PREFACE.
vii
quired. The object of the visitors was perfectly understood • in the islands ; and it was known that the results" would, or : might be, unreservedly published on their return. No facts, | however, are stated, which were originally related on any • condition of secresy ; and where confidence was even im plied, it has not been consciously violated. Fidelity to their object has alone directed them, in placing any of the follow ing details on record. They are not aware that any hostile feeling has mingled itself with their better motives. It would indeed, have been far more agreeable to their feelings, to have used the language of praise, rather than of reprehension ; for they entertain a warm and grateful sense of the courtesy, kindness, and hospitality, with which they were treated in the colonies, by planters, public functionaries, and ministers of religion. How far those, who thus oflTer the present volume to pub lic examination have accomplished their proposed object, is left to the decision of competent judges. In this point of view alone, they invite, and indeed claim attention. To any practised skill in literary composition, they do not pretend. It is the subject to which they are desirous of attracting even a nation's regard. They are actuated by an anxiety deeper than can be expressed, to awaken the public mind to its im portance ; and to stimulate the benevolent, the christian patriot, to lively sympathy, and to animated exertion in be half of the oppressed. It may surprise many to be assured, that their subse quent details are stated with moderation ; and that a vast mass of facts is yet iu reserve, capable, not only of con firming what is now narrated, but of deepening the shades of their darkest representations. The reader's considera tion is particularly directed to the Appendix, as containing information, collected with considerable labor, and carefully compiled. The writers much regret the circumstances of haste under which this publication has been prepared. But the case admits no delay ; and they, therefore, cast the fruit of their investigation, like bread upon the waters, with the