Page:Remarks upon the Situation of Negroes in Jamaica.pdf/94

 It is notorious that more ſlaves are ruined in principle and health, at thoſe dances which are allowed at the burials of their dead, than by any other intercourſe or occupation whatever. At the funeral of a chriſtian ſlave, none of theſe ſcenes of tumult and intemperance would be allowed; the ſervice would be read with decency over the grave (and to enhance the reſpect and ſolemnity) the white people upon the plantation ſhould attend, to enforce example, and to ſee that the attendants retire in peace and order to their reſpective houſes. This cuſtom, by a mild and decent introduction of the forms of our religion, might ſoon become, not only univerſal, but be the pledge of future ſecurity; but with this introduction, the doctrine of Chriſtian kindneſs and forgiveneſs ſhould be reduced to practice; the cloud of darkneſs that now covers the minds of the negroes ſhould be gently removed, that their underſtandings might be prepared to receive the new inſtruction, that they might feel comfort from obedience, and protection from power. As the ſlaves in the French iſlands, coming from the ſame coaſt, with the ſame ginoranceignorance [sic], the ſame prejudices, and the ſame fears,