It had been pretty generally thought that the African Slave Trade ought to be abolished.

There were others, however, who thought that it only stood in need of regulations.

But all had agreed that it ought not to remain as it stood at present.

But that measure which it might be the most proper to take, could only be discovered by a cool, patient, and diligent examination of the subject in all its circumstances, relations, and consequences.

This had induced him to form an opinion that the present was not the proper time for discussing it; for the session was now far advanced, and there was also a want of proper materials for the full information of the house.