Page:The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano, or Gustavus Vassa, the African.pdf/192

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rational being to another? And are you not struck with shame and mortification, to see the partakers of your nature reduced so low? But, above all, are there no dangers attending this mode of treatment? Are you not hourly in dread of an insurrection? Nor would it be surprising; for when

—"No peace is given
"To us enslav'd, but custody severe;
"And stripes and arbitrary punishment
"Inflicted---What peace can we return;
"But to our power, hostility and hate;
"Untam'd reluctance, and revenge tho' slow,
"Yet ever plotting how the conqueror least
"May reap his conquest, and may least rejoice
"In doing what we most in suff'ring feel."

But, by changing your conduct, and treating your slaves as men, every cause of fear would be banished. They would be faithful, honest, intelligent, and vigorous; and peace, prosperity, and happiness would attend you.

CHAP.