Page:Abstract of the evidence for the abolition of the slave-trade 1791.djvu/185

( 151 ) mentioned, is true, that is to say, that it is cheaper to breed than to import. Others are, that wherever estates are mentioned in the evidence as flourishing, and the proprietors of them as clear men, it is where they have adopted the principle of breeding, and of treating the slaves they have had with humanity and care. It may also be added here from the evidence, that the breeding of slaves was considered so profitable in some parts of America, that people held them for this purpose alone, independently of any prospect from the fruits of their labour. C H A P.XVI.