Page:Vol 3 History of Mexico by H H Bancroft.djvu/771

Rh of a race; and stamped it with ignominy. Nevertheless race stigma was not nearly so severe as in the United States or even in British India, as shown by the constant intermarriage of the peoples, which formed a bond between them of ever-growing strength. A proof of the greater liberality in the south is furnished by the condition of the negroes. Originally imported as slaves, provision was made for their liberation by self-purchase, at a rate fixed by the courts, and without much consideration for the price paid by the owner, or their value to him. Possessed both of strength and energy, they readily availed themselves of the privilege; so that at the beginning of this century those in bondage could not have exceeded ten thousand, congregated chiefly in the neighborhood of Vera Cruz and Acapulco. The introduction was limited in New Spain, partly for political reasons, owing to their turbulent disposition. The trade lay in the hands of certain licensed firms. The privilege of purchasing their freedom indicates considerable liberty of action, so as to acquire the necessary means. A number of laws were issued for their protection, giving orders that they