embodied the substance of what had been contemplated in that of Mr. Buxton, and as it was secure of the support of government, and received the acquiescence of the West Indian proprietors present, no objection was raised on the part of the abolitionists; and the resolutions were unanimously adopted by the house, and subsequently, with equal unanimity, by the House of Lords.
Thus far the abolition committee acknowledged abundant cause of gratitude to God, and congratulation to the friends of humanity. It was, however, matter of regret and anxiety, that the reforms recommended were to be effected not by the enactment of a British parliament, but through the medium of colonial legislatures, which past experience had convinced the friends of the cause were more likely to thwart and delay, than cordially to promote such measures. They therefore urged upon the public the necessity of continued and increased exertion, in petitioning parliament, and in establishing local associations for the purpose of diffusing information. Subsequent events proved that these anticipations and suggestions were not unfounded or unnecessary.
The reforms proposed by his majesty's government were as follow:—
To provide the means of religious instruction and christian education for the slaves.
To put an end to Sunday markets and compulsory labour; to give the slave the sabbath as entirely his own; and to allow him equivalent time in the week for the cultivation of his ground, and otherwise providing for himself and family.
To admit the testimony of slaves in courts of justice; to legalize their marriages, and protect
