object of so much interest that we
cannot too often bring it to view. To adopt the language of the
Convention of 1795, "when we have restored the African to the
enjoyment of his rights, the great Work of justice and
benevolence is not accomplished--The new born citizen must
receive that instruction and those powerful impressions of moral
and religious truth which will render him capable and desirous of
fulfilling the various duties he owes to himself and to his
country." On this point we particularly refer you to the
sentiments so forcibly expressed in the addresses of preceding
conventions, and we strenuously urge a strict compliance with the
recommendations therein contained.

The great increase of the practice of kidnapping in defiance of
every principle of moral and legal obligation, induces us
pressingly to recommend the most earnest endeavours to root out
the enormous evil. In this instance there will be less to combat
than on the general principle; the slave holders themselves being
interested in preventing this addition to the many calamities
inflicted on the unfortunate blacks.

With feelings of sorrow and regret, we learn that the horrid
trade to Africa for slaves is still continued by many of our
fellow citizens. The hearts of those who can contemplate this
subject without emotion must indeed be destitute of every
sentiment of tenderness. It seems scarcely possible that men
accustomed to the enjoyment of liberty, and partaking of the
blessings of a free government should so far disregard the rights
of humanity as to engage in so diabolical a commerce. The fact
however, incredible as it may seem, certainly exists and to a
very alarming extent, particularly in the eastern states; we wish
to arouse your zeal on the occasion and to incite your diligence
and activity in carrying into rigorous execution the laws of the
states and of the general government against such atrocious
offenders.

The several Societies having expressed themselves favorable to
the adoption of a constitution for the government of future
conventions, we have made it a subject of our deliberations and
being of opinion that the measure would be attended with
considerable advantages we have agreed on a plan which we shall
forward to you. The provisions of