These wished that an inquiry might be instituted, and this immediately, conscious that the more their conduct was examined the less they would be found to merit the opprobrium with which they had been loaded.

The charges against the Slave Trade were either true or false.

If they were true, it ought to be abolished; but if upon inquiry they were found to be without foundation, justice ought to be done to the reputation of those who were concerned in it.

He then said a few words, by which he signified, that, after all, it might not be an improper measure to make regulations in the trade.
Mr.Burke said, the noble lord, who was a man of honour himself, had reasoned from his own conduct, and, being conscious of his own integrity, was naturally led to imagine that other men were equally just and honourable.

Undoubtedly the merchants and planters had a right to call for an investigation of their conduct, and their doing so did them great credit.