Did the inquiry then before the privy council prove a loss of time?
So far from it, that, upon the whole, time had been gained by it.

He had moved the resolution, therefore, to pledge the house to bring on the discussion early in the next session, when they would have a full opportunity of considering every part of the subject: first, Whether the whole of the trade ought be abolished; and, if so, how and when.

If it should be thought that the trade should only be put under certain regulations, what those regulations ought to be, and when they should take place.

These were questions which must be considered; and therefore he had made his resolution as wide as possible, that there might be room for all necessary considerations to be taken in.

He repeated his declaration, that he would reserve his sentiments till the day of discussion should arrive; and again declared, that he earnestly wished to avoid an anticipation of the debate upon the subject.