Page:The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano, or Gustavus Vassa, the African.pdf/45



The Author's account of his country, and their manners and customs — Administration of justice — Embrenché — Marriage ceremony, and public entertainments — Mode of living — Dress — Manufactures — Buildings — Commerce — Agriculture — War and Religion — Superstition of the natives — Funeral ceremonies of the priests or magicians — Curious mode of discovering poison — Some hints concerning the origin of the author's countrymen, with the opinions of different writers on that subject.

it is difficult for those who publish their own memoirs to escape the imputation of vanity; nor is this the only disadvantage under which they labour; it is also their misfortune, that whatever is uncommon is rarely, if ever, believed; and what is obvious we are apt to turn from with disgust, and to charge the writer with impertinence. Rh