, for the effectual aboli- tion of the African slave trade, and its ultimate denunciation as piracy, under the law of nations, by the consent of the ci- vilized world.' " A negotiation, for concerting measures of co-operation to effect the suppression of the African slave trade, had already for . several years been pending with Great Britain ; for which reason, a special instruction has been transmitted to Mr. Rush, together with a full power, and a draft of a convention 153 to be proposed, in substance, to the British government, and which he is authorized to conclude. " Should this proposal meet the assent of the British go- vernment, a necessary preliminary to the conclusion of the convention will be the passage of an act of Parliament, de« claring the crime of African slave trading, when committed by British subjects, piracy. An act of Congress to that effect, as relates to citizens of the United States, has been in force, as you are aware, these three years. When the crime shall have been constituted piracy by the statute law of both coun- tries, each with reference to its own citizens, or subjects, the principle offered by the projected convention is, that the armed vessels of each, specially empowered and instructed to that end, shall be authorized to capture slave trading vessels, assuming the flag of the other, and to deliver over the cap- tured vessels to the public cruizers, or to the tribunals, of their own country, for trial. This plan is offered as a sub- stitute for that which was offered to us by Great Britain,, which was predicated on the treaties already concluded be- tween that power and Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands. The leading principle of these treaties was the mutual con- cession of the right of maritime search, in time of peace, to the armed vessels of both, cruising for slave traders, and n mixed court of commissioners and arbitrators, sitting in colo- nial possessions of the parties, for the trial of the delinquents. To this system the Uuited States have steadily declined to accede, for two reasons : One, because they had an invinci- ble repugnance to subject their merchant vessels to the ma- ritime search of foreign officers, in time of peace ; and the other, because they could not subject their citizens to the jurisdiction of foreign tribunals, upon trials for offences against their laws. ** At the conferences of Verona, the British government appears to have proposed, that the African slave trade should be declared piracy by the law of nations. This is the same proposition recommended by the resolution of the House of Representatives of the United States. The ultimate object of the United States, and of Great Britain, therefore, is the same." " The negotiations suggested by the resolution of the House, must depend, materially, for their character and pro- gress, with reference to other powers, upon the event of that which is thus pending with Great Britain. The instruc- tions to the ministers of the United States in other countries have, therefore, been only of a general characfer." " Portugal is the only maritime power of Europe, which has not yet declared the African slave trade, without excep- U 154 tion, unlawful. Her own internal situation has, perhaps, re- cently tended to diminish the influence of those interests, which have heretofore prevailed to delay and postpone her acqui- escence in the principle of total proscription upon that trade . It is hoped that she will not much longer resist the predomi- nating spirit of the age, calling so loudly upon the Rulers of mankind, effectually to put down the crying sin of that abomi- nable traffic. 41 In communicating to the Portuguese government copies of the resolution of the House of Representatives, and of the laws of the United States prohibiting the slave trade, you will state, that the Government of the United States will be ready to enter, at any time, when it may suit the views of that of Portugal, upon the negotiation contemplated by the resolu- tion/' Mr. Rush to Mr. Adams, giving him the substance of a converse- tion with Air. Canning. [Extracts.] " London, October 9, 1823. " This latter subject," (the slave trade) u he said it was his wish to take in hand with me himself, and thus keep it detached from the general negotiation." " Whilst we were speaking of the mode of taking up the question of the slave trade, 1 did not scruple to intimate, even at this early stage, that unless this Government was prepared to say, that it would cause a statute to be passed, declaring the trade by its own subjects to be piracy, and rendering it pun- ishable as such, in manner, as had been done by the United States, that I was not authorized to make any proposals upon the subject ; that this, in fact, was the only basis upon which it fell within the intentions of my Government to attempt any arrangement of the subject whatever. 1 was happy to hear "Mr. Canning say, in reply, that he did not, speaking from his iirst impressions, see any insurmountable obstacle, upon this score, to our proceeding with the subject/' Extract from .Vo. 11 of Mr. Sheldon, Charge d'affaires of the. United States at Paris, to the Secretary of State. ■ " Paris, October 16, 1823. " In the same conference, I also informed Mr. de Chateau- briand of the resolution of the House of Representatives re- specting the slave trade, which made the subject of your des- patch, No. 2, ofthe 14th of August. He repeated, in sub- stance, what he had before stated to Mr. Gallatin in conver- sation, viz. that the French government were sincerely de- sirous of putting an end to that trade, and were taking all the 155 measures rn their power to effect it by pursuing offenders, an3 executing rigidly the laws now in existence ; but that the public opinion, generally, in France, and more especially in the Chambers, was against it, owing not only to the preva- lence of the colonial interest in the question, but particularly to the circumstances under which their stipulations with Eng- land upon this subject had been made^ so tender were they upon this point, that the proposition of adding new rigors to their laws, would be taken as a new concession to that power and, instead of being adopted in the Chambers, wouldbe more likely to provoke an attempt to repeal the prohibitor}' mes« sures already established, in order to rid themselves, in that way, of one of the charges imposed upon them by the foreign occupation ; that time was necessary to wear away these im- pressions ; and until that should have arrived, no minister in France could be strong enough, upon this point, to do more than to watch over the execution of the laws already in force, which they were now disposed to do fully and faithfully, and which, if not entirely efficient, at least made the prosecution of the trade under the French flag hazardous and difficult. " At present, therefore, it is not probable that France will consent to the proposal of the President, to enter upon the negotiation contemplated by the resolution of the House of Representatives. I have, however, made the proposal, in obedience to your directions ; and hav e the honour to enclose a copy of the letter to Viscount de Chateaubriand, in which I have communicated to him that resolution." Extracts from Afo. 14 of JUr. Sheldon, Charge d'affaires, to the Secretary of State, dated " Paris, November 5, 1823. " I have received answers from Viscount de Chateaubri- and, on the subject of the new and more effective measures proposed against the slave trade.'' " On the subject of the slave trade, the answer manifests a disposition to adopt such new provisions as may be found ne • cessary for its more effectual suppression; and this disposi- tion really exists ; but, after what Mr. de Chateaubriand had stated in conversation, and which 1 have already communi- cated, these new and more rigorous legislative provisions can only be introduced gradually, and sometime will be required lor effecting that purpose." Mr. Sheldon to the Viscount de Chateaubriand. Pin is, October 15, 1823. S«i The minister of the United States to this Court had, 156 sometime before he left Paris, transmitted to your Excellency copies of the laws successively adopted by the United States for the suppression of the slave trade. This communication was intended for the special purpose of making the French government acquainted with the fact, that, so far as the Uni- ted States were concerned, their legislation upon this subject had been ineffectual ; that their laws had been violated, and the trade had continued, until they had denounced against it the highest punishment that a human tribunal can inflict. — Since it has been declared to be piracy, and punishable with death, the American flag has no longer been soiled with it. At the last session of Congress, that body, desirous that the co-operation of the other maritime powers might be ob- tained in measures which we had found to be so effectual, formally requested the President to enter upon, and prose- cute, negotiations with those powers, to that end. I have the honour to enclose a copy of the resolution adopted, with great unanimity, by the House of Representatives, upon that subject : and I am directed to declare, that the President is ready to enter upon the negotiation contemplated by it with Fr nee, whenever it may be agreeable to her. Instructions to the same effect have been given to all the ministers of the United States accredited to foreign powers, and the favourable results which are ho|)«d from them will be made known at the earliest opportunities, to the French government. It may be expected that a co-operation in measures equally effectual with those heretofore brought forward for the suppression of this trade, and not open to similar objections, will be general- ly and readily afforded. I beg to offer to your Excellency Jhe renewed assurances. &c. &c. D. SHELDON. [translation.] Viscount de Chateaubriand to Jilr. Sheldon. Paris, October 29, 132,;,. Sir : You did me the honour of writing me, on the 15th of this month, that the Goverment of the United States had only attained the effectual suppression of the slave trade by making it piracy, and by rendering those guilty of it liable to the same punishment. You have, at the same time, inform- ed me, that that Government was disposed to co-operate with the other powers, by negotiating to attain, by the same means, the complete and general abolition of this traffic. The communication which you did me the honour to ad- dress to me, cannot but deserve great consideration. 1 have requested the Keeper of the Seals to review, with great care, the laws ami ordinances which have been made i u 157 France, for obtaining the abolition of the trade i to certify, after this examination, in what poinls they may be insufficient, and to propose, for completing the n, in case of need, all the new dispositions which might accord with the independence and rights of the flag, and which might appear most proper to assure, in France, in an efficacious manner, the absolute cessation of a traffic so contrary to the rights of humanity. Accept, sir, the assurances, &c. CHATEAUBRIAND. Extract of a letter from Mr. Everett, Charge d'affaires, to the Secretary of Stale, dated "Brussels, November 20, 1823. C! I have received from the Baron de Nagell, a preliminary answer to my note of the 7th, upon the slave trade, of which I have the honour to enclose a copy." [translation.] J\Ir. Everett to Baron de NageLl. Brussels, November 7, 1023. Sir : I have the honour to subjoin to your Excellency, by order of my government, a printed copy of the laws of the United States, which forbid their citizens to pursue the slave trade ; also, a copy of the resolution of the Mouse of Re- presentatives of the 8th of February, 1323, by which the President is requested to concert, with the maritime rowers of Europe and of America, the measures which may be most proper to effect the abolition of that trade, and to make it. by the universal consent of the civilized world, equivalent to the crime of piracy. Your Excellency will remark, that it is already viewed in this light by the laws of the United States. The act of 15th of March, IC20, declares, (sect. 4 and 3) that the persons sub- ject to the jurisdiction of the republic, who shall be engaged in the slave trade, either by seizing these unfortunates by force, or fraud, and carrying them on board their vessels, o* by keeping them there, and making them an object of traffic, shall be deemed pirates, and punished with death. In fact, tli is pretended commerce bears all the character- istics of piracy : that is, of felony committed on the sea. And, as it has been denounced as a crime by the greater part of civilized nations, it ought to fall into the particular class of crimes to which it naturally belongs, and undergo the penal- ties which the usage and the law of nations impose upor: them. An unanimous declaration of the Christian powers, to this effect, would inevitably produce the entire cessation of 158 the track:. The public ships of each power would then be authorized, by the law of nations, to cruize against the per- sons who might be engaged in it, without regard to the colour of the flag with which they might pretend to be sheltered. Whilst, if the trade is only regarded, in each country, as an offence against the municipal laws, it would be lawful for any one nation alone, by permitting it, to afford an asylum under its flag, to the pirates of all the others. The known character of the King, and the zeal which his Majesty has already displayed in his efforts to bring about the abolition of this infamous commerce, furnishes a presumption to the government of the United States, that that of the Low Countries will voluntarily co-operate with it to that effect. In communicating to your Excellency the subjoined papers, and in praying that you will be pleased to lay them before the King. I am charged to announce to him the desire of the President ot the United States to obtain the co-operation of his Majesty in this work of justice, and to establish a concert between the two powers, in the measures which they may pursue, in common, to render the slave trade equivalent to the crime of piracy, by the universal consent of the Christian world. 1 eageily embrace this occasion to renew to your Excel- lency the homage of my most distinguished consideration. A. H. EVERETT, [trakslatiox.] Baron De A'agcll to Mr. Everett. Brussels, November 13, l?>2;i. Sir : I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your note of the 7th of this month, containing some propositions in regard to the slave trade, and to inform you, that, without de- lay, I laid this paper, and its enclosures, before the King. 1 shall hasten to impart to you the determination of his Majesty, as soon as I shall have been informed of it : and, in the mean time, I seize this opportunity to renew the assur- ance of my distmguisned consideration. A. W. C. DE NAG ELL. 159 N. B. The Annual Meeting of the American Colonization Society will be held in Washington City, on the second Satur- day in January. Of the hour and place public notice will be given. The Managers hope to commence the African Repository on the first of June. Those having subscription lists in their possession, are requested to forward them immediately. Communications for this work, must be transmitted to R. R. Gurley, Georgetown. It is much to be desired that collections should be taken up in the various churches of this couutry, to aid the Ameri- can Colonization Society, on the fourth of July, or on the Sabbath next preceding, or succeeding this joyful day. The Colonization Society is about to apply to the National Government for aid. We hope that all the friends of this institution will make every possible effort in its favour, the present season, recollectingthat a discussion will probably take place concerning it daring the next session of Congress. Orders for this Report may be addressed to Davis and. Force, Washington. Price 50 cents. I 60 Census of the Colony of Liberia, July 20, 1823. Upwards of 40. N"ame«. Ar.ivedin. Occupntion. N. Butler, Elizabeth, Carpenter. G. Kiah, Strong, Farmer. R. Sampson, Nautilus, do. L. Carey, do. do. I. Brainier, do. Carpenter, D. Hawkins, Strong, Labourer. A Edmondson, do. Farmer. E Johnson, Elizabeth, do. James Fuller, Oswego. J. D. Preston, do. Jos. Blake, Elizabeth, Carpenter. Oswego, do. do. do. do. Fidelity, Labourer. J. Warner, Chs. Butler, B Johnson, L. Smith, I. Bantam, John Foulke John Harris, do. Saml. Weeks, do. SamL N utter, do. Women. S. Langibrd, Nautilus, Nurse. Mrs. Hawkins, Strong, Can'd. Preston, Oswego, S. Warner, do. C. Brown, do. Between 21 and 40. L, Crook, Elizabeth, Farmer. C. Brander, Nautilus, do. J. Benson, Strong, do. S.Campbell, do. supend- ed June 1, 1823. J. Champer, Strong, Blacksmith. J. Gardiner, do. Farmer. J. Lawrence, Elizabeth, do. D. George, Strong, do. R. Newport, Elizabeth, do. F. James, do. Carpenter. A. James, do. Farmer. E. Jackson, do. Labourer. J. J. Barber, Nautilus, Mason. J. Carey, do. deserted July, 1823. Th: Harris, do. Caulker. A. Williams, Oswego. R White, Oswego, Carpenter. D. White, do. Shoemaker. Fr. Deveny, do. A. Curtis, do. D. James, do. 5. W. Parker, do. Clinton, Boggs, Stewart, Mason, Draper, Poulson, . Bantam» Johnson, . Thompson, Butler, . Butler, . Newport, Crook, James, Draper, Lawren, Oswego, do. do. do. Women. Oswego, do. do. do.- do. do. do. Elizabeth. do. Strong. Elizabeth, do. Edmondson, Strong. Benson, James, Johnson, Jackson, Brander, Harris, do. > Elizabeth, do. do. do. Nautilus. Between 10 and 21, E. Smith, Elizabeth. James Carey, Nautilus. I. Edmondson, Strong. L. Johnson, do. C. Johnson, Elizabeth - L. Johnson, do. I. Thompson, Oswego. A Warner, do. I. Preston, do. I. Brown, do. William Foulke, Fidelity. Females. E. Jackson, Elizabeth. Nancy Carey, Nautilus. N. Benson, Strong. E. Passaway, do. S. Edmondson, do. M. Benson, do. I. Johnson, Oswego, R. Preston, do. M. Preston, do~ Mary Preston, do. L. Poulson, do. M. Curlis, do. T. Thompson, do. M. Warner, do. E, Johnson, do, J, Dolphin, do, 161 Under 10. Names. Arrived io. J. Benson, Strong. G. Benson, do. J. Alexander, Elizabeth. I. Alexander, Bom here. A. Edmondson, Strong. I. Blake, do. I. Brander, Born here. D. Harris, Nautilus. F. Stewart, Oswego. -Female Children. E. Johnson, Born in Africa. E. Blake, Strong. E. Crook, Born in Africa. M. Laurence, do. G Laurence, do. E. Edmondson, Strong. W. Edmondson, do. R. Benson, do. S. Fishex, R. Laurence, S. Draper, C. Preston, A. B. Butler, S. Warner, M. Warner, C. Dodges, do. Born in Africa Oswego, do. do. do. do. do. DEATHS. Mrs. Kiah, aged 70, died fever, Major Draper, 40, do - Alexander, 33, Eli**Wtti, Mrs. Blake, 30, Strong,,... Jos. Benson, 17, killed by enemy, Th : Spencer, 33, do. do Mary Tines, do. do Th : Tines. 28, Strong, Mrs. Edmondson, 80, Strong, John Warner, 19, Oswego,.... Mrs. Stewart, 20, do Mrs. Deveny, 24-, do James Fuller, 16, do Frs. Deveny, 4, do Isaiah Preston, 20, Oswego, Emeline Deveny, 2 do. . . G. Johnson, 1, do..... M. D. Warner, 1, do. do Stewart, born Oswego, Abel Herd, 42, Oswego, SUMMARY. Notv in the Colony. Over 40, Males, 20 — Females.. Between 21 and 40, Males 26 — Females. Between lOand 21, Males 11 — Females.. Under 10, Males, 9 — Females. Total of the Colonists, Liberated Captives, all Males, Grand Total, September, 1S22. c^ptcxrraer, 1622. drowned June, 1822. Ptisis, October, 1822, November 11, 1822. do. do. killed Dec. 1st, 1822, Decay, June, 1323. drowned, June, 1823. fever, June, 1823. do. June, 1823. do. June, 1823. do. July, 1823. do. June, 1823. do. July, 1823. do. June, 1823. do. Ju^o 1823* do. July, lb23. do. June, 1823. ..5— Total 25 ,19— do 46 .16— do. ...27 ,.10— do. ...25 ~ 122 I 8 140 Deaths of Colonists at Montserado. Persons over 4 of both sexes,... » 4 Do 2l and under 40 do 5 Do. under 21 both sexes, » 1 1 Total died since March, 1822, 20 J. ASHMUN. N. B. — Since this census was taken, more than 100 persons have sailed \n the Cyrus. V J 62 DONATIONS, List of Donations from the citizens of Baltimore, in aid of the Coloni- zation Society, May, 1822.* Robert Miller, Esq. 90 yards domestic cotton, 11 25 Talbot Jones, Esq 25 do. tow cloth, 5 00 Messrs. Tiffany and Wyman, 1 piece, containing — yards do- mestic cotton, 5 50 Mr. VVm. Little, house of Cobb & Little, 1 piece domestic cotton 5 00 Messrs. Shaw and Tiffany, 1 piece domestic cotton, containing 29 1-2 yards 5 50 Messrs. Cushing and Jewett, Ewell's Medical Companion, 5 00 Dr. S. Sweetser, assorted medicines, ••• 5 63 Drs. D.«fcC. Keener, assorted medicines, 6 92 Di. Goo. vvur.amson, assorted medicines, 9 10 Ditto VieW of Slavery, -' 25 Ditto Tourtelli's Principles of Health, 5 00 General 11. G. Harper, school books and books of agriculture,.... 40 00 Ditto other valuable books, maps, &c 3o 00 Messrs. M'Donald and Ridgely, corner of Market and Howard Streets, 2 barrels of beef, price unknown,.. Drs. G. St J. Kearl, medicines, 2 50 Drs. Pease and Butler, medicines, 2 50 Drs. E. Ducatel & Son, assorted medicines,.... 5 95 Dr. R. Little, corner of M. and Ha nr. streets, assorted medicines, 3 9^ Dr. H. Price, (opposite Barnum's) assorted medicines, 1 50 Dr. La Roche and Milheau, near bridge, medicines, 1 2£ Mr. Joseph Casey, Hanover street, assorted garden, fruit, and other seeds, 56 00 Thomas Smith, No. 8. Prate street, 12 plates, 1 50 Mr. Proctor, Hd. Ware Merch. No. 3 Prate st. 12 knives & forks, 1 50 Isaac Tv^>») ship bread, 20 00 Gon. Wm. McDonald, & Son, 1 qr. cask gun powder, 5 00 Ditto l box pipes, 2 50 Mr Mears, No 1, Prate st. 1 doz. knives, (pocket) 2 00 Bradford and Couch, 1 barrel flour, 6 75 Messrs. H. Payson & Co. No 15, Bowley's wharf, 2 barrels beef, at #8 50, 17 00 Gen. Hollingsworth and Sons, cash, 10 00 Mr. Hammers, Market street 12 decanters, 12 tumblers, 1 box beads, 5 looking-glasses, , 12 0Q Mr. I. Cox, hatter, 4 hats at 75 each, 3 00 Mr. Egerton, exchange, 300 lbs. leaf tobacco and hogshead, 24 00 Mr. Hoppe, Gay street, 100 lbs. leaf tobacco, , 8 00 Mr. Graffs, do. 100 lbs. leaf tobacco, 8 00 Messrs. Von Kopff and Brun, 100 lbs leaf tobacco 8 00 Mr. Rudewold, 100 lbs. leaf tobacco, T 8 00 Mr. Hoger worth, Gay street, 100 lbs. leaf tobacco, 8 00 Messrs. I. and A. Smith, Calvert, near the water, some articles of hardware. 5 5 Mr. Kearle, shoemaker, Market street, 6 pair of shoes, 6 00 This fist should have been published at an earlier date. 163 Young Men's Bible Society, Rait. 15 Bibles and 15 Testaments, 24 Ou Mr. James Chester, his sub. Md. Aux. Col Society, 25 00 Col. Jno. McHenry, on his subscription as above,:.. 20 00 Mrs. Graham, cash 3 00 Mr. Charles Salmon, various a rticles of merchandise, 4 56 Mr. Neelsou, 12 knives and forks, 1 50 Messrs. J. & W. Smith, l 24 knives and forks,...., 3 'JO Mr. Warchi. 100 lbs. tobacco, , 8 00 The ladies of Baltimore, about 55 in number, from 2 to 6 days work each, in making up 154 garments, 100 00 Mr. G. B. Raymond, 6 hat<= 4 00 Mr. P. Diffandartter, cor. of Fred, and Bait. 8 knives and 2 pots, 3 Oo Ale#. Boggs, Market street, sundries merchandise, price unknown, Mr. Warner, comer Gay and Market st. stationery and books,.. 8 00 Gen Kidgeley, Gay street, 6 bars iron, frt 9 00 Mr. N. Tyson, Spears' wharf, on his subscription, 25 00 Beck and Welch, 2 pieces containing 9 yds. red flannel, 20 50 Mr. Baltzell, Market st. No. 241, remnants of merchandise, 1 75 Mr. Baltzt ll, do. 230, merchandise, 16 check hdkfs.... 150 Mr. Baltzell, do. 236, do. 16 check handkerchiefs,.. .. 2 00 Mr. Robinson, Howard street, delivered cedar ware, 4 25 Mr. Solman, do. delivered remnant merchandise,... 2 50 Mr. Bryne, do. delivered pair shoes, 1 00 John E. Rigden, Market, No. 197, delivered knives, and forks, and spoons, 1 50 Mr. Sweetser, Market, No. 150, delivered remnants merchandise, 1 9* Jacob Albers, Howard, delivered 1 dozen jack kni'-"- ♦ * ®® Wm. Reanie, Great York street, deliver dozen plates, 25 Drs. Coulter and Martin, 1 bntiic mercurial ointment, 2 60 Mr. Earnest, a variety M ueens ware articles, 5 00 Col. John E. Howctrd, don. plaid 22 1-4 yards, 28 shirting, 9 1-2 calico, 8 lidkfs 12 82 Also 3 dozen spoons, t 3 00 3 dozen tin cups, 3 00 3 stew pans, 1 00 Mr. Lamson, delivered 1 hat, 75 Sunday School Society, ( elivered cards, &c. for Sunday schools, Samuel Hoffman, Esq. box leaf tobacco, 10 00 Ditto. Marked tobacco samples, 12 00 Messrs. Murray, & Co. 2 pieces linen 6 00 Ditto 1 do. flannel, 2 50 2 50 Ditto 5 Blankets at 75, 4 50 Mr. Middleton, I gross buttons, 1 00 Mr . Taylor, auctioneer, merchandise, 5 00 Mr. Sinclair, garden and other seeds, 10 00 Mr. Skinner, do. 6 00 Mr. Laud, 1 00 Messrs. E.J. Coale, & Co. books, boxes, &c. A:c 40 00 Editors of the Morning Chronicle, and editors of the Federal Re- publican, two valuable files of the latest newspapers. Donations received in Baltimore in April, 1823. From a lady, 1 00 A lady, * 00 A lady, 2 00 S. R. Keane, 1 50 Collection in Rev. Mr. Ne- vin's church, 40 00 Mr. Patterson, 1 00 Citizens of the eleven"' ward,43 00 Citizens in the te-'ih ward, ..35 A lady, 2 00 Another l^y> 1 00 A gentleman, 1 On 164 Thomas George and Thomas, various articles given to Abel Herd, 45 00 Mr. John Barr, one piece of cloth 60 00 Messrs. Shaw and Tiffany,.. 5 00 Wm. VV. Taylor, one box merchandise and goods, Brundige Vose, & Co 3 00 Cash, 50 Cash, i Mr. Creery's school, 1 70 Made up by the Ladies, 100 shirts, 50 roundabouts, and 50 waistcoats, 50 00 Nightengale & Co. hardware merchants, 2 25 Donations received in the District of (Jolumbia. Collection in Dr. Balch's church, Georgetown, 35 00 In Dr.Wilmer's church,AlexllO 00 In this sum are included the following dona ions and annual su bsc r iptio ns : Judge Cranch, 30 00 Miss Lanrionia Randolph,... 10 on Wm. H. Fitzhugh, Esq 10 00 Mrs. Custis (Arlington) 7 00 Annual Subscribers. Hugh Smith, 1 00 E. I. Lee, 1 0o Humphrey Peak, 1 00 R. C. Mason, 5 00 C. C. Lee, 1 00 G. W. P. Custis, Esq 1 00 Donalio7is received from various in- dividuals in Washington and Georgetown. 3. P. Fenner, 1 00 Rev. Daniel Baker, I CO Gideon Davis, 1 00 John Bailey, 2 . Thomas L. Thruston, 1 00 S. Pleasonton, 2 00 Thomas Mustin, 1 00 J-^nes Moore, 1 00 Alexander McDonald, 1 00 John VVt^Hiside, 3 00 Cash, 2 00 J. McCleery,.... 2 00 John S. Shaw, 2 00 Richard Harrison,..., 2 00 John Coyle, jr 6 00 Mr. King, 2 00 Cash 75 G. W. P. Custis, Esq ...10 00 Dr. Carnahan, 2 A young lady, 2 00 Miss Dicks, a suit of clothes for the Agent in Africa,.. A lady near Fredericktown, Md 10 00 ;„ tan Meade, Frede- rick county, Va .100 00 Two valuable pieces of can- • non, from Gen. John Ma- son, (District of Columbia. List of Donations received by the . Rev. L. D. Dewey, of the stale of New-York, 1823. Col. Henry Rutgers, l00 00 The annual subscription of the same gentleman for 5 years, 50 00 Catharine Disseyster 25 00 H. Remsen, 5 00 Jonathan Little 10 00 George Gallagher, 10 00 Gen. Mathew L. Clarkson,..25 00 T. w. Stein brenner, 15 00 Wm. Smitn, 5 00 A F riend 1 00 A coloured female,.. 1 00 J. Seymour, 2 00 A collection in the Congrega- tional Church and Society in Lanesboro 1 Mass. on the 4th July, 1823, 5 00 A collection in the Congrega- tional Church and Society Great Barrington, Mass. 4 July, 1823, 8 21 Collection in the Reformed Fresh. Ch. N. Y. Nov. 29, 1823......... 11 50 Do. cash from 2 individuals, 1 00 John Brown, 2 00 Rev. John Johnson, New- burgg, N. Y. by ladies of his society, 30 00 Rev. Nathan Bangs, N. Y. by young ladies of the Metho- dist Episcopal Church,. ...30 00 Rev. Gardner Spring, by la- dies of his Society, 30 00 Eliza Woodruf, Morristown, N. J 10 00 165 Thomas Bassel, Lansingburg, N. Y 5 00 Received in New- England by the Rev. Chester Wright. From a few friends of the So- ciety in Boston,... 62 00 From a few friends of the So- ciety in Salem, 40 00 Donations mentioned by J. McPhail, Esq. Treasurer of the Norfolk Auxiliary Society : From Wm. Maxwell, Esq... .50 00 Do. do. Collections made by him, 126 50 From Rev. Sam. Cornelius, for collections made by him, 20 00 Ditto 3 50 Total 200 00 Donations of one dozen men's shoes, and one dozen wo- men's, by Geo. Wilson, of Smithfield, in the hands of J. McPhail. The following sums have been re- cently acknowledged by the Trea- surer, in the. National Intelligen- cer : From the Rev. Charles H. Page, of Charlostown, Va. by the Rev. Mr. Ilawley, 15 00 From Obcd. Waite, Esq. Tr. of the Aux. Soc. Frederick county, Va 275 00 From Rev. Win. McKcnney, for the Aux. Soc. of Queen Ann's county, Md 100 00 From Rev. George W. Jan- vier, Salem, New-Jersey, collected in his church,.. .. 5 00 from Rev. Joseph Caldwell, Chapel Hill, N. Carolina, 10 00 From Rev. C. Hyde, Doyles- town, Penn 10 Oo XT For donations not mentioned in th Acco From Rev. Jos. Smith, Har- risonburg, Va .....20 ou From Rev. Alex. Irvine, Ma- lone, New- York, ,20 00 From A. Smith, per Mr. Un- derwood, ....10 00 From G. W. P. Custis, Esq. annual subscriber, - .. 5 00 For proceeds of work done by female teachers of Taney town, Md Sunday school, 20 00 From David J. Burr, to con- stitute Rev. Jesse H. Tur- ner a member for life, .....20 00 From a lady, \ From Rev. Benj. J. Lowe, of Johnsonburg, N. Jersey,.. 8 00 From Rev. W. Meade, hi part of a legacy left by his sister, Lucy F. Meade, ..750 Oo From Rev. Mr. A.Shiun,.... 3 00 From Jno. Husks, Esq. Trea- surer of the Aux. Soc. Fay- etteville, N. Carolina, ...,.48 00 From Abner McGreehee, of Georgia, per the Hon. Wi- ley Thompson, 20 00 From the Richmond Auxili- ary Society,.. 192 00 From the Fayettcville Soc. .48 CO From the charity box of a young lady in the District, per the Rev. Mr. Gurley, 4 75 From Th. Tarbell, Esq. Bos- ton, collections taken up in consequence of a circular letter, 500 fjO From Dr. William H. Wil- mer, per Rev. Mr. Haw- ley 212 00 From Rev. John H. Church, D. D of Pelham, N. H.... 2 00 Hon. Arthur Livermore, 5 00 William Slade.jun 1 oO Hon. James T. Sand ford, of Tennessee, for life, 'JO 00 A stranger, 10 00 e above list, refer to the Treasurer's tint. 166 LIST OP SOCIETIES AUXILIARY TO THE AMERICAN COLONIZATION SOCIETY'- MARYLAND AUXILIARY SOCIETY, (established in Baltimore.) Col. John Eager Howard, President. Vice-Presidents. Gen. Robt. Goodloe Harper.... I Hon. Chief Justice Bruce. Gen. Wm.H. Winder | Luke Tiernan, Treasurer. Edward J. Coale, Secretary, NEW-YORK AUXILIARY SOCIETY. Col. Henry Rutgers, President. Vice-Presidents. 1st, Col. William Few I 3d, Mr. Divie Bethune, , 2d, Rev. Alexander M'Leod, D. D.. ' 4th, Rev. Philip Milledoler, D. D Mr. Crove Wright, Treasurer. Rev. Paschal N. Strong, Corresponding Secretary. John B. Beck, M. D. Recording Secielary. Loring D. Dewey, Agent of the General Society. AUXILIARY SOCIETY OF ANNAPOLIS. J. T. Chase, President. Vice-Presidents. 1st, William Kilty 2d, Thomas Blarkistone 3d, William Spencer 4th, Peter Emmerson 5th, C. Dorsey 6th, Dr. Thomas Johnson.... 7th, William Hayward 8th, James Murray 9th, Benjamin W. Lecompte, 11th, Win. D. Diggess.. .. .. 12th, Wm. R. Stuart 13th, Ephraim K. Wilson 14th, R. B. Taoey 15th, Charles S. Sewall , 16th, William Hughlett 17th, Thomas Kennedy ,., 1 8th, George C. Washington, 1 9th. James Tidball , A. C Magruder, Secretary | Jonathan Pinkney, Treasurer, John Brewer, Recorder. AUXILIARY SOCIETY OF FREDERICK COUNTY, VA. Nathaniel B unveil, President. Obed.Waite Treasurer,.,,,.,,.. \ Augustine C. Smith, Secretary 167 AUXILIARY SOCIETY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MD. AUXILIARY SOCIETY OF HARPER'S FERRY, VA, John Stubkl«-flciu, ri cziuc/u. Vice-Presidents. William M'Guire I Edward Wager Armistead Beckham | ... ........Roger Humphreys. Jacob Wark, Treasurer...... | ....John P. M'Guire, Secretary. AUXILIARY SOCIETY OF LOUDON COUNTY, VA. John Mines, President. Vice-Presidents. Samuel Murray... .....Sydney Baily. Ludwell Lee Johnson Cleavelarid, Israel Janney Burr Powell. James Moore.. ..........James Heaton. Mahlon Taylor William Elzey. Samuel Nichols William Noland. Isaac Brown R. D. Henderson, Treasurer | Richard H. Lee, Secretary' AUXILIARY SOCIETY OF CHARLXSTOWN, JEFFERSON COUNTY, VA.* Dr. Samuel I. Gramer, President. Vice-Presidents, Bushrod C. Washington! Adam Weaver Henry S. Turner ,....John T. A. Washington. ....George W. Humphreys. .....Nathaniel Craighill. Root. Washington, Treasurer | ....John Marshall, Secretary. AUXILIARY SOCIETY OF SHEPHERDSTOWN, VA. James S. Lane, President. Vice President John Baker. John Cookus, Treasurer — ..Kev. C. P. Kranth, Secretary. Hon. Daniel Smith, President. Vice-Presidents. Dr. Peachy Harrison I Rev. Daniel Baker. Major Joh n Kenny | Col. Samuel H.Lewis. Ravid Steele, Treasurer J Dr. Pea:hy Harrison) ^ ecn (arks j James M Bush \ 168 AUXILIARY SOCIETY OF YORK, PENN Jacob Barnitz, President. Vice-Presidents Geerge Uarmtz.. | r w 170 ALBANY AUXILIARY SOCIETY, N. Y. Harmannus Bleecker, President. Vice-Presidents. John Lansing, jun J Stephen Van Rensselaer. Ebenezcr F. Backus, Treasurer. | ....Benjamin F. Butler, Secretary^ HUDSON AUXILIARY SOCIETY, N. Y. Hon. Rufus Reed, President. Vice-Presidents. Rev. Cyrus Stebbins [ .. Doct. Samuel White. Rev. Howard Malcom, Secretary, j John Bowers, Esq. Treasurer. AUXILIARY COLONIZATION SOCIETY OF DUTCHESS COUN TY, N. Y. Philo Ruggles, Esq. President. Vice-Presidents. George Bloom I Abraham G. Storm. John L.Fonda | Henry Conklin. lohn V. B. Varick, Cor. Sec^y.. J ....Mathew Yassar, Rec. Sec'y. Alfred Raymond, Treasurer. AUXILIARY COLONIZATION SOCIETY, TROY. Col. William Pawling, President. J Orville L. Holly, Secretary AUXILIARY COLONIZATION SOCIETY, WATERFORD. Samuel Stuart, President | Rev. M. W. Dwight, Secretary. NASSAU AND SCHODAC COLONIZATION SOCIETY. Warner, Esq. President | Samuel B. Ludlow, Esq. Secretary- AUXILIARY COLONIZATION SOCIETY, CATSKILL Orin Day, President | Robert Dorian, Secretary. AUXILIARY COLONIZATION SOCIETY, HILLSDALE. Adonijah Bid well, Esq. President., | Rev. Henry Truesdell, Secretary. AUXILIARY SOCIETY OF FREDERICK COUNTY, IN THE STATE OF MARYLAND. John Grahame, President. Vice-Presidents. Rev. David F. Schaeffer John Dudders. Henry Willis Ignatius Davis..... Wm. Morsell John Cole,. Henry Doyle, Treasurer ... .James Terrance. .Lewis Motter. .Andrew Shriver. ... Lewis Medtart, Secretary* 171 WILMINGTON, (DEL.) AUXILIARY SOCIETY. Rev. R. Williston, President. Vice Presidents. Rev. John Potts | Rev. S.Green. James A. Sparks, Secretary., \ ..Edward Worrell, Treasures. WILMINGTON FEMALE AUXILIARY SOCIETY, (DEL. Miss Elizabeth Montgomery, First Directress. Mrs. A. M. McMullin | ....Mrs. Lydia M. Gilbert. Miss A. H. Danagh, Secretary. | Miss Sarah Black, Treasurer. AUXILIARY SOCIETY OF QUEEN ANN'S COUNTY, (MD. Richard T. Earle, President. Vice-Presidents. Wm. Carmichael, Esq.. John P. Pacha Wm. Hemsley Dr. John Davidge Emory, Sec'ry. .John Tilgham. .George Findley, Philomon B. Hopper, Treasurtr. AUXILIARY COLONIZATION SOCIETY OF KENT COUNTY, MARYLAND. Wm. Barrell, Esq. President. Vice-Presidents. James Bowers . ....Edward Anderson, Esq. C. F.Chambers .. ,.U. Ar^er, Esq. Thomas Worrell, Esq | ....Rev. Wm. Jackson. J. B. Eccleston, Secretary J R. Ringold, Treasurer. AUXILIARY COLONIZATION SOCIETY OF DORCHESTER ^ COUNTY, MARYLAND. * Joseph E. Muse, President Vice-President. Charles Goldsborough, Esq. James Chaplaine, Esq. Treasurer. \ James Bryan, Esq. Secretary. AUXILIARY COLONIZATION SOCIETY OF THE STATE OF VERMONT. The Hon. Charles Marsh, President. Vice-Presidents. His Excellency C. P. Van Ness.... | His Hon. Aaron Leland. Directors. ....Rev. Joel Winch. Hon. Chauncey Langdon,... Hon. J. D. Farnsworth Rev. Jasper Hazen, Hon. JeuduthamLpomis,7Ve